After failing UPSC Mains, this Bain & Co. employee shares 'cautionary advice' for those considering gap year for exam prep

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is not just an academic challenge; it¡¯s a true test of endurance, patience, and unwavering dedication. Preparing for this rigorous exam requires candidates to navigate a vast syllabus and multiple evaluation phases. Recently, a corporate employee from Bain & Co., who took a gap year to fully focus on his UPSC preparation, shared some insightful "cautionary advice" that could prove invaluable for others on a similar journey.

Check out his post here:

Nikhil Kalia graduated from Hansraj College at Delhi University and worked as an analyst at Bain & Company after interning in investment banking at EY.

However, after a year and a half in the corporate world, he decided to take a break to prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE).

Kalia¡¯s decision is common among many people in India who leave their jobs to focus on UPSC full-time, as balancing a job with intense study for what is India¡¯s msot competitive examination for a job, can be nearly impossible.

After spending two years preparing, he didn¡¯t pass the exam, but he has some important advice for those thinking about taking a gap year for similar goals:

Understand the opportunity cost:

Kalia emphasises that preparing for the UPSC exam isn¡¯t just about time; ¡°it¡¯s the skills and practical experience you're setting aside.¡±

While one acquires a lot of knowledge during preparation, he says that ¡°much of it may not be directly marketable.¡±

For example, knowing which tiger reserve has the highest density might impress at a party, but it won¡¯t help your career.

Have a solid backup plan:

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¡°Don¡¯t just gamble everything on this exam,¡± Kalia warns.

While passion is vital, it¡¯s essential to recognise the risks. He advises, ¡°Learn a skill or take up a job before diving into preparation.¡±

This approach can provide peace of mind and a safety net, making preparation less stressful.

Limit your attempts:

Kalia suggests capping your attempts at two years: ¡°After that, every additional day brings diminishing (maybe even negative) returns.¡±

The world offers numerous opportunities, so ¡°Don¡¯t tie your entire identity to one exam or one career path.¡±

Beware of the motivation trap:

He cautions against the unrealistic narratives pushed by coaching centers and peers.

Credit: BCCL

¡°They¡¯ll make YouTube videos with motivational music, pushing bad ideas like ¡®no plan B.' These messages can trap you in a cycle, keeping you from taking rational decisions.¡±

Instead, Kalia advises, ¡°Let your true drive to make a difference¡ªnot external hype¡ªfuel your journey.¡±

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