Common mistakes UPSC aspirants make in the first year
After talking with many aspirants, the same mistakes appear again and again. Avoiding them can save months of effort.
- Buying too many books and finishing none of them.
- Skipping answer writing until after the Prelims.
- Ignoring the CSAT paper, which is qualifying but still has to be cleared.
- Comparing your progress with other aspirants on social media.
- Studying without planned revision cycles.
A simple plan, one source per topic and regular revision are better than a long reading list.
Shared by community members for general guidance. Always check dates, eligibility and rules on the official notification.