ForumIAS has introduced Pragati, a meticulously crafted UPSC Mains answer writing practice booklet that mirrors the aprox. dimensions and specifications of the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains Question-Cum-Answer Booklet (QCAB). This innovative tool is designed to elevate aspirants’ preparation by providing an authentic practice experience, thereby enhancing their confidence and performance in the actual examination.

Addressing Common Challenges in Answer Writing Practice

Aspirants often face several challenges during their preparation:

• Inconsistent Handwriting Size: Variations in handwriting can lead to uncertainty about the appropriate length of responses for different mark allocations.
• Time Management Issues: Many candidates find it difficult to complete answers within the stipulated time, affecting overall performance.
• Unfamiliarity with Exam Booklet Format: Practicing on standard A4-sized paper, which differs from the actual exam booklet size, can result in discrepancies in answer length and presentation.
• Space Allocation Concerns: Uncertainty about the number of pages allotted for various questions can lead to over or under-writing, impacting answer quality.

Pragati: Bridging the Gap Between Practice and Performance

To tackle these issues, ForumIAS has developed Pragati, an answer writing booklet which replicates very closely the details and size of the UPSC CSE Mains QCAB. Pragati booklets are sized at 8.5 x 10.5 inches, identical to the UPSC Mains QCAB, ensuring that aspirants practice within the same spatial parameters as the actual exam.

Insights from ForumIAS Leadership

Sushil Singh, Marketing Manager at ForumIAS, emphasizes the significance of Pragati:

“Understanding the exact format and constraints of the UPSC Mains answer sheets is crucial for effective preparation. Pragati provides aspirants with a realistic practice environment, enabling them to manage space and time efficiently during the actual exam.”

Shantanu Apurva, Chief Operating Officer of ForumIAS, adds:

“Our goal with Pragati is to bridge the gap between practice sessions and the real examination experience. By familiarizing candidates with the exact dimensions and layout of the UPSC answer booklet, we aim to boost their confidence and enhance their performance.”

Enhancing Answer Writing Skills with Pragati

Practicing with Pragati offers several advantages:

• Accurate Simulation: By using a booklet that mirrors the actual exam format, aspirants can develop a realistic sense of space management, ensuring their answers are concise and well-structured.
• Improved Time Management: Familiarity with the exact page layout helps candidates allocate appropriate time to each question, reducing the risk of incomplete answers.
• Consistency in Practice: Utilizing Pragati across all practice sessions ensures uniformity, allowing aspirants to track their progress effectively and make necessary adjustments.

Availability and Access

Pragati answer writing booklets are available for purchase through the ForumIAS website and at select offline centers. Aspirants can choose from various packages tailored to their preparation needs. For more information and to place orders, please visit ForumIAS Pragati.

About ForumIAS

ForumIAS is a leading platform dedicated to providing comprehensive resources and guidance for UPSC Civil Services Examination aspirants. With a commitment to excellence, ForumIAS offers a range of programs and materials designed to support candidates at every stage of their preparation journey.

For further inquiries, please contact:

• Email: helpdesk@forumias.academy

ATIIT which stands for Advanced Trainings in Information and Intelligent Tech’s Private Limited, based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with CCE, Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh to promote online advanced certification courses in various subjects ranging from ‘IOT-Industrial Automations’, ‘Next Gen Wireless Technology-5G/6G & Beyond’, ‘IoT Enabled Semiconductor Technologies & RF Integration’ and ‘Generative AI’ to start with.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Tushar Jain, Associate Professor, School of Computing and Electrical Engineering (SCEE) and also heading the Centre for Continuing Education and Mr. Manjil Choudhury from ATIIT in the presence Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh, Mr. Prabhupad Gharai, Dr. Adarsh Patel, Dr. Dinesh Singh, Dr. Anirban Sarkar, Dr. Kaushik Halder and other dignitaries from IIT Mandi.

Sharing his key insights on the occasion, Dr. Tushar Jain said “The Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) was established in early 2022 at IIT Mandi to dedicatedly cater for the national requirement for skilling, up-skilling, and re-skilling of individuals from various Govt./Semi Govt. organizations, public and private undertakings, research institutions and industries. A variety of continuing education programmes have been organized fulfilling the needs for nation-building at all levels starting from elementary schools to working professionals from diverse backgrounds so that learners around the globe can get opportunities to gain knowledge and/or develop professional growth and skill sets. This association with ATIIT will help the learners achieve their desire to get access to world class curriculum from wherever they are located. This in return will help the learners fulfil their career aspirations and they will be exposed to high end, industry specific, skill-oriented programs to augment their talent in specific timescale”.

Spokesperson from ATIIT, Mr. Manjil Choudhury said “We look forward to this association as an opportunity for the future talents and learners from all over India and other countries to be able to grab the knowledge from the best expertise and minds, making them industry ready. We strive to ensure that the learners get the best opportunities to fulfil their dreams of getting access to the world class education and upgrade their skills. The education industry is evolving continuously and the learning outcomes are also becoming versatile. To keep up with the industry expectations, nothing can be better than this association which will provide the learners & working professional’s key important insights, improved capabilities and the necessary confidence to nurture their aspirations.”.

ATIIT offers advanced certification courses, jointly with various IIT’s in trending subjects related to emerging technologies where the learners can enrol and upskill their talent to pursue career that they desire and deserve. ATIIT apart from IOT-Industrial Automations, Next Gen Wireless Technology-5G/6G & Beyond, IoT Enabled Semiconductor Technologies & RF Integration and ‘Generative AI, ATIIT also offer courses in Space Science for Children, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Mineral Explorations and Energy resources and more!

Visit ATIIT for more updates!

The atmosphere was charged with inspiration as students and aspirants gathered at the prestigious Vajirao & Reddy IAS Institute campus for a highly anticipated seminar led by none other than the institute’s founder, Dr. S. S. Chaudhary. With over 30 years of experience in mentoring and guiding UPSC aspirants, Dr. Chaudhary has been a pivotal figure in shaping the careers of countless successful IAS officers. His insights, based on decades of experience, carried immense weight and provided a clear roadmap for those aiming to crack the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) in their first attempt.

Opening the Seminar: The Importance of Mindset and Strategy

Dr. Chaudhary began his speech by addressing the gravity of the UPSC CSE exam, which is considered one of the toughest competitive exams in the world. He highlighted that success in this examination isn’t just about intelligence; rather, it requires a unique combination of mindset, discipline, and a well-crafted strategy.

“Clearing UPSC is not just about hard work; it’s about working smart and maintaining consistency. The first thing aspirants need is the right mindset. You must believe that you can clear the exam in your first attempt and prepare with that focus in mind,” he stated.

Understanding the UPSC Exam Pattern

Dr. Chaudhary emphasized the importance of understanding the structure of the UPSC CSE, which is divided into three stages: the Preliminary Exam (Prelims), the Mains Exam, and the Personality Test (Interview).

“The Prelims is all about screening, but it should not be taken lightly. It’s a test of both knowledge and speed. The Mains, on the other hand, tests your depth of understanding, analytical skills, and expression. Each stage requires a different strategy,” he said. Dr. Chaudhary stressed that students must focus on balancing their preparation for both the Prelims and the Mains from the beginning, ensuring they are well-versed in both factual and analytical dimensions.

Key Tips for Clearing UPSC CSE in the First Attempt

1. Focused Study Plan

According to Dr. Chaudhary, a detailed and well-structured study plan is essential. He advised aspirants to break down the syllabus into manageable parts and create a daily, weekly, and monthly plan to cover each topic systematically. “The syllabus is vast, but not unmanageable. What matters is how you approach it. Devote time to each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses,” he advised.

2. Smart Use of Resources

With a sea of study materials available, aspirants often get overwhelmed. Dr. Chaudhary recommended sticking to a few standard books for each subject rather than jumping between too many resources. “The NCERTs form the backbone of UPSC preparation. Along with that, aspirants should refer to selective, high-quality reference books and Vajirao & Reddy’s class notes to stay on track.”

3. Importance of UPSC Current Affairs

Dr. Chaudhary pointed out that current affairs are crucial for both Prelims and Mains. He advised students to read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express regularly and complement it with monthly current affairs compilations. “Make it a habit to stay updated on national and international events. Link current affairs with static topics, and this will give you an edge,” he suggested.

4. Practice and Revision

One of the cornerstones of Dr. Chaudhary’s preparation strategy is continuous practice and revision. He encouraged students to solve previous years’ question papers and take regular mock tests. “Mock tests will help you identify your weak areas and give you the confidence to tackle the actual exam. Revising your notes and solving test papers regularly is key to retaining information and refining your exam strategy,” he explained.

5. UPSC Answer Writing Skills

Dr. Chaudhary highlighted the importance of answer writing practice, especially for the Mains exam. “In Mains, it’s not just what you know, but how well you present it. Your answers should be concise, clear, and to the point. Practice writing answers every day, and focus on structuring them properly with an introduction, body, and conclusion,” he said.

6. Time Management

Time management, according to Dr. Chaudhary, plays a pivotal role in cracking the UPSC exam. He emphasized the need for students to manage their time effectively, both during preparation and while writing the exam. “The exam tests not just your knowledge, but also how efficiently you can use your time. Develop a habit of sticking to deadlines and managing your time wisely,” he urged.

7. Staying Motivated and Positive

In his final piece of advice, Dr. Chaudhary focused on the psychological aspect of preparation. “UPSC preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. You will face moments of doubt and fatigue, but you need to stay motivated and believe in your potential. Surround yourself with positive energy, and don’t compare yourself with others. Everyone’s journey is unique,” he concluded.

Conclusion: A Roadmap to Success

Dr. S. S. Chaudhary’s seminar was a treasure trove of actionable insights for UPSC aspirants. With his vast experience, he broke down the complex process of preparing for the Civil Services Examination into simple, practical steps. His emphasis on strategic preparation, disciplined study routines, and a positive mindset provided students with both the inspiration and the tools needed to succeed.

As the seminar ended, students left with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence, ready to embark on their UPSC journey with the expert guidance of Dr. Chaudhary and the Vajirao & Reddy IAS Institute team. Vajirao IAS is the amongst best IAS Coaching in Delhi India.