Re-Starting Prep after Long Break, Guidance Needed

I failed my first prelims in 2019 due to lack of preparation, total disconnect from syllabus during last three months of prelims and depression. After that I quit preparing and worked and all for a while.

Now I want to get back to Preparing and write my second attempt. I have numerous things to refresh, such as many static concepts. I have a few questions to which I'd love a response for,

1) Should I re-start notes making, as I am planning to switch to Evernote so that I can update information simultaneously. Is this a feasible way of notes making, if anyone has experience.

2) There are plenty of information such as: important acts like food security, RTE, RTI etc; numerous governmental organizations, international organizations etc- Is there any compilation of those which I can refer to? Please do share.

3) Since the prelims was delayed, so shall I start my current affairs from October or let it be June like the old days? Suggestions on that required.

Also, Is there anyone who is struggling to get back to preparation after a long break/detox. Help me with experience/strategies or anything.

Thanks IN Advance.

Patootie,whatonly

5 comments

whatonly .

commented 5 year(s) ago

Hey A,

Take everything below with a liberal pinch of salt since this is my first attempt. I started prep last May.

I have not used Evernote much or made many online notes except mind maps for topics I first studied on paper. Made other notes by hand too so can’t advise. But the one thing I think it boils down to after reading countless people talk about it is to do whatever it takes for you to be able to connect with the material. Some people are not able to retain something that they read on a screen. Due to the lockdowns I had most of my prelims material online and it worked fine for me for prelims. Decide based on what works for you after experimenting briefly with both.

As regards compilations, you would need them mainly for prelims right? There are many data-heavy compilations that are released a couple of months before prelims. I used Vision, Shankar, Rau’s or made my own for different topics. But only when I was in the prelims mode, so they’re mainly just data. Is that what you’re looking for? I can send you mine to get an idea if it is. But I think only a couple of questions this year could be solved using the facts I memorised from those - moving forward the prevailing strategy for prelims is going to change significantly given this year’s paper.

If you have the time I think you should start from June, since that would be one year before next year’s exam. Though I think this one-year thumb rule is itself under question now. I would say do the current affairs, but be aware of the fact that a new method will have to be evolved. I myself have not been able to exactly identify what I could have done to not be so shocked by this year’s paper - I will let you know if and when I figure it out. So keep an eye out for new insights, suggestions - but also don’t fall prey to random coachings’ half-baked advice.

I can imagine how daunting this must be for you - but believe in yourself and in all the knowledge you have acquired over your previous attempt and since then! Really hope you figure out a good plan soon and also find someone who can share theirs.

All the very best to you! :)

Patootie,