Brace up for Civil Services
Sherry A Singh
Before knowing the art of de-coding the syllabus for civil services exam, it is imperative to understand its purpose. It has been statistically observed that most of the aspirants take a plunge into preparation without analysing the nuances of what exactly is the demand of the examination. Random beginning based on others’ perceptions will leave you in dark. So, it is the syllabus which acts as a ‘constitution’ for preparation and any deviation from it will be null and void.
Therefore, ‘rendezvous with syllabus’ should be considered as a very strong step of learning because it will act as bed rock for the entire preparation through all the three stages of the examination. Before we shift our gear towards de-coding the syllabus, its significance should be very clear and immune from any doubts or if’s and but’s.
Let’s see, the meaning of de-coding syllabus and how to do it. Also, it is equally important to know for all aspirants, be it neophytes or seasoned players. Take a leap in 2020 and unlearn the old-fashioned methods of preparation, bear no past burden and start afresh and new with novel-shovel to achieve what could not be achieved earlier.
- De-coding means breaking up the syllabus and integrating it with previous years’ questions as well as current affairs. For instance, starting with the preliminary exam syllabus one finds ‘Art and Culture’ is not mentioned explicitly in the syllabus, but questions related to the same do appear in the exams. This shows that art and culture must be read in connection with current affairs.
- Similarly, for all the papers of General Studies in Main examination, break every section into sub-sections by taking the help of previous years’ questions. For example, in 2019 General Studies Paper-I, a question was, “Empowering women is the key to control population growth.” Discuss. Over here writing simply about women empowerment will fetch undesirable marks, the content for such topics must be scooped from newspaper, magazines etc.
- Once the syllabus is decoded, a candidate is enlightened enough to de-mystify the unpredictability of this exam by shedding irrelevant stuff and focusing more on what is going to bear results in exam. Say, it is about learning ‘Indian Polity’ where a candidate must stay focused by keeping all sorts of ‘political masala’ news at bay. This accurate demarcation will save time, money, energy and of course attempts as well.
- Another step towards decoding is keeping the syllabus handy at all times. Squirrelling it away after one reading, assuming a perfect hold on every section of this colossal mount is a mis-judgment. Remember, this preparation should be interlinked and integrated as an ‘organic whole’ which is dynamic, evolving and growing.
- Once, learnt the skill to keep all limbs of the Prelims and Mains syllabus co-joined and interactive, Personality Test will not be a tough nut to crack. The aura of knowledge gained will help in getting good marks in Personality Test (Interview).
Aspiring to be a civil servant should not be for pomp-gusto, power and prestige, but for a profound desire to usher in a change in the lives of many. Be hopeful, stay healthy and strive for excellence!
The writer is a Senior Editor (Test Prep), Pearson India
