Myths about the Civil Services Examination
Many of us have heard various misconceptions about the Civil Services Examination (commonly referred to as the IAS Exam). These myths not only create fear among new aspirants but also confuse many experienced candidates. Through the following questions, our aim is to dispel these myths and provide aspirants with a positive perspective:
Q1: Is the Civil Services Examination the toughest exam?
Answer: Not entirely true. This exam, like any other, has its own structure and process. With a clear strategy, consistent practice, and the right approach, success is achievable.
Q2: Is it necessary to study 16–18 hours a day to succeed in this exam?
Answer: No, it is not mandatory. Success depends more on the quality, strategy, and consistency of study rather than the number of hours. Even 6–8 hours of sincere and regular study can lead you towards success.
Q3: Is coaching in Delhi a must for cracking UPSC?
Answer: Not at all. Many successful candidates have prepared from their homes and achieved top ranks. Today, quality study materials and guidance are easily available online or through postal courses. With proper resources and self-discipline, home preparation is equally effective.
Q4: Are questions asked outside the UPSC syllabus?
Answer: This is a misconception. While the syllabus is vast, all questions are asked from within it. Sometimes the language or framing of questions may seem tricky, but they always remain within the prescribed subjects.
Q5: Only a few candidates succeed out of lakhs of aspirants – should this be a cause for fear?
Answer: No. The real competition is only among a few thousand serious candidates. If you prepare regularly and systematically, you too can be among the selected ones.
Q6: Is luck important for success in this exam?
Answer: Luck may play a minor role, but only around 1%. The remaining 99% depends on hard work, dedication, and strategy. With sincere effort, success is well within reach.
Q7: How should one choose the Optional Subject?
Answer: Choose the subject in which you feel most comfortable and confident, and one that is scoring for you. Do not select a subject just because it is short or overlaps with General Studies. Ultimately, your selection depends on marks.
Q8: Does the medium of examination (Hindi/English) affect marks?
Answer: No, the medium makes no difference. What matters is your command over the subject, writing style, and presentation. Candidates from Hindi medium have also scored very well by adopting the right strategy.
Q9: Is there corruption in the IAS selection process?
Answer: Absolutely not. The UPSC selection process is highly transparent, impartial, and fair. You can place complete trust in it.