It is saddening to see the progression of the ongoing pandemic and how it is affecting our country. The pandemic has derailed normalcy, including the life of every aspirant. I fully understand that the current scenario is not suitable for an aspirant to concentrate fully, but I do not want any of you to lose hope. You can try the following:

1. Try to Calm your Mind– It is entirely normal to get agitated during a pandemic but, concentration, memory and cognition suffer when students are under stress and anxiety. First, please understand it is not your fault if you are unable to give your 100%. So, do not punish yourself, instead take this as an opportunity to strengthen your mind, like a true civil servant.

• Set goals that are comfortable to you first and ensure that they are achievable by adding micro-goals to boost your confidence and progress.
• Take breaks and do not push yourself too hard during these times. You might be physically/mentally exhausted and hence, make sure you take breaks to bring yourself back in the game. Many aspirants feel suffocated by being inside the room for an extended period. Hence, use these short breaks to step outside the room to get a whiff of fresh air, but make sure it is within safe distances.
• Keep your mind and body healthy with moderate exercises/Yoga/Jogging etc.

2. Improve your output- Once you are able to put yourself back on track, you can employ some techniques to get the best out of the situation.

• Music- Studies show that listening to music can improve concentration. Classical, Hindustani, Sufi, instrumental music are some of the usually preferred genres amongst students. But, if you are someone who likes absolute silence to concentrate, you can use an earplug to restrict unwanted noise that lingers in your home.
• Beating procrastination– Since you will have to be inside your home the whole day, you might tend to slack off. The more you stay away from studying, the farther the destination. To avoid this, start slow and set realistic goals. Try using techniques like Pomodoro Technique to improve the overall time.

3. Make the best use of technology- If you have a laptop/tab/mobile, use it to read the reference books/materials. You may also use Evernote software to make short notes.

1. To approach the upcoming Prelims- If you are going to attempt Prelims 2021, then continue studying with full vigour.

• Try to revise the basics and reference texts and do not attempt to learn anything new.
• Take continuous tests to strengthen yourself and solve previous years’ question papers to understand further what the Prelims exam is about.

1. To approach CSE-2022- If you are going to write only next year, this would be the best time to understand the basics.

• Start with the syllabus and realize what UPSC expects from you.
• Use NCERTs to create strong basics and improve gradually.
• You may also use this time to think about what Optional you like to choose and what timetable suits your preparation.
• Apart from this, start reading a newspaper, preferably The Hindu and choose an excellent current affairs material covering all the areas.

“And this too shall pass away”- wise words by Abraham Lincoln which can beautifully sum up this situation. Do not worry about the pandemic, as this too shall pass without making a dent in your preparation. We wish you all the very best in your journey!