The preliminary examination is a “gamble”. Whatever the level of preparation, one can never be sure of success till the results are published . Hence, is it better to start preparation for the Mains after the prelims ?

Every competitive examination has a “chance” factor. The Civil Services Examination too bound for to some extent. While , there is an element of  chance it can be reduced to a large extent by well – directed effort. A student , who has prepared in the right direction, has 90% of chance of being successful. Moreover, the Main exam is conducted some 80 days after the declaration of the preliminary result. 80 days is “just not” sufficient to prepare for two optionals and  General Studies paper.