Unveiling Vaishali's Unique Strategy: AIR 23's Key Lessons from UPSC 2024 Journey

Who is Vaishali?

Vaishali, a native of Delhi, is a dynamic and determined individual who managed to secure the All India Rank 23 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024. She has proven her mettle in various professional roles, before achieving this remarkable feat. Her interests lie in keeping fit and indulging in creative writing.

Educational Background

Vaishali completed her education from the esteemed Indraprastha College for Women. Post her graduation, she began her professional journey as a junior assistant in the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), and later served as a judicial assistant in Delhi District. Prior to her UPSC attempt, she was working as a technical assistant for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for three years.

UPSC Journey and Attempts

It took Vaishali five attempts to crack the Civil Services Exam. Her perseverance and determination finally paid off when she achieved the All India Rank 23 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024.

Vaishali’s UPSC Preparation Strategy

• Study Approach: Vaishali advocates for a well-planned and strategic approach to studies. She emphasized the importance of mastering the Detailed Application Form (DAF) and developing a consistent study plan.
• Daily Routine: Effective time management was a key component of Vaishali's daily routine. She focused on the quality of the hours spent studying rather than the quantity.
• Prelims Strategy: Her strategy involved focusing on a small number of books and materials, and limiting internet use.
• Mains Strategy: Regular practice of multiple mock tests and mock interviews were a significant part of her mains strategy.
• Role of Current Affairs: Staying updated with current affairs and news, and being thorough with the UPSC syllabus were also part of her strategy.

Optional Subject Strategy (Mathematics)

Vaishali chose Mathematics as her optional subject. Details about her specific strategy for this subject are not available.

Interview Preparation

Vaishali’s interview preparation involved a comprehensive mastery of the Detailed Application Form (DAF), practicing multiple mock tests and mock interviews, staying updated with current affairs and news, and being thorough with the UPSC syllabus.

Mental Health and Motivation

Vaishali found strength and motivation from her family throughout her journey. Her father, a Stenographer with the Govt of Delhi, and her mother, a homemaker, have been her pillars of strength. She also enjoys staying fit through home-based fitness exercises and finds solace and self-expression through reflective writing.

Key Takeaways from Vaishali’s Success

• Vaishali's success demonstrates the importance of determination, unflinching attention, and a strategic and well-planned approach.
• Her journey underscores the significance of effective time management and focusing on the quality of study hours.
• Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, as it took her five attempts to crack the exam.

Final Words

Vaishali's journey is a shining beacon of hope for future UPSC aspirants. Her story is a testament to the fact that with determination, unflinching attention, a strategic approach, and effective time management, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams. May her success inspire many more to follow in her footsteps.

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