How to Start UPSC Preparation from Scratch: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

A student studying UPSC preparation books at a desk with notes, highlighters, and a focused mindset.

Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination can feel overwhelming at first — especially if you’re starting from scratch. With lakhs of aspirants and limited seats, success requires clarity, planning, and consistent effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin your UPSC journey confidently.

1. Understand the Exam Structure

UPSC CSE is conducted in three stages:

  • Prelims: Objective-type (2 papers – General Studies I & CSAT)
  • Mains: Written exam (9 papers – Essay, GS I-IV, Optional I & II, Language papers)
  • Interview: Personality Test

Know the syllabus thoroughly. Download the official UPSC syllabus PDF and keep it handy.

2. Build the Right Mindset

You’ll need patience, discipline, and a long-term vision. This is not a sprint — it’s a marathon. Stay committed to daily learning and consistent revision.

3. Start with NCERTs

Begin with NCERT books (Class 6–12) for History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Science. These books help build a strong conceptual foundation.

Suggested Timeline: 2–3 months
Focus on: Class 9 to 12 primarily
Take notes from the start

4. Follow Standard UPSC Books

After NCERTs, move to standard reference books like:

  • Polity: Laxmikanth
  • History: Spectrum, Bipin Chandra
  • Geography: G.C. Leong, NCERT
  • Economics: Sriram IAS material
  • Environment: Shankar IAS Book
  • Current Affairs: Monthly magazines (Vision, Insights), daily newspaper

5. Read the Newspaper Daily

Choose either The Hindu or Indian Express. Focus on editorials, government policies, judgments, and relevant national/international developments.

Make your own notes in bullet points.

6. Make a Study Plan

  • Study 6–8 hours daily
  • Break subjects into weekly goals
  • Reserve time for revision and mock tests
  • Use monthly and weekly planners to stay consistent

7. Choose the Right Optional Subject

Pick an optional based on your interest, graduation background, or scoring potential. Research previous year trends and toppers’ suggestions before deciding.

8. Practice Answer Writing Early

Start answer writing for GS Mains within 3–4 months of preparation. Use past UPSC questions or join free online initiatives for practice.

9. Solve Prelims MCQs Regularly

Begin solving practice questions once you complete a subject. Join a test series 6–8 months before the Prelims.

10. Revise, Revise, Revise

UPSC is about depth and clarity. Revise multiple times, especially in the final 3–4 months. Create crisp notes for quick revision.

Conclusion

Starting UPSC preparation from zero isn’t difficult — but it needs consistency and smart planning. Don’t compare your journey with others. Focus on the process, stay updated, and most importantly, believe in yourself.

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