With just 11 days left for the Civil Services preliminary exam, here are some expert tips for you to tackle CSAT
ENGlISH lANGUAGE: This section will be assessing the candidates command over the English language, so the questions will comprise analogies, synonyms and antonyms, match the list, idioms, one word for many, fill in the blanks and identifying the various Figures of Speech, which cab be quite a task for applicants.
Grammar: A useful tool to improve language skills is the bible of grammar, Wren & Martin. This is a perfect guide for improving grammar, essay writing and comprehension skills. It also comes with a key that you can use to verify if your answers are correct.
General studies: It is essential that applicants gather information on current affairs. To be able to crack this section, your knowledge about the recent happenings in India and its neighbouring countries is crucial. So gather information about Ministers and portfolios, abbreviations, top news in business, sports, culture and entertainment, prominent committees and their heads, important national and international celebrations and dates, awards and honours (literature, Sports, Service and Films) and current affairs (December 2013 – June 2014).
Time management: To jog your memory, you need to make use of the time that you have wisely if you wish to perform well. Create a timetable and plan the time you have to complete as much of the portion as you can.
Don’t procrastinate: If a task is given, it is preferable to begin with it rather than putting it off for another time and then realising that you should have done it at first mention instead of postponing it. If you have extra time, make sure you use is wisely.
Practice: It is essential that students refer to previous years’ question papers and rely on mock tests, as this will familiarise them with the paper pattern and give them an idea of the type of questions that might be asked. This will help them in saving time.