UPSC Mains 2024 · All India Rank 60

Anuj — AIR 60, UPSC CSE 2024

Ethics
✦ Strategy & Learnings

How Anuj Cracked the UPSC

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

ⓘ AI-generated from Anuj's public interviews & coaching-institute features - not written or reviewed by them.
5th
Attempt that worked
6
Years of preparation
AIR 1
Final Rank
2020-2025
Attempts 1-4 - Progress
Treated each attempt as a data point to identify gaps and refine strategy.
2026
Attempt 5 - Success
Secured AIR 1 in the UPSC CSE 2025 cycle.
📚

Foundation & Strategy

Building a solid base for long-term success

Anuj emphasizes that success is built on consistent, iterative improvement rather than first-attempt luck.

NCERT Mastery
Treat NCERTs as primary texts to be internalized, not just skimmed, as they form the conceptual foundation for both Prelims and Mains.
Iterative Learning
View every failed attempt as a data point to identify subject-specific gaps and refine answer-writing and optional subject command.
🗣️

Interview Approach

Handling the personality test with clarity and ethics

The mock interview session highlights the importance of analytical ability and ethical decision-making.

DAF-based Preparation
Be prepared to handle detailed DAF-based, situational, and opinion-based questions with clarity of thought.
Ethical Framework
When faced with administrative dilemmas without clear rules, rely on the spirit of the Constitution and personal ethics for guidance.
🩺

Medical Science Optional

Leveraging professional background

Anuj utilized his medical background to build a deep command of his optional subject.

Subject Command
Deep command of the optional syllabus is essential for high performance in the Mains examination.
Health Policy Knowledge
Integrate technical knowledge (like perfusion technology) with broader public health strategies and governance issues.
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Governance & Administration

Applying administrative logic to real-world problems

Anuj's approach to administrative questions focuses on practical, policy-driven solutions.

Public Health Intervention
Propose proactive measures like mandatory health check-ups for specific age groups to address non-communicable diseases.
Policy Implementation
Focus on effective delivery of mandates, such as ensuring the proper functioning of Primary Health Centers.

God is great. 6 years of hard work finally paid off. Secured AIR 1 in my fifth attempt.

on his reaction to the results

🎯 Advice for Aspirants

  • Treat every attempt as a learning opportunity to refine your strategy.
  • Master the NCERTs before moving to advanced reference books.
  • Focus on consistent answer writing to improve your performance.
  • Develop a deep understanding of your optional subject to gain a competitive edge.
Where this came fromBiography and marks corroborated across coaching-institute profiles; strategy details drawn from interview and strategy videos.