Role Of Coaching Institutes In UPSC CSE Preparation

The foremost question coming to the mind of someone thinking of preparing for UPSC CSE is “Should I join Coaching or not?”

UPSC in its official notification mentions that the exam comprises of generalized subjects which require no special knowledge. Does this mean that the preparation can be done without any guidance?

So, the answer is, a little guidance is required for any new beginning. Going by UPSC’s notification, it may seem that no special knowledge is required, but is it actually so…..NO!!!

If one analyses the question papers of UPSC, it will be very clear that a basic knowledge, understanding and idea of logical application of that knowledge is needed to clear this exam. Here is where the role of coaching institutes comes into play.

To join or to not join a coaching is totally an individual’s choice depending upon his/her capabilities. However, coaching institutes do help an individual in his/her preparation in one or the other ways which are listed below:-

• Coaching institutes guide you to prepare in correct manner and strategize your preparation in the right direction (Role of experienced Mentor).
• The understanding of topics and subjects of such a vast syllabus is many a times not gained by self and you may need the explanation by experienced faculties in order to understand things. E.g. Science background students may face difficulty with concepts of Economy.
• By joining a Coaching, a sense of discipline is instilled in an individual and looking at other students studying hard around, one too gets motivated to work hard.
• The tests conducted in the coaching helps one to get an idea about the kind of questions that can be asked in the exam and also help to track if one’s preparation is going in right direction or not.
• Coaching institutes help with the right sources that are to be referred for each and every topic of the syllabus and also help to cover the subjects for which no specific sources are available like Indian Society (via their well-researched study material).
• One of the most important component of UPSC Mains test is Optional subject which requires special and advanced knowledge. Optional can be better covered with the help of coaching institutes.
• Mains preparation is never complete without answer writing and answer writing is never complete without evaluation. So, for getting answers evaluated, coaching becomes a necessity as they have availability of experienced evaluator. 
• Most importantly they help with understanding the exam pattern and question pattern.
• Subject and topic specific doubts can be resolved with the help of a coaching.
• Faculties and Mentor can help you cheer up and come out of emotional turmoil at times when you feel demotivated.
• Coaching institutes conduct Mock Interviews which help with Interview preparation.

Thus, it’s noteworthy that coaching institutes help save time and efforts of an individual by providing structured guidance. However, no coaching can replace the value of self-study for an aspirant. A healthy mix and match of coaching and self-study helps an individual know his/her strengths and weaknesses well. Working in right direction ultimately helps one achieve success.

You can also read: How Can a Mentor Help in Your UPSC Prelim Exam Preparation?