Mehak Jain, AIR 17 : Notes and Strategy

It actually helps. Been doing the same thing at work💁🏻‍♀️

Psychology Hacks to help deal with UPSC and Life!

1. Paradox of Choice Hack

When facing the myriad of optional subjects, study materials, or strategies for UPSC preparation, too many options can lead to decision fatigue. Simplify your approach by limiting your choices.

For example, instead of wondering “What should I study today?”, decide between “Should I revise current affairs or practice answer writing?” This small narrowing down of options helps your brain make faster, stress-free decisions.

2. Dopamine Anchoring

Pair a challenging study task (like a tough subject area) with something you enjoy - a favorite playlist, a warm cup of tea, or a cozy study corner. Over time, your mind will start associating the challenging task with positive feelings, making it easier to tackle difficult tasks (like Answer writing for most people)

3. Expectation Effect Hack

Our minds tend to validate our expectations. If you tell yourself “Today’s study session will be productive,” your brain will focus on evidence that confirms this belief. Start each day by setting a positive expectation, whether it’s memorising prelims tidbits or making progress in answer writing.

4. The 90-Second Rule

UPSC preparation is overwhelming, and you experience stressful emotions every now and then. Remember that most emotions peak and dissipate within 90 seconds unless you keep feeding them with negative thoughts. If anxiety about the upcoming Prelims hits, pause and let the feeling pass before dwelling on it.

5. The Peak-End Rule

We often judge our experiences by their most intense moments and their endings. Try to end each day on a high note - a small win, a quick recap of what you have studied, or a moment of gratitude. Over time, your overall perception of your preparation will become more positive, keeping self doubt in check.

6. Pause Before Saying Yes

It’s common to overcommit, especially when there are new study material/courses/hacks coming up in the market everyday. Before committing to any additional task or material, pause and consider if it aligns with your UPSC checklist (I am screaming PYQs here).

Happy hacking! 💁🏻‍♀️

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Happy Holi people! ❤️💛

🥳.

What a match! ❤️

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Happy Republic Day🇮🇳

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Most beautiful lion sighting ever! 🦁