The candidates must undergo prolonged preparation to take the examination. One needs to practice regularly to improve knowledge and speed. For subjects like GK and current affairs, one needs to start practicing early and regularly. A good book on the basics of General Knowledge, supported by reading a good national newspaper and Competitive magazine can greatly assist a candidate to do well in this part. For mastering the reasoning, numerical ability and English language, special efforts are required. For the Reasoning and Numerical Ability tests, practice pays. It not only enables a candidate to solve the problems correctly by indicating the methods to be used but also by achieving the required speed. Regular practice also generates a lot of confidence in the mind of the candidate to attempt the paper. In-depth knowledge and correct expression are two important ingredients of essay writing. Style of writing also determines the marks to be obtained by the candidates. Similarly, précis writing is an art unto itself and needs to be mastered. It is not just summary but an attempt towards precision in own language, without losing sight of the content and its meaning. A good understanding, rich vocabulary and regular practice usually help a candidate to do well in Essay and Précis.