In Part-I of the article, we discussed the theme coverage under all five subjects – History, Polity, Geography, Science and Sports keeping in view the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper -I. In this post, we’ll talk about the preparation strategy and tips.
So, let’s get started.
Polity
- Approximately 15-20 questions are asked every year from Polity in the GS Paper -I. It is inevitable for aspirants to devote a significant amount of time to preparing Polity for the Prelims exam. As mentioned in the previous post (Part-I), the questions in Prelims cover both static and dynamic parts.
- An aspirant must begin his/her preparation with first having a clear cut idea of the themes covered under this section.
- The next step in the go is to classify them in terms of static and dynamic and accordingly shortlist reference material. Given the vast range of themes to be covered, it is an ideal practice to look for the best easy-to-study material which is also not time-consuming.
- NCERT textbooks from class VI-XII are the best source for beginners. In addition to this, an aspirant can refer to a holistic book for preparation which includes all topics to be covered. Refer to Career Disha’s Books & Writings section for the best books available to prepare for the UPSC Prelims exam.
- The next step is to develop a habit of reading newspapers, The Hindu or The Indian Express regularly. Concentrate especially on the articles or sections dealing with national and international polity. Along with this, you can also subscribe to a monthly magazine like Economic & Political Weekly for updates on the current scenario. You can also watch debates and news bulletin for the latest updates. Sometimes, it is easy to remember facts and events if viewed rather than read.
- It is not enough to read but one must take self-notes in a manner that everything under one topic or theme is enlisted at one place and can be revisited anytime for a quick revision.
- Also, as there is a lot to remember it is a good idea to develop your own trajectory of remembering the connected themes.
History
- NCERT History textbooks from VI-XII are good to start off with.
- To have in-depth knowledge of all three sub-sections (Ancient, Medieval and Modern), it is a good idea to read a detailed book focusing individually on each sub-theme.
- Look for the trending authors. You can refer to Career Disha’s Books and Writings section to get the best reference material.
- Avoid reading too many authors. History, as we know, is the best to remember if read like a story. And every author has a different style of story-telling. Therefore, reading many authors at a time can create confusions.
- Chronology is one of the most significant aspects of history. Therefore, go ahead with the preparations systematically. Do not switch between topics as you may tend to mix up topics and the order of events.
- With respect to World History, concentrate on the important events and try to develop your own trajectory connecting the dots. This is very crucial to remember dates.
- Go through the previous year question papers and look for the pattern of questions asked. In fact, stick notes in and around your study room to keep a track of the dates as it is a significant part of the history preparation.
Geography
- NCERT textbooks are a must refer, like Polity and History.
- Atlas is your go-to if you want to crack the Geography questions in GS Paper-I.
- Maps are a must not miss a factor. Ensure that you have easy-to-read and understand maps stick around your study room so that you just don’t prepare while specifically sitting to study but can have a look around constantly.
- Current affairs are a must. Read newspapers such as The Hindu on a regular basis and keep a track of events like natural calamities.
- Geography questions can be tricky at times. Therefore, develop the conceptual clarity at first.
- Look for the pattern of questions asked over the last years. Accordingly, go ahead with the preparation.
- Don’t forget to keep yourself with the latest updates on the exam pattern. Refer to ‘Pratiyogita Nirdeshika’ for regular updates.
General Science
- Divide your preparation according to the various sub-sections i.e. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- NCERT textbooks are good, to begin with. But they aren’t enough.
- Source the best reference material including books, notes, journals, articles/blogs, digital media resources, etc. catering to individual sub-sections.
- Keep yourself updated with the latest inventions, technology, and news. Subscribe to any monthly magazine if you want, else you can resort to the ‘Science & Technology’ section in various newspapers.
- This could be substantiated with a special bulletin on ‘Science & Technology’ broadcasted on various channels regularly.
- Don’t forget to connect the dots as often the latest invention or discovery is based on the fundamentals of the past and many time questions could deal with the history of those inventions.
- Concentrate on the Indian scenario in terms of the latest schemes or programmes, newly launched missions, new milestones by Indian agencies, etc.
- A good number of questions asked from this section could also focus on the personalities as to who pioneered a particular invention. So be very specific with those and try to remember the names of eminent personalities associated with a particular event.
Sports
- Read a history of the significant global and Indian sports events including world cups, Olympics, Commonwealth, etc.
- Follow-up with the contemporary trends by reading the sports section in the newspaper on a regular basis.
- Make a note of the name of the winners of different recent tournaments or cups.
- Don’t forget to learn about the eminent Indian personalities bringing glory to India.
General Tips
- Take mock tests.
- Read newspapers regularly. Keep yourself updated with the latest trends or events as much as possible.
- Online quizzes are a must.
- Analyze the pattern by considering the previous year’s question papers.
- Stick to a time-bound preparation for Prelims as a candidate requires more time to prepare for Mains exams.
Good luck with your preparation!! Crack the prelims with flying colors!!
