Some dos and don’ts about two weeks before prelims -

Some dos and don’ts about two weeks before prelims -

1. Try to revise your old material (notes, CA sources etc) as much as possible. Avoid reading completely new sources now. This is usually said because new information can shake your confidence. However, if you must, feel free to read new information as well provided it doesn’t bog you down.

2. PYQs PYQs PYQs. The utility of PYQs cannot be overstated.

3. Focus on things that you have to rote learn. Facts from history, map work, species in news etc.

4. You can easily skip newspapers now. However, if you can squeeze in 20-25 minutes and go through the major headlines, that would be ideal.

5. DO NOT attempt any more tests now. Focus on revising more.

6. It is okay if you are still studying late at night. Start adjusting your sleep schedule a week before the D-Day. Ensure that you get good 7 hours+ sleep for at least 3 days before prelims. It is possible that sleep would evade you the night of pre. Do not panic. It happens. Ensuring you’ve slept well a few days before pre would ensure you would do well with a little less sleep.

7. Do not eat a heavy breakfast that will make you lethargic. Carry chocolates that you can munch on right before entering and in the break. Glucose (from the chocolate) would help your brain function better.

8. Do not panic. At least try not to. Whatever you have done till now is enough. Have faith in yourself and your preparation. I recall a quote which says - “Worrying is like rocking a chair. It does not get you anywhere but gives you something to do”.

Talk to your friends and family if needed. De-stressing is crucial.

9. It is okay to leave all your books and preparation and relax the night before prelims. Do whatever that will help you relax and take the steam off. Ensure you hit the bed on time.

10. Visit your centre once before going there on the main day. If you do not have the time, send a family member or a friend.

11. Always leave on time from wherever you are putting up. Arriving 30 minutes before is much better than arriving 2 minutes late. Reaching the centre JUST in time would also make you a bit anxious. So please ensure you reach the centre 30 minutes before the stated time.

12. Do not peak before the exam day. Do not burn yourself out in the coming ten days. Study sustainably and study smartly. Listen to your body. Eat well and rest well. Go as hard as possible while respecting your own limits.

13. It is okay if you cannot follow through with your schedule and things are becoming a bit random. It happens with everyone. Focus on making daily targets now. It will help you keep your head calm. Approach the next two weeks one day at a time.

14. Start compiling your CSAT short notes (if you haven’t already) and start revising them.

15. PYQs PYQs PYQs. If they are being mentioned twice, that should say something.

Krishna Ki Pukaar Hai

Yeh Bhagavata Ka Saar Hai

Ki Yuddh Hi to Veer Ka Pramaan Hai

Kauravo Ki Bheed Ho Ya

Paandavo Ka Need Ho

Jo Lad Saka Hai

Wohi Toh Mahaan Hai

Just a handful of days remaining before prelims. Feeling anxious and having a general feeling that things are spiraling out of control is normal. You are not alone. Most of the serious aspirants face the same emotions you are facing right now. However, staying ahead of the curve now is a function of keeping your cool and managing your emotions. The more calm and composed you will be, the better you will perform.

You have accumulated all the knowledge that you need to clear prelims. Trust your preparation and your instincts.

If you still feel troubled, think about the fact that at least you have an opportunity to write the exam and test your mettle. Innumerable people cannot even afford to attempt the paper that you will solving on the 16th of June. Financial hardships, family emergencies and many other factors would have inhibited them from even being a part of the race. They would give anything just to be in your shoes and have a shot at attempting the paper. Feel grateful that you have this opportunity and use it to the fullest.

Concluding with the lines I started this post with - “Yuddh hi to veer ka pramaan hai” and “Jo ladd saka wohi to mahaan hai”, you have my utmost respect for facing your inner demons and putting up a fight till the end. For me, you are already a winner. Many people give in to the fear and do not even enter the race/attempt the paper. You on the other hand have decided to fight and give it your all. And in the end, that is all we can do. Give it our all. Be proud of yourself.