u/CodUnusual2287

I am a 22-year-old student currently preparing for a competitive examination. Due to financial constraints, I am looking for opportunities to earn an income through freelancing to support myself during this preparation period.

I graduated last year with a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) from a Tier-3 college. Unfortunately, I do not have a mentor or anyone in my personal network who is involved in freelancing or the technology industry. I also live in a remote area, which limits my access to guidance and professional opportunities.

Given my background and circumstances, I would sincerely appreciate your advice. Based on your experience and understanding of the current market, could you suggest skills that are worth learning alongside my exam preparation, a practical roadmap to enter freelancing, or any career paths that would be suitable for someone in my position? Any guidance or recommendations would be immensely valuable and greatly appreciated.

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I have been preparing for UPSC CSE for the past one year. I appeared for the 2026 Prelims but couldn’t clear it.

My optional is Anthropology and my medium is English. I prepare from home, and honestly, that makes it harder to find competition and stay accountable.

This year’s Prelims gave me an unexpected reality check. Even before receiving the question paper, I was surprised by the aspirants around me. Not everyone, obviously, but many of them seemed incredibly prepared. Most were revising continuously and many had study partners or groups.

To be honest, it intimidated me a little—but at the same time, it gave me a clearer picture of the level of preparation needed to see my name on the final list.

I believe I’m not alone. Many aspirants preparing from home probably face the same issue and may not have the option to go out and build a peer group.

So I thought of trying Reddit.

If anyone is interested in forming a small accountability group or study partnership, feel free to DM me.referably: • UPSC CSE aspirants • At least one Prelims attempt given • Serious and consistent preparation • Optional/medium doesn’t matter

Just a small note: I’ll keep this open till 20th June. After that, I’ll be resuming my preparation seriously and may not be able to respond regularly. If this interests you, please feel free to reach out before then. Wishing everyone the very best for their preparation.

I have been preparing for UPSC CSE for the past one year. I appeared for the 2026 Prelims but couldn’t clear it.

My optional is Anthropology and my medium is English. I prepare from home, and honestly, that makes it harder to find competition and stay accountable.

This year’s Prelims gave me an unexpected reality check. Even before receiving the question paper, I was surprised by the aspirants around me. Not everyone, obviously, but many of them seemed incredibly prepared. Most were revising continuously and many had study partners or groups.

To be honest, it intimidated me a little—but at the same time, it gave me a clearer picture of the level of preparation needed to see my name on the final list.

I believe I’m not alone. Many aspirants preparing from home probably face the same issue and may not have the option to go out and build a peer group.

So I thought of trying Reddit.

If anyone is interested in forming a small accountability group or study partnership, feel free to DM me.

Preferably: • UPSC CSE aspirants • At least one Prelims attempt given • Serious and consistent preparation • Optional Anthropology

Just a small note: I’ll keep this open till 20th June. After that, I’ll be resuming my preparation seriously and may not be able to respond regularly. If this interests you, please feel free to reach out before then. Wishing everyone the very best for their preparation.