Common Mistakes to avoid during UPSC and PCS preparation, a part of our NOT TO DO series

Learn what not to do during UPSC exam prep and find out how AcademyCheck simplifies coaching selection. Ace your studies with expert guidance!
Guidance & Strategy

Preparing for the Civil Services examination is a rigorous and demanding journey that requires dedication, strategy, and perseverance. While there are many factors that contribute to success, there are also several common mistakes that aspirants should avoid. In this article, we'll explore some of these pitfalls and how AcademyCheck can assist UPSC aspirants in navigating their preparation journey more effectively.


  • Relying Solely on Traditional Study Methods:

One of the most common mistakes UPSC aspirants make is relying solely on traditional study methods. While textbooks and notes are important, they should be supplemented with a variety of resources such as online courses, mock tests, and current affairs updates. AcademyCheck provides aspirants with access to a wide range of coaching institutes, study and expert guidance, helping them diversify their preparation approach.


Many aspirants spend a significant amount of time researching and comparing coaching institutes, which can be a time-consuming and overwhelming process. Instead of wasting valuable time on endless searches, aspirants can utilize AcademyCheck to easily discover and compare coaching institutes based on their preferences and requirements. With comprehensive information and reviews available on the platform, aspirants can make informed decisions without the hassle of extensive research, thereby optimizing their preparation time effectively.


UPSC exams place a strong emphasis on current affairs, and neglecting this aspect can be detrimental to an aspirant's success. Many candidates make the mistake of focusing too much on static portions of the syllabus and overlooking current events.


Time management is crucial for UPSC aspirants, yet many overlook its importance and end up procrastinating or failing to allocate sufficient time to different subjects.


  • Isolating Oneself:

Preparing for the UPSC examination can be a solitary endeavor, but isolating oneself completely from peers and mentors can hinder progress. Through forums, discussion groups, and mentorship programs, aspirants can share knowledge, seek guidance, and stay motivated throughout their preparation journey.


Practice is key to success in the UPSC examination, yet many aspirants overlook the importance of regular mock tests and practice sessions. AcademyCheck aggregates a wide range of mock tests, practice papers, and previous year question papers from leading coaching institutes at one place, allowing aspirants to assess their strengths and weaknesses, improve their time management skills, and gain confidence before the actual exam.


Some aspirants tend to focus excessively on the General Studies papers while neglecting their optional subject preparation. However, scoring well in the optional papers can significantly boost overall marks.


Many aspirants make the mistake of not revising regularly, leading to forgetting important concepts and information. Consistent revision is essential for retention and reinforcement of knowledge. AcademyCheck provides revision schedules and tools to help aspirants organize and prioritize their revision effectively.


Often, aspirants tend to focus solely on challenging subjects while neglecting scoring topics that can significantly boost their overall marks. This mistake can result in missed opportunities to secure easy marks and improve their overall performance. AcademyCheck offers valuable insights into the syllabus and exam pattern, helping aspirants identify and prioritize scoring topics. By leveraging this information, aspirants can ensure comprehensive preparation across all subjects and maximize their chances of success in the UPSC examination.


  • Succumbing to Exam Anxiety:

Exam anxiety can negatively impact performance on the day of the exam. Some aspirants become overwhelmed by the pressure, leading to underperformance.


  • Neglecting Health and Well-being:

Maintaining good physical and mental health is crucial for effective exam preparation. Some aspirants neglect their well-being, leading to burnout and decreased productivity.


Some aspirants adopt a rigid study approach and fail to adapt to changing circumstances or challenges. Flexibility in study methods and strategies is essential for overcoming obstacles and maximizing productivity.



Avoiding these common mistakes is essential for UPSC aspirants who aspire to succeed in the examination. By leveraging the resources and support offered by AcademyCheck, aspirants can overcome these challenges, streamline their preparation, and increase their chances of success in the UPSC examination. Remember, preparation is the key to success, and with the right guidance and resources, you can achieve your goal of becoming a civil servant. Stay tuned for more such information and exam tips.


At AcademyCheck, we are with you...

Read more articles in Guidance & Strategy