0There is indeed no starting point for IAS exam. The UPSC prescribes this exam for a person who is" well read", this is the point of contention, how to be a well-read person is not an easy feat, it requires a lot of years of information assimilation and analytic ability.
The contrasting factor also to be considered is most candidates are average students who invest a year or more to become a well-read person, and with a trained faculty by your side, the acumen of analytic ability comes in.
So in gist, anyone can do it, but why its tough is the lack of understanding the skills required for this exam, prelims you need the skill of catching a rabbit swift, agile, managing trick etc. and in mains, you will fight a tiger using strength and understanding your enemy.
This is a metaphor I use in my class, both require training but in a different way.
180 days is the max time require you to be confidently approaching exam, another 180 days of practice makes things handy.
Selection of materials is important in The compass we make a strong foundation and build the rest above. We also train in the art of writing during the course by special methods complemented by practice.
We believe the pupil is as strong as the master only during training, so once done with 180 days course you can manage the exam your own keeping apart options.
The medium of you to IAS is writing only no other way, so start writing whenever you get an opportunity, shall be helpful all the time.
First, complete the four pillars history polity geography economics then check your status by test then dynamic part current affairs.
Will update further on next.
