Navigating the UPSC Maze: The Inspiring Civil Services Mentorship Journey of Siddhant Agnihotri

April 29, 2024

3 Minutes

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the realm of competitive examinations, UPSC stands as a formidable challenge, requiring not just academic prowess but also resilience, strategic planning, and unwavering determination. Siddhant Agnihotri, the founder of Study Glows, exemplifies these qualities in his inspiring journey from a modest background to becoming a beacon of guidance for UPSC aspirants.

The Journey Begins

Siddhant's story is one of perseverance and strategic foresight, rooted in his belief that knowledge is the key to unlocking success. Hailing from a middle-class family, Siddhant's academic prowess shone bright from the start. In 2012, he pursued a B.Sc. degree and emerged as a silver medalist. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further studies, including M.Sc., MA in History, and clearing the UGC Net exam, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors.

A Shift in Focus: From Aspirant to Educator

In 2016, Siddhant embarked on his UPSC journey, only to realize that his true calling lay in teaching rather than preparing. This realization marked the beginning of his illustrious career as a faculty member at Study IQ in 2017, where he honed his teaching skills and flourished in empowering students.

The Birth of Study Glows

Siddhant founded Study Glows in 2021, which marked a significant milestone in his journey, as he ventured into the realm of online education, aiming to provide comprehensive guidance to UPSC aspirants.

Strategies for Beginners

Siddhant underscores the importance of initiating preparation early, advocating for comprehensive research into syllabus, previous exam papers, and insights from successful candidates. He stresses commencing the groundwork as early as the first year of college, urging individuals to devise a meticulous plan for time management while minimizing distractions such as excessive social media usage unless it directly aids in exam preparation. Encouraging a positive environment and efficient resource management, Siddhant underscores the significance of disciplined study habits, regular reviews, and succinct note-taking strategies. He recommends integrating daily, weekly, and monthly revisions into one's routine, emphasizing the value of concise bullet-point notes with room for additional insights.

Also read: A Mechanic’s Son to an IAS Officer: Altap Shaikh’s UPSC Journey

Strategies for Repeat Attempters

For those who have faced setbacks, Siddhant advises against succumbing to demotivation. He advises to accept the fact and move on, even one day’s delay will keep you back. Instead, he advocates for immediate re-engagement with the preparation process, identifying weaknesses, and focusing on current affairs. Additional reading and rigorous practice, with a focus on keywords, can bridge knowledge gaps. Practicing diligently, particularly in answer writing and question-solving, is crucial for success.

He states the fact that there is no such thing as a first or second attempt, whenever an individual prepares seriously that’s his or her first attempt.

The Importance of Optional Subjects and Essays

Siddhant exerts that UPSC may be tough, but it is also a profound source of knowledge and personal growth. He also highlights the importance of optional subjects and essays in the UPSC exam, urging aspirants to choose wisely and leverage their strengths. He emphasizes that the knowledge gained from UPSC preparation transcends the exam itself, shaping individuals for future endeavors and personal growth.

Conclusion

In essence, Siddhant Agnihotri's journey is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, strategic planning, and a thirst for knowledge. His story serves as a guiding light for UPSC aspirants, reminding them that success is not just attainable but within reach with the right mindset and strategies. Aspiring civil servants can draw inspiration from Siddhant's experiences and chart their own paths towards realizing their dreams.

Must read: From a Mischievous Kid to an IAS Ranker: Aaditya Pandey’s Journey of Finding UPSC Motivation Within