Strategy for Prelims

   Strategy for Prelims   
 

Preparing for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination requires a comprehensive strategy that encompasses selecting the right study materials, staying updated with current affairs, and adopting effective reading and revision techniques. Here's a detailed strategy along with examples of books, newspapers, and reading and revision methods:

1. Understanding the Exam Pattern and Syllabus:

• Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, marking scheme, and syllabus for both Paper 1 (General Studies) and Paper 2 (CSAT).
• Understand the weightage given to different topics and prioritize your preparation accordingly.

2. Selecting Study Materials:

Books and Study for General Studies

• History: NCERT textbooks (Class 6 to 12), Bipan Chandra's "India's Struggle for Independence" "India Since Independence" and Shraddha Study Material.
• Geography: NCERT textbooks (Class 6 to 12), Goh Cheng Leong's "Certificate Physical, Human Geography" and Shraddha Study Material.
• Polity: NCERT textbooks (Class 6 to 12), M. Laxmikanth's "Indian Polity" and Shraddha Study Material.
• Economics: NCERT textbooks (Class 9 to 12), Ramesh Singh's "Indian Economy",  "Economic Survey" (latest edition) and Shraddha Study Material.
• Environment: NCERT textbooks, NIOS and Shraddha Study Material.
• Current Affairs: Newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Shraddha Current Affairs, Yojana, Kurukshetra, and selected government reports.

CSAT Preparation:

• Practice materials from previous years' question papers.
• Solve quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and comprehension exercises from standard books.

3. Reading Newspapers and Magazines:

• Newspapers: Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily to stay updated with current affairs, editorials, and opinions.
• Magazines: Refer to monthly magazines like Yojana, Kurukshetra, and Economic and Political Weekly for in-depth analysis and insights.

4. Reading Strategy:

Daily Reading Routine:

• Allocate a specific time each day for newspaper reading and make notes on important news, events, and editorials.
• Read NCERT textbooks and standard reference books systematically, covering one topic or subject area at a time.

Active Reading Techniques:

• Use highlighting, underlining, and annotating techniques to mark key points, facts, and figures in your study materials.
• Make concise notes, mind maps, or flashcards summarizing important concepts and topics for quick revision.

5. Revision Strategy:

Regular Revision Schedule:

• Allocate dedicated time slots for regular revision sessions throughout your preparation period.
• Revise previously covered topics, notes, and current affairs at regular intervals to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Use of Revision Techniques:

• Adopt mnemonic devices, visual aids, and memory techniques to enhance recall and retention of information.
• Practice active recall by testing yourself with flashcards or practice questions to reinforce learning.

6. Mock Tests and Practice:

• Take regular mock tests and practice papers to assess your preparation level and identify areas of improvement.
• Analyze your performance, identify weak areas, and focus on improving your speed, accuracy, and problem-solving skills.