UPSC Mains Exam: How to Build the Lost Proficiency in Language to tackle the Compulsory Papers

In this article, we bring some tips on how to build proficiency in language to tackle the compulsory papers of the UPSC Mains Exam.

• Aspirants’ can read the newspaper in both the languages i.e. English and the language which they have chosen for the Compulsory Indian Language. While reading the newspaper, candidates should focus on the vocabulary, grammar, usage of words, sentence structure or construction, spellings and etc. This can be covered abreast while reading the newspaper for UPSC current affairs to cover the four General Studies Paper of the mains exam.
• Candidates should also make a habit of reading the newspaper in their vernacular for at least 10-15 minutes a day as this would help them build the local knowledge, which will also come handy for the profile-based questions in the UPSC Personality Test/ interview.
• It is also recommended to go through UPSC previous years’ question papers at least last five years of both compulsory papers (English and Indian Language). Aspirants’ can solve on one or two question papers in a month.
• Candidates’ should dust off their old school textbooks and revise basic grammar and practice changing sentences like active and passive voice; direct and indirect speech; compound and complex sentence etc.
• Enhance your language skill by working on prepositions, punctuation rules and other basic grammar rules. The UPSC Previous Years’ Question Papers will come handy here.
• For Indian Language Paper, candidates should practice on translations as well.
• Writing Practice is important for UPSC Mains Exam and plays a crucial part not only core papers but also in compulsory papers. Candidates should practice writing to improve the flow of writing and avoid any kind of glitches like spelling mistakes.

Things to keep in mind while writing this paper in the UPSC Examination Hall.

• Candidates’ should always aim to secure the pass marks i.e. 25%
• Before answering, candidates should go through the paper and start with questions that they find easy and know the answer.
• Don’t spend too much time on questions which you find difficult instead move on to the next question and try attempt as many questions as possible.
• It is also advised to candidates’ not fall for the lengthy questions as they may fetch inconsiderate marks and these questions can be attempted at the last moment, if time allows.

These are some of the crucial tips, which IAS Aspirants’ can follow to get back their lost proficiency in the language and tackle the compulsory papers of the UPSC Main Exam.