The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. Whether you dream of becoming an IAS, IPS, or IFS officer, starting your preparation with the right strategy can make all the difference.
If you're based in Kerala and considering best IAS Academy in Kerala, this guide will help you understand how to begin your UPSC journey effectively whether you choose self-study or join a coaching institute like LeadIAS.
Step 1: Understand the Exam Structure
Before jumping into study materials, get familiar with the three stages of the UPSC exam:
Prelims (Objective):
General Studies Paper I
CSAT (Paper II – qualifying only)
Mains (Descriptive):
9 papers including Essay, General Studies I-IV, and two Optional Subject papers
Interview (Personality Test)
Pro Tip: Visit the official UPSC website and download the latest syllabus and past year question papers.
Step 2: Start with NCERT Books
NCERTs from Class 6 to 12 are the bedrock of your preparation. Start with:
History (Class 6–12)
Geography (Class 6–12)
Polity (Class 9–12)
Economics (Class 9–12)
Science (basic understanding from Class 6–10)
Begin reading 1-2 hours a day. Make your own short notes as you go.
Step 3: Follow the UPSC Syllabus Closely
Many beginners make the mistake of studying everything under the sun. Instead, stick to the syllabus. This helps you filter what's relevant and saves time.
Print out the syllabus and refer to it every day. Align your reading with the listed topics.
Step 4: Read a Daily Newspaper
Current affairs play a major role in both Prelims and Mains. Read The Hindu or The Indian Express daily. Focus on:
Government schemes
Supreme Court judgments
National and international issues
Editorial analysis
Optional: Use monthly current affairs compilations (Vision IAS, Insights, etc.)
Step 5: Choose the Right Optional Subject
This can make or break your Mains score. Choose an optional subject based on:
Your interest
Background (academic or professional)
Availability of good material and guidance
Research 2–3 subjects and skim through their syllabus and question papers before deciding.
Step 6: Consider Joining IAS Coaching in Trivandrum like LeadIAS
Once you're comfortable with the basics, mock tests and answer writing practice are essential. You can:
Join a Prelims test series (after a few months of self-study)
Practice Mains answer writing weekly
Coaching can help if you prefer structure, but it's not mandatory. Institutes like LeadIAS in Trivandrum provide expert guidance, structured study plans, and regular evaluation to keep you on track.
Step 7: Build a Study Timetable
Create a realistic schedule based on your availability. A simple plan:
Morning: NCERTs or standard books
Afternoon: Current affairs/newspaper
Evening: Revision and optional subject
Don’t forget to include breaks, exercise, and some free time to avoid burnout.
Step 8: Stick to Standard Books
Once NCERTs are covered, move to advanced books like:
Polity: Laxmikanth
History: Spectrum for Modern India
Geography: GC Leong
Economics: Ramesh Singh or class notes
Environment: Shankar IAS book
Avoid switching books too often. Stick to one good source per subject.
Step 9: Revise Regularly
UPSC is not about how much you study but how much you retain. Make sure to:
Revise weekly
Maintain short notes for quick revisions
Practice previous year questions
Step 10: Stay Consistent and Positive
UPSC is a long journey—often 12 to 18 months of preparation. Discipline and mindset are key.
Don’t panic if you feel overwhelmed. Everyone starts as a beginner. Take it one step at a time.
Final Thoughts
Starting your UPSC preparation in Kerala with the right balance of self-study and coaching can set you up for success. Whether you choose to begin with NCERTs or enroll in a reputed IAS Coaching in Trivandrum like LeadIAS, what matters most is your dedication and consistent effort.
Remember, UPSC is as much about smart work as it is about hard work. Start today, stay focused, and keep moving forward.
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