How many attempts do most selected UPSC candidates take? (UPSC Annual Report data)

Per UPSC's 73rd Annual Report (2022-23), only ~6% of selected candidates clear in their first attempt; ~22% take four attempts; ~22% take three. The third and fourth attempts are the statistical sweet spot. Roughly 60% of all selections happen between attempts 3 and 4 — confirming that 2-4 years of post-graduate preparation is the typical path.