In India, the dream of getting a government job is big—and so is the pressure that comes with it. Many students believe that coaching is a must to crack competitive exams like SSC, Banking, UPSC, Railways, or State PSCs. But here’s the truth: you can clear these exams without coaching, sitting in your room, with just a few good books, a basic internet connection, and your own hard work.
If you’re someone who can’t afford coaching or just prefers studying on your own, this article is for you.
Step 1: Understand What You’re Getting Into
Before you jump into studying, take some time to understand your exam.
What’s the syllabus?
How many papers or stages are there?
Is there negative marking?
What’s the cut-off from previous years?
Tip: Go to the official website and download the latest syllabus. Then look at some past papers to see what kind of questions actually come.
Step 2: Don’t Buy Too Many Books — Choose Smart
You don’t need 10 books for one subject. Choose 1 or 2 quality books per subject and stick to them.
Here are some tried-and-tested recommendations:
General Knowledge/Static GK – Lucent GK
History/Geography/Polity – NCERT books (6–10th standard)
Current Affairs – Read The Hindu or use monthly PDFs from Vision IAS or AffairsCloud
Quantitative Aptitude – RS Aggarwal or Fast Track Arithmetic
Reasoning – MK Pandey or RS Aggarwal
English – Objective General English by SP Bakshi
Keep it simple. Don’t try to read everything. Read smart.
Step 3: Make a Study Routine That Works for YOU
Everyone tells you to study 10 hours a day. But honestly? It depends on you.
If you’re in college, even 4–5 focused hours a day are enough
If you’re preparing full-time, try to touch 7–8 hours a day
Take short breaks, don’t sit for long hours without resting
Example Routine:
8 AM – 9 AM: Current Affairs
9 AM – 10:30 AM: Maths
5 PM – 6 PM: English Practice
6 PM – 7 PM: GK or NCERT
9 PM – 10 PM: MCQs + Revision
Don’t compare your routine with toppers on YouTube. Find what suits you.
Step 4: Use the Internet Like a Pro
You don’t need a coaching class when so many free resources are already online.
YouTube Channels: StudyIQ, Unacademy, Examपुर, Adda247
Apps: Testbook, Oliveboard, BYJU’S Exam Prep
Telegram: Join groups that share PDFs, test series, and daily current affairs
Mock Tests: Use free tests on websites or apps. They are very helpful.
Step 5: Practice is Everything
Reading is just 50% of the game. The other 50%? Practice.
Solve previous year question papers
Take regular mock tests
Don’t just check the score—check where you made mistakes, and fix them
Your mock scores may be low at first. Don’t worry. That’s normal.
Step 6: Keep Your Mind in Check
Self-study can feel lonely sometimes. Doubts come in:
“What if I fail?”
“Everyone else is in coaching… am I doing it wrong?”
No. You’re not.
Believe in your method
Stay off social media while studying
Find 1–2 friends who are also preparing—it helps
Watch a motivational video or listen to podcasts if you’re feeling down
You’re not behind. You’re just taking a different, more independent route.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Do This
Thousands of students from small towns, tough backgrounds, and zero coaching crack government exams every year. What they have in common isn’t money, connections, or expensive classes.
They have consistency, focus, and faith in themselves.
And you do too.
So, take a deep breath, open your book, and start. You’re not alone—and you’ve got what it takes.
