Is PT 365 Effective for Upcoming UPSC Prelims Preparation?

The eternal debate persists: how effective is PT 365 for UPSC Prelims preparation? While opinions are mixed, it's essential to understand that PT 365 serves as a valuable tool for revision and enhancing conceptual clarity, but not as a primary source for acquiring current affairs knowledge.

Usefulness of PT 365 for Revision

PT 365 is primarily a compilation of topics designed to ease revision. It's an excellent resource for students looking to quickly go over broad ranges of topics. The booklet helps in strengthening one's conceptual clarity, which further aids in eliminating incorrect options during exams. While direct questions from PT 365 are rare, it doesn't mean these topics should be ignored. Covering these compilations can significantly boost confidence and provide a sense of comfort. Almost everyone opts for this method, which means you can't risk ignoring it.

Why PT 365 May Not Be a Primary Resource

While PT 365 is a helpful revision tool, relying solely on it can be costly and potentially unproductive. For instance, if you plan to cover the entire Current Affairs (CA) section from PT 365, it might not be the most efficient use of your study time. Given that most questions in the UPSC Prelims are based on current affairs, covering the Chronological Analysis (CA) from April 2020 to May 2020 and reading Yojana Magazine can help you secure around 40 percent of the current affairs section. After that, reviewing the key points from PT 365 can supplement your preparation.

Alternatives to PT 365 for Current Affairs Preparation

Instead of relying on PT 365, you can consider other resources such as the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and the Hindu Newspaper. PIB documents are readily available online, and reading the Hindu can provide you with free, comprehensive current affairs updates. The key is to strike a balance between these resources and the PT 365 booklet.

Personal Experiences and Insights

Many students find themselves frustrated before the exam due to a lack of revision. However, experience shows that preparation is not purely about revision tools. As one student shared, they were frustrated before the exam because they hadn't revised PT 365 as much as their friends. Nevertheless, their performance in the actual exam showed they achieved a respectable score, indicating that while PT 365 is helpful, it's not a determinant of success.

It's crucial to remember that a balanced and comprehensive preparation strategy is key to success in the UPSC Prelims. Covering essentials, maintaining daily newspaper reading habits, and using PT 365 as a secondary tool can significantly enhance your preparation.

Stay safe and keep striving for success in your UPSC Prelims preparation!