Journey Towards UPSC Success: A Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Mudita Sharma (AIR 381, UPSC CSE 2022)

May 9, 2024

3 Minutes

Introduction

Dr. Mudita Sharma, who secured AIR 381 in the UPSC CSE 2022 examination, shares her exhaustive insights into the strategies that led to her success. With a score of 204 marks in the interview stage, Dr. Sharma provides valuable guidance to aspirants seeking to emulate her achievements. This comprehensive guide offers detailed recommendations for each aspect of the UPSC preparation process, ensuring accessibility to candidates from all backgrounds.

Preparation Strategies

1. DAF Preparation

The Detailed Application Form (DAF) serves as a vital representation of the candidate and can significantly influence interview questions. Dr. Sharma emphasizes the importance of carefully filling out the DAF, utilizing professional language, and seeking review from individuals who have cleared the exam.

2. Question Preparation

Thorough question preparation is crucial. Dr. Sharma compiled a comprehensive question bank encompassing diverse areas such as her medical background, gender, healthcare experience, optional subject, and current affairs. She consulted with family, friends, mentors, and experts to identify potential questions.

3. Answer Preparation

Meticulous answer preparation involves considering multiple perspectives and seeking guidance from experts when necessary. Dr. Sharma utilized data from reliable sources such as NFHS 4, the Health Ministry website, and the World Health Index to strengthen her answers.

4. Language Enhancement

Dr. Sharma chose to use both Hindi and English in her interview, emphasizing the importance of avoiding complex or archaic words when speaking in Hindi. She recommends incorporating proverbs, idioms, and poems to enhance language proficiency.

5. Interview Conduct

Confident and humble demeanor are essential during the interview. Dr. Sharma advises candidates to communicate clearly and effectively, avoid bluffing, and seek information from board members when required.

6. Interview Preparation Techniques

Practicing formal conversations with professional individuals and professors can provide valuable insights. These interactions offer ground-level information and enhance interview skills.

7. Essay Preparation

In addition to regular essay writing, Dr. Sharma recommends bookmarking insightful passages and quotations. She compiled a reference collection of quotations, poems, and stories to enhance the depth and coherence of her essays.

8. Ethics Preparation

Dr. Sharma utilized reputable sources for Ethics preparation, incorporating current affairs examples and case studies. Reference to scriptures or ancient literature can provide valuable perspectives on value systems.

9. Optional Subject Selection

Choosing the right optional subject is crucial. Dr. Sharma analyzed past question papers and syllabi, considering her interests, scoring potential, and the required efforts. She ultimately selected Hindi Literature based on her passion for poetry.

10. Optional Subject Preparation

To maximize her preparation, Dr. Sharma enrolled in Vikas Sir’s classes and relied heavily on his video lectures and printed notes. Despite a three-year gap before taking the mains, she found the knowledge gained invaluable.

11. Short Notes

Reinforcing understanding through short notes is essential. Dr. Sharma jotted down key points on sticky notes and revised them regularly, enhancing her recall and comprehension.

12. Answer Writing

Regular answer writing is a cornerstone of effective preparation. Dr. Sharma identified confident topics and practiced answering questions, analyzing responses, and seeking feedback to improve her skills.

13. Current Affairs Preparation

Developing a regular news-reading habit through newspapers such as Indian Express or The Hindu is vital. Following websites like PIB and monthly magazines can provide comprehensive understanding. Linking current events to static knowledge using pencils or sticky notes is a valuable technique.

Conclusion

Dr. Mudita Sharma’s comprehensive guide offers a wealth of knowledge and guidance to UPSC CSE aspirants. By understanding and implementing these strategies, aspirants can develop the hard work, determination, and positive mindset necessary for success. Consistent effort and an unyielding spirit will enable them to embark on their journey towards UPSC success with confidence and enthusiasm.