How to Prepare for Interview?

Begin your preparation early, preferably within a fortnight or a month of completion of the Main examination. Do not wait for the results of the examination. If you could not do so in this window of time, then begin at the earliest. The first phase of preparation can start with a more purposive reading of newspapers and magazines.

Current Affairs and Social Issues

• The central focus of the interviews is frequently a topic of significant national, international, or even regional or local consequence.
• Having a firm understanding of these difficulties is crucial. However, in interviews, topics, their appreciation, and analysis are more important than only data and figures.
• Such topics are frequently found on the editorial page of the best national dailies, which should be carefully read and understood.
• Aspirants must read one or two national dailies to broaden the scope of their preparation.

Note-making

• It should be succinct and really precise. After reading an article, one must pause and consider whether it is relevant to them. If so, is it worthwhile to take a note or can I sum up the article in my head and potentially remember it till the interview stage? Do I agree with the ideas presented in the article? Why not? Always make an effort to analyse the expressed position.
• Is the point of view consistent with logic and reasoning? Does it fit within the legal and constitutional framework? How does it affect the greater benefit of our country and its citizens? Create your own perspectives on topics.
• Identify the most important points which the article is emphasising upon. Note such three to five salient points in a small note book/spiral pad/memo page of your smart phone. Revise them whenever you catch a few moments of spare time during the day.

Television

• Television is a valuable preparation tool as well. However, use caution when deciding what and how much television to watch. On national stations like Doordarshan, Rajya Sabha TV, Lok Sabha TV, etc., primetime news is advised.
• Watch for programmes that feature the ideas and opinions of renowned individuals. All India Radio (FM Gold) is a solid alternative, as are shows like News at Nine, Market Mantra (an economic news programme), and Spotlight (a news analysis programme).

Internet

• The Internet has become a practical solution for everything mentioned above and more. While working on projects related to one's personal profile (DAF), internet resources are fairly helpful in addition to reading newspapers, periodicals, watching/hearing news programmes, etc.
• Furthermore, it is simple to keep useful content in soft form or build key article capsules. But use caution—surfing the internet can sometimes be time-consuming.

Books

• Reading good literature, especially non-fiction, is a great way to expand your mental horizon during this stage of preparation.
• Additionally, keep an eye out for books that are specifically related to your interests, hobbies, location, or even the field of your present job or employment.

Advice of Seniors

• Keep an eye out for opportunities to network with previous year's top candidates, as well as specialists, elders, etc., in the subject matter of your profession or studies. Additionally, you can read the blogs of previous year's toppers.
• In particular, if one has prior experience with such an interview programme or the UPSC interview itself, joining a coaching institute or mentoring programme for the interview is not required. However, such programmes could bring some value for beginners.
• To avoid it becoming a burden on your neck, only enrol with the recommendation of a candidate or someone with first-hand knowledge of the coaching institute or guidance programme.