Preparing for the Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Exam requires a structured approach, given the exam's focus on statistics, mathematics, and general studies. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Understand the ISS Exam Pattern
The ISS exam is conducted by UPSC and consists of two parts:
1. Written Examination (1000 Marks)
Paper | Subject | Marks | Type |
Paper-I | General English | 100 | Descriptive |
Paper-II | General Studies | 100 | Descriptive |
Paper-III | Statistics-I | 200 | Objective |
Paper-IV | Statistics-II | 200 | Objective |
Paper-V | Statistics-III | 200 | Descriptive |
Paper-VI | Statistics-IV | 200 | Descriptive |
2. Viva-Voce (200 Marks)
Candidates who qualify for the written exam are called for an interview.
Step 2: Build a Study Plan
A well-structured preparation strategy is crucial.
1. Strengthen the Basics
Review the Syllabus: Download the official UPSC ISS syllabus and analyze the topics.
Use Standard Books: Refer to IS and university-level textbooks.
2. Subject-Wise Strategy
📌 General English & General Studies
English: Improve essay writing, comprehension, and grammar using books like Wren & Martin.
General Studies: Focus on current affairs, polity, economics, and governance. Read The Hindu and Indian Express.
📌 Statistics Papers (I & II) – Objective
Focus on numerical and problem-solving skills.
Practice previous year papers and shortcut techniques.
Topics: Probability, Estimation, Sampling Theory, Regression, Numerical Analysis, computer, linear model and official Statistics.
📌 Statistics Papers (III & IV) – Descriptive
Topics: Paper-3 -Index Number, Demand Analysis, Econometrics, Time Series, Sampling Techniques.
Paper-4:- SQC, Demography, Multivariate and DOE etc.
Improve answer-writing skills by solving previous years' questions.
Step 3: Study Resources
1. Recommended Books
📚 Statistics:
Fundamentals of Mathematical Statistics – SC Gupta & VK Kapoor
Introduction to Probability & Statistics – Mood, Graybill & Boes
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers – Montgomery & Runger
Time Series Analysis – Chatfield
📚 Mathematics:
Higher Engineering Mathematics – BS Grewal
Linear Algebra – Hoffman & Kunze
📚 General Studies:
Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth
Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh
NCERT Books – Geography & History
Current Affairs – The Hindu, PIB, Economic Survey
📚 English:
Wren & Martin – Grammar
Essay Writing – UPSC Previous Years
Step 4: Practice & Revision
Solve previous 10 years' papers to understand the pattern.
Take mock tests for time management.
Revise formulas, definitions, and theorems regularly.
Step 5: Stay Consistent & Motivated
Follow a study schedule (6-8 hours/day).
Join a coaching institute like SUNRISE CLASSES (if needed).
Stay motivated with daily revision and self-assessment.
🔹 Final Tip: The ISS exam is highly competitive. Strong fundamentals, consistent practice, and revision are key to success. Stay focused and disciplined!
Would you like a detailed monthly study plan? 🚀
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