Candidates planning to take the UPSC exam should ideally follow a timeline that spans at least 12-18 months. The first 6 months can be dedicated to comprehensive syllabus coverage, foundational reading, and developing a strong grasp of current affairs. The subsequent 6 months should focus on answer writing, revision, and taking mock tests. Ideally, the final 3 months should involve intensive preparation, including solving previous year papers and refining time management skills to enhance performance in both preliminary and main examinations.