RankSheet

UPSC Mains 2021 · All India Rank 5

Utkarsh Dwivedi — AIR 5, UPSC CSE 2021

Official UPSC marksWritten 871Interview 165Final 1036
EssayEthicsGeneral Studies+2 more
Read Utkarsh Dwivedi's answer copies →
✦ Strategy & Learnings

How Utkarsh Dwivedi Cracked the UPSC

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

ⓘ AI-generated from Utkarsh Dwivedi's public interviews & coaching-institute features - not written or reviewed by them.
AIR 5
UPSC CSE 2021 Rank
3rd
Attempt that worked
1036
Total Marks
1000+
Answers written between Prelims & Mains
2019
Attempt 1 - Failed
Appeared for the interview but did not make the final list, scoring 160 marks in the interview.
2020
Attempt 2 - Failed
Appeared for the interview but did not make the final list, scoring 157 marks in the interview.
2021
Attempt 3 - AIR 5
Successfully cleared the examination to secure the 5th rank.
📝

Note-Making Strategy

Organizing knowledge for efficient revision

Utkarsh emphasizes that writing reinforces learning and aids in recollection. He regrets starting his note-making process late in his preparation.

Timely creation
Start making short notes immediately after attending classes to avoid backlogs.
Digital tools
Utilized apps like Evernote to organize topics by subject, making information retrieval more efficient.
Newspaper notes
Take your own notes while reading newspapers to bolster your grasp of national and international affairs.
🔍

Prelims Strategy

Focusing on practice and analysis

Utkarsh views the Prelims as an exam of practice rather than just knowledge, advocating for a high attempt rate.

High attempt rate
Attempted over 90 questions in the actual exam due to the unpredictable nature of the paper.
Mock tests
Solved over 50-70 mock tests per attempt to manage time and understand expected question types.
Analysis
Ensure proper analysis of both correct and incorrect answers to strengthen conceptual understanding.
🏛️

Mains Answer Writing

Structuring content for impact

Utkarsh highlights the importance of completing the paper and providing comprehensive responses.

Completeness
Prioritize completing the paper over striving for perfection; a fully answered paper with above-average responses is key.
Structure
Do not overlook writing introductions and conclusions, and ensure all subparts of a question are addressed.
Contemporary relevance
Utilize contemporary examples to support your points and address what is specifically asked.
📚

Subject-Specific Preparation

Curating resources and approach

A focused approach to study materials and optional subjects is essential for maintaining enthusiasm.

Optional Subject
Chose PSIR based on personal interest rather than popular suggestions to stay engaged.
Standard sources
Start with NCERT textbooks from class VI to XII for relevant subjects before moving to advanced books.
Current Affairs
Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, and Mint to clarify concepts.
🗣️

Interview Approach

Handling the personality test

Utkarsh views the interview as a test of mental and physical resilience, emphasizing honesty and clarity.

Honesty
If you do not know an answer, it is better to admit it honestly rather than guessing.
Clarity
Avoid speaking excessively; provide concise, relevant answers that address the board's questions.
Preparation
Reflect on your background and current affairs, as questions are often derived from these areas.

“If you fall behind, run faster. Never give up, never surrender, and rise up against the odds.”

— on maintaining motivation during setbacks

“Content is the king. Your focus should be on content, not on the beautification of the answer.”

— on answer writing philosophy

🎯 If You're Starting Out

  • Get ready for the journey both mentally and physically before diving into books.
  • Understand the syllabus thoroughly to prioritize subjects and choose the right study materials.
  • Do not lose hope during the preparation; many successful candidates clear the exam in their third or fourth attempt.
  • Maintain a support system of friends or family to stay motivated through the rigorous process.
Where this came fromBiography and marks corroborated across 3 coaching-institute profiles; strategy details drawn from 2 interview videos.
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