The Rajasthan Administrative Services (RAS) exam recruits candidates to serve in the administration of the Rajasthan state. Being a prime exam for many, it is highly competitive in nature.
Therefore, having some preparation tips in handy will help candidates in acing the exam in a better way than their competitors.
Understanding the RAS Exam Pattern
For an effective preparation strategy, it is always well-advised to know the pattern of any exam. The same holds for the RAS Exam. The RAS Exam Pattern is as follows:
| RAS Prelims Exam Pattern | |
| Number of Papers | One |
| RAS Exam Subjects | General Knowledge and General Science |
| Time | 3 hours |
| Number of Questions | 150 |
| Nature of Questions | All questions will be objective type (MCQs) |
| Standard of Paper | Bachelor’s Degree Level |
| Maximum Marks | 200 |
| Negative Marking | Yes (1/3rd marks will be deducted for an incorrect answer) |
| RAS Prelims Exam Pattern | |
| Number of Papers | 4 |
| RAS Exam Subjects | ● General Studies I ● General Studies II ● General Studies III ● General Hindi and General English |
| Time | 3 hours each |
| Nature of Questions | ● Essay/descriptive type ● The papers will have short, medium and long answer questions |
| Standard of Paper | ● Degree Level ● General Hindi and General English will be of Senior Secondary Level |
| Maximum Marks | 200 marks each |
The second phase of the RAS preparation plan is to completely be well versed with the RAS Syllabus. Based on this we will present a preparation plan for the RAS Exam.
- Practice previous years’ papers: Analyse the previous years’ question papers for the RAS Exam. This is an effective method rather than focusing on individual subjects, as it will be time-consuming and chances are that not every subject will be covered.
- Analyse the trends: It is important to analyse the trend of previous years’ RAS Exam pattern. Certain factors like the number of questions asked, marking scheme, mode of paper etc. will help candidates plan their preparation in a better way.
- Flexible timetable: A timetable that is a perfect blend of rigidity and flexibility must be created that can cover topics within a particular time. Be flexible yet goal-oriented. The study plans must be created in such a way that they can accommodate about 2-3 revisions.
- Take mock tests: This is an important phase of the preparation process. Taking mock tests will help in identifying one’s strengths and weaknesses. Practising mock tests and covering the syllabus go hand in hand.
- 5. Time management: Develop the habit of reading, studying and remembering the subjects, but do not forget to remember them in the long run. One must remember that the RAS exam is a long term process, lasting an entire year and hence one must create the preparation process in such a way that they can remember the topics they have learnt so far.
- Make notes: Making notes helps the candidates revise better. The notes can be used quickly before certain topics. It also helps to retain and recall in a better way, and in the examination gives an edge.
- Continuous Revision: Upon the completion of at least 50% – 70% of the RAS syllabus, a candidate can attempt mock tests, which will hone their skills and make up for any shortfalls in their preparation process. Remember revision is the key to success.