Starting UPSC preparation can feel overwhelming. With the right approach and study plan, any graduate can crack this exam. Here is a complete beginner guide to starting UPSC preparation from scratch in 2026.
UPSC Civil Services has three stages — Prelims, Mains and Interview. Prelims is an objective test, Mains is descriptive and the Interview is a personality test. Understanding all three stages is the first step.
NCERT books from Class 6 to 12 are the foundation of UPSC preparation. Start with History, Geography, Polity and Science. Do not skip NCERTs — they build your conceptual base.
| Time | Subject |
|---|---|
| 6 AM – 8 AM | Current Affairs (Newspaper) |
| 9 AM – 12 PM | Static Subject (History/Polity/Geography) |
| 2 PM – 5 PM | Economy / Environment / Science |
| 6 PM – 8 PM | Revision + Notes Making |
| 9 PM – 10 PM | Optional Subject |
Mains requires writing long descriptive answers. Practice writing 150 and 250 word answers daily from the beginning. This is the most neglected part by beginners and the most important for final selection.
UPSC preparation requires patience, consistency and smart work. Start today, stay consistent and keep checking SarkariJobNaukri.com for latest UPSC notifications and exam dates.