The prescribed syllabus for Mathematics is quite large which makes it necessary to confine to limited resources. I depended on the notes provided by Venkanna sir at IMS to cover the syllabus. These notes were very comprehensive, so I didn't have to waste time scanning reference books for relevant material. Classroom coaching by Venkanna sir helped me to complete the syllabus in a disciplined manner.
The physics-related chapters of statics, dynamics, and mechanics are generally left untouched while preparing maths is optional. Regarding these chapters, my preparation was such that I would be able to solve the compulsory 10-mark questions. They are quite manageable once you know the basic theory and there is no point in unnecessarily losing marks.
In both CSE and IFoS Mains, there were many questions similar to those included in IMS test series. With enough practice, a candidate can acquire the ability to complete the Mathematics paper in 3 hours. It is important to assess your performance after each test. Necessary steps should be taken to rectify the common mistakes that you are making in the test series. You should be careful not to repeat the same mistakes again and again.
-Presentation of your answer matters a lot. Your aim should be to make the examiner’s life as easy as possible so that he/she will award you maximum marks. Only the final answer doesn’t matter. Writing proper steps is also important to show the logical flow with which you arrived at the solution. Specifically, mention whichever theorem or property you are using in a particular step. Wherever possible, draw neat diagrams with proper labeling.
The mains exam schedule does not provide many gaps between General Studies & Maths papers. You will generally have 1 day in between. Your notebook containing important formulae & theorems will be very useful at such times. You will be able to go through this summary of each chapter and it will provide much-needed confidence before the actual paper.
The study plan is very important for every exam preparation. It plays a key role in the success of getting a good score in the UPSC exam. Prepare a study plan for the UPSC exam. Make a monthly plan, weekly plan, and daily schedule to prepare UPSC Mathematics Optional Paper. Allot the time for exam preparation and set the time for playing, eating, watching TV, and studying.
Math is associated with rules and formulas. You should prepare a sheet that contains an important formula and keep it handy. This is the easy way to memorize formulas that can be used to solve problems in main exams. Try to solve math problems with a relaxed mind. Once you understand the problem in math, you will surely be able to answer them.