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Strategies & Tips for balancing Speed and Accuracy in UPSC Prelims 2024

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1 year ago

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Abhyaas mock tests

The UPSC Preliminary Examination, scheduled on 16th June, 2024, is crucial for aspiring civil servants, comprising the General Studies (GS) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). GS tests knowledge across subjects like history, geography, and current affairs, while CSAT evaluates skills like comprehension and logical reasoning. Both papers are objective in nature and require a sharp acumen to balance speed with accuracy, a balance that is critical to succeeding in both the exams.

The Crucial Balance: Speed and Accuracy

The format of the UPSC Prelims—with 100 questions in GS to be answered in 120 minutes and 80 questions in CSAT to be answered in 120 minutes—demands not just quick thinking but also precision. Speed is essential because of the sheer volume and the limited time, but accuracy is equally important to avoid negative marking for incorrect answers. This intricate balance is what often makes or breaks a candidate’s chance at advancing to the main examination.

Importance of Speed & Accuracy

  • Maximizes Question Attempts: Speed enables candidates to work through the paper swiftly, allowing them to attempt a larger number of questions. This increases the potential for scoring higher as more questions are answered.
  • Enhances Time Management: Efficient speed allows for better distribution of time across the different sections in the paper.
  • Mitigates Negative Marking Risks: Accuracy is essential to avoid the consequences of negative marking, a feature of the UPSC Prelims where penalties are imposed for incorrect answers.
  • Prevents Misinterpretation of Questions: High accuracy mandates thorough comprehension, preventing misinterpretations and aligning responses precisely with the question’s requirements, avoiding errors from faulty assumptions. It comes with regular practice under the exam environment.
  • Reduces Exam Pressure: Fast and efficient answering reduces the stress of unattempted questions as candidates are less likely to leave sections untouched. This leads to a more composed performance, allowing the candidate to focus better on each question.
  • Competitive Nature: The UPSC exam is highly competitive, and candidates need to answer questions swiftly to stay ahead in the race for limited vacancies, warranting a delicate balance of speed and accuracy.

Strategies for Balancing Speed & Accuracy

  • Role of Mock Test: Mock tests simulate the actual exam environment, which helps candidates gauge the level of difficulty, understand the pattern of questions, and improve their time management skills.
  • Role of Post-Test Analysis: This reflective practice allows candidates to fine-tune their strategies, focusing on improving quick decision-making and precision in answering.
  • Role of Mentorship: Mentors can help in pinpointing and reinforce weak areas, boost question-solving speed, give targeted feedback on mock tests, and ensure candidates adopt best practices, improving exam performance.

Adopting Systemic Approach 

  • GS Paper 1:
      • In the first iteration, answer the questions where one is completely sure about [can be in range of 30 to 50 questions].
      • In the second iteration, attempt questions where one can rule out two options or make a smart educated guess.
      • In the third iteration, try answering using logical guesses where one is able to eliminate only one option.
  • GS Paper 2 (CSAT):
  • Candidates are recommended to prioritize the qualifying approach over the scoring approach in the CSAT paper. This entails focusing on core areas instead of treating all sections equally.

Tips for Balancing Speed & Accuracy:

  • Skim Through the Paper Quickly: Take a quick glance at the entire paper to gauge the difficulty level and identify familiar question types. This will help you plan your approach accordingly.
  • Allocate Time Wisely: Divide the available time among different sections based on your strengths. Prioritize sections where you are more confident.
  • Start with Easy Questions: Begin by solving the easier questions first to build confidence and gain momentum. This will save time for tackling more challenging questions later.
  • Strategic Skipping: Skip questions that seem time-consuming initially and return to them later if time permits.
  • Avoid Over-reliance on Guesswork: While educated guessing is sometimes necessary, rely on it judiciously to avoid negative marking for incorrect answers.
  • Elimination Strategy: Use the method of elimination and quickly narrow down options by eliminating obviously incorrect ones.
  • Use Quick Techniques: Use shortcuts and quick problem-solving methods for quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and data interpretation.
  • Reading Skills: While reading comprehension, one can quickly go through the questions before reading the comprehension to identify important details while reading the comprehension.
  • Marking on OMR simultaneously: Mark the answers on the OMR sheet simultaneously as one solves the questions to avoid rushing at the end. This reduces the risk of mismarking due to haste in the end.
  • Utilize the rough space wisely: While solving questions in the CSAT paper avoid overwriting on the question paper or running out of space mid-answer, which can cause confusion.
  • Keep an Eye on the Clock: Regularly glance at the clock to monitor your progress. Ensure you are pacing yourself effectively to complete the paper within the allotted time.

Abhyaas 2024: A Simulation for UPSC CSE Prelims 2024

Abhyaas 2024 offers a realistic simulation of the UPSC Prelims, aimed at enhancing candidate preparation. Scheduled for the 21st of April, 12th of May, and 26th of May in over 100 cities, it includes both the GS and CSAT paper. Participating in Abhyaas 2024 not only prepares candidates for the exam conditions and timing but also helps improve their speed and accuracy, critical components for success in the UPSC Prelims.

Abhyaas Prelims 2024 Features:

  • Complete coverage of UPSC Prelims syllabus

  • Attempted by every 1 in 3 selected candidate in top 50

  • All India Ranking

  • VisionIAS Post Test Analysis

  • Available in English/Hindi

The journey to cracking the UPSC Prelims is arduous but not insurmountable. By incorporating regular practice, diligent analysis, and expert guidance, candidates can enhance their performance, turning their civil service dreams into reality.

Visit us at:

www.visionias.in/abhyaas

Or Call us at: 8468022022, 9019066066

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Education

IIBM Institute Brings Globally Recognized Swiss Doctorate to India at affordable prices — Now Enrolling for 2025

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3 weeks ago

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May 20, 2025

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New Delhi [India], May 19: In a bold move to make top-tier global education accessible to Indian professionals, IIBM Institute of Business Management announces the launch of the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from the Swiss International Management Academy, Switzerland — now available in India at 50% lower fees than similar Swiss programs.

Swiss International Management Academy, Switzerland is a prestigious member of AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) — the same global network that includes Harvard, Stanford, and the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). AACSB membership signifies academic excellence and global credibility, giving Indian learners the opportunity to earn a doctorate that commands respect worldwide.

Delivered 100% online, the SIMA DBA is designed for senior professionals, entrepreneurs, consultants, and CXOs who want to enhance their leadership skills, conduct practical business research, and earn the legally recognized “Dr.” title from a respected Swiss institution — without taking a career break.

“I never imagined I could afford a Swiss doctorate. SIMA’s DBA changed my career trajectory and personal brand — and I now proudly use the ‘Dr.’ title,” says Dr. Ravi Kumar, a recent graduate and business strategist from Mumbai.

SIMA is currently active in over 50 countries, with a growing alumni network across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, with India as a key growth region.

Program features include:

  • Swiss-issued Private Doctorate degree with international acceptance
  • Affordable fees from Rs3.5 to Rs5.5 lakhs (vs. Rs7-12 lakhs typically charged by other Swiss institutes)
  • AACSB Membership for institutional trust and credibility
  • No entrance exams, flexible schedules, and personalized academic mentorship
  • Recognition for professional and research excellence

Graduates of this program have gone on to hold leadership roles, publish research, and gain global visibility — many proudly using “Dr.” as a personal and professional milestone.

Admissions Now Open – Limited Seats for 2025 Cohort

This is a one-time opportunity for Indian professionals to earn a Swiss DBA with global recognition, at a price point designed for the Indian market.

Visit www.iibmindia.in to apply

For more information, explore SIMA at www.simaglobal.ch

Take the next step in your leadership journey. Earn your Swiss “Dr.” title.

Trusted Globally. Delivered Locally. Powered by IIBM.

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Education

A New Dawn in Management Education: GRV School of Management (GRVSOM) Launched in Bengaluru

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1 month ago

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May 6, 2025

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Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 6: In a city celebrated as India’s Silicon Valley, the future of management education has just been redefined. GRV School of Management (GRVSOM), an institution with a bold vision and unwavering commitment to academic excellence, is proud to announce the launch of its new age B School in Bengaluru.

Driven by Vision, Fuelled by Innovation

At the heart of GRVSOM lies a powerful vision: To be a Business School that fosters Innovation and creates pathways for futuristic business leaders who meet industry demands and fits into the recruiter’s competency mapping.

The mission is equally compelling: To equip students with strategic, technological, and analytical skills to lead organizations in a rapidly evolving tech driven business, with integrity, innovation, and global insight.

A Leadership That Inspires

Guided by a Governing Council and Academic Advisory Board featuring some of the brightest minds from IITs, IIMs, and leading global corporations, GRVSOM ensures that its students receive mentorship and training aligned with global best practices. It also aims to create an Entrepreneurship cell which would create societal impact across all possible domains.

A New Age B-School with Global DNA

GRVSOM offers a two-year, full-time AICTE-approved Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) program, meticulously crafted to bridge the gap between academia and the corporate world. Through a unique learning model blending rigorous academics with real-world exposure, the school promises to mold future-ready leaders.

The PGDM programme shall also include:

  • One-week International Immersion Programme at top institutions in Germany, France, or Singapore.
  • Industry Certifications in cutting-edge domains like Agile and Big Data Analytics.
  • Foreign Language Training (German, French, or Japanese).
  • State-of-the-art KALIDAS Lab for experiential learning in data analytics and decision-making.
  • 100% Summer Internship Placement and full placement support.

“Our curriculum beyond management curriculum and classroom lectures; it’s about hands-on learning, strategic thinking, and building a mindset geared towards innovation and societal contribution,” says Dr. Jitendra K. Das, Chairman, GRVSOM — former Dean of IIM Lucknow, Noida Campus and Director FORE School of Management, Delhi with over 42 years of industry and academic experience.

“The curriculum is co-created with industry thought leaders and blended with latest tech certifications which shall give the student an edge and eventually address – the classical statement of the recruiters that students do not meet the requirements for the position”, adds Dr. Das.

The Locational Advantage

Being located in Bengaluru near the airport, India’s most dynamic innovation hub, gives GRVSOM students unparalleled access to top tech companies, a thriving startup ecosystem, and vibrant industry networks. The city’s moderate climate and cosmopolitan culture further enhance the student experience.

Applications are now open for the inaugural PGDM batch 2025-27 with limited seats.

Applications are now open for the inaugural PGDM batch. Prospective students can apply via the GRVSOM website and become part of a pioneering institution committed to shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

CLICK TO KNOW MORE.

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Education

Crucible Institute of Management: India’s 1st & Only B-School That Wins Only When You Do

Published

2 months ago

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April 17, 2025

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Crucible Institute of Management, a new-age business school designed for ambitious students who want more than just a degree, has officially launched in Mumbai. It introduces a first-of-its-kind model in Indian education: course fees directly linked to placement outcomes.

Students pay based on salary outcomes — total fee is capped at 67% of the CTC secured through campus placements. This redefines how business education is priced, taught, and evaluated in a country where 80% of MBAs earn less than Rs6L despite paying high fees.

“We don’t believe education should ask for blind trust. We believe it should earn it,” said Suchit Sikaria, Founder & CEO of Crucible, an IIM Ahmedabad alumnus and Ex CBO at SUGAR Cosmetics. “At Crucible, we take full ownership of outcomes. Because students deserve more than a certificate–they deserve a career.”

A New Path for India’s Next-Gen Business Talent

Crucible is built for learners with strong intent, practical curiosity, and a deep desire to build careers in fast-moving industries like digital, retail, e-commerce, SaaS, content, sales and marketing. It speaks to a new generation of learners – those who value outcomes over optics, depth over degrees, and learning over legacy.

Traditional B-Schools offer fixed fees, generic electives, outdated curricula, and inflexible placement models. Crucible flips this with:

Traditional B-Schools a Crucible Model

Fees Rs10-20L regardless of outcome – Fees = 67% of your actual salary

Theory-heavy, outdated curriculum – Revised every 6 months to match industry

Faculty drawn mostly from academia – Taught by industry experts who have walked the talk

Limited job visibility & inflated claims – Transparent, student-first placement process

Industry-Crafted Curriculum, Real-World Learning

Crucible’s 2-year full-time on-campus program includes:

* 200+ practical assignments

* 100-day apprenticeship in real companies

* 6+ live industry projects

* Job-role-specific tracks across digital marketing, sales, product, analytics, e-commerce, and more

* Tools & Platforms training on GA4, Excel, Webengage, Shopify, Meta Ads, Figma, UniCommerce, Amazon Ads and more

All courses are built and taught by industry practitioners with experience across top brands like SUGAR Cosmetics, The Souled Store, Loreal, Lenskart, HUL etc. Industry Partners also shape curriculum development, live projects, and feedback systems.

“The Crucible offering is essential not just for students, but also for employers who find it difficult to hire skilled talent at right salaries from B-schools today.” said Swati Mohan, D2C Business Leader, former CMO of Netflix India, educator and advisor to Crucible.

“Crucible will not just prepare students for the job market–it seeks to prepare them for the JOB,” added Jaimit Doshi, CEO at Hustlr by Lenskart, educator of 22 years and advisor to Crucible. “It’s honest, it’s focused, it’s personal.”

Built for the Long Game

Crucible operates out of a co-working hub in Mumbai’s Chandivali-Powai corridor, with access to high-growth companies, seasoned mentors, and an immersive learning environment. The institute has closed Rs1.5 crore in seed funding to fuel its launch phase, with a long-term vision to scale impact without compromising quality.

“This is more than a new business school–it’s a bold contract with every student. One that says: we believe in your future, and we’re backing it with a model built for the complexity of today’s world” said Geetanjali Bhattacharji, CEO at GlassBox Ventures and advisor to Crucible.

Admissions Open

Applications for the August 2025 cohort are now live at https://Crucible.Institute/ The process prioritizes intent, clarity, and curiosity–not just academic scores.

Media Contact

Suchit Sikaria

Founder & CEO, Crucible Institute of Management

Email: suchit@crucible.institute

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International Academy of Designs and Arts (IADA): The Institute Offering The Best Professional Courses in Fashion in India

Published

3 months ago

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March 21, 2025

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An individual who has a love for design and a keen interest in fashion opts for a career as a fashion designer. Time and again, one has witnessed several designers from the Indian fashion industry making a name for themselves on the global stage. A person’s inherent talent and desire for excellence bears fruit when they are guided by the right minds and mentors. Founded by C.A.Sudeep Bhargava and Dr. Renu Bhargav, the International Academy of Designs and Arts has emerged as one of the most reputed institutions in India which offers courses in fashion, design and arts. In the last few years,  has managed to build a reputation for itself as an institution that offers students a wide range of courses in fashion designing to choose from. These courses, apart from being well-structured, are designed to prepare students to shine and register an impact in a highly competitive industry. The fashion-related courses offered by the academy are Basic Diploma in Fashion, Advanced Diploma in Fashion, , Bachelor of Design (B.DES) in Fashion -UG, Bachelor of Vocation (B.VOC) in Fashion -UG, Master of Design (M.DES) in Fashion-PG, Fashion Styling, Apparel Merchandising, CAD Fashion Design, Boutique Management, Garment Manufacturing, Pattern Making and Design & Communication.

Talking about what makes IADA different from other institutions in this field, co-founder Sudeep Bhargava says, “Very few institutions in the world have as many Design-based courses as we do. Design is a broad term and a student should have the right to choose what they wish to study. While somebody might be interested in fashion design, another individual could be passionate about fashion styling , Interior Design or Furniture design . By offering students a plethora of courses to choose from, we ensure they pick what they really wish to study and excel in it. We are a fashion /interior designing institute in Noida which hosts students from all across the world”.

When a student wishes to study fashion, they try to find that one fashion designing institute that will not only provide them with the right education but also prepare them to do well in the professional world. Over the years, IADA has imparted education about fashion and design to a large number of students. While some of these students work with some of the most reputed fashion brands in India and abroad, there are many who have built a name for themselves as fashion entrepreneurs as well.

Elaborating on the same, co-founder Dr. Renu Bhargav states, “A large number of students, interested in job oriented courses in fashion designing, enroll with us. While education is extremely important, the things they learn in an institute should also help them secure good jobs and earn a livelihood for themselves in the future. We consciously work towards imparting the kind of knowledge and skills to our students that will enable them to get opportunities and make a mark for themselves in the professional world”.

A while after it came into existence, IADA emerged as the most reputed fashion/Interior design institute in Noida. In the last few years, it has cemented its status as one of the best fashion institutes in the country. Apart from fashion designing course in Noida, IADA also offers a wide range of courses in interior design. The institute provides students with a very healthy educational environment and offers them the opportunity to learn from industry experts.

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Education

The True Meaning of 666 in the Bible: An Exploration of the Secrets of Revelation

Published

3 months ago

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March 19, 2025

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For many Christians, the number 666 carries a heavy connotation, often associated with the end times. This belief stems from its mention in the Book of Revelation. But what is the true meaning of this enigmatic number? The International Bible Academy offers a free online Bible course for Christians of all ages providing an array of resources aimed at helping Christians to develop a deeper understanding of Scripture and its application in everyday life. Among the myriad of topics explored in these classes, several stand out as particularly intriguing, reflecting the profound and sometimes perplexing nature of the Book of Revelation. Some of the interesting questions which will be explored in our course are:

  • Why is it important for us to understand the prophecies in the Bible?
  • What are the mysteries in Revelation?
  • What is the Biblical reason for birth, sickness, aging, and death?

The International Bible Academy (IBA) offers much more in its curriculum beyond these highlights—each topic is meticulously designed to encourage critical thinking, open dialogue, and spiritual enrichment. It offers a holistic approach to mastering the entire 66 books of the Bible—from Genesis to Revelation. The sense of community formed within these online classrooms allows Christians from all walks of life to come together, share insights, and grow together in faith.

A Global movement of faith

Through this free online Bible class, participants join a global community of true believers. Currently, our course is established in over 600 locations across 29 countries, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Germany, Netherland, France, Spain, Australia, Italy, Austria, Southeast Asia, India, Philippines, Hong Kong, and many more., Last year, thousands of believers from young students to experienced pastors joined us in deepening their faith.

Online classes are offered for convenient access.

The added advantage of an online format means that access to spiritual growth and learning is available at the fingertips of participants, no matter where they are situated. In addition to comprehensive teachings, the course offers interactive elements that encourage dialogue, community engagement, and personal growth. Students can share testimonies, ask tough questions, and seek guidance from knowledgeable and experienced instructors who prioritize an in-depth understanding of the scriptures.  Our mission is to make biblical education accessible and engaging, and we believe these classes can play a vital role in your spiritual journey.

Level Duration
Basic Course 1 month / twice a week / 1.5 hours
Regular Course 8 months / thrice a week / 1.5 hours

How do I enroll?

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSegHFTbn0pvVXdTUBzNIuDGqiUqF6_SwmJ4dcfLWT9m_JxJaA/viewform

Sign up today for free by scanning the QR code in the poster or through the below links and take the first step in revealing the deeper truths of the Bible. With an array of free online Bible classes available in various languages provided in India—English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Oriya.

With the perfect opportunity to strengthen your relationship with God and learn His will, you can embark on a journey that promises spiritual growth, community, and a clearer understanding of your role in His divine plan. Don’t miss this opportunity!

www.internationalbibleacademy.in

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Facebook: Zion India

Testimonies from Pastors and believers in India

Our program has already transformed lives and inspired many, including Pastors in India who have shared their powerful testimonies. One Pastor stated, “I hope you learn about the path to heaven, which is the purpose of faith, and how God will fulfill the history of the last Bible.“ This sentiment speaks volumes about the urgency and significance of learning biblical truths.

Another Pastor emphasized the importance of the Book of Revelation by saying, “If you are a believer waiting for the Second Coming of Jesus, the Book of Revelation records when, where, to whom, and how He will come. If you hear the word and believe it, you can anchor your faith in the promises of Scripture.“ His message is clear: prepare your heart and mind for the glorious return of Christ by immersing yourself in His Word.

The testimonies continue to inspire even, with one of our students who shared their excitement about the teachings he had never encountered before. “I’ve never heard this word before, it’s completely new to me. Even after multiple biblical courses, enrolling at IBA revealed the Bible’s stunning record of God’s plan to deliver promised blessings.”

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects the teachings and interpretations of the International Bible Academy (IBA). The views expressed herein are not intended to replace personal study or spiritual counsel but to encourage deeper exploration of the Scriptures. Biblical topics such as prophecy, the Book of Revelation, and related themes may involve varied interpretations across different denominations and faith communities. Readers are encouraged to approach these subjects with an open mind and to seek additional guidance from their respective spiritual leaders. Participation in the courses mentioned is voluntary, and the content should not be construed as official doctrine of any specific church or denomination.

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