How do I prepare for IES exam in mechanical engineering?

Firstly every aspirant should understand the requirements of the exam. To crack the IES exam, you’ll need to be consistent, sincere, and hardworking. IES is very competitive. 

Pattern:

• The IES exam is conducted by UPSC and comprises 3 stages, Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test. Gain the understanding of each stage to plan your strategy.
• Prelims has General Studies comprising 200 marks and technical part comprising 300 marks of objective questions.
• The Mains portion has 300 marks of two subjective papers and the Personality Test (PT) has a weightage of 200 marks.

Study Source:

• Due to its competitive nature, you need to devise a detailed study plan. The first step is to identify a reliable and relevant study source for your preparation.
• Coaching becomes necessary. Without it difficulty arises. Made Easy coaching and material are sufficient and relevant to the exam.
• You can opt for classroom coaching or opt for a postal study course and enroll in test series.
• You can refer to standard textbooks if you have any doubts about particular subjects or topics. However, covering the whole syllabus is not advisable as it is very time-consuming.
• Previous year questions need to be practiced and solved at least twice as they’ll give you a clear idea.

Stage wise approach:

The exam comprises three stages, taking them down one by one is suggested. There is enough gap between the two stages and the preparation strategy varies for each stage. 

Prelims preparation:

Since the prelims syllabus is vast, students find it difficult to manage. The best way is to divide the syllabus into 4 to 5 sub-groups and finish them.

Mains preparation:

For mains, Time management is an important factor. Instead of going for the shortcuts, Refer to standard textbooks to get clarity on specific topics. Attend test series and give importance to the presentation.

Personality test:

This test focuses more on your personality traits than your technical abilities. Be calm and learn some basic definitions and laws which will be sufficient.

Finally prepare short notes and revise previous year's questions which will give you a clear idea. Instead of memorizing the formulas you can practice and apply them by solving questions. Make sure you give your 100% with a clear preparation strategy and you’ll achieve your goals.