Delhi-based government school teacher Rishika achieved an impressive All India Rank 217 in the UPSC CSE 2024 - despite being assigned grueling 24-hour election duty just 20 days before prelims. Exhausted but undeterred, she squeezed in 3.5–4 hours of daily study after her teaching duties ended around 2:30 p.m., and reserved Sundays for intensive preparation. 

Rishika credits her success to five pillars of strategic preparation. First, she embraced adaptability instead of imitation - crafting a study routine that suited her unique schedule. Second, she leveraged digital learning: educational videos became an invaluable, low-strain revision tool after long workdays. Third, she prioritised health - treating the UPSC journey as a marathon and preventing burnout. Fourth, she practiced selective reading and steady revision, using coloured highlights directly in books for efficient recall. Finally, she built flexibility into her plan, allowing for unexpected work commitments or disruptions. 

Rishika’s journey underscores that cumulative perseverance, smart strategy, and self-care can triumph—even amid demanding professional obligations.