Sameer Gudhate presents the Book Review of How to Get into IAS by Rohit Sharma and Shakti Singh

Back in 1999, when I was preparing for the Civil Services Exam, guidance was scarce, and books like How to Get into IAS simply didn’t exist. I remember staring at bulky, outdated guides, feeling both overwhelmed and under-informed. Now, fast-forward to 2025, I stumble upon this gem by Shakti Singh and Rohit Sharma—and I couldn't help but think, Where was this book when I needed it most? This isn’t just another UPSC guide; it’s a full-fledged, heart-driven roadmap shaped by personal experience and years of research. Shakti Singh, an IRS officer who cracked the exam while working a full-time job, and Rohit Sharma, a bestselling author and motivator, make a powerful duo who understand both the struggle and the strategy.

The book opens the doors wide to the intimidating world of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, not with jargon and clichés, but with clarity, empathy, and grit. From understanding the exam pattern to decoding what life looks like at LBSNAA, from choosing your optional wisely to insights on cadre allocation—this book leaves no stone unturned. It's not just a manual, it's a mentorship in print. Think of it as a friend who’s been through the grind and is now telling you, “Here’s how you can do it, without losing your mind.”

What truly stands out is the book’s warm, reassuring tone. It doesn’t talk at you, it speaks to you. The writing is clean, motivating, and never condescending. It flows naturally—sprinkled with real-life anecdotes, quotes that uplift you on your worst prep days, and insights that only come from lived experience. It’s rare to find such depth paired with such simplicity.

The book goes beyond the "how" of the exam and dives into the "why." Why pursue civil services? What are the services really like beyond the glamour? It explores these big questions through stories, reflections, and brutally honest truths. I especially appreciated the sections that talked about different services and the day-to-day roles they involve—it’s not something most books explain so intimately.

It’s structured like a journey, and I loved that. You start with the basics, then step into strategy, move to life after selection, and finally, reflect on the philosophical side of choosing this career. It doesn’t feel like a textbook; it feels like a well-organized conversation over coffee, with a mentor who knows what they're talking about.

At its heart, this book is about resilience. It's about getting back up when you’ve been knocked down by low scores, negative self-talk, or pure fatigue. It reinforces that UPSC isn’t just about IQ—it’s about EQ, your emotional endurance. The recurring theme is simple yet powerful: with the right guidance, you can win even the toughest battles.

Reading this book took me back to my own preparation days. It stirred up memories of endless nights, anxious mornings, and that mix of hope and fear. But more than that, it filled me with a strange comfort—like closure. The interview section, in particular, was incredibly moving and enlightening. It felt like therapy for the weary aspirant in me.

How to Get into IAS is an exhaustive yet easy-to-digest guide that strikes a perfect balance between depth and accessibility. What makes it truly stand out is its warm, motivational tone that feels like a friend cheering you on through one of the toughest journeys of your life. Drawing from the real-world experiences of an IRS officer, the book offers grounded insights that go beyond textbook advice, giving you a clear picture of not just the preparation but also the life that awaits post-selection. Packed with practical, actionable tips, it’s a resource you can turn to at any stage of your UPSC journey—whether you’re just starting out or in need of a much-needed boost.

Honestly? Just one: I wish this book existed two decades ago. For today’s aspirants, though, it’s a blessing. If I had to nitpick, perhaps a few more mock examples or practice plans could’ve added even more value—but the book still feels complete.

This book made me smile, sigh, and even tear up a little. As someone who cleared Prelims but stumbled at Mains, it felt like reading the manual I never had. If you’re feeling lost or demotivated, like I once did, this book might just realign your inner compass.

How to Get into IAS is more than a guidebook—it’s a partner in your UPSC journey. Whether you’re starting out or midway through, it reminds you why you began and tells you how to move forward. Hats off to Shakti Singh and Rohit Sharma for pouring their experience, research, and hearts into this. This one deserves a place not just on your shelf, but on your study desk—open, underlined, and revisited.

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