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Question : How To Prepare For Interview?

Answer :

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 issues of national and international importance and even those of regional or local significance often form thenucleus around which the interviews revolve. Getting a good grasp of such issues is of essence. However, the focus in interview is not on mere facts and figures, but more on issues, their appreciation and analysis. Such articles are often found in theeditorial page of the top national dailies, which must be perused properly and comprehended fully. To give a wider coverage to their preparation, aspirants must go through a couple of national dailies. Similarly, one must read at least one good news magazine.


Note-making

  • It should be very precise as well as concise. Once one has gone through the article, one must reflect on it and ask oneself, is it of relevance to me? If yes, then is it worth making a note or can I mentally summarise the essence of article and possibly remember it till the interview stage? Am I in agreement with what is stated in the article? If not, why? Always endeavour to analyse the viewpoint expressed. Does the viewpoint conform to logic and reasoning? Is it falling within the Constitutional and legal framework. How is it for the larger good of our nation and its people? Thus, develop your own perspective.
  • 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 too is an important aid for preparation. However, exercise discretion in what and how much television you should watch. It is advisable to switch to prime time news on national channels like, Doordarshan, Rajya Sabha TV, Lok Sabha TV, NDTV, etc. Look out for those programmes which carry views and opinion of eminent people. Listening to All India Radio (FM Gold) and programmes like News at Nine, Market Mantra (economic news programme) and Spotlight (news analysis programme) are equally good options.


Internet

  • Internet has emerged as a viable option for all of the above and more. Besides reading newspapers, magazines watching/hearing news programmes, etc. internet resources are rather valuable while working in areas related to one’s personal profile (DAF). Further, good articles can easily be saved in soft form or important capsules of article be compiled. However, beware, net surfing can be addictive and at times a drain on your time.


Books

  • This phase of preparation is also an opportunity to widen your horizons of thought by reading good books, particularly non-fiction. Target at least a couple of books per month. Books authored by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, RamchandraGuha, Narayana Murthy, AmartyaSen, NandanNilekani, etc. which reflect on world issues, India and its society, economy, polity, etc. are definitely good value for time. Besides, do look out for specific books pertaining to areas of your interest, hobbies, state of domicile, or even those connected with the discipline of your current job/occupation.


Advice of Seniors

  • Also look out to meet successful candidates of past years or experts/seniors, etc. from the field you work or study in. You can also read the blogs of previous years’ toppers. Joining a coaching institute or a guidance programme for the interview is not a must, particularly if one has had in the past an experience of such an interview programme or of the UPSC interview itself. However, for first timers, such programmes may make some value addition. But do join only with the feedback/recommendation of a candidate or a person who has a first-hand knowledge of the coaching institute/guidance programme, lest it becomes a millstone around your neck.

Facing the UPSC Interview Board Members

Here are some pointers that you should keep in mind while sitting for the UPSC Civil Services Interview.

Before the Interview

  • Have a good night's rest before the interview. In the morning, have a light breakfast before you come to the venue.
  • Clear your mind on the day of the interview. Obsessing over the questions you are going to be asked can confuse and derail you.
  • Know the panel board. Reading more about understanding the panel can help you formulate better answers during the interview.

During the Interview

  • Be confident. From the moment you walk in, to the way you greet the panel and the way you sit and talk, your body language says a lot about you. Sit straight up in the chair with feet placed firmly on the ground, palms flat on the thighs and arms resting on the armrests.
  • You will be greeted by the Chairperson when you walk in. Return the greeting and greet the other members of the panel as well.
  • Be attentive and mentally alert. Maintain eye contact with the person asking the question and while delivering the answer.

When and What to Speak

  • Your answers and views should be shaped from the perspective of a civil servant and not just a common citizen. A person gains an immense amount of knowledge about the country and the world while preparing for the interview and that helps build a unique perspective.
  • Use polite words and soft language during your conversation with the panel. Avoid being too negative about situations.
  • Give answers that are concise and to-the-point. Put your point across without beating around the bush.
  • It's OK to not know an answer to a question. Simply telling the panel that you do not know is much better than making up an answer or getting stuck on it for too long.
  • You may be asked to solve a puzzle or provide an answer that uses nothing but your common sense.
  • Do not be hesitant to share your views and opinions provided that they are backed by good reason. You can be assertive and confident but only to the extent that helps the panel understand your perspective. Do not enter into an argument with the panel over any issue.
  • Do not lie or boast unnecessarily. Do not quote facts and figures that you are unsure of.