Navigating the UPSC Prelims 2019: A Thorough Analysis of Question Attempt Strategy

Introduction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Prelims Exam is a highly competitive and demanding assessment, which requires a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and a well-planned strategy. This article delves into the thought process and strategy behind the number of questions attempted in the UPSC Prelims 2019. It provides insights into the challenges faced and the opted strategy to achieve a competitive edge over others.

Understanding the Exam Pattern and Nature

The UPSC Prelims Exam, conducted through a Computer Based Test (CBT), tests a vast range of subjects including General Studies (GS) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) in one go. The GS paper consists of 100 questions and CSAT paper has 80 questions, both to be completed in 2 hours. The nature of the paper is such that it is designed to test both the knowledge and the strategic thinking of the aspirants.

Given the vast syllabus and limited time, it becomes essential to decide on the number of questions to attempt. The choice must be made keeping in mind the balance between attempting a significant number of questions and ensuring accuracy.

The Decision: A Balance Between Quantity and Quality

Deciding the number of questions to attempt is a critical step in any exam. The key question that arises is, how many questions should one aim to attempt? Rotated_PREFILL_1

The GS paper offers a margin for error, allowing aspirants to attempt 75-80 questions reliably, with a potential to go beyond if they are confident. However, aiming too high comes at the risk of the cost of accuracy. The problem is, attempting too many questions decreases the time to review and can lead to careless mistakes.

Therefore, the strategic decision is to attempt a number that provides a competitive edge over others. Many aspirants opted to attempt approximately 90-95 questions, but this was a riskier choice. Instead, I preferred to attempt 92 questions. This strategy ensured a balance between the number of questions attempted and the accuracy required to secure a competitive rank.

Why Opted for 92 Questions?

The decision to attempt 92 questions was based on a careful assessment of the exam. Attempting 92 questions allowed me to have a cushion of questions to attempt accurately. This approach is often referred to as a 'cushion strategy.' By not attempting all possible questions, one reduces the risk of making errors in those that might have been attempted in haste.

The primary reason for opting for 92 questions was to ensure that the attempt was not just a race against time, but also a race to secure a competitive edge. By attempting a balanced number of questions, one can maintain a high level of accuracy and confidence, which are crucial for securing a good rank.

Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspirants

The decision to attempt 92 questions in the UPSC Prelims 2019 provided several valuable lessons and insights for aspiring candidates. The following tips might be useful for anyone preparing for the UPSC Prelims:

Understand the Question Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the previous year's papers to understand the pattern and difficulty level. Strategic Timing: Manage your time effectively by understanding how much time to spend on each section. Practice with a Timer: Use practice tests with a timer to simulate exam conditions and improve your speed and accuracy. Review Your Answers: Allow time to review your answers, if possible, to catch any errors or oversights. Be Versatile: Do not stick to one subject or theme, as the questions are diverse and cover a wide range of topics.

Conclusion

The UPSC Prelims examination is a significant milestone in the journey of becoming a civil servant in India. It requires not just a thorough preparation but also a well-thought-out strategy. The decision to attempt 92 questions in the UPSC Prelims 2019 was a calculated risk, aimed at achieving a competitive edge while maintaining accuracy. This article provides a detailed analysis of the thought process and strategy behind this decision and offers valuable insights for aspiring candidates.