Government jobs are still one of the most sought-after career options for students and working professionals in India. Everyone wants to get a government job.
To secure a government job, you must pass a competitive exam. However, when you are in college or working, due to a lack of time, it becomes very difficult to prepare for competitive exams like the UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, or State PSCs.
However, there is no need for you to feel anxious. If you prepare for a competitive exam with the right strategy, mindset, and proper planning, it is possible to secure a government job.
In this blog, we will share with you a realistic and effective roadmap that will help you prepare for government exams, all while remaining at your job or continuing your college studies.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait for “Free Time”
There are many such aspirants who delay their preparation, thinking that they will start when they are free. But in reality, that less busy time never comes.
Actually, most aspirants who have secured government jobs have managed to balance their job and studies simultaneously.
In reality, the secret to success is effective time management, discipline, and consistency.
Step-by-Step Strategy to Crack Exams While Studying or Working
1. Make a Realistic and Flexible Timetable
You do not need to study for 10 to 12 hours daily. If you do just 2 to 3 hours of focused study daily, its effect is very powerful with time.
Here’s how:
- Identify your productive hours: Early morning or late night.
- Set aside weekends for mock tests and in-depth study.
- Include buffer time for revision, health, and mental rest.
Example:
| Time | Task |
| 6:00 – 7:30 AM | Daily Revision + Current Affairs |
| Lunch Break (30 mins) | Practice MCQs via the app |
| 8:30 – 10:00 PM | Focused Study: Concepts + Notes |
| Sunday | Mock Test + Weekly Analysis |
2. Set Weekly Micro Goals
Instead of vague goals like “finish polity,” break it into chunks:
- Week 1: Indian Constitution + Fundamental Rights
- Week 2: Parliament + Judiciary
Use apps like Trello, Notion, or even a simple diary to track goals.
3. Use Smart Study Materials
Since your time is limited, avoid overloading with too many books. Use:
- One source per subject (e.g., M. Laxmikanth for Polity)
- Previous year papers (most important)
- Monthly current affairs PDFs
- Watch YouTube crash courses for a quick review.
Best Online Platforms:
- Unacademy, StudyIQ – Free & paid courses
- Testbook, Oliveboard, Adda247 – Mock tests & quizzes
- AffairsCloud, GK Today – Current affairs
4. Leverage Micro-Learning Opportunities
Make use of your micro-moments like:
- Commuting: Listen to news podcasts or audio lectures
- Waiting in line: Attempt quizzes on Testbook or Adda247
- Break time: Flashcards or app-based learning
This helps you stay connected with your prep without long study hours.
5. Revise Consistently
Revision is absolutely non-negotiable for clearing any exam. Even if you study daily, if you do not revise regularly, you will likely forget most of the things during the exam.
Try:
- Weekly mini-revision days
- Use sticky notes, mind maps, or digital flashcards.
- Take one mock test every weekend.
Bonus Tips for Success
- Don’t quit your job or college unless it’s financially or medically necessary. Many toppers clear exams while working.
- Avoid comparison: Focus on your own growth, not the number of hours others study.
- Use the Pomodoro technique: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
- Stay away from social media distractions unless you’re using it for educational purposes.
- Create a supportive environment — join Telegram groups, Reddit threads, or study circles to connect with like-minded individuals.
Recommended Study Tools
| Purpose | App/Platform |
| Current Affairs | GK Today, AffairsCloud |
| Concept Learning | Unacademy, StudyIQ |
| Notes & Planning | Notion, Evernote |
| Mock Tests | Testbook, Oliveboard |
| Time Tracking | Forest App, Clockify |
Real-Life Success Story
Ravi Kumar, a data entry operator, cracked the SSC CGL exam by working 9 hours daily. To prepare for the exams, he used his early morning hours to study and dedicated weekends to practical tests and reviews.
His advice:
“Don’t chase long hours. Chase consistency. 2 hours a day changed my life.”
Final Thoughts
If you follow these steps, you will be well-prepared for government exams. Why are you already busy with studies or a job? It is definitely challenging, but it is absolutely possible.
All it takes is:
- Smart planning
- Daily commitment
- Right resources
- Strong belief in yourself
Your dream job is just one strategy away. Start today — not someday.
