How To Manage Time During UPSC EPFO Exam
It is crucial to manage time during UPSC EPFO exam to solve all questions. Learn expert tips to manage time during UPSC EPFO exam here.
Deeksha Dixit22 Sept, 2025
Share
Manage Time During UPSC EPFO: Managing time effectively during the UPSC Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) exam is crucial for success due to its competitive nature and vast syllabus. The UPSC EPFO Exam duration is generally 2 hours , during which candidates are required to solve 120 questions from different sections.
In addition to this, there is a negative marking of 1/3 for each wrong answer. Therefore, effective time management is crucial for success in the UPSC EPFO exam. Each candidate who is going to appear for the upcoming EPFO exam must know how to manage time during the written exam. Some proven time management tips are shared here to help you optimize your performance on exam day.Tips to Manage Time During UPSC EPFO Exam
The first thing all candidates must be aware of is that there will be around 120 questions that must be answered in 120 minutes (2 hours), leaving one minute per question. On top of that, numerical questions often take extra time in the exam. Therefore, use the the below tips to manage time during UPSC EPFO test:Allocate Time Wisely
Given the broad range of topics, you should allocate time section-wise. Give more time to the Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning section and comparably less time to the General Awareness section. This is because numerical questions if answered correctly will fetch good marks.Section Wise Approach
Begin with the sections you are most confident in. Allocate more time to sections that carry higher marks, such as English Language. Spend less time on sections with lower weightage, such as Computer Aptitude. Divide the time among all the sections and have 10 minutes as a buffer to review the difficult questions.Follow the Two-Pass System
The two-pass system is an effective UPSC EPFO time management strategy. In the first pass, answer the questions you are sure about. In the second pass, revisit the questions you were uncertain about. This approach helps you manage your time better and avoid getting stuck on difficult questions.Keep Track of Time
Practice solving previous year's question papers and mock tests under strict time constraints. Learn the skill to manage time during UPSC EPFO practice sessions. Further, keep track of time in the exam hall and adjust your pace if necessary.UPSC EPFO Time Management Tips
It is normal to feel stressed during the exam; however, candidates must not get overwhelmed by it. While managing time is critical, maintaining accuracy is equally important. Here are some tips to follow during the exam:- Avoid the temptation to rush through questions. Read each question carefully and ensure you understand it before answering.
- If you find yourself stuck on a question for more than a minute, move on. Mark it for review, and come back to it if you have time left at the end.
- Instead of marking answers after each question, which can be time-consuming, consider marking answers in two or three rounds.
- Make sure you fill in the correct bubbles, as a single mistake can cost you dearly.
- Practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, to stay calm and focused during the exam.
- If you have time left after answering all the questions, review your answers to look for mistakes or questions you may have skipped.
Significance of Efficient Test-taking
Efficient test-taking is not just about knowing the answers but also managing your time and approach during the exam. Here’s why time management is a significant part of EPFO exam preparation:- Maximizes Your Score: Effective EPFO time management allows you to attempt more questions accurately, thereby maximizing your score.
- Reduces Exam Anxiety: A well-planned UPSC time strategy reduces anxiety by providing a clear roadmap for tackling the exam.
- Enhances Efficiency: Proper time management helps you work more efficiently. You can focus on answering questions accurately without the constant worry of running out of time.
- Improves Decision Making: When you manage your time well, you can go through all questions calmly rather than rushing through them. This leads to better accuracy and higher marks.
| UPSC EPFO Related Articles | ||
| UPSC EPFO Eligibility Criteria | UPSC EPFO Exam Centre | UPSC EPFO Cut-off |
| UPSC EPFO Exam | Pratigya Diwas 2024 | UPSC Result 2024 |
Manage Time During UPSC EPFO Exam FAQs
What are the strategies for time management during the UPSC EPFO exam?
Allocate time wisely for each section, follow a two-pass system, and regularly practice with mock tests under timed conditions.
What techniques can help manage stress during the UPSC EPFO exam?
Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, stay calm, and maintain a positive mindset to manage stress effectively.
How should I allocate time for each section in UPSC EPFO?
Prioritize sections based on your strengths, with more time for quantitative and reasoning sections, and less for general awareness. Allocate around 10 minutes as a buffer.
What are the ways to divide time during the 2-hour EPFO exam?
Use a section-wise approach, start with confident areas, follow the two-pass system, and keep track of time throughout the exam to adjust your pace as needed.
Is it necessary to solve questions in order in EPFO exam?
No, it’s not mandatory. Start with questions you feel most confident about and save difficult ones for later. This approach helps build momentum and boosts confidence.
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Check out these Related Articles
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2026 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.