Before We Begin
This 18-hour routine is EXTREME and should only be attempted for 2-3 months maximum before exams. I followed this during my final preparation phase. Most of my preparation was done with 10-12 hour routines. Please prioritize your health and adapt this to your capacity.
When I tell people I studied 18 hours a day for the final 3 months before UPSC, they either think I'm lying or completely insane. The truth is, it was both the hardest and most rewarding period of my life. This routine helped me clear UPSC in my very first attempt with AIR 23.
After 2 years of average preparation with mediocre results in mocks, I realized I needed to completely overhaul my approach. The 18-hour routine wasn't just about studying more—it was about creating a system that maximized every minute of my day. Here's exactly how I did it.
My Background & Why I Chose This Route
My Situation
- Engineering graduate, average student
- No family background in civil services
- Limited financial resources for coaching
- Only one serious attempt possible
Why 18 Hours?
- Mock test scores were consistently low
- Vast syllabus, limited time
- Wanted to leave nothing to chance
- Extreme goal required extreme measures
The Complete 18-Hour Daily Routine
My Daily Timetable (Hour by Hour)
Wake Up & Morning Routine
Quick shower, light breakfast, meditation (10 min)
Current Affairs Session 1
Newspaper reading, note-making (The Hindu + PIB)
General Studies Paper 1
History, Geography, Art & Culture focused study
Breakfast + Light Exercise
30 min break - healthy breakfast, stretching
General Studies Paper 2
Polity, Governance, Constitution deep dive
Short Break + Hydration
15 min - walk, water, light snacks
Optional Subject Session 1
Core concepts, standard books reading
Lunch + Power Nap
45 min break - proper meal, 15 min rest
General Studies Paper 3
Economy, Environment, Science & Technology
Tea Break + Light Walk
20 min refresher break, outdoor air
Optional Subject Session 2
Practice questions, answer writing
Current Affairs Session 2
Monthly magazines, weekly compilations
Dinner + Family Time
45 min break - social interaction is crucial
General Studies Paper 4
Ethics, Integrity, Case Studies
Answer Writing Practice
Mains practice, time-bound writing
Daily Revision + Notes
Quick review of day's learning, short notes
Wind Down + Sleep Prep
Light reading, planning next day, sleep by 12
Key Takeaways for Your Journey
Extreme routines require extreme commitment
This isn't just about study hours—it's about completely restructuring your life around one goal. Make sure you're ready for that level of commitment.
Health is non-negotiable
No exam is worth destroying your physical or mental health. Monitor yourself closely and be ready to adjust if needed.