What does the UPSC interview board ask? How many questions are there, and how to prepare effectively?

The UPSC interview is not bound by a fixed pattern. It doesn't focus solely on the number of questions or rote learning. Instead, it assesses the candidate's honesty and ability to think under pressure.

The UPSC interview, also known as the personality test, is considered the most crucial and challenging phase of the Civil Services Examination. Many candidates who reach this stage wonder what the board asks, how many questions there are, and what the interview environment is like. In reality, this interview is not just about bookish knowledge, but about evaluating your thinking, behavior, and decision-making abilities.

The UPSC interview is not bound by a fixed pattern. Neither the number of questions is fixed, nor does it solely test rote learning. It assesses the candidate's honesty, logic, administrative understanding, and ability to think under pressure.

The UPSC interview takes place in a formal room. There is a chairperson and 3 to 4 members, collectively known as the board. The atmosphere in the interview room is serious, which can intimidate many candidates. However, the board tries to make the candidate comfortable so that their true personality can emerge.

During the interview, it's important to remember that when your name is called, you should knock on the door and ask for permission to enter. After receiving permission, you should enter and greet the board appropriately, such as "Good morning" or "Good afternoon." When asked to sit, you should say "Thank you, Sir/Madam" before sitting down. These small things demonstrate your manners.

The board may ask questions about your name, its meaning, family, hometown, hobbies, and background. Through these questions, the board tries to understand your thinking and confidence.

Questions may also be asked about your graduation subjects, favorite topics, projects, or basic concepts. Along with this, you may be asked about current events in the country and around the world, government policies, and your opinions on them.

The interview may also include hypothetical situations to assess how you make decisions and react in challenging circumstances.

Furthermore, there is no fixed number of questions. Typically, 15 to 20 or even more questions may be asked. Often, one answer leads to the next question. Your DAF (Detailed Application Form) is the most crucial part of the interview, as questions can be based on every piece of information you provide in it. Therefore, thorough preparation of your DAF is also very important.