How should I create a realistic one-year study plan for UPSC as a beginner?

Creating a realistic one-year plan requires shifting from "studying hard" to "studying smart" by breaking the massive syllabus into manageable phases. 

Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1–3)
NCERTs: Read Class 6–12 NCERTs for History, Geography, Polity, and Economy. This builds the vocabulary needed for advanced books.
Newspaper Habit: Start reading The Hindu or The Indian Express. Focus on "why" an event is happening rather than just the facts.
Optional Selection: Research and finalise your Optional Subject by the end of Month 2.

Phase 2: Core Syllabus & Optional (Months 4–7)
Standard Books: Move to advanced texts (e.g., Laxmikanth for Polity, Spectrum for History).
Optional Deep-Dive: Dedicate 3–4 hours daily to your Optional. Aim to finish 70–80% of the syllabus here.
Answer Writing: Start practicing one answer daily to overcome the fear of a blank page.

Phase 3: Integration & CSAT (Months 8–10)
Mains Specific Topics: Focus on Ethics (GS IV), World History, and Internal Security.
CSAT: Spend weekends on basic numeracy and logical reasoning to ensure you comfortably hit the 33% threshold.
Consolidation: Create one-page notes for every major topic for quick revision.

Phase 4: Prelims Intensive (Months 11–12)
Mock Tests: Solve at least 30–40 full-length Prelims mocks. Analyse your mistakes to identify weak areas.
Revision: Stop reading new material. Re-read your notes and current affairs compilations at least three times.

Pro-Tip: Aim for 6–8 hours of consistent study rather than sporadic 12-hour bursts. Consistency is what clears this exam.