UPSC Interview Tips: How to Introduce Yourself?

UPSC Interview Tips: Personal interview plays an important role in screening the deserving candidate for the UPSC Civil Services examination since it is the final round of the selection procedure.

UPSC Interview Tips: How to Introduce Yourself?

UPSC Interview Tips: Personal interview plays an important role in screening the deserving candidate for the UPSC Civil Services examination since it is the final round of the selection procedure. For any personal interview round, the successive mantra is simple “Answer with confidence”. And the only pathway through which you can gain or achieve confidence is by possessing the right information required for a role. Civil services examination is regarded as one of the toughest exams conducted across India, as the profile will involve some huge responsibilities and duties for the country. In order to be spontaneous at the UPSC interview round, one must possess the knowledge of the UPSC and should be a regular follower of current affairs. By following these tips you can score well in the exam. So, follow this article for top UPSC interview tips and predicted questions for personal interview round.

UPSC Civil Services Examination

UPSC exam contains three stages in its selection process such as Prelims, Mains, and Interview one followed by the other. Candidates who cracked the prelims round will enter into the mains one and those who successfully cracked Mains will be qualified to appear for the UPSC personal interview which is the final round. 

Types of Questions Asked in UPSC Interview Round

UPSC Interview is a test of personality where the board members will judge the capabilities of the shortlisted candidate for the post of IAS/ IFS/ IPS, etc. So, in order to impress the exam conducting panel, one must be aware of the type of questions that are usually asked in the interview. The range of questions is quite diverse and covers from basics to analysis based.

Personal Questions:

In personal questions, candidates have been asked the basic questions. Through this round, the interviewer will get a chance to analyze your strengths and weaknesses along with your hobbies, career goals and achievements so far. So, make sure that you listen to each question very sincerely and answer it with utmost sincerity and confidence.  

Few questions that have been asked in the exam are-

• What is your name or place of birth?
• Tell your weaknesses/ strengths?
• Express your feelings about appearing in the interview round?

Profile-Based Questions:

Here in this round, the interviewer will ask questions based on your profile (including educational background), career objectives and goals. This will help the panel to analyze your background completely and clearly. In this round, the interviewer expects you to justify your work experience or your educational background, so make sure to answer the questions logically.

Few questions that have been asked from this section include:

• Which subject you have chosen for graduation?
• Why you chose UPSC?
• Reason to leave your previous profession?
• Reason to choose your subject at your graduation?

Knowledge-based questions:

Knowledge-based questions are the crucial parts that are asked to judge your awareness in the field. For instance, if you are an aspirant of UPSC CSE, you must be well aware of the job profile and central government policies. Few such questions are listed below:

• When was the Indian constitution adopted?
• What do you know about IAS’ posts and duties?
• What is the role of the Central and State government in recruitment, training, and service of Bureaucrats?

Current Affairs Knowledge:

Having knowledge of current affairs or what is happening around will give an added advantage to the candidate. The interview panel will ask questions based on current affairs to understand your activeness and alertness in gathering information around you. Candidates must note that the questions will be mainly based on new laws, politics, treaties, sports, awards and recognition, social movements, etc.

UPSC Interview Tips to Impress the Board

Follow these few UPSC interview tips to impress the panel:

• Dress formally with appropriate grooming and be cheerful.
• Be punctual to the interview session and always try to make eye contact with each and every panel member.
• Stay calm, focused, confident and motivated throughout the interview.
• Be alert and listen to the questions carefully and then answer them logically.
• Be prepared for common questions and justify your experiences with a positive attitude.
• Tell them about your goals and aims in life with conviction.
• Try to give your introduction in 4 to 5 minutes and cover all the important points.
• Be very specific and truthful with your answers.
• Don’t try to be very sweet or too frank with the interview panel.