Wednesday, August 13, 2025

How to Avoid Silly Mistakes in UPSC Prelims Exam

Cracking the UPSC Prelims requires not only hard work but also precision. Even well-prepared aspirants sometimes fall short because of avoidable errors. At LeadIAS, recognized as the Best IAS Academy in Kerala, we have seen how small mistakes can make a big difference in your final score. The good news? With the right approach, you can minimize these errors and give your performance a real boost.



1. Read the Question Carefully

Many aspirants lose marks simply because they misread the question. Always take a few extra seconds to read each question twice before attempting an answer. Pay close attention to words like “not”, “only”, and “except”, as they can completely change the meaning.

2. Avoid Overthinking

Overanalyzing a question often leads to self-doubt and wrong choices. Stick to what you have studied and avoid introducing unnecessary logic. In UPSC Prelims, the first instinct—if based on sound preparation—is often correct.

3. Time Management

Sometimes, rushing through questions or spending too much time on a tricky one can cost you precious marks. Allocate time wisely—about 1 minute per question—and move on if you are stuck. You can always come back to it later.

4. Master Elimination Technique

Even when you don’t know the exact answer, elimination can help. Narrow down the options using facts you are confident about, and you’ll increase your chances of picking the right one.

5. Practice Under Exam Conditions

Regular mock tests under timed conditions can help you avoid silly mistakes. At LeadIAS, our mock test series replicates the actual exam environment, helping aspirants improve accuracy and speed while building exam temperament.

Final Thoughts

The UPSC Prelims is as much about avoiding mistakes as it is about knowing the syllabus. By developing disciplined reading habits, controlling overthinking, and practicing regularly, you can prevent unnecessary errors and secure a safe score. Remember, small improvements in accuracy can lead to big results in the final ranking.

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