u/Background-Basil-262

Hello everyone. I am a 26-year-old male currently working as an Assistant Section Officer in the Central Secretariat (Level 7). I am thinking of appearing for UPPCS 2026.

Being a working aspirant, it is becoming very tiring for me to prepare in an integrated manner for both Prelims and Mains. Recently, I have started GS-5 for Mains from Teraquest Civils and I am able to devote around 1–2 hours daily. Right now, I am only going through the PDFs and lectures and have not started answer writing yet.

Can you all please suggest:

How should I make effective notes while working full-time?

How much time should I devote specifically to Prelims preparation?

When should I start answer writing for Mains?