How to Prepare for UPSC Prelims in 3 Months – Complete Guide

Preparing for the UPSC Prelims in just 3 months may sound like an impossible task, but with the right strategy, focused study plan, and discipline, it can be done. Many aspirants clear Prelims in their very first attempt with just 90 days of preparation by following a targeted approach.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to divide your 3 months effectively
• Which books and resources to focus on
• Daily timetable for maximum productivity
• Revision and mock test strategies

Step 1: Understand the Exam Pattern

Before jumping into preparation, know the structure of the Prelims exam:

• Paper I – General Studies (GS): 100 questions, 200 marks
• Paper II – CSAT (Qualifying): 80 questions, 200 marks
• Negative marking: 1/3rd for every wrong answer

👉 You only need 33% in CSAT, but GS Paper I decides whether you qualify for Mains.

Step 2: Divide the 3 Months into Phases

Month 1 – Coverage of Core Subjects

•  NCERTs (Class 6–12 selectively for Polity, History, Geography, Economics)

Standard books like:

• Polity – Laxmikant
• History – Spectrum
• Geography – NCERT + G.C. Leong
• Economy – Ramesh Singh (basics)
• Environment – Shankar IAS
• Current Affairs – 1 year (preferably compilations like Vision IAS/PT365)

Month 2 – Practice + Revision

• Attempt topic-wise mock tests
• Revise notes + important facts
• Start eliminating low-value areas (don’t waste time on unnecessary topics)

Month 3 – Full-Length Mock Tests + Intensive Revision

• Solve at least 30–40 mock tests before the exam
• Revise your notes at least 2–3 times
• Focus more on accuracy and elimination techniques

Step 3: Daily Timetable for 3 Months

Here’s a sample timetable you can follow:

• 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM → NCERTs / Standard Books
• 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM → Current Affairs + Newspaper
• 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM → Core Subject (Polity/History/Economy)
• 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM → Mock Test Practice
• 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM → Revision + Short Notes
• 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM → CSAT (alternate days)

Step 4: Smart Tips to Maximize Success

• Stick to limited resources, revise multiple times.
• Practice mock tests daily in the last month.
• Avoid burnout – take short breaks.
• Work on elimination strategy for MCQs.
• Focus on high-weightage subjects (Polity, History, Current Affairs).

Step 5: Last Week Strategy

• Only revise, do not start new books.
• Revise maps, important reports, government schemes.
• Practice at least 2 full-length papers daily.
• Stay calm and trust your preparation.

Conclusion

Cracking UPSC Prelims in 3 months is possible if you stay consistent, focused, and disciplined. Remember, it’s not about how many hours you study but how smartly you utilize them. Stick to the plan, revise multiple times, and practice enough mock tests – success will follow.