As many candidates prepare for competitive exams for entry into government services, one thing that worries them is the very low success ratio. For example, it is 0.1 to 0.2% in the civil services exam and 0.2 to 0.5% in the Staff Selection Commission exam. This is natural given the fact that Indian population is predominantly young (and high aspiration for govt jobs) and educational institutions have mushroomed as demand for education increases.
Think of the whole universe of candidates appearing for any particular competitive exam in terms of concentric circles. The outermost circle is the total number of applicants which runs into lakhs. The second circle is the actual number of candidates who appear for the exams. There’s about 30 to 35% absenteeism (if not more) in the civil services prelims exam and close to 50% in the Staff Selection Commission tier 1 exam. The third circle is
made up of candidates who take the exam just for the heck of it as they say – maybe they’re testing the waters or writing under family pressure without any commitment. The 4th circle consists of candidates who lack the academic talent or competence required. These people have a long journey ahead of them. The last and the innermost circle is the serious and committed bunch – aspirants who are aware of the standards and level of competence required and are in with a chance.
You need to think of yourself as belonging to this circle and not bother too much about the success ratios. Please also keep in mind that a majority of the candidates clear the exam in the 2nd or 3rd attempt. In our next blog, we will talk of some ‘sutras’ for preparation
