✦ Strategy & LearningsPreparation approach, subject-wise strategy, and interview mindset - compiled from public interviews and coaching-institute features.
ⓘ AI-generated from ASHISH TIWARI's public interviews & coaching-institute features - not written or reviewed by them.
2014
Attempt 1 - Failed
Ashish took his first attempt primarily to get a feel for the exam.
2015
Attempt 2 - AIR 6
Ashish secured the 6th rank while working a full-time job.
💼Preparation for Working Professionals
Balancing a full-time career with UPSC studies.
Ashish busts the myth that working professionals cannot crack the exam, emphasizing that a steady, disciplined approach is key.
Time management
He worked full-time during the day and dedicated his nights to studying for the exam.
Strategic leaves
He took occasional leaves from his job to visit Delhi specifically to clear his doubts.
Discipline
He followed a strict timetable and ensured he stuck to it regardless of his work schedule.
📚Study Strategy
Core resources and subject-wise approach.
Ashish emphasizes the importance of sticking to a few high-quality sources rather than accumulating a vast library of books.
Foundational knowledge
Start with NCERT books to build a strong base for all subjects.
Current Affairs
Use The Hindu as the primary source, supplemented by gists of Yojana and Kurukshetra magazines.
Optional Subject
He chose Public Administration as his optional subject and advises aspirants to choose their optional wisely.
Evaluation
Enroll in a good test series and utilize weekly current affairs quizzes to evaluate your progress.
🗣️Interview Approach
Building personality and confidence.
Ashish views the interview as a test of personality that should be cultivated from the very beginning of preparation.
Personality building
Start building your overall personality from day one; do not wait until you clear the Mains.
Authenticity
Only say what you truly believe in during the interview and humbly accept your mistakes if you don't know an answer.
DAF management
Take utmost care while filling out your Detailed Application Form (DAF) as the board will base questions on it.
Mock practice
Give many mock interviews to build confidence and practice sitting in the right posture.
“Start building an overall personality from day 1. Do not wait till you clear the UPSC mains exam.”
— on his philosophy for the interview🎯 If You're Starting Out
- Do not be deterred by failure; it is a part of life and should not stop you from future endeavors.
- Stick to a limited number of sources instead of buying too many books.
- Avoid giving long answers in the interview, as the board will likely ask follow-up questions based on your responses.
- Confidence is key, but it must be backed by getting your facts right.
Where this came fromBiography and marks facts corroborated across two coaching-institute profiles; strategy details drawn from one interview video and two strategy blog posts.