What to Study for APSC Exam: A Complete Guide

Preparing for the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) exam is a challenging journey that requires strategic planning, a deep understanding of the syllabus, and consistent effort. At SPM IAS Academy, we understand the depths of the APSC exam and provide all the guidance to help aspirants succeed. This blog will walk you through the key areas you need to focus on to ace the APSC exam, offering a detailed study plan made according to the demands of this competitive examination.

What is the APSC Exam Structure

The APSC exam is divided into three stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)
2. Main Examination (Mains)
3. Personal Interview (Viva Voce)

Each stage requires a different approach to preparation, and understanding the structure is crucial to planning your study schedule effectively.

Prelims

Two papers make up the objective-style Prelims exam: 

• General Studies (GS): This paper covers a broad spectrum of topics including History, Geography, Polity, Economy, General Science, Environment, and current events.
• Optional Subject: You can choose one subject from a list of options provided by APSC. This paper requires in-depth knowledge of the chosen subject.

Mains

The Mains exam is descriptive and includes:

• Essay Paper: Testing your ability to express thoughts clearly and concisely.
• General Studies Papers: Covering Indian History, Culture, Polity, Economy, Environment, Science & Technology, and more.
• Optional Subject Papers: These require specialized knowledge in the subject chosen by the candidate.
• Language Papers: Testing proficiency in Assamese/Bengali/Bodo and English.

Personal Interview

This final stage assesses your personality, general awareness, and suitability for a career in civil services.

What to Study for APSC Exam

1. General Studies (GS):

The GS paper is the backbone of the APSC exam, both in Prelims and Mains. Here’s a breakdown of what to study:

• History: Focus on Indian history from ancient to modern times. Emphasize the freedom struggle and significant movements. We offer detailed notes and lectures on key historical events.
• Geography: Study both Indian and World Geography. Understand physical, economic, and human geography, with a special focus on Assam’s geography.
• Polity: Indian Polity, Constitution, Governance, and Political System are very important. Make sure to cover the latest amendments and governmental policies.
• Economy: Understand the basics of the Indian Economy, key economic indicators, budget, and economic policies. Include current economic issues in your preparation.
• Environment: Study environmental ecology, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development. Assam-specific environmental issues are particularly important.
• General Science: Cover basic concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Current developments in science and technology should also be included.
• Current Affairs: Regularly update yourself with national and international news, especially issues affecting Assam.
• Optional Subject: Choosing the right optional subject is vital. It should be a subject you are comfortable with and have some background in. Subjects like History, Geography, Political Science, and Sociology are popular choices. We provide specialized coaching for various optional subjects, ensuring a deep understanding of the topics.
• Language Papers: Proficiency in English and a regional language is tested. Practice writing essays, precis, and comprehension to improve your command of these languages. 

How to Approach Your APSC Preparation

1. Build a Strong Foundation:

Start with NCERT books to build a strong foundation in basic concepts. These books are crucial for both Prelims and Mains. Our courses integrate NCERT concepts with advanced materials to provide a complete understanding.

2. Focus on Current Affairs:

Current affairs play an important role in both Prelims and Mains. Regularly read newspapers, follow credible news channels, and use online resources to stay updated. SPM IAS Academy’s monthly magazines and current affairs classes provide a concise and structured approach to staying updated.

3. Regular Revision:

Revision is key to retaining information. Make short notes and revise them regularly. SPM IAS Academy’s study materials are designed for quick revision, helping you retain important information effectively.

4. Practice Mock Tests:

Regular practice with mock tests is essential. It not only helps in time management but also in understanding the exam pattern and improving answer writing skills. SPM IAS Academy offers extensive mock test series that mimic the actual APSC exam, giving you the practice you need to excel.

5. Join a Coaching Program:

Joining a coaching program can provide structured learning and expert guidance. SPM IAS Academy offers best online APSC coaching and offline courses to meet the specific needs of APSC aspirants. Our faculty, comprising experts and experienced professionals, ensures that you receive the best training to clear the exam.

Why Choose SPM IAS Academy for APSC Preparation?

At SPM IAS Academy, we are committed to your success. Our unique approach combines traditional teaching methods with modern technology to provide a learning experience that is both comprehensive and engaging. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Expert Faculty: Our faculty includes experienced educators from top institutes who are well-versed in the APSC exam pattern.
• Comprehensive Study Materials: Our study materials are regularly updated and concisely cover the entire syllabus.
• Personalized Mentorship: We offer personalized mentorship to address individual needs and doubts.
• Flexible Learning Options: With both online and offline classes, you can choose a learning mode that suits your lifestyle.
• Extensive Mock Tests: Our mock test series prepares you for the actual exam with real-time feedback and analysis.

Summary

Success in the APSC exam requires a well-rounded preparation strategy. By focusing on what to study for APSC exam, staying disciplined, and using the right resources, you can significantly improve your chances of success. At SPM IAS Academy, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether it’s understanding the syllabus, choosing the right study materials, or practicing with mock tests, our programs are designed to help you achieve your goal of becoming a civil servant.