How to prepare for apsc exam without coaching- Preparing for the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) exam without coaching is entirely feasible with the right strategy, discipline, and resources. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
Table of Contents
Understanding the APSC Exam
The APSC exam is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination: Objective type questions to screen candidates for the Main Examination.
- Main Examination: Descriptive type papers to assess in-depth knowledge.
- Interview: Personality test to evaluate overall suitability for the civil services.
Step-by-Step Preparation Plan
1. Know the Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Preliminary Examination:
- General Studies (GS): Covers History, Geography, Polity, Economy, General Science, and Current Affairs.
Main Examination:
- General English
- General Studies (2 Papers)
- Optional Subjects (2 Papers)
- Essay
Interview:
- Focuses on personality, communication skills, and current affairs knowledge.
2. Gather Study Materials
Books and Resources:
- NCERT Books: For basic concepts in History, Geography, Polity, and Science.
- Standard Reference Books:
- History: “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra
- Geography: “Certificate Physical and Human Geography” by G.C. Leong
- Polity: “Indian Polity” by M. Laxmikanth
- Economy: “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh
- Science: NCERT books (6th to 10th standard)
- Current Affairs: Newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra, and websites like PIB, PRS, and government portals.
3. Make a Study Plan
Daily Schedule:
- Allocate specific time slots for different subjects.
- Ensure a balanced approach, giving equal importance to all subjects.
Weekly Targets:
- Set realistic weekly goals.
- Review your progress at the end of each week.
Revision Plan:
- Regular revision is crucial.
- Reserve weekends for revising what you have studied during the week.
4. Notes Making
- Make concise and effective notes.
- Highlight important points, dates, and facts.
- Use diagrams, flowcharts, and tables for better retention.
5. Practice and Self-Assessment
Previous Year Papers:
- Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and question types.
- Regularly take mock tests to assess your preparation level.
- Analyze your performance and work on weak areas.
6. Focus on Current Affairs
- Read newspapers daily.
- Make notes of important news and events.
- Follow government schemes, policies, and international developments.
7. Optional Subject Preparation
- Choose an optional subject based on your interest and background.
- Refer to standard textbooks and notes.
- Join online study groups or forums for discussions and resource sharing.
8. Improve Writing Skills
Essay and Descriptive Answers:
- Practice writing essays on diverse topics.
- Focus on clarity, coherence, and conciseness.
- Use relevant examples and case studies.
9. Enhance General Knowledge
- Read general knowledge books and yearbooks.
- Stay updated with important historical events, geographical facts, and political developments.
10. Prepare for the Interview
- Work on your communication skills.
- Stay informed about current affairs and socio-economic issues.
- Be honest, confident, and articulate during the interview.
Additional Tips
Time Management:
- Use a timetable to allocate time for study, revision, and relaxation.
- Avoid procrastination and stay disciplined.
Healthy Lifestyle:
- Maintain a balanced diet and get adequate sleep.
- Exercise regularly to keep your mind and body fit.
Motivation and Positive Attitude:
- Stay motivated by setting short-term and long-term goals.
- Surround yourself with positive influences.
Online Resources:
- Utilize online platforms like YouTube, online courses, and educational websites.
- Join online forums and study groups for peer support and resource sharing.
Conclusion
Preparing for the APSC exam without coaching requires dedication, consistency, and smart work. By following a structured plan, utilizing the right resources, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can successfully navigate the exam preparation journey. Remember, self-study empowers you to take control of your learning and develop a deep understanding of the subjects, which is crucial for cracking the APSC exam.