examination

Dr Vijaykarthikeyan suggests aspirants must only attempt the questions that they are sure about. They must remember that negative marking exists, and accordingly, be careful while attempting the questions, he says.

Set micro goals for yourself and when you complete each of those tasks, you will feel more confident.

The students were sent the question paper via e-mail at 9 a.m. They were given 15 minutes of reading time, after which, they were to start writing until 11.45 a.m.

The interview is ultimately a test of your personality and not your knowledge. So, don’t spend your time learning new things, suggests Ashutosh.

While good command over English helps, candidates have cracked the exam and given the interview in their regional languages as well.

Revision is the most important phase, which is most overlooked in the preparation process. Spend ample time going over all that you have covered in the course of your preparation.

“Be extremely precise and specific about your optional subject. Remember that the difference between aspirant ‘A’ and aspirant ‘B’ actually lies in which optional subject they choose.”

“She brought the baby to the centre, and a 14-year-girl was made in charge. But the baby kept crying. So I tried to cheer him.”

As a child, Shalini had no idea who or what a DC was, but registered that a DC is a powerful person whose word people adhered to. At that moment, she decided that she wanted to become one.

“Deep down, I had a feeling that I will top the exams, but I didn’t share it with anyone as I thought people will poke fun at me. I’m glad that my efforts have paid off.”