Myth: You have to study 24*7- all day & every day.

Fact:

You have to study effectively, that’s it. 8 hours or 10 hours- the hours don’t matter. Give it your complete focus when you sit to study. Don’t overdo the hours, you’ll exhaust yourself.

Myth: You should’ve been a topper in your college days to ace the exam.

Fact:

The UPSC exam is a great leveler & offers an equal playing field to all. Your academic history does not matter. The only thing that matters is your performance at each stage.

Myth: You must buy & read 100000 books. Knowledge is power, right?

“I have a disease. I keep buying all the magazines and coaching material. Is there any cure for this?”

Fact:

Wrong! Stick to the basics (NCERTs), standard books, and current affairs (newspapers).

Read. Revise >3 times. Retain.

Don’t become a “collector” of material. We both know that you’ll be donating it for recycling.

Myth: You must possess great English writing skills like Shakespeare.

Fact:

You don’t need to win a literary prize. UPSC wants simple, clear and precise answers. Basic English is enough. Work on it daily.

Myth: You need to isolate yourself from the world & study.

Fact:

No need to cut off from family and friends. They support you during tough times. Remember, it is just an exam!

Myth: Daily schedule should be only Study–Study–Study.

Fact:

All work & no play makes one a dull aspirant. Take breaks, exercise, and sleep well. At least 8 hours of focused study is enough.

Myth: Join an institute; it’s the ONLY way.

Fact:

Self-study works if you’re disciplined. Coaching is optional. Choose what suits you best.

Myth: Luck is needed to clear UPSC.

Fact:

Success is 1% luck and 99% hard work. Don’t lose grip on the 99%.

Myth: IAS is the best job on earth.

Fact:

It is a great job if you want to serve society, but it’s not the only good career. ‘Best’ is subjective.

Myth: UPSC asks questions outside the syllabus.

Fact:

UPSC sticks to the syllabus. Questions may appear new, but they are always linked to it.