How to Use and NOT Use You Tube for UPSC Preparation!

Summary

Dr. Jagdish Jakab advises UPSC aspirants on the strategic use of YouTube for exam preparation. He warns against the internet trap, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection before clicking on videos to ensure they align with study goals. He suggests taking notes, speeding up video playback, and being selective with downloads. Dr. Jakab also recommends focusing on syllabus-based content and waiting for hot issues to become cold before studying them to save time and avoid emotional distractions.

Takeaways

• 🕒 Be aware of the internet trap and how quickly time can fly while surfing the net.
• 📺 YouTube can be addictive due to its video suggestion algorithm based on your watch history.
• ⏱ Always question if the information you're about to consume is important for UPSC preparation.
• 🛑 Avoid opening unnecessary tabs that can distract you from your study goals.
• 📚 Stick to the syllabus and old question paper analysis; everything else is secondary.
• ✏️ Take notes while watching videos to aid in revision and avoid re-watching lengthy content.
• 🔝 Use YouTube's speed settings to increase the pace of videos and save time.
• 🚫 Don't fill up your hard drive with unnecessary downloads; only keep what you will watch.
• 📝 Apply the SQ test (Syllabus and Question papers) to decide if a video is worth watching.
• 🔎 Be selective with the channels and videos you watch, focusing on areas you are weak in.
• ❄️ Wait for hot issues to become cold before studying them to save time and emotional energy.

Q & A

What is the main concern Dr. Jagdish Jakab has about using YouTube for UPSC preparation?

Dr. Jagdish Jakab is concerned about the 'internet trap' where time flies quickly while enjoying activities on the internet, especially YouTube, which can lead to wasting a lot of time.

What does Dr. Jakab mean by YouTube wanting to get you addicted?

He refers to YouTube's algorithm that suggests more videos based on your viewing history, increasing the chances of you continuing to watch more videos and losing track of time.

What is the importance of self-talk before clicking on a YouTube video according to Dr. Jakab?

Self-talk is important to evaluate if the information in the video is really important for life or UPSC preparation, and to ensure the path you're taking aligns with your goal of clearing UPSC.

Why should one avoid opening side tabs while studying on YouTube?

Opening side tabs can lead to distractions such as social media, which can waste precious study time.

What should be the primary focus when collecting information for UPSC preparation?

The primary focus should be on the syllabus and old question paper analysis, as everything else is secondary.

Why is it recommended to take down notes while watching YouTube lectures for UPSC preparation?

Taking notes helps in revising the key points later and makes optimal use of the video content without needing to rewatch lengthy videos.

What is the benefit of speeding up YouTube videos during UPSC preparation?

Speeding up videos allows you to finish watching them in less time, thus saving study time.

Why should one avoid filling up their hard drive with infinite downloads for UPSC preparation?

It's believed that one will never watch all downloaded videos, so it's better to only download what is necessary and will be watched.

What does the acronym 'SQ test' stand for in the context of UPSC preparation?

The 'SQ test' stands for 'Syllabus' and 'Old Question Papers', which are used to determine if a video or subject material is relevant and examinable.

Which YouTube channels does Dr. Jakab find useful for UPSC preparation?

Dr. Jakab finds channels like 'Academy by Ro', 'Dr. Roman', 'Any Nal's famous economy lectures', 'Geography lectures by Classes', and 'Rajesh TV' useful, but emphasizes that they should be used selectively.

What strategy does Dr. Jakab suggest for dealing with current issues during UPSC preparation?

He suggests waiting until the issues become 'cold' or less emotionally charged, then dedicating a few hours to understand the pros and cons and relevant constitutional history.