The UPSC Prelims 2025 is scheduled to be conducted on 25th May 2025. Candidates who clear this stage will move on to the subsequent phases of the selection process i.e UPSC Mains Exam 2025. The Preliminary Examination is objective in nature and consists of two papers-General Studies Paper I, comprising 100 questions for a total of 200 marks, and General Studies Paper II (CSAT), consisting of 80 questions, also carrying 200 marks. Both papers have a negative marking system, where one-third of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for each incorrect response. This article offers a detailed guide on How to Attempt UPSC CSE Prelims 2025.
How to Attempt UPSC CSE Prelims 2025
In a conversation with Vajiram and Ravi, Aakash Garg, who secured All India Rank 5 in the UPSC CSE Exam 2024, shared valuable insights and strategies on How to Attempt UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 effectively. Reflecting on his preparation for the exam, he emphasized the importance of practice and self-analysis. A key element of his strategy involved attempting over 50 mock tests, which allowed him to evaluate his performance in a structured manner. He identified the reasons behind every incorrect answer, whether it stemmed from a knowledge gap, a silly mistake, misinterpretation of the question, or an error in reading.
Before UPSC CSE Prelims 2025
The phase Before UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 plays a decisive role in your performance. This period is not intended for new learning, but rather for reinforcing mental discipline, ensuring logistical preparedness, and maintaining emotional stability. As candidates appearing in Before UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 scheduled for tomorrow, it is essential to focus on clarity rather than content overload.
- Do not start any new topic, and avoid the temptation of “revising one more subject.” After preparing for such a long period, do not doubt your abilities or overburden yourself. Use this time to relax and release stress.
- Confirm your travel arrangements, transport routes, and, if needed, your accommodation. Prepare your UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 kit in advance. This should include your original ID proof along with two photocopies, the UPSC Admit Card 2025, two spare passport-sized photographs, working black pens, a small water bottle, and an analog wristwatch.
- Carefully review the instructions printed on the admit card to avoid any last-minute issues. Most importantly, locate your UPSC Exam Centre on Google Maps and estimate the time it will take to reach there during exam hours.
- Ensure you get at least eight hours of sleep to calm your mind. Proper rest will help you process questions faster, recall information more accurately, and make better decisions under pressure.
- If you feel anxious before sleeping, take a quiet walk in a peaceful place such. Avoid any person, content, environment, or memory that may affect your emotional well-being.
On Morning UPSC CSE Prelims 2025
- Wake up early and begin your day feeling refreshed. Start with light stretches and follow your regular morning routine to energise your body. Maintaining a light and settled digestive system will help you remain alert and comfortable throughout the exam.
- Do not skip breakfast. Eat a light meal that suits your body, something that keeps you fuelled and focused. Even if you’re alone, a simple meal like a biscuit with a pouch of milk or yogurt is better than nothing. Under no circumstances should you appear for the exam on an empty stomach.
- Seek help if necessary. Ask a family member or friend to assist with preparing breakfast so you can remain relaxed and focused on the task ahead.
- Reach the exam centre well in advance, at least 1 hour before the reporting time, to avoid any last-minute stress. Carry the essentials you prepared the previous day, including your ID proofs, admit card, passport-sized photographs, pens, water bottle, and analog watch.
Inside UPSC Exam Centre
- Once you enter the UPSC Exam Centre, take a moment to settle into your space. Assess your seating, check if the chair and desk are stable and clean. If anything seems off, immediately inform the invigilator; do not hesitate to request a change if needed.
- Organise your mental workspace by neatly placing your pens, ID, and other essentials on the desk. Tune out any surrounding distractions, such as candidates entering or whispering, so you can focus solely on the task ahead.
- Take a few minutes to centre yourself. If you feel anxious, try a simple breath observation technique, sit upright, gently close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Breathe slowly and deeply, this helps calm your nerves and clear your mind.
- Once you receive the question paper, begin by reading through it to assess the difficulty level and identify the questions you’re confident about. In your first round, attempt the 25–30 questions you are absolutely sure of. Then, revisit the more challenging ones in two additional passes, prioritising accuracy over guesswork.
- After completing the General Studies Paper I, take a complete mental break. Have a light snack or lunch and find a quiet place to rest. Avoid discussing the paper with others, this pause is essential to reset your focus before the UPSC CSAT Exam 2025.
- For the CSAT paper, strategise according to your strengths. Begin with sections you are most confident in, whether it’s reading comprehension, logical reasoning, or basic numeracy. Focus on shorter reading comprehension passages that offer multiple questions, as they provide better return for your time. Avoid spending too long on a single challenging question.
- Most importantly, maintain a strong and composed mindset. Don’t allow panic or self-doubt to interfere. Stay calm, remain positive, and trust in your preparation.
Other Related Posts of UPSC 2025 | |
Last updated on July, 2025
→ UPSC Notification 2025 was released on 22nd January 2025.
→ UPSC Prelims Result 2025 is out now for the CSE held on 25 May 2025.
→ UPSC Prelims Question Paper 2025 and Unofficial Prelims Answer Key 2025 are available now.
→ UPSC Calendar 2026 is released on 15th May, 2025.
→ The UPSC Vacancy 2025 were released 1129, out of which 979 were for UPSC CSE and remaining 150 are for UPSC IFoS.
→ UPSC Mains 2025 will be conducted on 22nd August 2025.
→ UPSC Prelims 2026 will be conducted on 24th May, 2026 & UPSC Mains 2026 will be conducted on 21st August 2026.
→ The UPSC Selection Process is of 3 stages-Prelims, Mains and Interview.
→ UPSC Result 2024 is released with latest UPSC Marksheet 2024. Check Now!
→ UPSC Toppers List 2024 is released now. Shakti Dubey is UPSC AIR 1 2024 Topper.
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How to Attempt UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 FAQs
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