{"id":1719,"date":"2023-07-17T08:27:30","date_gmt":"2023-07-17T08:27:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/?p=1719"},"modified":"2023-07-17T08:53:54","modified_gmt":"2023-07-17T08:53:54","slug":"upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/","title":{"rendered":"UPSC Preparation: How Tough is the IAS Exam? Why is UPSC Exam tough?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Why is UPSC Exam tough?<\/strong> The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination in India is widely recognized as one of the most difficult exams. Many aspiring civil servants often question whether the UPSC is too challenging for typical students. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind the formidable reputation of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_Administrative_Service\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IAS (Indian Administrative Service<\/a><\/strong>) test and explore the various factors that contribute to its status as the nation&#8217;s toughest examination.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_77 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#Why_is_UPSC_Exam_tough\" >Why is UPSC Exam tough?\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#1_Vast_Syllabus\" >1. Vast Syllabus:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#2_Exam_Pattern\" >2. Exam Pattern:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#3_High_Qualifying_Marks\" >3. High Qualifying Marks:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#4_Negative_Marking\" >4. Negative Marking:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/upsc-preparation-how-tough-is-the-ias-exam-why-is-upsc-exam-tough\/#5_Time-Intensive_Preparation\" >5. Time-Intensive Preparation:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>However, it is important for aspirants to realize that with the right mindset and approach, the UPSC exam can be cleared easily. <strong>In this article, we explore the key qualities and factors that contribute to success in the UPSC exam, emphasizing the importance of patience, honesty, determination, and the perfect alignment of circumstances.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC exam is often considered challenging, but it is not an insurmountable task. Success in the exam is achievable through the right strategy and dedicated preparation. It does not require being a college topper, as many candidates with average academic records have cleared the exam in the past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, several factors contribute to the perceived toughness of the UPSC exam, setting it apart from other competitive exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The vast syllabus of the UPSC examination demands comprehensive knowledge in diverse subjects, making it essential for aspirants to cover a wide range of topics.<\/strong> Additionally, the high cut-off marks set by UPSC add to the difficulty level, making it essential for candidates to perform exceptionally well to secure a position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, the UPSC Prelims exam&#8217;s negative marking system poses an additional challenge for candidates. It requires careful and precise answering to avoid losing marks for incorrect responses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This aspect necessitates a thorough understanding of the subjects and the ability to make educated guesses when required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite these challenges, with the right approach, dedication, and consistent effort, candidates can overcome the difficulties associated with the UPSC exam and increase their chances of success.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper planning and strategic preparation can make the journey to cracking the UPSC exam smoother and more manageable for aspirants from all academic backgrounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_UPSC_Exam_tough\"><\/span><strong>Why is UPSC Exam tough?\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam is considered tough by many aspirants. While it is true that anyone can crack the exam with the right strategy and preparation, there are several factors that make it challenging:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Vast_Syllabus\"><\/span><strong>1. Vast Syllabus:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC exam covers a wide range of subjects, including history, geography, polity, economics, science and technology, and current affairs. The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/understanding-the-upsc-apsc-syllabus-in-detail-similarities-dissimilarities\/\">UPSC syllabus as well as APSC Syllabus<\/a><\/strong> is extensive, and candidates are expected to have a deep understanding of each subject.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Exam_Pattern\"><\/span><strong>2. Exam Pattern:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC exam pattern is designed to test a candidate&#8217;s comprehensive knowledge and analytical abilities. It includes multiple stages such as the Preliminary examination (Objective type), the Main examination (Descriptive type), and the Interview (Personality test). Each stage has its own challenges and requires thorough preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"Zmww7vS9F6\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/apsc-cce-exam-pattern-2023-overview-of-the-exam-structure\/\">APSC CCE Exam Pattern 2023: Overview of the Exam Structure<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;APSC CCE Exam Pattern 2023: Overview of the Exam Structure&#8221; &#8212; Borthakur&#039;s IAS Academy Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/apsc-cce-exam-pattern-2023-overview-of-the-exam-structure\/embed\/#?secret=C9Vana94zn#?secret=Zmww7vS9F6\" data-secret=\"Zmww7vS9F6\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_High_Qualifying_Marks\"><\/span><strong>3. High Qualifying Marks:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC sets high qualifying marks for each stage of the examination. Candidates need to score above a certain cutoff to move to the next stage. This adds to the competition and the difficulty level of the exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Negative_Marking\"><\/span><strong>4. Negative Marking:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Preliminary examination has a negative marking system, where incorrect answers are penalized with a deduction of marks. This makes it important for candidates to be careful while attempting the questions and eliminates the guessing factor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Time-Intensive_Preparation\"><\/span><strong>5. Time-Intensive Preparation:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To cover the vast syllabus and develop a strong foundation in all the subjects, candidates need to dedicate a significant amount of time to their preparation. This includes reading textbooks, referring to various sources, practising previous year question papers, and appearing for mock tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on factors like the quantity of tests they hold, success rates, the number of candidates who are eligible to take the exam, and more, the chart below contrasts the UPSC exam with other competitive exams like the CAT and IIT\/JEE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Exam<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>CAT<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>IIT\/JEE<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>UPSC CSE<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Full form<\/td><td>Common Admission Test<\/td><td>Indian Institute of Technology\/Joint Entrance Exam<\/td><td>Union Public Service Commission\/Civil Services Exam<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Eligibility<\/td><td>Graduate<\/td><td>Std. XII<\/td><td>Graduate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Number of exams<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>1<\/td><td>3 rounds (2 papers in prelims + 9 papers in mains + interview)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Objective<\/td><td>Admission into IIMs and other MBA colleges<\/td><td>Admission into IITs<\/td><td>Recruitment into Indian civil services<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total appeared<\/td><td>1, 95, 000 (2014-16)<\/td><td>1,61,319 (2019, Advanced)<\/td><td>5,68,282 (2019)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total attempts<\/td><td>Unlimited<\/td><td>2<\/td><td>6 (for general category)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Success rate (per 1000 candidates)<\/td><td>17.1<\/td><td>240<\/td><td>1.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Number qualified<\/td><td>3335 (2014-16)<\/td><td>38,705 (2019, Advanced)<\/td><td>829 (2019)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The UPSC exams provide a chance to use administrative positions to benefit the country and make a difference. Aspirants can overcome obstacles and succeed in their pursuit of a job in the public service through commitment, discipline, and persistence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Also Read:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-borthakurs-ias-academy wp-block-embed-borthakurs-ias-academy\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"ahF1KABLl7\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/best-study-materials-for-ias-upsc-prelims-mains-preparation\/\">Best Study Materials For IAS, UPSC &#8211; Prelims &#038; Mains Preparation<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Best Study Materials For IAS, UPSC &#8211; Prelims &#038; Mains Preparation&#8221; &#8212; Borthakur&#039;s IAS Academy Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/best-study-materials-for-ias-upsc-prelims-mains-preparation\/embed\/#?secret=5QtBn7I0I2#?secret=ahF1KABLl7\" data-secret=\"ahF1KABLl7\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-wp-embed is-provider-borthakurs-ias-academy wp-block-embed-borthakurs-ias-academy\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"touH3Rj3uw\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/strategies-to-prepare-for-current-affairs-in-upsc\/\">Effective Strategies to Prepare for Current Affairs in UPSC<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-embedded-content\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" style=\"position: absolute; visibility: hidden;\" title=\"&#8220;Effective Strategies to Prepare for Current Affairs in UPSC&#8221; &#8212; Borthakur&#039;s IAS Academy Blog\" src=\"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/strategies-to-prepare-for-current-affairs-in-upsc\/embed\/#?secret=JjesPeYmRl#?secret=touH3Rj3uw\" data-secret=\"touH3Rj3uw\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why is UPSC Exam tough? The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination in India is&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":1748,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1719","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1719","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1719"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1719\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1733,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1719\/revisions\/1733"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1748"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1719"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1719"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.borthakursiasacademy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1719"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}