How to Use Your Engineering Degree for Civil Services (IASIFS) Preparation

By Akib Malik | Published on  

How to Use Your Engineering Degree for Civil Services (IAS/IFS) Preparation

Are you an engineering graduate who does not know what to do next with your degree? Creating the dream of being a civil servant is one of the right steps you have taken. In India, many engineering graduates with technical backgrounds have cleared the Civil Services Exams (including IAS and IFS), which are handled by the Union Public Service Commission.

Let’s explore how to use your engineering degree for Civil Services (IAS/IFS) preparation in a smart and effective way.

Why Engineering Graduates Make Strong Candidates

A degree in engineering will make you a problem solver, time-manager and a situation analyzer. These are exactly the skills needed for the competitive examinations like UPSC. Being an engineer, your analytical skills are already strong and this is a good attribute to deal with tricky problems touching on governance and administration.

In addition, your practice with science subjects and resolution of technical problems allows you to comprehend and describe the current issues. During the interview phase, your communication skills that are usually acquired during the process of project presentation and work together will assist you.

Smart Steps on How to Use Your Engineering Degree for Civil Services (IAS/IFS) Preparation

1. Choosing the Right Optional Subject

The optional subject is one of the most important decisions you have to make when you go to Civil Services. Being an engineer, you may specialize in any area of your choice such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering because you are more comfortable in it.

Nevertheless, even engineering students can choose non-technical subjects like Geography or Public Administration preferring to score greater marks.

Read the list of optional subjects that are offered and previous year question papers to come to a decision that fits your course of studies and areas of strength. The selection should be based on your interest and future career intentions.

2. Understanding the Exam Structure

UPSC exam consists of three stages: prelims exam, mains exam and personality test or interview. It is important to know the pattern of the exam. Technical background Engineering students usually find the prelims to be easy. However, the mains exam needs more intense writing skills and a good command of general studies, as well as ethics.

Use ready-made study materials and the use of online resources available on reliable websites such as TheRojgar.com to boost your preparation. Train yourself on essays and responses within time. Writing everyday will assist you to develop your confidence and speed.

3. Create a Study Plan That Works

You should organize your time in a good way. When preparing and you are working or studying, ensure you draw a timetable that balances both. Divide the papers into small topics and revise on a regular basis.

Check eligibility using Age Calculator of TheRojgar.com to know about your eligibility to sit in the exam and keep yourself updated about the application dates, eligibility criteria and Rojgar results. Always be updated by tracking trustworthy job websites so you do not miss an opportunity.

4. Use Your Engineering Mindset

You are trained as an engineer to approach solutions in a logical way. Such an attitude is very useful when it comes to structuring responses and approaching case scenarios. Your experience on diagrams, charts and models can also help you in presenting answers in the mains exam.

During the UPSC examination, the skills you get at the time of college exams and project deadlines in handling pressure will be helpful. Always ensure you are motivated and remain at par with the national and international government policies and developments in this country.

Final Thoughts

Taking Civil Services Examinations after engineering is not an intelligent move; it is an intentional one. It places you in the position of being able to serve the country, address real life issues and contribute towards nation-building.

Always keep in mind that you do not need to be an educated person to succeed in UPSC. It lies in how you are determined, how you plan and how well you utilize your resources. Therefore, utilize your engineering education, and start taking steps to get into the Indian Police Service, IAS/ IFS.

Check the additional guidelines, sample papers, and useful resources on TheRojgar.com and become a pro in a matter of days.