The personality test/IAS interview round is the last phase of the UPSC Civil Services examination. The purpose of this round is for the UPSC board to evaluate a prospective IAS officer's personality and way of thinking. You will advance to the final round after giving your best effort in the UPSC Mains exam, and for those with a can-do mentality, we've compiled the top 10 golden suggestions for qualifying for the UPSC Civil Service Exam Interview.

Be fair and polite.

Be courteous; before entering, gently knock on the door and ask, "May I come in?" Don't enter right away after asking; wait for the board members' reaction before doing so. Approach it confidently and quietly. Once inside the room, say "Good Morning," "Good Afternoon," or "Good Evening" to each board member as appropriate for the time of day and the interview session. When addressing the board, it is advisable to stand up straight. If there is a female board member, address her with the phrase "Good Morning Ma'am," "Afternoon," or something similar.

Since the Chairman typically speaks for the entire board, acknowledge him or her while maintaining eye contact with the other board members. It is advisable to stand until you are provided with a seat after introducing yourself to the board members. Then, thank the person who offers you a seat and the one who requests you to take a seat. Be polite and kind instead of getting upset that you weren't given a seat since this would go a long way towards making the interview go your way.

Be well-groomed

Dress appropriately for the situation. You shouldn't wear bright or flamboyant clothing. It is recommended that you wear a suit in a dark or dismal colour.  Make sure your shirt's collar is spotless, ironed and stiff. Check the shackles on your shirt; they shouldn't be frayed at the ends. Shoes and socks should be worn, and socks should be pulled up. Shoes should also be well-polished.

Ladies can choose decent traditional formal attire like a saree or salwar suit, preferably in a neutral tone. It is advisable to use minimal makeup and accessories that complement your outfit. Last but not least, maintain your hairdo, and it is recommended that you tie your hair up because it will make you look well-groomed.

With the way you show yourself and are dressed, you create a good first impression. Your interview will go south from there if your appearance gives off the wrong impression. To make a good first impression, present yourself professionally and tastefully when before the board.

Uphold good personal hygiene

Present oneself neatly and cleanly to the UPSC interview panel. Make sure you maintain neat nails, well-combed hair, a smooth-shaven face, and a good haircut. If you have a beard, trim it to keep it in place. Additionally, cleansing your face is advised to get rid of sweat, oil, and debris and brighten your skin. Make sure you smell fresh and that nothing offensive is coming from your body. According to the proverb, "Your face is the index of your mind," and your appearance will demonstrate how organised and disciplined you are. As a result, take care of your appearance.

 Steer clear of meaningless gestures

It is advised that you practise your gestures and body language. Face the board members at all times while sitting upright. Do not continue tapping your feet on the floor or wagging your knees. Avoid frequent coughing, sometimes adjust the throat, and refrain from fiddling with your tie, collar, or coat buttons. Do not relax your elbows on the table while you are seated. Avoid yawning throughout the interview. In fact, you ought to eliminate any unneeded motions. You can and should maintain your composure.

Be audible, and noticeable, and speak politely.

Avoid shouting or murmuring. Maintain a clear voice, say each word aloud, without skipping any, and emphasise each syllable as necessary. Speak to the board with energy and interest so that everyone can hear you without having to ask you to repeat yourself. Look into their eyes while speaking to the Chairman or the other members; avoid looking at the ceiling, the table, the wall, or the floor. Avoid seeming robotic or boring; instead, use a spirit-filled voice that will excite the board members when they hear you.

Pay close attention and project that focus.

When the Chairman or a board member speaks to you, pay close attention to what they are saying and refrain from asking them to repeat themselves frequently. The board members may think you are disrespectful if you close your eyes to concentrate on what they are saying, so avoid doing so. You should also not assume that they will realise you are concentrating. Do not interrupt them while they are speaking and pay close attention until they have finished the question. Even if you have to break the conversation, be polite and say, "Sorry to interrupt," then go back to listening.

Avoid Arguments

To avoid being duped by the board's argumentative questions, confront the board members' opinions and attempt to refute their claims. Instead, be careful and cautious while expressing your opinions. When expressing your opinions, refrain from attacking individuals or endorsing a specific person. Instead, be objective and offer suggestions. Do not point out other people's mistakes. If you are incorrect, own up to it right away and apologies. Your conclusions should be rational and supported by solid arguments. Avoid being arrogant and overconfident in yourself.

Instead of being overly brilliant, be wise and smart.

When the interview panel inquires about your bio-data or accomplishments, make sure to answer all questions truthfully and courteously. You cannot trick the board members by lying, so be honest and have the guts to admit when you don't know the answer. Never generalise or hazard an educated estimate. Do not ramble, and you must be able to hold your audience's interest as you speak. Be careful not to monotone the board.

Display your attitude and act with confidence.

Be certain and present your attitude in a way that will make the board members think well of you. Never forget that the board member will pay more attention to what and how you say than to how much you say. If you don't respond to a question, the board can't comment on it. Therefore, be careful with your words and your delivery. Don't allow doubts to sabotage your possibilities. Don't stress about things like the interview panel, the position, the questions, etc. that are out of your control. Simply wish for the best.

Be upbeat and smile.

A smile is the best makeup anyone can wear, as the adage goes! From the moment you go into the interview board room until you leave, present a pleasant appearance, handle yourself with assurance, and maintain that seductive makeup'smile' on your face. Give the board members the impression that you are observant, courteous, and passionate. Turn the tables in the interview round by using your grin to succeed in the UPSC Civil Services Examination Interview.

To succeed in the UPSC Interview Round, follow these golden rules, and we bet you'll win over the board members' hearts in addition to getting your name on the list of final candidates.