For the aspirants preparing for 2026-2027, some key takeaway from the Mains 2024 and Prelims 2025:
1. Both Prelims and Mains are getting current oriented. Newspaper can be a great source in your preparation. I would strongly suggest reading the newspaper to update thematic notes for Mains.
2. Vagueness of the questions and 3-statement questions are tough to handle. Do look at the questions from Prelims 2024 and Prelims 2025 before starting the preparation.
3. A large number of questions can be handled from the standard sources, especially in the Prelims. Follow standard sources and stick to their revision multiple times.
4. In Mains, you need to go beyond the standard books because most of the standard books don't meet the criteria of the Mains examination.
5. Don't NEGLECT CSAT. No matter how expert you're at Maths and Reasoning, don't neglect CSAT. IT IS AN ELIMINATOR. Since 2023, every year, CSAT is eating up the UPSC dream of candidates.
6. Do comprehensive preparation. Don't segregate preparation. Whatever you're studying, read it from the Prelims and the Mains perspective both. Attempt the PYQs of Prelims and Mains alognside.
7. Mentorship is not a very helpful tool. 30 mins call with a mentor in 2 weeks won't help you in anyway. Connecting after every 10-15 days, they won't even know your name, leave aside your issues and problems. Follow your own strategy.
8. I have made a complete strategy video for 2026-2027 that you can find on my YouTube channel.
9. Try and make your own notes. Don't rely on an educator (including me) for your notes because once you make notes on your own, you'll have better retention of things.
10. Make short and thematic notes. I have already made a YouTube video on note making.
11. Select your optional based on your own interest.
12. 8 hours per day consistently is more than sufficient.
13. PYQs are a holy grail.
I will be starting 3-4 YouTube initiative soon that will help you in the grander scheme of things. Meanwhile, study hard.
My best wishes.
>>Click here to continue<<