YouTube or Books: Which is the Best Option to Study for UPSC Exams? Pay Per Learn

YouTube or Books: Which is the Best Option to Study for UPSC Exams?

by APSCBlogBusinessUPSCUPSC 2025

Preparing for the UPSC exam is a journey of dedication, strategy, and effective resource management. Aspirants often face a dilemma when choosing their primary mode of study: Should they rely on traditional books, or can YouTube serve as an equally effective learning platform? This blog aims to answer this pressing question and help you strike the right balance.

The Case for Books in UPSC Preparation

  • Books have been the cornerstone of UPSC preparation for decades. Here are some reasons why they remain indispensable:
  • Comprehensive Content: Standard books like NCERTs, Laxmikanth for Polity, and Spectrum for Modern History provide in-depth and structured knowledge essential for UPSC.
  • Exam-Oriented Approach: Books are often aligned with the UPSC syllabus, ensuring that aspirants stay focused on relevant topics.
  • Reliability: Authored by experts and reviewed rigorously, books offer accurate and credible information.
  • Offline Accessibility: Unlike digital platforms, books don’t require internet connectivity, making them ideal for uninterrupted study sessions.

The Case for YouTube in UPSC Preparation

  • The rise of digital platforms like YouTube has revolutionized the way aspirants prepare for competitive exams. Here’s why YouTube is a game-changer:
  • Visual Learning: Complex concepts are easier to grasp through videos and animations, making topics like Geography and Science engaging and understandable.
  • Updated Content: Channels like Pay Per Learn provide updated content, including current affairs, which are critical for UPSC preparation.
  • Accessibility: You can access lectures, doubt-solving sessions, and revision videos anytime, anywhere.
  • Cost-Effective: Many YouTube channels offer free or affordable courses, reducing the financial burden of preparation.
  • Expert Guidance: Platforms like Pay Per Learn feature lectures by seasoned educators and subject matter experts, ensuring high-quality content.
  • Balancing Books and YouTube for UPSC Success
  • Both books and YouTube have their strengths, and the key to success lies in leveraging the best of both worlds. Here’s how you can do it:
  • Foundation with Books:
    Start your preparation with standard books to build a solid foundation. Use books for static subjects like History, Polity, and Geography.
  • Supplement with YouTube:
  • Use YouTube channels like Pay Per Learn for current affairs, interview tips, and visual explanations of difficult concepts.
  • Follow specific playlists or series tailored to UPSC topics.
  • Revision and Practice:
  • Combine book-based notes with video summaries for efficient revision.
  • Practice mock tests and past papers available on digital platforms.
  • Time Management:
    Allocate time wisely between reading books and watching videos to avoid over-reliance on one source.

Why Choose Pay Per Learn?

Pay Per Learn is a trusted platform for UPSC aspirants, offering a wide range of resources to complement your preparation. Their YouTube channel features: Expert-led lectures on critical UPSC topics. Comprehensive current affairs analysis. Tips and strategies for Prelims, Mains, and Interviews. Interactive sessions to clarify doubts. Subscribing to the Pay Per Learn YouTube channel can give you an edge in your preparation while saving time and money.

Conclusion

In the debate between YouTube and books for UPSC preparation, the winner depends on how you utilize these resources. Books provide a structured and reliable foundation, while YouTube adds the flexibility and visual appeal needed for modern-day learning. By integrating both effectively, and with platforms like Pay Per Learn, you can chart a successful path to cracking the UPSC exam.

Start your journey today and let Pay Per Learn guide you to success!

How to Prepare for APSC as a Working Professional

How to Prepare for APSC as a Working Professional

by APSCBlogUPSC

Preparing for the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) exam is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, especially for working professionals who must balance their job responsibilities with rigorous study schedules. However, with the right strategy, discipline, and resources, you can excel in this competitive exam. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for APSC while managing your work commitments effectively.

  1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
  • The first step in preparing for APSC is to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus. The APSC exam typically comprises three stages:
  • Preliminary Examination: Objective-type questions to test general knowledge and aptitude.
  • Main Examination: Descriptive papers to assess in-depth knowledge and analytical skills.
  • Interview: A personality test to evaluate your suitability for administrative roles.
  • Download the official syllabus from the APSC website and thoroughly understand the subjects and topics. This clarity will help you plan your study schedule effectively.
  1. Create a Realistic Study Plan
  • As a working professional, your time is limited. Therefore, it’s crucial to create a realistic and well-structured study plan.
  • Daily Study Hours: Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to focused study. Utilize early mornings or late evenings when you’re least distracted.
  • Weekly Targets: Set achievable weekly targets to cover specific topics or subjects.
  • Weekend Study: Use weekends for intensive study sessions and revision.
  1. Prioritize Topics Based on Importance
  • Identify high-weightage topics and prioritize them in your study plan. For instance:
  • General Studies: Focus on history, geography, polity, economy, and current affairs.
  • Optional Subjects: Choose an optional subject you’re comfortable with and dedicate consistent time to it.
  • Aptitude and Reasoning: Allocate time for practicing quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning, as they are crucial for prelims.
  1. Leverage Online Resources
  • Take advantage of online resources to save time and study efficiently:
  • Online Courses: Enroll in APSC-specific online coaching programs.
  • E-Books and PDFs: Download study material and notes in digital format.
  • Current Affairs Apps: Use mobile apps to stay updated on current events.
  • Mock Tests: Practice mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve time management.
  1. Make Use of Your Work Breaks

Utilize short breaks during work hours for quick revisions or reading news articles. Carry a notebook or use a mobile app to jot down key points for later review.

  1. Develop a Note-Taking Habit

Prepare concise notes while studying. Highlight key facts, concepts, and formulas. These notes will be invaluable during the revision phase.

  1. Stay Consistent with Current Affairs

Current affairs play a significant role in the APSC exam. Follow these tips: Read a reputable daily newspaper like The Hindu or The Indian Express. Subscribe to monthly current affairs magazines. Watch news analysis videos to understand important issues.

  1. Join Study Groups or Forums

Engage with like-minded aspirants through online forums or local study groups. Sharing knowledge, discussing doubts, and exchanging notes can enhance your preparation.

  1. Practice Self-Care

Balancing work and study can be stressful. Take care of your physical and mental well-being: Get adequate sleep. Maintain a healthy diet. Exercise regularly to boost energy and focus. Take short breaks to avoid burnout.

  1. Revise and Evaluate

Revision is the key to retention. Dedicate the last few weeks before the exam solely to revision and practice. Analyze your performance in mock tests and identify weak areas to improve.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for APSC as a working professional requires careful planning, dedication, and smart work. While the journey might be demanding, the reward of securing a prestigious position in public service makes it worthwhile. Stay motivated, stick to your study plan, and believe in your abilities. With consistent effort, success is within reach!