Pursuing the IAS Dream: A Step-by-Step Guide for Class 10 Students

It is exciting to see that you have already set your career goals at such an early age. However, as a future IAS officer, it is essential to focus on your present academic endeavors first.

Board Exams and Admissions:

Focus on getting excellent results in your Class 10 and Class 12 board exams. Clearing these exams with flying colors will open doors to a good school and a solid foundation for your future career. Once you have secured your XII exam results, start preparing for the Civil Services Examination (UPSC).

Building the Foundation for IAS Preparation

Developing the habit of reading English and one lingual newspaper every day is crucial. This will serve as the cornerstone of your IAS preparation, helping you build a strong vocabulary and understanding of current affairs.

Personal Development and Extracurricular Activities

In the meantime, engage in school activities to build your personality and discover your true interests. This will be invaluable when preparing for interviews later on.

Structure and Dedication for UPSC Preparation

Starting your UPSC preparation after XII is essential. Here’s a structured plan to help you achieve your dream:

January-February-March 2021:

Choose an optional subject and read 20 pages daily from your notes. Over the course of a year, you can cover approximately 2090 pages. If your subject contains more pages, adjust accordingly.

April-May:

Practice previous year questions and create concise notes. Your notes should be such that you can revise them in the week off before your optional exam. For example, if you have GS3 and GS4 on January 7, 8, 9, you get a holiday from January 10 to 14.

June:

Dedicate this time to Ethics (GS4). Analyze previous year questions and make topic-wise notes. Revisit these notes just before your GS3 exam, as GS4 is conducted in the afternoon from 2 to 5 PM.

July:

Prepare for Ethics case studies, which are very scoring and can greatly enhance your chances of selection.

August:

Read Economics with Mrunal Sir’s videos. Focus on Prelims and Mains PYQs, and use Sri Ram notes as an alternative.

September:

Study security issues from Ashok Kumar’s book and environment topics from Shankar IAS, highlighting important parts based on PYQs.

Caution:

Avoid rushing into topics not covered in PYQs. For Prelims, read Science NCERT from Class 6 to 12 based on PYQs to eliminate unnecessary content.

GS2:

Read Laxmikanth, covering governance and social issues with PYQs and the syllabus.

December:

Read Geography class 11th and 12th books, focusing on GC Leong’s Part II on biomes.

January 2022:

Read Tamil Nadu Class 11th book for ancient and medieval history, and new NCERTs from Class 6 to 12. Highlight important topics based on repeated PYQs.

March-April-May 2022:

Start giving mock test series for Prelims. Aim for at least 30 tests, increasing the number as needed.

June 2022:

Prepare for the Prelims examination!

Best of luck on your journey to the IAS!