The Self-Deluding Study Patterns of UPSC Aspirants

The tendency of UPSC aspirants to specialise in minor aspects of the syllabus rather than the major ones is a surefire recipe for failure. This self-delusion, which develops during the preparation process, is a major pitfall. Since the UPSC exam demands a year of preparation, environmental factors like boredom and distractions from peers can erode aspirants' self-control and cognitive abilities. Nevertheless, even institutes touted as bastions of success often inflame students' focus on trivial matters. Ultimately, it is you who determines whether you will become an IPS or IAS officer.

Why Does This Happen?

Conformity is the villain in this scenario. In today's era, social media groups heavily influence students, many of whom are either new aspirants or those who have failed previously. As the saying goes, mediocrity begets mediocrity, and the thoughts expressed in these groups can infiltrate the minds of promising new aspirants.

How to Escape the Vortex of Mediocrity and Achieve Success ?

To conquer the UPSC exam, you need to think like the UPSC itself. This experienced, half-century-old institution rewards students who consistently adhere to the syllabus and possess well-developed cognitive abilities. In India's current education system, however, cognitive development often takes a backseat, with little to no emphasis on evaluating these skills, which are precisely what the UPSC expects aspirants to possess.

Out-of-the-box thinking, new ideas, strong communication skills, memory, and self-control are all crucial factors for success in the UPSC exam. Sticking to a well-defined study plan, developing high memory recall, and strengthening working memory are all essential for UPSC success. By understanding these cognitive aspects, we can identify the chinks in the armor of the UPSC exam.

Planning and Taking Action

Another common behaviour among students is the tendency to plan extensively but fail to take action due to a lack of self-control in adhering to good habits. It's crucial to focus on improving your self-control; aim to reach at least the 90th percentile in this area, and you'll find that your plans will naturally translate into action.

Nature's Play on UPSC Aspirants

Interestingly, aspirants often face unprecedented challenges and issues during their preparation. After all, this exam is designed to identify the best minds and bestow them with the power to influence over a billion people. It's as if nature itself tests your grit to determine your suitability.

Take Responsibility

Your success depends solely on you. No one will be there to celebrate with you when you win. However, if you can meticulously stick to action, you will be rewarded with the sweet nectar of discipline for the rest of your life.