In the realm of competitive examinations, the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) stands out as one of India’s most challenging. Candidates across the country dive into books, courses, and strategies to crack it. Among those successful aspirants is IAS officer Ashish Kumar, whose approach to the exam notably emphasizes distancing from social media.
An Unconventional Perspective on Social Media and the Internet
While the internet is a rich repository of knowledge and resources, especially beneficial for competitive exam preparation, Ashish holds a distinctive opinion on its usage. He believes that the internet can be a boon for UPSC aspirants, providing them with ample material and current affairs updates. However, the caveat he adds is the need to remain distant from the potentially distracting realm of social media.
The Pitfalls of Social Media in UPSC Preparation
In an era where social media dominates many aspects of our lives, Ashish’s perspective stands out. According to him, the incessant stream of notifications, status updates, and trending news can divert an aspirant’s focus. This distraction, even if minimal, can be detrimental in the long run, especially in a high-stakes examination like the UPSC.
Prioritizing Strategy Over Voluminous Study Material
One common pitfall many UPSC candidates encounter is the lure of accumulating countless books and materials. Ashish’s approach is in stark contrast. He emphasizes the significance of strategizing and recommends that aspirants proceed with a limited, well-chosen set of books. In this way, they can ensure in-depth understanding rather than a superficial acquaintance with numerous topics.
Quality Over Quantity: Ashish’s Study Mantra
A frequent query among UPSC hopefuls is the ideal number of study hours required to crack the examination. To this, Ashish offers a pragmatic viewpoint. He believes that a focused and honest study routine of 7 to 8 hours daily can suffice. However, he doesn’t discourage extending study hours, provided they are productive.
The Importance of Direction and Self-Reflection
Success in UPSC isn’t just about hard work; it’s about working smart. Ashish underscores the value of channeling efforts in the right direction. He asserts that even minor missteps can be costly in this examination journey. Regular introspection, analysis, and learning from one’s mistakes are, therefore, paramount.
Ashish Kumar’s UPSC journey underscores the need for a balanced approach, combining discipline, strategy, and self-awareness. By consciously avoiding potential distractions like social media and emphasizing continuous improvement, aspirants can enhance their chances of success.
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