Cracking UPSC Prelims is all about the strategy we adopt, the mock test we practice and PYQ we analyze which gives proper direction to our preparation.
Here we discuss how to deal with GS Paper in UPSC Prelims Exam.
Understand the Nature of the Paper
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks : 200
- Time: 2 Hours
- Negative Marking: -0.66 for each wrong answer
- Targeted number of Questions: 80+
To approach the GS Papers in Prelims, one can adopt three layered, phased wise strategy for effective performance
1st Phase – Easy and Confident Questions
- Time Allocated: 0-45 minutes
- Goal: Maximize your correct attempts quickly.
- What to Do:
- Attempt only those questions you’re 100% sure about.
- Skip any questions that seem even slightly confusing or require calculations.
- Why: Builds confidence and ensures you secure the easiest marks without wasting time.
- In this phase one may be able to attempt 35 – 40 questions
2nd Phase 2: Elimination & Reasoned Guesses
- Time Allocated: 0-90 minutes
- Goal: Use logic, elimination techniques, and intelligent guessing.
- What to Do:
- Revisit the skipped questions.
- Use elimination methods to rule out wrong options.
- Attempt questions where you can narrow down to 2 options.
- Tips:
- Read options carefully; UPSC often includes subtle clues.
- Trust your preparation; go with your instincts if narrowed down.
In this stage one may solve another 25 to 30 questions with proper reasoning and using the technique of Elimination.
3rd Phase: Risk Analysis & Final Attempts
- Time Allocated: Final 30 minutes
- Goal: Carefully consider attempting remaining questions or leaving them.
- What to Do:
- Attempt only if you have some knowledge or can eliminate at least 1 or 2 options.
- Avoid wild guesses — UPSC’s negative marking (-0.66) can be punishing.
- Final Review:
- Double-check OMR filling.
- Ensure no question is left blank by mistake.
- Mark any final changes confidently — no second-guessing here.
Try to add on some more questions (10 to 15) in the final stage by carefully analyzing the risk of negative markings and all the pros and cons of attempting too few questions if any.
Additional Tips for Phased Approach
- Carry a watch to manage each phase with clear time boundaries.
- Mark on question paper (e.g., ✔ for attempted, ? for doubt, x for skip).
- Don’t spend >1 minute per question on average.
- Keep cool — anxiety leads to silly mistakes.
What to Avoid
- Don’t spend too much of time on single questions (more than 1 min)
- Getting stuck on a “familiar but confusing” question.
- Over-attempting due to panic.
- Ignoring OMR marking time.
Ideal Attempt Strategy:
- Target 80–90 questions (depending on accuracy and difficulty level of Questions).
- Use mock tests to fine-tune your attempt vs. accuracy balance.
