UPSC Prelims 2024: Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Exam is one of the most competitive exams in India. Clearing the UPSC IAS Prelims exam is the first step towards becoming an IAS, IPS, or IFS officer. Although the exam is undoubtedly tough, it is not impossible to crack it in the first attempt. Cracking the UPSC Prelims exam in an early attempt requires a comprehensive and strategic approach that goes beyond mere memorization. To successfully navigate this challenging exam, candidates should begin with a thorough understanding of the exam pattern, which consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Familiarity with the syllabus is most important, as it covers a wide range of subjects from history and geography to current affairs and aptitude. Aspirants should carefully analyze the previous years question papers to understand the patterns and trends, to get an understanding of the examiner's expectations. Next year, UPSC is scheduled to conduct CSE Prelims 2024 on May 26, 2024. Candidates who are preparing to appear for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Exam, 2024 for the first time can check out 10 strategies that can help them ace. the goal; 1. Understand the syllabus and exam pattern well The first step to crack any exam is to understand the syllabus and exam pattern well. The UPSC Prelims Syllabus is vast, covering a wide range of subjects including History, Geography, Politics, Economics, Science and Current Affairs. The exam pattern is objective with multiple choice questions from each subject. 2. Make a study plan and stick to it Once you understand the syllabus and exam pattern, it is important to make a study plan that suits your learning style and schedule. Make sure to divide the syllabus into manageable chunks and allocate time for each topic accordingly. Stick to your study plan and avoid distractions. 3. Use NCERT Textbooks NCERT Textbooks are the best source of information for UPSC Prelims. They are written in a simple and easy to understand language and cover all the important topics of the syllabus. 4. Supplement your NCERT reading with other standard textbooks and reference materials While the NCERT textbooks are a good foundation, you may need to supplement your reading with other standard textbooks and reference materials. This is especially true for subjects like history and geography, where NCERT textbooks cannot cover all the details. 5. Stay updated with current affairs Current Affairs is an important part of UPSC Prelims Syllabus. Make sure to read daily newspaper and watch news regularly to stay updated on current events. You can also subscribe to a good current affairs magazine or website. 6. Practice solving previous years question papers The best way to prepare for UPSC Prelims is to practice solving previous years question papers. This will help you get a feel for the type of questions you will be asked and improve your time management skills. 7. Take mock tests regularly Mock tests are a great way to assess your progress and identify areas where you need to improve. Take mock tests regularly and analyze your performance to make necessary changes in your study plan. 8. Develop a strong answer writing practice Answer writing is an important. Part of UPSC Mains Exam. Make sure to practice writing answers to questions from previous years papers and mock tests. You can also attend an answer writing workshop or seek guidance from a mentor. 9. Stay Positive and Motivated UPSC Prelims is a tough exam, and it is easy to get discouraged. However, it is important to stay positive and motivated during your preparation. Remember that hard work and dedication will pay off in the end. 10. Believe in yourself The most important thing to remember is to believe in yourself. You have the potential to crack UPSC Prelims in your first attempt. You just need to work hard and never give up on your dreams.