Anyone who is struggling and needs a direction wrt preparation. If you need me, I'll be available from tomorrow.
Since I have faced deficit of guidance in my earlier days, I am always keen on helping the Diligent ones out. (Always subject to the Limited bandwidth)
I would request serious minds to put their foot forward, if you think I can be of any help. I am sure I'll be able to add value. In the next few days of Post Mains freedom, I am looking to help some people (only because I like it)
How to start preparation questions should be avoided
Also, I am planning to share whatever learnings I have had in the past years with my fellow mates here in Gaitonde's Den.
Here is a sample of what I am looking to share here:
The most recent learning is what I have termed as "Quantum entanglement" for Mains.
Is Mains an examination of content? Yes, but how does the examiner know that you have the in depth knowledge, it's only possible if you mention some keywords. Here's where this technique comes to play:
1. A simple example, Suppose you have to mention Right to Privacy, wouldn't it be better if you mention KS Puttaswamy along with it? Definitely yes
2. Suppose you have to mention BRI of China, won't it be better if you mention China’s Marshall plan in the bracket.
Even for rise of China, you can use multiple keywords like Pax Sinica, Predatory Hegemon etc.
3. Let's talk about Ethics. If you have to mention Red Tapism. Don't just end it there, you can talk about Accountability institutes study of how a National Health mission file passes 26 desks & 900 sanctions (Credit : Peeyush Sir's classes)
Whenever you mention Distance Maintaining bureaucracy, mention the Hakim culture or the Mai baap culture
For Means based actions, I prepared multiple keywords of Nishkama Karma Yogi, Marcus Aurelius' Stoicism, Kantian deontology or Favoring instrumental values over terminal.
4. For PSIR people, mention the Democratic Peace theory whenever you talk about bilateral relations between two democracies.
You can also use the word Coca Colonisation for how the MNCs breed Americanisation
Whenever you mention trend towards De globalisation, use the word Gated Globalisation
Note: Quantum entanglement can be done with judgments, examples, facts & even case studies.
I think this is ONE of the BIGGEST learning one can get for Mains. This is where Magic happens and makes you stand out in terms of content and even expression.
However, such practices do require some assistance as well as practice. Try doing this in your test series.
I am tired after the hectic mains experience and thus am limiting myself to above. However I was too eager to give it back as I end my UPSC Mains journey (Won't give the exam again). Thus, I am beginning this thread.
This is going to be the thread to share my learnings with the community (Reciprocity principle){used Quantum entanglement here too:P}
The core idea is to leave the space (either a victor or a learner) but only with my footprints on the sands of time for others to follow or not follow.
P. P. S: You can drop me personal messages too
Ofcourse you would have a list prepared for the quantum entanglement terms that you just introduced. Are you planning to share them with us?
what about Essays? People often focus on gs and optional neglecting essays, which is an essay return on investment. I don’t have any big collection of poetry/ annecdotes that @/rashmirathi or @/tedmosby has, neither is my flow that natural. Ofcourse I’m confident w my abilities and Ik that I’ll score avg marks in essay. But I wanna know if there’s a quantum entanglement like feature that you decided for essay? Or it’s just about having a thesis statement and creating flow w it?
for Best prac/ case studies, give few examples of quantum entanglement? Cause we use case studies either to substantiate our arguement or to highlight a new prac from which we learn.
Was going through answer of copy of air 2 of 2023, and he filled his answers with committees( in body + conclusion). There were few answers where he quoted at least 3-4 committees in a single answer. Since you were an evaluator earlier, do you think this will become a trend? If yes. Do you have any committee doc prepared w you? Can you give quantum entanglement examples? What I figured from going through air 2’s copy is :
challenges in electoral system:
1. Criminalisation of politics( ADR report)
2. Exessive money power ( Indrajit Sinha committee)
3. Policy paralysis due to multiple election cycle( Dinesh Goswami committee)
Etc etc.
is this what you mean by quantum entanglement when using committees?
This years GS papers required a comprehensive understanding over what’s going around the country and the world. Especially the ethics ka paper, what was your approach while solving case studies? Especially the one that resembled Manipur crises wala, where women were marching to protect the perpetrators? >>If possible share gyan on ethics case study approach given the thodasa changing pattern of case studies+ rising level of preparedness from the crowd.
How Far is it okay to bullshit in mains examination? I wrote capf and did some bullshiting there in its essay. I cleared capf, though Idk what my marks are yet. It’s just that I’m not confident in bs, and did bs where i vaguely remembered the stats.
I’m writing mgp’25, and I’m value adding from mgp 22-24 solutions, however when I go through toppers copy( 2019-23, top 20), fat jati hai. Most of their answers are better than model mgp answers.Bhai, Kahan se improve karu?And tbh I’m done w focusing on value addition, mgp++ kar lia, gsap kar lia, went through VAM of vision, basna. What’s this endless cycle?? Maybe I should keep certain things on luck, but then after topper ke copies im like wtf can’t leave this on luck, I have to grind. :3
also how’s Air1 of ‘22 doing? Any in training insights from her that you would like to share? I have heard they have cracked down on using electronics within the campus.
Ofcourse you would have a list prepared for the quantum entanglement terms that you just introduced. Are you planning to share them with us?
what about Essays? People often focus on gs and optional neglecting essays, which is an essay return on investment. I don’t have any big collection of poetry/ annecdotes that @/rashmirathi or @/tedmosby has, neither is my flow that natural. Ofcourse I’m confident w my abilities and Ik that I’ll score avg marks in essay. But I wanna know if there’s a quantum entanglement like feature that you decided for essay? Or it’s just about having a thesis statement and creating flow w it?
for Best prac/ case studies, give few examples of quantum entanglement? Cause we use case studies either to substantiate our arguement or to highlight a new prac from which we learn.
Was going through answer of copy of air 2 of 2023, and he filled his answers with committees( in body + conclusion). There were few answers where he quoted at least 3-4 committees in a single answer. Since you were an evaluator earlier, do you think this will become a trend? If yes. Do you have any committee doc prepared w you? Can you give quantum entanglement examples? What I figured from going through air 2’s copy is :
challenges in electoral system:
1. Criminalisation of politics( ADR report)
2. Exessive money power ( Indrajit Sinha committee)
3. Policy paralysis due to multiple election cycle( Dinesh Goswami committee)
Etc etc.
is this what you mean by quantum entanglement when using committees?
This years GS papers required a comprehensive understanding over what’s going around the country and the world. Especially the ethics ka paper, what was your approach while solving case studies? Especially the one that resembled Manipur crises wala, where women were marching to protect the perpetrators? >>If possible share gyan on ethics case study approach given the thodasa changing pattern of case studies+ rising level of preparedness from the crowd.
How Far is it okay to bullshit in mains examination? I wrote capf and did some bullshiting there in its essay. I cleared capf, though Idk what my marks are yet. It’s just that I’m not confident in bs, and did bs where i vaguely remembered the stats.
I’m writing mgp’25, and I’m value adding from mgp 22-24 solutions, however when I go through toppers copy( 2019-23, top 20), fat jati hai. Most of their answers are better than model mgp answers.Bhai, Kahan se improve karu?And tbh I’m done w focusing on value addition, mgp++ kar lia, gsap kar lia, went through VAM of vision, basna. What’s this endless cycle?? Maybe I should keep certain things on luck, but then after topper ke copies im like wtf can’t leave this on luck, I have to grind. :3
also how’s Air1 of ‘22 doing? Any in training insights from her that you would like to share? I have heard they have cracked down on using electronics within the campus.
Hahaha, I don't know about the training. AIR 1's whereabouts won't add any value to anyone's preparation in my opinion:P
But anyway, I do have a list prepared but I don't think such content bombardment will help anyone. The focus should be on CAPACITY BUILDING of self. You are not a beginner but rather someone who has already prepared content. You just need help to develop that insight.
Wrt, Essay, you need to let go of the ready made market based Hook, Thesis Scoping Anti Thesis. You need to develop organic writing skill. This is where mentorship and support comes into play. Please write the same essays as Rank 10 (Rahul Shrivastava 2022). Then compare and you'll get the best insights. You can write the same essay and then share with me. I will be happy to help you if it's troubling you too much . (May be a Google meet)
If you don't have a flow, you NEED to develop it. If you don't have anecdotes and poems, prepare it. But you can't wait for some day where you'll have all content ready to write a perfect essay. The process is:
Write an essay from topper copy ->Get Insights - >Then add learning & value addition if needed ->Re-Write and repeat.
Writing a VERY POOR essay on your own and then reading topper essay will help you develop great insights as to What is exactly needed.Writing a POOR ANSWER OR POOR ESSAY IS A VICTORY.Unless most beginners realise this, things won't improve.
I will recommend people to write Topper answers only and NOT go for test series especially till December & January. I am not downplaying the role of test series but that doesn't mean ignoring the topper copies. If you can do both, Wonderful!
Next, The thing about value addition is not to keep adding more but developing the CAPACITY to brainstorm with each syllabus point.
Has anyone asked you to brainstorm each of your value addition point with syllabus in front of you and see where all you can put it? This is an absolute necessity. Don't think it as a luxury.
Mindless answer writing doesn't help. You have to brainstorm too. A good answer is a mix of presentation, content, expression and brainstorming.
Please look at topper copy of one or two toppers you relate with and don't just copy them. Your Value addition is different from theirs. You need to put YOUR content into the paper. Don't keep hopping from one topper to another in search of more value addition.
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
Ofcourse you would have a list prepared for the quantum entanglement terms that you just introduced. Are you planning to share them with us?
what about Essays? People often focus on gs and optional neglecting essays, which is an essay return on investment. I don’t have any big collection of poetry/ annecdotes that @/rashmirathi or @/tedmosby has, neither is my flow that natural. Ofcourse I’m confident w my abilities and Ik that I’ll score avg marks in essay. But I wanna know if there’s a quantum entanglement like feature that you decided for essay? Or it’s just about having a thesis statement and creating flow w it?
for Best prac/ case studies, give few examples of quantum entanglement? Cause we use case studies either to substantiate our arguement or to highlight a new prac from which we learn.
Was going through answer of copy of air 2 of 2023, and he filled his answers with committees( in body + conclusion). There were few answers where he quoted at least 3-4 committees in a single answer. Since you were an evaluator earlier, do you think this will become a trend? If yes. Do you have any committee doc prepared w you? Can you give quantum entanglement examples? What I figured from going through air 2’s copy is :
challenges in electoral system:
1. Criminalisation of politics( ADR report)
2. Exessive money power ( Indrajit Sinha committee)
3. Policy paralysis due to multiple election cycle( Dinesh Goswami committee)
Etc etc.
is this what you mean by quantum entanglement when using committees?
This years GS papers required a comprehensive understanding over what’s going around the country and the world. Especially the ethics ka paper, what was your approach while solving case studies? Especially the one that resembled Manipur crises wala, where women were marching to protect the perpetrators? >>If possible share gyan on ethics case study approach given the thodasa changing pattern of case studies+ rising level of preparedness from the crowd.
How Far is it okay to bullshit in mains examination? I wrote capf and did some bullshiting there in its essay. I cleared capf, though Idk what my marks are yet. It’s just that I’m not confident in bs, and did bs where i vaguely remembered the stats.
I’m writing mgp’25, and I’m value adding from mgp 22-24 solutions, however when I go through toppers copy( 2019-23, top 20), fat jati hai. Most of their answers are better than model mgp answers.Bhai, Kahan se improve karu?And tbh I’m done w focusing on value addition, mgp++ kar lia, gsap kar lia, went through VAM of vision, basna. What’s this endless cycle?? Maybe I should keep certain things on luck, but then after topper ke copies im like wtf can’t leave this on luck, I have to grind. :3
also how’s Air1 of ‘22 doing? Any in training insights from her that you would like to share? I have heard they have cracked down on using electronics within the campus.
Hahaha, I don't know about the training. AIR 1's whereabouts won't add any value to anyone's preparation in my opinion:P
But anyway, I do have a list prepared but I don't think such content bombardment will help anyone. The focus should be on CAPACITY BUILDING of self. You are not a beginner but rather someone who has already prepared content. You just need help to develop that insight.
Wrt, Essay, you need to let go of the ready made market based Hook, Thesis Scoping Anti Thesis. You need to develop organic writing skill. This is where mentorship and support comes into play. Please write the same essays as Rank 10 (Rahul Shrivastava 2022). Then compare and you'll get the best insights. You can write the same essay and then share with me. I will be happy to help you if it's troubling you too much . (May be a Google meet)
If you don't have a flow, you NEED to develop it. If you don't have anecdotes and poems, prepare it. But you can't wait for some day where you'll have all content ready to write a perfect essay. The process is:
Write an essay from topper copy ->Get Insights - >Then add learning & value addition if needed ->Re-Write and repeat.
Writing a VERY POOR essay on your own and then reading topper essay will help you develop great insights as to What is exactly needed.Writing a POOR ANSWER OR POOR ESSAY IS A VICTORY.Unless most beginners realise this, things won't improve.
I will recommend people to write Topper answers only and NOT go for test series especially till December & January. I am not downplaying the role of test series but that doesn't mean ignoring the topper copies. If you can do both, Wonderful!
Next, The thing about value addition is not to keep adding more but developing the CAPACITY to brainstorm with each syllabus point.
Has anyone asked you to brainstorm each of your value addition point with syllabus in front of you and see where all you can put it? This is an absolute necessity. Don't think it as a luxury.
Mindless answer writing doesn't help. You have to brainstorm too. A good answer is a mix of presentation, content, expression and brainstorming.
Please look at topper copy of one or two toppers you relate with and don't just copy them. Your Value addition is different from theirs. You need to put YOUR content into the paper. Don't keep hopping from one topper to another in search of more value addition.
lol thanks to your bold highlighting of the term capacity building I realise, this is more or less mba dude bro talks. jokes apart.
Ofcourse I'll send you my essays! looking forward to having g-meet with you. ig its been more than one year since our interaction is due xD.
As you said I'm not new, toh yes I do brainstorm what I pick up from newspapers and try to fit it in the syllabus. Ofcourse one can improve their quality and efficiency of brainstorming, and I can see my growth. And hmm thanks for reminding me, I'll consolidate my content and try to put it in different areas of syllabus. I do have one pagers prepared, abhi uski refiningchal rahi hai.
As of answer writing, I dont think I'm doing mindless answer writing. I was fortunateenough to have interacted with mentors like Navya and Payal ma'am during my early prep phase. I would take my copies to them and ask how I could have improved w the limited knowledge I have. Now idk I don't refer to mentors much, eval toh lol hi, its more about being in touch w writing answers and improving presentation for me rn. If you dont mind I'll send this years mgp copies?
I liked that hopping part. Even while doing the exercise I quickly realised it was giving no fruits and causing me anxiety toh I deleted the remaining answer copies. Also if Toppers ka answer copy likhna hi hai, toh I'll do that from mid- dec.
About the content bombardment helping anyone or not, let us be the one to judge that na bhai? If you are willing to, then do share. If not 100 %, but even if it helps 30% then I'm sure, it'll be a good investment of time. Ofcourse we'll have to work and absorb that content and it's okay. Kar lenge voh. We'll even map where all we can use it.
Ofcourse you would have a list prepared for the quantum entanglement terms that you just introduced. Are you planning to share them with us?
what about Essays? People often focus on gs and optional neglecting essays, which is an essay return on investment. I don’t have any big collection of poetry/ annecdotes that @/rashmirathi or @/tedmosby has, neither is my flow that natural. Ofcourse I’m confident w my abilities and Ik that I’ll score avg marks in essay. But I wanna know if there’s a quantum entanglement like feature that you decided for essay? Or it’s just about having a thesis statement and creating flow w it?
for Best prac/ case studies, give few examples of quantum entanglement? Cause we use case studies either to substantiate our arguement or to highlight a new prac from which we learn.
Was going through answer of copy of air 2 of 2023, and he filled his answers with committees( in body + conclusion). There were few answers where he quoted at least 3-4 committees in a single answer. Since you were an evaluator earlier, do you think this will become a trend? If yes. Do you have any committee doc prepared w you? Can you give quantum entanglement examples? What I figured from going through air 2’s copy is :
challenges in electoral system:
1. Criminalisation of politics( ADR report)
2. Exessive money power ( Indrajit Sinha committee)
3. Policy paralysis due to multiple election cycle( Dinesh Goswami committee)
Etc etc.
is this what you mean by quantum entanglement when using committees?
This years GS papers required a comprehensive understanding over what’s going around the country and the world. Especially the ethics ka paper, what was your approach while solving case studies? Especially the one that resembled Manipur crises wala, where women were marching to protect the perpetrators? >>If possible share gyan on ethics case study approach given the thodasa changing pattern of case studies+ rising level of preparedness from the crowd.
How Far is it okay to bullshit in mains examination? I wrote capf and did some bullshiting there in its essay. I cleared capf, though Idk what my marks are yet. It’s just that I’m not confident in bs, and did bs where i vaguely remembered the stats.
I’m writing mgp’25, and I’m value adding from mgp 22-24 solutions, however when I go through toppers copy( 2019-23, top 20), fat jati hai. Most of their answers are better than model mgp answers.Bhai, Kahan se improve karu?And tbh I’m done w focusing on value addition, mgp++ kar lia, gsap kar lia, went through VAM of vision, basna. What’s this endless cycle?? Maybe I should keep certain things on luck, but then after topper ke copies im like wtf can’t leave this on luck, I have to grind. :3
also how’s Air1 of ‘22 doing? Any in training insights from her that you would like to share? I have heard they have cracked down on using electronics within the campus.
Hahaha, I don't know about the training. AIR 1's whereabouts won't add any value to anyone's preparation in my opinion:P
But anyway, I do have a list prepared but I don't think such content bombardment will help anyone. The focus should be on CAPACITY BUILDING of self. You are not a beginner but rather someone who has already prepared content. You just need help to develop that insight.
Wrt, Essay, you need to let go of the ready made market based Hook, Thesis Scoping Anti Thesis. You need to develop organic writing skill. This is where mentorship and support comes into play. Please write the same essays as Rank 10 (Rahul Shrivastava 2022). Then compare and you'll get the best insights. You can write the same essay and then share with me. I will be happy to help you if it's troubling you too much . (May be a Google meet)
If you don't have a flow, you NEED to develop it. If you don't have anecdotes and poems, prepare it. But you can't wait for some day where you'll have all content ready to write a perfect essay. The process is:
Write an essay from topper copy ->Get Insights - >Then add learning & value addition if needed ->Re-Write and repeat.
Writing a VERY POOR essay on your own and then reading topper essay will help you develop great insights as to What is exactly needed.Writing a POOR ANSWER OR POOR ESSAY IS A VICTORY.Unless most beginners realise this, things won't improve.
I will recommend people to write Topper answers only and NOT go for test series especially till December & January. I am not downplaying the role of test series but that doesn't mean ignoring the topper copies. If you can do both, Wonderful!
Next, The thing about value addition is not to keep adding more but developing the CAPACITY to brainstorm with each syllabus point.
Has anyone asked you to brainstorm each of your value addition point with syllabus in front of you and see where all you can put it? This is an absolute necessity. Don't think it as a luxury.
Mindless answer writing doesn't help. You have to brainstorm too. A good answer is a mix of presentation, content, expression and brainstorming.
Please look at topper copy of one or two toppers you relate with and don't just copy them. Your Value addition is different from theirs. You need to put YOUR content into the paper. Don't keep hopping from one topper to another in search of more value addition.
lol thanks to your bold highlighting of the term capacity building I realise, this is more or less mba dude bro talks. jokes apart.
Ofcourse I'll send you my essays! looking forward to having g-meet with you. ig its been more than one year since our interaction is due xD.
As you said I'm not new, toh yes I do brainstorm what I pick up from newspapers and try to fit it in the syllabus. Ofcourse one can improve their quality and efficiency of brainstorming, and I can see my growth. And hmm thanks for reminding me, I'll consolidate my content and try to put it in different areas of syllabus. I do have one pagers prepared, abhi uski refiningchal rahi hai.
As of answer writing, I dont think I'm doing mindless answer writing. I was fortunateenough to have interacted with mentors like Navya and Payal ma'am during my early prep phase. I would take my copies to them and ask how I could have improved w the limited knowledge I have. Now idk I don't refer to mentors much, eval toh lol hi, its more about being in touch w writing answers and improving presentation for me rn. If you dont mind I'll send this years mgp copies?I liked that hopping part. Even while doing the exercise I quickly realised it was giving no fruits and causing me anxiety toh I deleted the remaining answer copies. Also if Toppers ka answer copy likhna hi hai, toh I'll do that from mid- dec.
About the content bombardment helping anyone or not, let us be the one to judge that na bhai? If you are willing to, then do share. If not 100 %, but even if it helps 30% then I'm sure, it'll be a good investment of time. Ofcourse we'll have to work and absorb that content and it's okay. Kar lenge voh. We'll even map where all we can use it.
You can share your copies, no worries
Also Definitely, I'll share more tips and samples bhai. Don't worry.
Main share karne ke liye hi thread banaya hai :)
Give me some time to arrange things and the way ahead so that things can be structured for people.
The thing is sharing things may lead to massifiication which then looses the sheen as most people copy those. That's why I encourage the decentralised capacity building approach so that one can do it on their own.
You are always welcome to ping and have a G meet :)
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
CHEAT AND WRITE: ANSWER WRITING FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
For Absolute beginners who intend to write answers but don't have enough content. The best way for you is to CHEAT and WRITE.
Here's the process that might help you create a feedback loop for your content.
1. Go and chose a topper with high score & one that you find relatable.
2. Go and chose the question theme you want to write (Cheat the topic and not the Q)
3. Go and read your topic
4. Write in 7-10 or 11-14 minutes and compare ! Observe how topper writes (Keywords, short sentences, diagram & Intro/ conclusion).
Copy their content and you can add lot of value from their styles
I am sure beginners face this conundrum. Go and try this once, you'll feel immense improvement in your notes rather than mindlessly writing test series before even completing the syllabus nicely and being forced to face random questions even when you are just getting the hang of syllabus.
Most importantly, this will END YOUR INERTIA OF ANSWER WRITING. This can be beneficial even for some higher attempt people. It's a magical INERTIA SLAYER.
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
CHEAT AND WRITE: ANSWER WRITING FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
For Absolute beginners who intend to write answers but don't have enough content. The best way for you is to CHEAT and WRITE.
Here's the process that might help you create a feedback loop for your content.
1. Go and chose a topper with high score & one that you find relatable.
2. Go and chose the question theme you want to write (Cheat the topic and not the Q)
3. Go and read your topic
4. Write in 7-10 or 11-14 minutes and compare ! Observe how topper writes (Keywords, short sentences, diagram & Intro/ conclusion).
Copy their content and you can add lot of value from their styles
I am sure beginners face this conundrum. Go and try this once, you'll feel immense improvement in your notes rather than mindlessly writing test series before even completing the syllabus nicely and being forced to face random questions even when you are just getting the hang of syllabus.
Most importantly, this will END YOUR INERTIA OF ANSWER WRITING. This can be beneficial even for some higher attempt people. It's a magical INERTIA SLAYER.
I had adopted this technique in this attempt and it did help me in GS (according to my self analysis baaki marks ka pata nahi).
Great initiative btw@GaneshGaitonde. I would like to have a gmeet session too. Kuch planned ho toh batana.
I will be back!
I had adopted this technique in this attempt and it did help me in GS (according to my self analysis baaki marks ka pata nahi).
Great initiative btw@GaneshGaitonde. I would like to have a gmeet session too. Kuch planned ho toh batana.
Why not bhai. Let's have it soon.
Jab apka mann kare, drop me a message. I am sharing my telegram ID with you in the personal message.
Also, aap sab contribute karenge to thoda easy rahega for all those who are beginning. Let's ensure the younger ones don't face the issues that we did!
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
I had adopted this technique in this attempt and it did help me in GS (according to my self analysis baaki marks ka pata nahi).
Great initiative btw@GaneshGaitonde. I would like to have a gmeet session too. Kuch planned ho toh batana.
Why not bhai. Let's have it soon.
Jab apka mann kare, drop me a message. I am sharing my telegram ID with you in the personal message.
Also, aap sab contribute karenge to thoda easy rahega for all those who are beginning. Let's ensure the younger ones don't face the issues that we did!
Yes, I will try my best to contribute. :)
I will be back!
Hey! Thanks for the initiative. I would really appreciate community advice on few things. Firstly, I have just written mains and I have realised that I need to make better and concise notes for a lot of things, especially subjects like WH, PIC which can take a lot of time near the mains. But at the same time I think I need more practice in answer writing. I have some MGP tests left so I will be using them. Now should I focus first completely on making notes and then move to revision and answer writing. If that should be the case, what should be the time limit for me to complete the notes making. Or should I make notes, revise, practice simultaneously? Also what is that point where you can start believing that your mains preparation is good and you should wholly shift to prelims? Finally please suggest a good source for economics mains. Is PW Prahaar series good for it? Thanks!!
1. Firstly, you need a break. Apne mains likha hai, you need to party, go on trip and remove UPSC for 1 full week. I can tell you that this is of utmost importance or else fatigue will continue till November. This has happened with me and a lot of my friends.
2. Notes enrichment (Not too much) - >Topper copy based answer writing - >Enrich again & learn the art of using keywords (Rather, I would recommend you to write answers first & compare and then enrich notes as you're not a beginner, you'll automatically understand exact demands)
3. You should do it simultaneously
4. There is not a very good source for economy Mains. I have self made notes. I can share the topics on which you can prepare economy notes. Given the unpredictability, don't go too much after it. Be mindful that GS 3 is not very high scoring.
5. Ethics Essay & Optional should be the priority. Write as many topper answers as possible. Like I said earlier, Since you have written Mains, you'll exactly understand what's needed. Create a feedback loop with them
6. Since you have cleared Prelims before and you must be having notes, you can start in mid Feb and devote half time to mains till Feb end or even March beginning.
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
1. Firstly, you need a break. Apne mains likha hai, you need to party, go on trip and remove UPSC for 1 full week. I can tell you that this is of utmost importance or else fatigue will continue till November. This has happened with me and a lot of my friends.
2. Notes enrichment (Not too much) - >Topper copy based answer writing - >Enrich again & learn the art of using keywords (Rather, I would recommend you to write answers first & compare and then enrich notes as you're not a beginner, you'll automatically understand exact demands)
3. You should do it simultaneously
4. There is not a very good source for economy Mains. I have self made notes. I can share the topics on which you can prepare economy notes. Given the unpredictability, don't go too much after it. Be mindful that GS 3 is not very high scoring.
5. Ethics Essay & Optional should be the priority. Write as many topper answers as possible. Like I said earlier, Since you have written Mains, you'll exactly understand what's needed. Create a feedback loop with them
6. Since you have cleared Prelims before and you must be having notes, you can start in mid Feb and devote half time to mains till Feb end or even March beginning.
Point no. 1 toh mujhe bhi apply hota hai. :D My body has not been able to get out of that zone. I am still waking up at 5 and I am still doing Maths ;_; . If I do relax for some time, I automatically go and sit at my desk.
Point no. 2 pe I would like to give thought process behind overenrichment of notes. See, you need to have notes having content which can be "directly" used in the exam.@Gimsss So in the process of trying to get that "extra" edge over others, people tend to keep on adding value to their notes to a point that its true essence is lost and the notes become bulky (Aur ye sab mostly diligent aspirants ke saath hota hai). Fir revision hota nahi and then we end up writing generic content in GS. So as@GaneshGaitonde said, keep writing answers. It will help you be in sync with reality w.r.t what is working and what is not.
In this context, I would like to give the "Mosby Talisman" (because why not xD): "Whenever you see any new content, ask yourself whether it will benefit you in Pre/Mains or not? If it does, pinpoint where in the syllabus? Was it asked in PYQs? If yes, read it". There's no point in becoming "Insert-Your-Name-Here" Vidyasagar / a Human Library.
I will be back!
@GaneshGaitonde I would like to thank you for the guidance I received during my mains preparation
We get a very few people who actually go into the depth of the subject to guide an aspirant
It really helped me to study in a specific manner for each GS subject be it the necessary material or topper copies or test series and even the schedule itself which can be overwhelming during such an intense period. Moreover great session on the quantum entanglement theory today on G meet...looking forward to many more sessions :)
@GaneshGaitonde I would like to thank you for the guidance I received during my mains preparation
We get a very few people who actually go into the depth of the subject to guide an aspirant
It really helped me to study in a specific manner for each GS subject be it the necessary material or topper copies or test series and even the schedule itself which can be overwhelming during such an intense period. Moreover great session on the quantum entanglement theory today on G meet...looking forward to many more sessions :)
Thanks friend :)
I am happy that I could be the one "jo itni detail bata paya".
Happy to be of any help to a diligent student like you who sat for the whole session despite being sick :)
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
@Gimsss Welcome. :)
For rest of the aspirants, they can also personally DM me on my telegram: tedmosby98 and@GaneshGaitonde for prep related stuff. Abhi free time hai and we are utilizing that time to help out aspirants for their prep taaki five year plan naa banne aapki prep ka jesa hummara bann gaya hai :P (Filhaal mera toh NITI Aayog ka Medium Term Strategy bann gaya hai 7 yrs ka xD).
@GaneshGaitonde 's insights are very helpful. I remember he had written a paragraph on a "Karmayogi" aspirant after CSE 2023 results and I had taken a printout of that. Kaafi helpful tha. I used to read it from time to time.
I will be back!
@Gimsss Welcome. :)
For rest of the aspirants, they can also personally DM me on my telegram: tedmosby98 and@GaneshGaitonde for prep related stuff. Abhi free time hai and we are utilizing that time to help out aspirants for their prep taaki five year plan naa banne aapki prep ka jesa hummara bann gaya hai :P (Filhaal mera toh NITI Aayog ka Medium Term Strategy bann gaya hai 7 yrs ka xD).
@GaneshGaitonde 's insights are very helpful. I remember he had written a paragraph on a "Karmayogi" aspirant after CSE 2023 results and I had taken a printout of that. Kaafi helpful tha. I used to read it from time to time.
You don't know how glad I am to hear this bhai:)
I had forgotten about that post. I think it should remain a potent reminder of the need to be a Nishkama KarmaYogi in life.
Keeping it here for all of us (including me) :
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvement etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will be performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions, Intros and sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is anaccidental outcomeof some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even then, if they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
"Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi"
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President.We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short,mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and the most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
Gaitonde’s Den: https://forumias.com/post/detail/Gaitondes-Den-1727638216
You don't know how glad I am to hear this bhai:)
I had forgotten about that post. I think it should remain a potent reminder of the need to be a Nishkama KarmaYogi in life.
Keeping it here for all of us (including me) :
Hello@tedmosby,it gives me immense joy that I could be of any help to you.But please don't call me sir. I don't deserve that at all.
I just want to say one thing to you and all the DILIGENT ONES. Don't be too hard on yourself. It's good that you can see your own mistakes and thus now can improve upon them.
I know, you're gracefully celebrating your ex getting the rank. But let's be honest, we all feel the pain when we see we couldn't make it despite making similar efforts. If you're feeling the same, it's fine!
Finally, I would take this opportunity to write something that I wanted for all of us
For a solid mental state, focusing on duty is the right way to go. Our goals should never be like : I will get a top rank next year.
The goal should always be that I'll write 20 tests, I'll do this class for content improvement etc. That's it, that's all we as humans can do.
It gets really problematic when people proclaim such goals as "I'll get top 10 Rank this year" . I am not against such manifestations. But, I strongly believe such manifestations can have a very very negative impact on our mental health if things don't work out. Also, let's please accept that some things are beyond us.
Hence, let's just focus on the process and not the end goal of getting a top rank. Why? Because preserving our mental health is the most sacred duty. Happiness is the goal and not becoming an IAS.
This can only happen if we become KarmaYogis. We should always chart out goals like following
1. I will be performing the best on the prelims day irrespective of the shocks that UPSC gives
2. Even if I fail, I will not let emotional turbulence be the reason for my prelims failure
3. I will solve all 100 Questions mechanically. I will not celebrate when I look at an easy question and I will not be dejected at a tough one. Solve the paper mechanically like a machine
4. I will apply all tricks/logics in those 2 hours.
5. I will fight till the clock rings 4:30
If we check all the boxes above and still fail, we're free to blame the luck. A KarmaYogi will be proud of the effort irrespective of what the result is.
Let us come to mains. In my opinion, here also the goals should be set keeping in mind the process
1. I will write 25 tests. I will write the same copies as topper copies
2. I will brainstorm extensively in the three months
3. I will revise 3 times
4. I will improve my expression in Essay. I will prepare wonderful conclusions, Intros and sub headings
Now, If a person focuses on above goals and still fails, Its FINE.
The problem with setting a goal like "Main agle saal LBSNAA jaa raha hu" is that even if you don't fulfil your day's targets, You're STILL GOING TO LBSNAA in your head. There is no failure here. Your mind becomes relaxed because Main to Manifest kar chuka hu that LBSNAA jaa raha hu
But if you set a target of Revising ancient history today and that's it. Then you're bound to complete it. You've failed if you don't and you'll work to ensure you don't fail again.
In my humble opinion, Success is anaccidental outcomeof some habits & processes. Success or failure should not stop us from focusing on the right thing: The process.
Such a person is unlikely to collapse even at the face of failure for he knows he perfected the process and yet failed. He won't blame himself for he did everything right.
Such a person is also likely to correct himself as he's totally focussed on the process and the outcome won't cloud his thinking. He will be able to find faults in the process.
I know it's difficult but this is the only way in my opinion to become ANTI FRAGILE and become stronger with each failure.
Even in a relationship, if you set your duties (Making sure to wish good day to your loved ones, Kissing them before you leave your home, being utmost loyal etc.) , and even then, if they decide to cheat or leave you, YOU'RE NOT TO BE BLAMED. You did the right thing! And that's what matters
This is the crux behind Atal Bihari Vajpayee's immortal lines :
"Kya haar me, kya jeet me
Kinchit nahi bhaybhit main
Kartavya path par jo mila
Ye bhi sahi, wo bhi sahi"
For me a KarmaYogi is a far successful person than even an anxious or end focussed Prime Minister or President.We need to get our definitions of success right.
Also, I strongly believe that a person who didn't make in to the list this time can make an IAS, a Bollywood superstar or even the president of US JEALOUS if 10 years later, he has better family life, work life balance and mental peace.
You must have felt this. Even though, most of us are unemployed, the passion and spark with which we speak about social & moral issues makes us a subject of envy among our corporate friends. The monetary superiority simply fades away due to the spark in our eyes.
In short,mental peace, happiness and passion are those prized possessions that can make even the strongest, richest and the most powerful people feel inferior and jealous of you. Let us focus on acquiring virtues through process oriented approach.
A KarmaYogi always grows: in success and more in failure !
P.S : Like always, feel free to ignore if it doesn't align with your value system.
A small anecdote from my side-
It was Prelims 2024 and I had just reached my hotel room. I saw the paper again and I thought to myself "Itna bhi burra nahi gaya hai". My hotel room was 900 metres away from my exam centre in Delhi. It was 45 degrees outside and the first paper was just over. I had attempted 82 questions in the exam and I felt that I had screwed up. When I got out of the exam hall, I told myself "Gaya ye attempt". I texted my friend, "I screwed up bhai". Ofcourse this was in the context of the fact that I thought the paper was extremely easy and I had committed a blunder by attempting less number of questions. The past 6 months flashed before me. The Mains 2023 result had hit me hard because after 5 yrs of rigorous prep I had failed to qualify Mains yet again. But still I started preparing just one week after the results. I used to cry a lot about the failure but still somehow I used to attempt mocks and in the final days before Pre, I had zeroed in on the strategy of attempting exactly 82 questions. And with Prelims, I was simultaneously preparing for Maths opt. I was studying and solving everyday.
Finally, I snapped out of the flashback and took a cold shower. I reminded myself of these lines "Kya haar mai kya Jeet mai. Kinchit nahi bhaybhit mai. Kartvyapath par jo bhi mile ye bhi sahi vo bhi sahi". I told myself- "I won't give up, the result is immaterial. I will solve CSAT questions to the best of my abilities". As always, I attempted 42 questions out of 80. The bell rang and finally, Pre 2024 was over.
I took a train back to my home and the speculations about the cutoff started. Every coaching institute started to predict a 100+ cutoff. I was shaken from the inside. As a 19 year old 'kid', I used to think that I would clear this exam in the 1st attempt but as a 26 year old, I was looking at my 6th and the last attempt. "ANOTHER YEAR".
But the results came and I had qualified. I told myself I would give atleast 2 mocks per paper. I would put in 14+ hrs. So when I look back to my Mains prep time, I achieved each one of them and I am happy about my efforts. Though I am still unhappy about Maths optional but what to do. I had performed to the best of my abilities and I had worked extremely hard for this attempt. Selection/rejection is not in my hands and it never will be.
So even if the results are not in my favour, I would cry a little but beyond that I would be proud about how I handled my shortcomings and how I accepted my mistakes. I just hope aspirants get a sense of what the exam is all about and how the philosophy of a Karmayogi aspirant works.
I will be back!