Introduction
Have you ever wondered what a typical day looks like for a UPSC topper? Do they study all day long? Do they even sleep? How do they stay motivated for such a long and demanding journey?
The truth is, UPSC toppers aren’t superhuman. They’re just extremely disciplined, focused, and intentional with their time. At Ignite IAS, we’ve had the privilege of mentoring several UPSC rank holders. From observing their routines closely, we’ve identified a pattern of productive habits that can be a game-changer for any aspirant.
In this article, we’ll take you through a realistic, detailed look into “a day in the life of a UPSC topper.” You’ll see their study patterns, how they handle stress, balance life, and push through difficult days—without burning out.
Table of Contents
| Sr | Headings |
|---|---|
| 1 | Early to Rise: The Power of Mornings |
| 2 | Morning Rituals for Mental Clarity |
| 3 | Study Block 1: Starting the Day with Core Subjects |
| 4 | Breakfast and a Quick Break |
| 5 | Study Block 2: Answer Writing and Analysis |
| 6 | Current Affairs Review |
| 7 | Lunch Break: Mindful Eating and Unwinding |
| 8 | Power Nap or Relaxation Time |
| 9 | Study Block 3: Optional Subject Focus |
| 10 | Evening Routine: Fitness, Walks, or Meditation |
| 11 | Study Block 4: Light Reading and Revision |
| 12 | Mock Tests and Self-Assessment |
| 13 | Dinner with Family or Alone Time |
| 14 | Winding Down: Journaling or Reflection |
| 15 | Sleep Routine: Quality Over Quantity |
| 16 | Conclusion: Success Lies in the Details |
| 17 | FAQs |
1. Early to Rise: The Power of Mornings
Most UPSC toppers start their day early—around 5:00 or 5:30 AM. Why?
Because early mornings are distraction-free, quiet, and ideal for deep focus. It’s like starting your day with a blank canvas—no clutter, no chaos.
Waking up early gives them a psychological head start over the rest of the world.
2. Morning Rituals for Mental Clarity
After waking up, toppers don’t jump into studies immediately. They follow rituals that clear the mind and set the tone for the day.
This includes:
- Drinking warm water or herbal tea
- Light stretching or yoga
- Meditation for 10 minutes
- Reviewing daily goals
These activities boost mental clarity and reduce anxiety.
3. Study Block 1: Starting the Day with Core Subjects
From 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, toppers dive into the most demanding subjects like Polity, History, or Economy.
This is when their mind is fresh, alert, and distraction-free. They study from standard books (like Laxmikanth or NCERTs), make handwritten notes, and underline important lines for revision.
No social media, no phone. Just pure, focused study.
4. Breakfast and a Quick Break
Around 9:00 AM, they take a well-earned break.
A nutritious breakfast—rich in protein and light on carbs—helps keep energy levels high. Some also take a 20-minute walk or simply chat with family.
This short pause recharges them for the next session.
5. Study Block 2: Answer Writing and Analysis
Between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM, toppers dedicate time to daily answer writing—a non-negotiable habit.
They:
- Practice 2-3 GS answers or one essay
- Time themselves
- Review answers critically
- Compare with model answers
This practice builds confidence and improves articulation for Mains.
6. Current Affairs Review
Post lunch, say around 1:30 PM, toppers go through newspapers or curated current affairs notes.
They don’t read every article. They skim, highlight, and make short notes from:
- The Hindu / Indian Express
- PIB updates
- Ignite IAS’s current affairs magazines
They link current events to the syllabus and practice dynamic answer integration.
7. Lunch Break: Mindful Eating and Unwinding
Lunch is usually simple and home-cooked. Toppers take this time to eat slowly, chat with family, and sometimes listen to music.
They understand the importance of mindful eating for digestion and mental wellness.
8. Power Nap or Relaxation Time
A 15–30-minute power nap can do wonders. It refreshes the brain and prevents burnout.
Some prefer to rest, while others may:
- Listen to a podcast
- Take a walk
- Do breathing exercises
The idea is to reset the mind before diving back into heavy subjects.
9. Study Block 3: Optional Subject Focus
From 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, toppers focus on their optional subjects, such as Sociology, PSIR, or Geography.
They revise notes, solve previous year questions, and practice diagrams or flowcharts.
Optional subjects are scoring, and toppers give them consistent attention throughout the week.
10. Evening Routine: Fitness, Walks, or Meditation
Evenings are for movement and emotional wellness.
A 30-minute walk, a workout, or a session of guided meditation helps relieve study fatigue. It also boosts blood circulation and resets the nervous system.
Some also use this time to connect with mentors or peers for discussion.
11. Study Block 4: Light Reading and Revision
Post dinner, between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, toppers avoid heavy study.
Instead, they:
- Revise short notes
- Read light topics (like Ethics, Culture)
- Watch a relevant video lecture
- Go through flashcards
This is passive revision that supports long-term memory retention.
12. Mock Tests and Self-Assessment
At least once a week, toppers take full-length mock tests—Prelims or Mains.
They treat each test like a real exam:
- Timed sessions
- Serious review of mistakes
- Tracking progress in a journal
They also seek feedback from mentors at Ignite IAS, making each test a learning experience.
13. Dinner with Family or Alone Time
Dinner is often a calm moment—a time to wind down.
Toppers keep the meal light and avoid overthinking. This helps digestion and better sleep.
Some use this time for:
- Gratitude journaling
- Prayer
- Brief reflection on the day’s performance
14. Winding Down: Journaling or Reflection
Before sleep, toppers don’t check Instagram or binge-watch shows. They reflect.
They might ask:
- “What did I do well today?”
- “Where can I improve tomorrow?”
This 5-minute journaling habit improves clarity and builds accountability.
15. Sleep Routine: Quality Over Quantity
Toppers aim for 6.5 to 7 hours of restful sleep.
They:
- Avoid screens an hour before bed
- Read a book or meditate
- Maintain a consistent sleep-wake cycle
Why? Because memory, attention, and mood all depend on quality sleep. And UPSC isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon.
16. Conclusion: Success Lies in the Details
A UPSC topper’s day isn’t about studying 18 hours straight. It’s about being consistent, mindful, and balanced.
They follow a plan, adjust when needed, and stay grounded through failures. They treat each day as a building block toward their dream.
At Ignite IAS, the most trusted UPSC mentoring platform, we help students not just study—but live like toppers. Because success isn’t in the books; it’s in your daily habits.
FAQs
1. Do UPSC toppers study all day without breaks?
No. Toppers take strategic breaks to rest their minds. They follow a disciplined routine but avoid burnout.
2. How many hours a day do UPSC toppers study?
On average, 8–10 focused hours. It’s more about smart, distraction-free study than just long hours.
3. Do UPSC toppers watch TV or use social media?
They either avoid it or use it in moderation. During preparation, most reduce screen time significantly.
4. What role does Ignite IAS play in helping toppers?
Ignite IAS provides mentorship, structured planning, regular tests, and emotional support—all essential for a topper’s routine.
5. Can I become a topper if I start late?
Yes. It’s never too late. With the right guidance, like that from Ignite IAS, you can build the topper’s mindset and succeed.
