Every law student has a dream to become a judge someday. Every year lakhs of aspirants take Judicial services exam (PCS J) but only a few get selected in first attempt. It s not only hard work that is essential for getting through this exam but its sheer determination, strategy, discipline and right guidance which play a pivotal role in the selection of candidates.
In this article, we are going to get you a step-by-step strategy, study tips, and proved methods to help you crack the judiciary exam in your very first attempt.
Understand the Pattern and syllabus of the Judiciary Exam.
Before your start preparing for the Judiciary exam you need to know exactly what are you preparing for
- Preliminary Exam (objective) – It tests the speed and accuracy of a candidate.
- Mains Exam (descriptive) – Tests your depth of legal knowledge and writing skills and concept of the subjects.
- Interview – it tests your personality, confidence and legal understanding.
Key Subjects:
- Law: It includes both substantive and procedural law eg. BNS, BSS, CPC, BNS, constitution, Civil laws
- General Knowledge- It includes History, Geo, Science, Polity and current affairs
You can download the syllabus of judiciary exam of a particular state form their websites.
- Make a Study plan – A well- structured timetable is essential. Break your preparation into phases.
- Phase 1(3-4 months) Strong foundation in Bare acts & concepts , you should analyse the acts with the help of commentaries and case laws.
- Phase 2 (3 months)- focus on answer writing, past papers, and test series.
- Phase 3 (last 2 months) – revision + Mock Tests + Current affairs
Daily routine:
- 6-8 hours study (with short breaks
- Morning: new topics from bare acts.
- Afternoon: Case laws & conceptual clarity
- Evening: Practice previous papers
Focus on Bare Acts – The Backbone of Judiciary prep
Bare Acts are the primary source for both prelims and Mains
How to study Bare Acts effectively
- Read section by section
- Understand keywords (like shall, may and different words like motive, conduct, transactions, means and includes etc)
- Revise regularly so the language is on your fingertips.
Practice Answer writing for mains
Most of the candidates who are taking their first attempt fail because they underestimate Main Exam and they think that they remember the facts in PT, but unless you revise the facts and test your self it is dangerous to assume that the facts are in your mind.
Tips for mains answer writing:
- Write in a structured way – introduction, Body and conclusion
- Quote relevant section & case laws
- Keep answers crisp and to the point
- Practice past 10 years question papers.
Strengthen your current Affairs and GK
Judiciary exams often ask recent legal developments and general awareness questions
- Read the Hindu or Indian Express daily.
- Fordow monthly current affairs compilations
- Make short notes for last month revision.
Take mock Tests and self- assessment
Mock tests help you simulate real exam.
- For Prelims- Time yourself strictly
- For mains – practice descriptive answers daily.
- After each test, analyse mistakes and improve.
- Develop interview skills early
Don’t wait until Mains result to start preparing for the interview.
- Practice speaking about laws and current topics.
- Work on body language and confidence
- Be honest- the panel values integrity over guesswork.
Get the Right Guidance
While self- study works for some, judiciary coaching can give you structured preparation, doubt – solving and test series. Institutes like Upadhyay law Gurukul in Patna have helped many aspirants crack the exam in their first attempt though focused teaching and mentorship
Stay consistent and Positive
The judiciary exam is a marathon, not a sprint.
- Avoid burnout by taking small breaks
- Stay in touch with like- minded aspirants.
- Keep your motivation high- remember why you started.
Final Words
Cracking the judiciary exam In your first attempt is possible if you combine smart strategy, disciplined study , and regular practice.
Remember : It ‘s not about studying more hours, but studying the right way.
Start early, stick to your plan, revise consistently and with the right mindset – you can wear the prestigious judge’s gown sooner than you think
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