IAS Topper Ajay Prakash tells how to crack Prelims stage of Civil Services Examination

Ajay Prakash of Samastipur, Bihar, secured 9th rank in the UPSC exam 2010. He talks to Gulshan Sharma of jagranjosh.com and tips IAS aspirants on how to clear the Prelims stage of the IAS exam

Q. It is very difficult to figure out the right strategy. What should be the first step once somebody decides to take Civil Services Exam?

A. Proper guidance is the key to success. The nature of exam is such that you cannot afford to waste time for unimportant topics. Talk to candidates who have cleared this exam. Taking help of coaching institiutes is also not a bad idea. The exam becomes very easy if you adopt the right strategy. Coaching institutes can help you choose the right study material and also bring discipline to your study schedule. But it is not essential to join a coaching institute if you know what to study and maintain a proper study schedule. I was lucky to be a part of JNU. The atmosphere here and the help of fellow students helped me crack these exams.

Also, it is important not to take too much pressure. Right frame of mind will help you crack the exam.

Take help of internet. You will get a lot of information. But it is important to rely only on standard websites.Read newspapers and current affairs magazines.

Q. What was your preparation strategy for Preliminary exam?

A. I adopted an integrated approach as all stages of the civil services exam require both facts and opinions. From the very first day, look for facts, build your knowledge and form your opinion.

Q. GS is a very vast section. How did you prepare for it? Any books that you read?

A. One source that I would like to strongly recommend is The Hindu newspaper. It is important to go behind the news items. Also read other newspapers which will help you prepare for General Studies. I would also listen to All India Radio’s FM Gold. They discuss issue of the day every weekday from 9 pm to 10 pm.

Q. What is your opinion on the changes made in the Prelims exam?

A. I am very happy with the changes. Earlier knowledge was privileged. Now the emphasis is on decision making ability. Your honesty will be checked and capabilities tested. Your aptitude will be judged.