Effective listening skills contribute significantly to the performance of UPSC candidates by enhancing understanding and retention of information. Active listening during lectures or group discussions fosters deeper engagement with content, allowing candidates to grasp complex concepts more efficiently. This skill also promotes better retention of feedback received from mentors or peers, enabling aspirants to implement necessary improvements. Additionally, being an attentive listener facilitates effective communication during interviews, where understanding nuanced questions becomes crucial. Overall, honing listening skills cultivates an environment conducive to learning and personal growth, ultimately improving performance in the exams.