UPSC Prelims is the first step in the Civil Services journey. Every year, lakhs of students prepare with dedication, but only a fraction make it to Mains. If you are an aspirant, you may already know how stressful this stage can feel. The truth is, most people do not fail because they lack knowledge, they fail because of small mistakes that pile up.

The good news? These mistakes are avoidable. Let’s look at the most common ones, and how you can stay clear of them.

Mistake 1: Ignoring the CSAT Paper

When starting out, many aspirants focus all their energy on GS Paper I. CSAT feels simple — after all, it is “only qualifying.” But every year, many students who score well in GS do not clear Prelims because they underestimated CSAT.

What you can do:

• Fix  one day every week for CSAT practice
• Solve comprehension and reasoning questions under time pressure.
• Treat CSAT as your safety net –  it secures your attempt.

Mistake 2: Not Revising Enough

Reading new material gives a sense of progress, but without revision, much of it slips away during the exam. Many aspirants realize this only in the final weeks

What you can do:

• Use limited books and stick to them
• Revise at least three times before the exam
• Prepare short notes for last-minute review.

Revision is not repetitive work – it is what turns information into recall during the two crucial hours of Prelims.

Many aspirants struggle because their preparation is scattered, too many books, no clear plan, and irregular tests. What really works is a structured approach that combines consistent revision, regular testing, and the right guidance. Successful students often follow a formula that covers every part of preparation, from optional coaching and personal mentoring to systematic practice and personality development. At Shankar IAS Academy, this is brought together in what we call the “9 Elements for IAS Success”,  a method designed to keep preparation balanced and focused

Mistake 3: Skipping Mock Tests

It is common to think: “I will start mock tests once I finish the syllabus.” But the syllabus never feels complete. As a result, many aspirants enter the exam hall without the experience of a timed paper. This leads to poor time management, over-attempting, or fear of negative marking.

What you can do:

• Begin writing mock tests early, even if the syllabus feels incomplete
• Analyze your mistakes and track progress
• Create the same exam-like environment while practicing

A structured program like the Shankar IAS Academy UPSC Prelims Test Series 2025 can help you simulate the real exam, manage time, and reduce negative marking.

Mistake 4: Overlooking Current Affairs

Many aspirants get caught up in static subjects and ignore current affairs. But current events form an important part of Prelims, and questions often link them with static topics.

What you can do:

• Follow one reliable source consistently.
• Link current affairs with subjects like polity, economy, and environment
• Revise monthly compilations before the exam

Mistake 5: Poor Time Management

Preparation can feel overwhelming. Some aspirants spend weeks on subjects they like and push difficult topics to the end. This creates imbalance and adds stress.

What you can do:

• Make a timetable that gives space to every subject.
• Break your day into focused study blocks
• Review your schedule weekly and adjust where needed.

Balanced preparation is more effective than deep focus on only one area.

Mistake 6: Ignoring Previous Year Papers

Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs) are like a mirror. They show what UPSC really expects. Ignoring them means walking in without knowing the exam’s rhythm.

What you can do:

• Solve at least the last 10 years of Prelims papers.
• Identify recurring themes and important topics.
• Compare your performance with past cut-offs

As an aspirant, it is natural to make mistakes. Everyone does. What matters is learning to avoid them before they cost you an attempt. Focus on CSAT, revise regularly, practice with mock tests, connect current affairs to the syllabus, and manage your time wisely.

Every step of consistent practice builds your confidence. Prelims is not about perfection; it is about being prepared in the right way. With the right approach – and with tools like reliable test series, you can turn your preparation into success.