Cleared CGL first try – my 1‑month mains prep tips

[Saad]

I'm a 21‑year‑old. Here's my review and what I went through while prepping.

I started CGL prep last year. I covered all maths topics in one go, did GS from Fatman and took a quick shot at reasoning. I completely skipped English, current affairs, science and geography in GS. I only brushed up history, politics, economics and static GK, and even that not very deep.

After 12th (2022) I wasn't consistent at all. I'd study 2‑3 hrs one day, then take 2‑4 days off, then study 2‑4 hrs again. I gave the prelims in September with that patchy prep and scored 137 in the answer key – well below last year's cutoff, so I lost hope and stopped studying.

In mid‑December the CGL results came and I surprisingly cleared the prelims. I was in a tough spot – had to sell my iPhone to clear some debt. That pushed me to work harder. I joined a library, had only 30 days left, and started putting in 6‑8 hrs daily plus one mains mock each day.

My basics in maths and grammar were strong from school, so I didn't waste time on grammar. I built vocab using Neetu Singh and the Blackbook. I still skipped geography and science due to time constraints. For current affairs I only covered awards, rankings and appointments.

My mock scores hovered between 280‑300. One Oliveboard mock gave me just 209, but I didn't lose hope. I stayed confident, sat the mains and got 319 UR and 21 in computer.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask – I'm happy to share more.

[Mister]

Which teacher did you use for the one‑shot maths? Where did you practice maths from?

[Sangeeta]

What's your background? Which college and what's your graduation?

[Madhuri]

Could you list the source for each subject – teacher or YouTube channel? Which platform you used for mocks? The books you followed? Where you practiced? Sorry for the many questions, but it would really help. Thanks in advance!

[Navya]

Congrats!

[Rohit]

Is the Geography PDNA even worth it? I like history, econ and even static GK to some extent, but geography honestly feels like a slog.

[Anusha]

Well done, bro!

[Madhav]

Which book or batch did you use for GS?

[Ansh]

You've really switched up your govt exam prep – congratulations!

[Bharat]

If you don't believe in luck, read his story 'skipped geography, science, and CA'. Don't fill yourself with false hope that you'll clear it the same way. Follow only if you're brave enough or luck is on your side.

[Shivam]

Not trying to put you down, but this could just be pure luck. Please don't take it as gospel – everyone's situation is different. Don't accept it at face value.