Why upsc is considered the toughest exam in the whole world?
Last Updated: 29.06.2025 00:00
Also, simultaneously prepared for other exams
It was summertime in Delhi. I was allotted a far-off centre in Najafgarh.
This exam has an element of probability that no one can predict.
2017 June - I appeared for the first time for the UPSC Prelims (after a year-long preparation)
In my head, it was a do-or-die situation for me.
“But, it is nearly impossible for one to predict who will make it to the ‘holy list’. Yes! I can say that if an aspirant who has done X, Y, and Z can increase their chances of selection, but it is just not enough. There is always a matter of luck (or, probability).”
Suspect in ‘King of the Hill’ actor’s death ‘immediately’ confessed: police - KTLA
“I have more than 20+ years of teaching experience.”
Searched for my roll number.
If we haven’t met, my name is Suryansh Sodhani.
Google Confirms Most Gmail Users Must Upgrade Accounts - Forbes
Worked for a marketing agency
I was alone in Delhi back then
I said, “Yes! I believe so.”
5 foods to consume empty stomach to stabilize blood sugar levels naturally - Times of India
“I, too, was an aspirant, 20 years back. I have met board toppers, state board toppers, and college toppers with more than 9+ CGPA who prepare for this exam.”
I remember the very next day my coaching institute professor telling me -
A sense of grief and toil had taken over me.
Have you been with a stranger yet?
Immediately after this conversation, I left the institute.
So, hopefully, my answers help aspirants who need help.
Keep your ego aside.
Dakota Johnson Raves About Working With First Intimacy Coordinator: “It’s Not Sexy” - Deadline
In case you are wondering, how did my story end?
Do drop in a message, would be happy to talk.
I vividly remember that evening.
PlayStation Plus subscribers react to June free game line-up: 'massive win’ - GAMINGbible
Dropped them
500 students in each batch. God forbid if you were late to the class - you would have to push your way through the seats. (Old aspirants reading this know which institute I am talking about).
Cut to 2-3 months post prelims. Results were declared.
Who is the most annoying character in the Office?
This is the very reason you will hear IIT, IIM, AIIMS graduates failing to clear the UPSC.
I parked my cycle near one of the parks en route to my PG.
There is no mathematical formula where you know that if the inputs are controlled, you can achieve X outcome.
I was determined to clear the exam and then go back home.
A gazillion thoughts running through my mind.
You would have to be on your toes. If your mind drifts apart for even a second, you will lose your chain of thoughts and notes.
What is the Abu Shusha massacre in Palestine?
“Suryansh, let me tell you something. Do you feel the best of the best students from all over India prepare for this examination?”
And, after all, it was a matter of great pride and respect.
I lacked a mentor when I needed one.
Oral Bacteria Diversity Linked to Depression Symptoms - Neuroscience News
This exam has its own way of humbling you.
.
“All of these students are great from an academic point of view. They have always scored 90%+ during their school days, some have even scored 9.6 CGPA and above during their 10th boards.”
After checking the PDF, I chained my cycle to a lamp post ..
.
It is almost impossible.
L.A. Dodgers, facing fan pressure, pledge $1M after immigration raids - The Washington Post
And, so I began preparing for the exam with high hopes and determination.
I had heard rumours going around that the results had been declared.
Thousands of students swarming in Old Rajendra Nagar.
But, then it hit me hard.
And, I had not made it.
I write answers on Quora that help UPSC and other government exam aspirants.
I prepared for the next 3 years (2016 to 2019)
And..
It lasted approximately 10 months.
I looked around me
All the best!
Cleared multiple of them
And, now working as a digital marketing freelancer for international clients.
I joined two coaching institutes - One for mains preparation and one for my optional subject.
Nevertheless, I hustled my way through the coaching program.
And entered the park.
I hurriedly opened the holy PDF.
If one says, they can help you crack the exam with X AIR, it is difficult to do so.
Dare you, peep in your neighbour's notebook. After all, it is a national-level competitive exam - people tend to be extremely competitive. Tough days…
2016 I graduated from college. The same year I began preparing for the UPSC.
All achievers in their own way.
I was constantly staring into the ground
Anyway!
I did not go back to my home.
Found an empty bench..
Relatively in a better position after my exam failures, but a void still exists!
I was cycling from one of my coaching institutes back to my PG.
Appeared for the exam and instantly knew I would not be making it this time!
The struggle was real. The teacher would non stop go through his lecture, and explain the concepts/ theory/ ideas etc.
Your credentials do not matter!
So, yes, the UPSC is considered the toughest exam in the world because there is a ‘luck’ factor coupled with subjectivity in the exam process.
And crushed myself and ‘my expectations’ on it.
The batch sizes were huge!
I did not move for the next 30 minutes..
Each class used to be 2.5 hours each. Making it a total of 5 hours of coaching classes daily. The classes used to be 7 days a week.