RankSheet

UPSC Mains 2019 · All India Rank 9

Ravi Jain — AIR 9, UPSC CSE 2019

Official UPSC marksWritten 872Interview 171Final 1043
EthicsGeneral Studies
Read Ravi Jain's answer copies →
✦ Strategy & Learnings

How Ravi Jain Cracked the UPSC

Preparation approach, subject-wise strategy, and interview mindset - compiled from public interviews and coaching-institute features.

ⓘ AI-generated from Ravi Jain's public interviews & coaching-institute features - not written or reviewed by them.
AIR 9
UPSC CSE 2019 Rank
4th
Attempt that worked
276
Psychology Optional Score (2018)
2015
Attempt 1 - Failed
Started preparation in May 2015 and joined coaching in December 2015.
2017
Attempt 2 - Failed
Missed the final cutoff by 15 marks.
2018
Attempt 3 - Failed
Scored 276 in Psychology despite working harder.
2019
Attempt 4 - AIR 9
Achieved success in his 4th attempt.
🧠

Psychology Optional Strategy

Syllabus management and answer writing

Ravi emphasizes that Psychology is an interesting but lengthy optional that requires a structured approach to notes and answer writing.

Study Material
Start with NCERTs, then use Robert Barron, Morgan & King, and Saundra K. Ciccarelli for Paper-I. For Paper-II, use Smarak Swain.
Note-making
Create short, crisp, and all-encompassing notes for all 28 topics to facilitate quick revision in the 5 days between GS and Optional papers.
Answer Writing
Use simple language, include standard definitions with psychologist names, and incorporate flowcharts, diagrams, and real-life examples.
📝

GS Paper Strategy

Subject-specific resources

Ravi's approach to General Studies relies on targeted resources and leveraging notes from successful candidates.

GS-1 (Art & Culture)
Relied solely on Nitin Singhania's 'Art and Culture' and notes from Akshay Agarwal (AIR 43, 2018).
🗣️

Interview Approach

Preparation and mindset

Ravi's interview preparation focused on maintaining a calm demeanor and clear articulation.

Communication
Maintain a slow, deliberate pace of speech and clear articulation, even if you are nervous.
Self-Assessment
Be prepared to discuss your background, current events, and the rationale behind your choices, such as your optional subject.
💡

General Advice

Philosophy for aspirants

Ravi shares his perspective on the long-term nature of the UPSC journey.

Consistency
Utilize your time judiciously and choose an optional that fits you best rather than looking for quick solutions.
Well-being
Take breaks, stay connected with friends and family, and keep your spirits up throughout the long journey.

“Choose the optional that is the best fit for you instead of trying to find quick solutions.”

— on selecting an optional subject

🎯 If You're Starting Out

  • Start with NCERTs to build a foundation and verify your interest in the subject.
  • Make your own short notes for all syllabus topics; do not rely solely on coaching material.
  • Incorporate feedback from test series immediately; if you are not writing enough examples, change your practice.
  • Don't be afraid to reach out to successful candidates to understand their writing style and approach.
Where this came fromBiography and marks corroborated across personal blog and coaching-institute profiles; strategy details drawn from personal blog and interview videos.
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