Taming the beast – Answer Writing approach for Mains by Kanishak Kataria (Rank 1)

Hello everyone,
In this article, I will be delving upon the importance of UPSC CSE Mains and share few tips which might help you perform (score) well in the examination.

Unless you dream big and are willing to work hard for it, do not expect to achieve big..
I averaged almost one refill per day after prelims result till I appeared in the Mains!
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Utility of Mains Test Series – A first attempter perspective by Kanishak Kataria (Rank 1)

Hello everyone!

Before I deep dive into this article, I would just like to clarify that it is neither a rant against any particular test series nor an attempt to undermine the feedback I had received through them. I have benefitted a lot from them. Here, I am just trying to document my experience with test series and the ebbs and flows of emotions I had during my Mains preparation.

Since it was my 1st attempt and I was doing self-study in Jaipur, there was a lack of sustained guidance and I did feel a little lost sometimes in between. My rank and GS marks do not reveal the uncertainties and fears I had. I feel aspirants, especially first-timers, need to be a little cautious in their evaluations and dependency on test series. Too much attachment to their feedbacks might affect their self-belief and confidence which I feel is very critical to excel in this examination – as UPSC does test your emotions along with your skills and intelligence.

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Topic wise syllabus coverage in Maths optional – Kanishak Kataria (Rank 1)

Hi everyone!

Following on from my previous post I am giving a detailed topic wise syllabus coverage. It will give you some idea as to how should Maths be approached topicwise. It is advisable to read the previous post first before continuing here.

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Mathematics as an optional – Kanishak Kataria (Rank 1)

Hi everyone,

I am Kanishak Kataria. I secured Rank 1 in UPSC CSE 2018 with Mathematics optional (361 marks / 500). I have written this post to throw some light on Maths an an optional subject and how it should be covered.

This strategy post will be split into 2 parts

  • Overview of Mathematics as an optional (in this post)
  • Specific topic wise strategy on covering the syllabus (in next post)
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