Decoding Prerna Singh’s Comprehensive UPSC CSE Preparation Strategy: A Road to Success

June 7, 2024

5 Minutes

Introduction

Prerna Singh, an exceptional UPSC CSE aspirant, has etched her name in the annals of the prestigious examination by securing an impressive All India Rank 271 in 2023. Her remarkable journey serves as a testament to her meticulous planning, unwavering determination, and an astute understanding of the intricacies of the UPSC Civil Service Examination. This comprehensive account delves into Prerna’s unique preparation strategy, highlighting the nuances that set her apart and propelled her towards success.

Laying the Foundation

Prerna’s academic journey commenced in Jharkhand, where she completed her 12th grade. Her pursuit of knowledge continued in Ranchi, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology from Delhi Public School. Subsequently, she furthered her education in Delhi, obtaining a Master’s degree in Social Work from the esteemed Jamia Millia Islamia.

Early Career and Introspection

After completing her formal education, Prerna gained invaluable work experience in the corporate sector, holding positions at Vedanta Balco and Bharat Aluminum Company. However, her aspirations extended beyond the confines of her workplace, and she realized her true calling in the realm of civil service.

Returning to Home Turf

Determined to forge her own path, Prerna returned to her hometown to pursue her dream. Recognizing the importance of a structured environment, she opted to prepare for the UPSC CSE examination from the comfort of her familiar surroundings.

Customized Approach

In the initial stages of her preparation, Prerna explored the option of coaching but ultimately decided to customize her approach. While she enrolled in a coaching institute in Delhi for CSAT classes, she realized that it did not fully meet her expectations.

Finding a Support System

Undeterred, Prerna sought solace and support from her mother, engaging in insightful discussions about politics and the Constitution. This collaborative approach not only deepened her understanding but also broadened her perspective.

Time Management and Leisure Activities

Prerna meticulously balanced her study commitments with much-needed leisure activities. She dedicated seven to eight hours each day to studying, while also making time for relaxation. Watching movies and indulging in brisk walks became her preferred ways to unwind and rejuvenate.

Emphasis on Accuracy

Prerna’s strategy prioritized accuracy over attempting a large volume of questions. She repeatedly solved test series questions, meticulously analyzing her performance to identify areas where improvement was needed.

The Importance of Previous Year Questions

Prerna recognized the significance of solving previous year’s questions (PYQs), especially those after 2013. By repeatedly working through these questions, she gained a deeper understanding of the exam’s patterns and content.

Sources and Revision

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals, Prerna limited her sources for each subject. She diligently revisited these sources multiple times to reinforce her knowledge.

Prelims Strategy

For the Prelims stage of the examination, Prerna focused on developing a resilient mindset and adhering to a rigorous study routine. She devoted time to giving numerous test series and meticulously analyzed her performance to pinpoint areas for improvement.

CSAT Preparation

Prerna dedicated substantial time to preparing for the CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test). She honed her comprehension skills and practiced RS Aggarwal’s Maths questions regularly to ensure proficiency.

Optional Subject (Sociology)

Drawing from her academic background in Sociology, Prerna wisely chose Sociology as her optional subject. She utilized her own notes, supplemented by the works of renowned authors Hera Lomas and Mahapatra Sir. Prerna emphasized the importance of incorporating real-world examples and aligning her answers with current events and pressing social issues.

Ethics Preparation

Prerna adopted an innovative approach to Ethics preparation. She meticulously created an excel sheet containing keywords and noted examples encountered while reading the Hindu newspaper. This unique method not only enhanced her understanding but also bolstered her ability to craft compelling and unique answers.

Case Studies Approach

Prerna approached the case studies in a structured manner, employing flowcharts to optimize time management. Additionally, she developed separate sections for introductions and conclusions, ensuring clarity and organization in her responses.

Hobbies as a Catalyst

Prerna found solace and enjoyment in hobbies such as quilling and painting. These activities provided a refreshing break from studying but also sparked her imagination and aided in her comprehension of concepts.

The Power of a Support System

Prerna acknowledges the crucial role her support system played in her success. She found comfort and unwavering encouragement from her mother and friends, who provided constant reassurance and motivation throughout her demanding preparation journey.

Consistency and Discipline

Prerna emphasized the significance of maintaining consistency and discipline in her preparation. She followed a rigorous study schedule, including waking up early every day to complete a one-hour test. This unwavering commitment set the foundation for her success.

Self-Care and Perspective

Prerna recognized the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy mental state during the demanding preparation process. She engaged in daily walks and sought support from loved ones when needed, ensuring her well-being.

Conclusion

Prerna Singh’s journey to All India Rank 271 is a testament to her unwavering determination, hard work, and a meticulously crafted preparation strategy. Her ability to customize her approach, prioritize accuracy, and find support in her network of loved ones paved the way for her impressive achievement. As she embarks on her new chapter in the Indian Civil Services, Prerna serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring candidates, proving that with unwavering belief and a sound plan, the UPSC CSE examination is a conquerable endeavor.