UPSC AIR-1 Shakti Dubey’s Daily Routine Revealed: Her 17-Hour Study Plan That Made Her a Topper
Education Desk – Shakti Dubey from Prayagraj has secured All India Rank 1 in the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024, the results of which were declared on 21st April 2025. Her journey is a true example of hard work, smart planning, and unshakable focus.
After 7 years of preparation, Shakti achieved the top spot in one of India’s toughest exams. In the last 90 days before the exam, she followed a well-structured and disciplined routine—studying 17 hours daily.
“Time is not just managed, it is used like a weapon.” – Shakti Dubey
Who is Shakti Dubey? A Science Student Turned UPSC Rank 1
Shakti Dubey was born in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. She studied science but later decided to become a civil servant.
|
Qualification |
Details |
|---|---|
|
School |
Studied in Allahabad |
|
Graduation |
BSc from Allahabad University |
|
Postgraduation |
M.Sc in Biochemistry from BHU (2016) |
In 2018, she left her science career and started preparing for the UPSC exam. She chose Political Science and International Relations as her optional subject. Her success proves that background doesn’t matter if you have the right plan and mindset.
What was Shakti Dubey’s Daily Routine?
Let’s explore her strategy, daily routine, and tips that helped her succeed. Here is her daily schedule during the last 3 months before the exam:
| Time Slot | Activity | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 – 7:30 AM | Wake-up and positive thinking | Start day with calm mind and clear goals |
| 7:30 – 8:00 AM | Read newspaper | Editorials from The Hindu / Indian Express |
| 8:00 – 8:30 AM | Healthy breakfast | Energy without mobile or social media |
| 8:30 – 12:00 PM | Main study session | Polity, History, Economy – Deep focus |
| 12:00 – 1:00 PM | Current affairs revision | Read notes, solve MCQs |
| 1:00 – 2:00 PM | Lunch and short walk | Light walk to stay active |
| 2:00 – 3:00 PM | Power nap or meditation | Rest the brain, increase memory power |
| 3:00 – 5:00 PM | Second study session | Environment, Geography, Governance |
| 5:00 – 8:00 PM | Revision time | Revise past topics, use flashcards and short notes |
| 8:00 – 9:00 PM | Dinner and reflection | Light dinner and planning for the next day |
| 9:00 – 11:00 PM | Practice time | Optional subject / CSAT / Mock Tests |
| 11:00 – 12:00 AM | Relax and unwind | Watch topper talks, stay offline mostly |
| 12:00 – 7:00 AM | Sleep (very important) | Full 7 hours of sleep to stay strong and focused |
What Were Her Top 5 Rules for Success?
Here are the key points from Shakti’s UPSC strategy:
1. 3-Time Revision Rule – She revised every topic at least 3 times before the exam.
2. Weekly Review Rule – Every Sunday, she revised all the topics studied during the week.
3. Study Smart by Time
|
Time of Day |
Subjects |
|---|---|
|
Morning |
Tough subjects like Polity and Economy |
|
Afternoon |
Factual topics like Geography and Environment |
|
Night |
Optional subject and CSAT |
4. Mock Tests Every Sunday – She gave full GS mock tests every week and checked her mistakes.
5. Use of Mind Maps and Colour Notes – She used short notes, mind maps, and coloured highlighters to remember more.
What Is Shakti Dubey’s Advice for UPSC Aspirants?
“I didn’t just change my subject from science to civil services. I changed my thinking and habits. UPSC is not about luck. It’s about having a clear system, a smart plan, and inner strength.”
Shakti also added, “Don’t compare your journey with others. Your background doesn’t matter. What matters is your willpower and the system you follow.”
Her story shows that anyone can become a topper if they follow a proper routine and believe in their dream. With the right plan and regular study, even the toughest exam can be cracked.
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