How can I start the preparation for the Punjab PCS EXAM?

The first and foremost step is getting acquainted with the syllabus of the PCS examination. One should start the preparation with the General subjects such as Basic sciences, aptitude (For CSAT exam), Geography, History, Economics (Economy) and Civics (Indian Polity) along with newspaper reading daily. Follow side by side making notes which shall be useful later on as the exam date approaches. Also, it is a good practice to follow some videos or faculty lectures for enhanced knowledge. Pay importance to Punjabi Written exam (10th syllabus generally), History and Geography of Punjab, Recent current affairs of past 12 months before prelims exam.
Before embarking on to the preparation for the PCS examination it is important to self evaluate if you have what it takes to become a successful officer. Self-evaluation is extremely vital to have a clear focus on your preparation.

DECIDE YOUR TARGET

The candidate should be aware of the position he is targeting. This would pave a disciplined approach towards the preparation for the exam.

GO THROUGH THE SYLLABUS AND ALIGN YOUR PREPARATION

Before you start the preparation for the PCS exam, it is integral to go through the syllabus to have an idea the number of topics to be covered. This also helps you select your choice for the optional subjects. Once you have decided on the topics, you can chalk out a preparation regime with time divided according to the level of difficulty keeping aside the necessary time for relaxation. Try to divide the difficult topics into simpler ones making it easy to understand. With the topics subdivided, the bulk would not seem difficult.

Heard of the biological process “catabolism” where you break down the original components into their by­products, do the same with your PCS syllabus. Find out about what topic you would have an edge and the topics you would need help in. Do it for all the subjects. You have now marked your territory; the bulk of the syllabus wouldn’t scare you at all. Now you would know where to start PCS preparation. Also, this is an excellent confidence building exercise.

TIME FOR PCS EXAM PREPARATION

Every person differs in the time he can devote to the studies. There are individuals who can sit for long hours at a stretch while there are individuals who cannot sit for more than five hours. Generally, 7-8 hours on a daily basis for at least one year is recommended. In case you are serious in being among the selected few you should put the required number of hours into quality preparation. Always remember it is not the time but the productive hours that matter.
Start with at least two subjects on a daily basis. After reading a topic practice through answering questions asked in previous years papers. An ideal situation would expect the preparation to be initiated in school times as the NCERT syllabus consists of books from VI TO XII onwards and who would be in a better position to prepare than when the individual is in the school. This is the time for making notes followed by studying for more than 10-12 hours a year before the exam. In an ideal situation, you should target two subjects every day. A combination of right coaching, books; and right motivation shall enable you to crack the PCS exam.

PREPARATION FOR THE PCS EXAM INTERVIEW

Preparation for the interview involves going through your DAF forms as you can be asked questions on that. Seek to improve communication skills as it shall help you speak confidently with the interviewer. In order to be chosen among the state’s elite administrative employees, one needs to prove that he is in a different league. Prepare extensively by covering a vast number of topics along with a discussion with candidates who had appeared before. The candidate should be able to convince the interviewer that he aims to contribute to the welfare of the nation. This not only sets you apart from the rest of the candidates but also provides the much-needed edge over other applicants.

STAY RELAXED AND ENJOY THE PREPARATION

Any Civil Services Examination is a strenuous exam and is an extremely lengthy process and unless you enjoy what you strive, it would seem all the more difficult. Ensure to find time for relaxation activities as this will keep you lively. Instead of wondering ‘How we can prepare for PCS exam’ all day, just dive into it. Getting started is the only way to get to your target.