Being the most popular exam in the nation, there is no doubt that this examination has so many rumours attached to it.

The common UPSC myths are:

More Hours = More Marks

· It is the most common myth that to get selected in the Civil Services Examination, one must study for 15-20 hours.

· However, those who cracked the exam and experts suggest 6-10 hours per day depending on how effective your study is.

· Though the timing depends on the individual, the quality of hours one puts in matters a lot for this examination.

· More important is how long you can put the efforts consistently, rather than putting an extraordinary effort into a single day and not studying for the next few days.

Know everything:

• Another myth is that an aspirant must know everything under the sun to clear this examination.
•  Though the syllabus is vast, it is a defined one. The aspirant is expected to have a basic knowledge of subjects like Polity, History, Geography, Economy, etc, and to apply this knowledge whenever needed.
•  Even though current affairs cannot be defined, a systematic approach like the following newspaper regularly and daily news analysis from a quality resource will help in solving this.

More books = More Marks

• The Civil Service Examination does not expect you to have a Ph.D. in every subject. Rather keep the books limited.
• Get thorough knowledge of the basics, NCERTs, and get conceptual clarity on the subjects.

For more details on books, refer to the Best books for CSE.

Poor academic record -> Can’t clear UPSC

• UPSC CSE takes into consideration the marks obtained only in this exam and your previous academic performance does not matter till mains.
• Though it may play a role in the interview, so many candidates cracked the examination who had backlogs in colleges and were even college dropouts who took some other degree later.

Poor English = Can’t clear UPSC

•  Also, the exam doesn’t demand superior English.
• Just basic English knowledge and clarity to communicate are needed.
• Further, UPSC also allows candidates to write in their regional language in the Mains examination.

Intelligence:

• Through the Civil Services Examination, UPSC is trying to recruit the best minds of India who are interested and capable of contributing to society.
• It requires a positive mindset, consistent dedication to giving your efforts. These can be developed by anyone who has the will to do it.

Memorize everything:

• There is also a myth that aspirant needs to memorize each and everything.
• To achieve that many aspirants follow various sources and try to mug up everything. This is not going to help them in the examination.
• Understanding the concepts and having a clear idea of the basics is the key.
• Even the answer writing skills can be improved by having enough practice.
• Try maximum revision before the exam and take mock tests to yield the best results.

Many attempts to clear:

• Believe that you will clear in this attempt and you will. The number of times a candidate attempts the exam is not relational to the chances of getting cleared.
• Do smart work.
• Maintain your physical and mental health over time.