From Self-Study to IAS: A Journey of 15-16 Hours Daily

Rajiv Sharma

From Self-Study to IAS: A Journey of 15-16 Hours Daily

The journey towards success in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams is often filled with challenges and hard work. However, inspiring success stories like that of Vandana Meena motivate countless aspirants. Despite the odds, Vandana managed to prepare for her UPSC examinations from the comfort of her home using online resources, particularly YouTube. Her determination and resilience paid off when she secured an impressive rank of 331 in the UPSC 2021 examination.

Vandana Meena’s Journey Towards UPSC Success

Preparation Strategy

Vandana’s approach to her UPSC preparation involved utilizing various online platforms, prominently YouTube, as a primary resource for study. Here’s an overview of her effective strategy:

Resource Type Purpose
YouTube Channels Conceptual clarity, current affairs, and interview preparation
Online Mock Tests Practicing exam patterns and time management
Study Groups Peer discussion for enhancing understanding of subjects

Daily Routine

Vandana maintained a disciplined daily routine that contributed to her success. She structured her day to balance study, revision, and relaxation. Here is a brief look at her daily schedule:

Time Activity
5:00 AM Morning Routine and Meditation
6:00 AM – 10:00 AM Study Session 1: Core Subjects
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM Break
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM Study Session 2: Current Affairs
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Lunch and Rest
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Study Session 3: Revision and Practice Tests
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Physical Exercise / Leisure
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Study Session 4: Optional Subjects and Review

Challenges Faced

No success story is complete without a mention of the hurdles. Vandana encountered several challenges during her preparation:

  • Adapting to self-study without formal classroom guidance.
  • Managing distractions at home while maintaining focus.
  • Finding the right resources among the abundance of online content.

Key Learnings from Vandana’s Experience

Vandana’s experience leaves us with several valuable takeaways for UPSC aspirants:

  • Self-Motivation: Stay committed to your goals, even when the path seems tough.
  • Time Management: Create a well-structured daily routine to optimize study time.
  • Utilize Available Resources: Leverage online platforms and study groups to access diverse learning content and support.

Conclusion

Vandana Meena’s success story exemplifies the power of resilience, strategic planning, and self-discipline. Her journey not only underscores the effectiveness of using modern technology for preparation but also highlights the importance of a structured approach to learning. For aspiring civil servants, her story serves as a beacon of hope, proving that with dedication and the right resources, achieving success in the UPSC examinations is possible.

Rajiv Sharma

Rajiv Sharma is an experienced news editor with a sharp focus on current affairs and a commitment to delivering accurate news. With a strong educational background and years of on-field reporting, Rajiv ensures that every story is well-researched and presented with clarity. Based in Mumbai, he brings a unique perspective to national and international news.