To effectively track progress during UPSC preparation, candidates should maintain a detailed study journal or digital log. This should include subjects studied, hours spent, and self-assessments of understanding various topics. Regularly revisiting and evaluating performance on mock tests or previous years’ papers helps identify strengths and weaknesses. Setting milestones and deadlines encourages accountability and motivation. Additionally, using visualization techniques to represent progress, such as charts or graphs, can provide a clear overview of growth and areas needing focus, ensuring a structured approach.