[Guest Article] Some tips for the First Timers by Mr.Bharat

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This is a guest-article by Mr.Bharat R:
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I have written a small piece on the experiences i had in my first attempt and the lessons i learned. I don't want the first timers to go through the same difficult road like i did.
I would request all the first time aspirants to give this a read and introspect.
Making a decision that will change your life is not an easy thing to do, especially when it comes to civil service. Sure, why not! Everyone wants to become an IAS officer. But there is a difference between a "want" and a "need". This is what cuts you from the rest.
So, when you think about IAS, ask yourself,

Do I need to become an IAS officer? 

if you get the answer, then that is your path.
Below are some of the things which should cross your mind as first timers:

1. Don’t build a palace in the air first up, you just cannot keep dreaming about what all you will do if you get into the service. The thing is you have to get into the service.
2. Don’t assume anything. I repeat don’t assume anything. Its only either you know it or you don’t. Guesses don’t work in this exam. Trust me, I’ve paid the price.
3. Keep your enthusiasm in check, don’t overdo it. Burnouts and late nights are not a recipe for success here.
4. Change the way you think from day one, this is the key point one has to work upon continuously. If one can think in different angles, he/she is as good as any experienced person in this arena.
5. Rely on yourself more than any other source. There are countless books and magazines out there for money (not for knowledge) use the resources you can get your hands on in a smart way, unless you want to open a library.
6. Don’t get overwhelmed by the scale of the competition, remember, all you need is one post, strive towards that. Don’t worry about what others are up to.
7. Thankfully, UPSC has made this exam so general that, you longer have to go to Delhi (as it was before, where it was believed that the closer you are to UPSC the better are your chances).
8. Understand that you are different from the others in this exam, just because you wanted to top and couldn’t, doesn't mean you are not competent. Assess and introspect.
9. These are some of the most common things we apply in our daily life otherwise. It only fades away when you sit for the exam. Don’t let that happen.
10. Don’t be disheartened if you fail. That’s the specialty of this exam, you never leave empty handed.

All the best!
-Bharath R