How to approach civil service exam?

This is very important  question asked by many civil services aspirants.Because of wrong approach,many candidates get failed.At the same time,with a right approach,so many candidates cleared this exam at very good level.So,if you are confused about the approach towards civil service exam,then read below,it will be very useful. 
          Approaching the civil service exam contains four stages namely 1)Choosing Optional,2)Collection Materials,3)Preparation and last 4)Outcome.Let us discuss in detail, 
1)Choosing Optional: 
               This is a first and important stage in the approach.Surely,the wrong optional that is not suited for you will lead to failure.So,choose the right optional that is fit for you.For sure success,this step is very important. 
2)Collection of Materials: 
             After choosing your optional,the next stage is collecting the materials both for your optional and also for General Studies.Materials means suggested books,notes,important cuttings from newspaper,magazines etc.,Collect as much you can. 
3)Preparation: 
          This is the third stage and very important stage in the approach.In this stage,you are going to prepare yourself for the exam using your materials.Self study is needed and also you can join with coaching centers.The time of preparation depends on you. 
4)Outcome: 
         This is the last stage in your approach towards the civil service exam.In this stage,you are going to present your preparation in the exam.Remember,all the three stages are only for this stage. 
              
          This is the general approach towards the Civil Service Examination.But the approach can differs with person to person.