I had a friend of mine and here was his routine:
5:00 AM-9:00 AM New topic reading
As we expect morning time to be fresh,hence it’s perfectly justified
9:00 AM to 11:00Am
Reading newspapers by detail. This time also include bathing, breakfast etc
11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Going coaching institute. He said his professors take him to next level of thinking.
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Afternoon nap. He thinks it’s necessary to create buffer for brain in order to grasp concepts.
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Gym, racket. This is also necessary to clear the exam. Helps improving concentration.
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Further study of two hours.
9:00 PM to 11:00PM
Discussions about current affairs amongst all aspirants. Ways to improve things, brainstorming , dinner etc.
Discipline is the key. He thinks anyone can follow routine quite easily. The syllabus is such that you start perceiving things in life in an all together different manner. International relations, history of world, geography, diplomacy and politics and economic models all converge at one point. Indian philosophy and psychology is stunning.
He says every students should at least work for exam for at least 1-2 years in his lifetime. We might fail in exam but we will be successful in life because the preparation teaches persevance, discipline and our true potential. Learning how to work with such shear hardworking, life seems easy for coming times.
P.S-He is currently an IRS officer.