It is no secret that the civil service exam is one of the toughest exams in India and every year lakhs of aspirants compete to get a job as a civil servant. However, not everyone clears the exam because of several reasons such as poor revision techniques, lack of dedication, and other factors. Revision is a crucial part of the preparation and in this blog, we will highlight the 4 best techniques for quick revision in the UPSC exam.
Ideally, there are two ways of revising; Normal/ standard revision techniques and the other is known as frequent revision techniques. Both techniques are good ways to prepare but for the UPSC exam, a learning technique should be used that suits the aspirant’s learning style. Moreover, it is vital that the aspirant also gets enough rest to process the information/ knowledge gained.
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4 Best Revision Techniques for UPSC
- Create notes/ mind maps/ songs/ shortcut methods
The best way to revise is with the help of notes. These notes can be in the form of a list, small paragraphs, mind maps, songs, or rhymes.
What kind of notes you should create depends on your learning style. If you like creating pointers/ lists then you can go ahead with that.
Moreover, it is important to implement a shortcut learning technique like the 7321 method wherein you read one topic/ subject on one day, the next day and the third day then read the same material four days after the third day or 7 days from the first time you read the notes.
This technique is said to help learners embed information and retain it for longer. There are also other learning/ memorizing techniques that you can look for online.
- Solve Past Papers and mock tests
Past papers are the holy grail when it comes to revising for the UPSC exam. This is because past papers familiarize the aspirant with the exam pattern, structure, and question format.
Additionally, past papers can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, mock tests are also a good way to test your subject/ topic understanding and can also determine how well-versed you are with different question formats/ patterns.
- Work on your strengths first then your weaknesses
Although many believe one should work on their weaknesses first, ideally, it is best to work on your strengths and then move on to areas where you need more attention. For example, if you are good at comprehension, work on questions related to that then move on to a subject or topic that is a little more challenging for you.
This way you save time and can get more revision time on topics or subjects that need more attention.
- Join an online learning platform
Although many like to study on their own or like joining an offline coaching center, several online learning platforms help UPSC aspirants get a knack over other aspirants.
This is because online learning platforms like Physics Wallah hire teachers or instructors who have cleared the exam and they also share their notes and resources to help you ace your exam.
Moreover, the courses offered are more affordable and to the point.
Here are a few online learning platforms that you can join
- Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is India’s leading ed-tech platform that offers quality courses at affordable prices. Moreover, all the teachers/ instructors are qualified in the area of UPSC and also share essential tricks and tips, resources, and notes to clear the exam.
- Byjus
Byjus is another ed-tech platform that offers a comprehensive course for UPSC aspirants. Moreover, you have access to their study material and other resources that can boost your preparation process.
- Unacademy
Unacademy is another ed-tech platform that provides courses to aid your UPSC preparations. You can check their platform for free and paid material.
Additional tips include:
- Not creating a large revision gap
- Take rest as a well-rested mind absorbs information faster and better
- Avoid referring to too many resources as this only creates confusion and wastes time
- The last tip is to practice as much as you can. The best way to practice is by solving past papers. Past papers will help you understand your strengths, weaknesses, and understanding of a topic and also improve your confidence.
Conclusion
Each aspirant has their learning method. However, it is important to understand one’s strengths and weaknesses and work on them continuously.
Ideally, one’s preparation should start a year before the exam and the revision period should be 2-3 months before the exam.
Moreover, with the help of past papers and certain memorizing techniques, an aspirant can retain information for longer and use his or her analytical ability to perform better.
On that note, it is also important to highlight that rest is just as important as working your mind. A well-rested mind and body are crucial to retaining information. Therefore, avoid unnecessary stress and keep up with your health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How can I revise faster for UPSC?
Ans. To revise faster for the UPSC exam, it is ideal to refer to your notes and go through some past papers to test your knowledge and understanding of a topic.
Q2. What is the 7-3-2-1 revision method?
Ans. The 7-3-2-1 revision method is a widely used technique to remember things better. For example, if you learned something new today and want to remember it in the long run, you should read the topic today, tomorrow, the day after then on the 7th day from when you first read the topic.
Constant exposure to the same text allows your mind to absorb and embed the information in your mind.
Q3. What are good revision techniques for the UPSC exam?
Ans. Some good revision techniques include
- Using flashcards
- Using sticky notes for important points or topics
- Using a rhyme or shortcut method to remember points
- Solve past papers and mock tests
Q4. What is the best way to make notes for UPSC preparation?
Ans. The best way to make notes is by first going through a topic and making pointers or a listicle for the topic in question. Lists/ points are easier to remember and easy to understand.
