Yes, it is possible. It is perfectly possible to Crack IAS exam in the first attempt. Just you need to focus on the right direction. Stop listening to passersby and rumors and make a structured study plan instead!. For a One Year UPSC Preparation Strategy, please visit the linked article.
SO lets jump into how you can aciieve that.
1. Understand & Memorise the UPSC Syllabus.
The syllabus is vast, no doubt but again most of the content is what you have studied already in high schools! Brush up your past knowledge to give your IAS vision a start. Begin with simply jotting down the entire syllabus into points and dividing them into sections according to your strengths and weaknesses, and then proceed with designing a study plan.
Please refer the linked article to know how to Prepare a detailed Study Plan for APSC & UPSC Preparation
2. Stop looking at the IAS curriculum as a whole – Divide and Conquer
Let’s take a quick look at the definition of Divide and Conquer: It basically means that you divide the population (in this case the subjects) into manageable parts and that makes it impossible for them to come together (dividing them) and fight against the sovereign authority (conquering them). Let’s subject cracking IAS in the first attempt to it:
Theory Papers: History, Economy, Polity, Geography, Optional subject (Demands a lot of your time!)
Aptitude Test: CSAT (Demands a fragment of your time, more of your intelligence!)
3. Prepare a Smart Time Table and Follow:
Chart out a suitable timetable for yourself, and remember it should be a realistic one. Don’t include long study hours. Instead, add on daily tasks or chapters subjectwise and prepare them well on time.
4. Make a habit of Discussion
Discuss all important developments that are important according to UPSC’s point of view. This is a tried and tested tip from the successful contenders. Good discussions will help you in Prelims and Mains, even in interviews.
5. Solve Mock Papers Regularly
Make sure you solve enough mock papers for both Prelims and Mains; this is a must before you step into the UPSC exam for your first attempt. Regular evaluations will help you keep track of your progress. You get to know your weaknesses and can work accordingly. This helps you keep yourself motivated.
6. Practice Answer Writing Skills
No matter how much you study for the exam, your skilful answer writing will give you the edge. Completing the paper on time is the most essential criterion of winning the race and it is critical. Evaluate yourself before UPSC to write proper analytical answers.
7. Revision Repeat Revision
While making your study plan, make sure you have enough time for a minimum of two revisions. Both general studies, as well as the CSAT syllabus, should be reviewed twice – a week before the examination. Remember revision is the key to succeeding in this exam.
8. Read Newspapers Every Day
As per the UPSC bible (!), reading Newspapers every day acts as an integral whole in your entire preparation process. Most of the IAS officers swear by newspaper reading as many questions of the examinations come directly from the newspapers. So you better indulge in newspaper reading for UPSC exams.
9. Start Making Your Own Notes
Keep a notebook handy and every time you read something new, including current affairs, any new developments, just make your own note on that. At the time of the final revision, you can go through this notebook once instead of surfing all the study materials again and again.
10. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Regular Sleep
Without maintaining good health you can never survive in this exam environment. Tedious study timing, long hour reading will never hamper your overall health if you eat and sleep well. Have your favourite food and enjoy your mealtime with family and friends. Relax and sleep for a minimum of 6-8 hours.
Following these steps, you can surely overcome the nervousness of your UPSC first attempt!
Best of Luck for your UPSC journey!!