SNM IAS Academy: IAS Exam in Chandigarh

1
How to prepare for IAS
2
Stages

• There are three stages of the exam
• Prelims
• Mains
• Interview
• Each stage requires different strategy

3
Prelims

• Stage 1
• Qualifying Exam only
• Strategy should be clearing the cutoffs
• CSAT paper can be helpful for urban candidates to
  maximize their marks
• GS paper need widening of scope of knowledge of
  the candidate

4
Contd.

• For current affairs read newspaper regularly and
  practice from http//www.snmiasacademy.com/content
  /online-test
• Time bound practice of CSAT paper is a must to
  attain maximum marks
• Join a good test series for practice just before
  the preliminary exam.

5
Mains

• Stage 2 Subjective exam
• As preliminary exam was to test the width of
  knowledge of a candidate mains exam test the
  depth of knowledge.
• Complete change in the perspective from prelims
• Step ahead from learning mode to analysis mode
• Candidate should apply the knowledge that

6
Contd.

• she acquires during course of her preparation
• Writing practice is quintessential
• A broad frame work of all the current happenings
  should be prepared so as to tackle the questions
  in exam
• Students should keep a track of word limit

7
Optional

• Choose an optional carefully as it can be a
  difference between clearing and not clearing the
  exam.
• Watch our for parameters such has syllabus of the
  chosen subject, candidates interest in the
  subject and guidance that a candidate can get on
  the subject.
• Chose among those optional subject which

8
Contd

• can directly or indirectly help in General
  Studies as well.
• Popular optional subjects are Psychology, Public
  Administration, Sociology, Anthropology, Law,
  History, Geography and Political Science.

9
Interview

• This is the only time candidates get to face the
  interview panel
• Student should know about the board and its
  members.
• Highlight your key strengths whether its hobbies
  or some achievements during school/college time

10
Contd

• Be confident and honest while facing the board.
• Daily newspaper reading and a couple of mock
  interviews would definitely help.