The UPSC Civil Services Exam (commonly known as the IAS Exam) is one of India’s most prestigious and competitive exams. Aspirants need to have a clear understanding of the exam’s syllabus to excel at every stage. The UPSC Civil Services Exam is conducted in three phases: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and the Personality Test (Interview). In this blog, we’ll provide you with the complete syllabus for each stage along with preparation tips.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus
The Preliminary Examination serves as a screening test. The Prelims consist of two papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Both papers are objective-type (multiple-choice questions) and must be cleared to qualify for the Mains. However, marks from Prelims are not counted in the final merit list.
General Studies Paper I (GS-I)
Marks: 200 | Duration: 2 Hours
This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge of a wide range of subjects. Below is the detailed syllabus:
- Current Events (National and International): Important developments in India and the world, government policies, summits, and international relations.
- History of India and Indian National Movement: Major historical events and movements from ancient to modern India.
- Geography: Physical geography, world geography, and Indian geography, including climate, vegetation, and resources.
- Indian Polity and Governance: The Indian Constitution, political systems, Panchayati Raj, public policy, rights issues, and governance in India.
- Economic and Social Development: Indian economy, poverty, inclusion, sustainable development, demographics, and social sector initiatives.
- Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change: General awareness of issues related to the environment, global warming, and conservation.
- General Science: Basic concepts of physics, chemistry, biology, and their relevance in day-to-day life.
General Studies Paper II (CSAT)
Marks: 200 | Duration: 2 Hours
Qualifying Marks: 33% (66 marks)
The CSAT paper tests a candidate’s aptitude and analytical skills. The syllabus includes:
- Comprehension: Reading comprehension passages and questions.
- Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Puzzles, statements and conclusions, seating arrangements, and data sufficiency.
- Decision-Making and Problem Solving: Real-life scenarios requiring logical decision-making.
- General Mental Ability: Questions based on reasoning and numerical aptitude.
- Basic Numeracy: Numbers, averages, percentages, ratios, data interpretation (up to Class X level).
Note: CSAT is qualifying in nature, meaning candidates need to score at least 33% to qualify for the Mains.
UPSC Mains Syllabus
The UPSC Mains Exam is descriptive in nature and consists of 9 papers, out of which 7 are counted for the merit ranking, and 2 are qualifying in nature. The exam tests a candidate’s academic knowledge as well as their ability to present ideas clearly and coherently.
List of Papers in UPSC Mains:
- Paper A: One of the Indian Languages (qualifying paper)
- Paper B: English (qualifying paper)
- Paper I: Essay
- Paper II: General Studies I
- Paper III: General Studies II
- Paper IV: General Studies III
- Paper V: General Studies IV
- Paper VI: Optional Subject Paper 1
- Paper VII: Optional Subject Paper 2
1. Qualifying Papers: Paper A & Paper B
- Paper A: One of the Indian languages listed in the Constitution (300 marks).
- Paper B: English Language (300 marks).
Both papers are qualifying in nature. Candidates must secure 25% in each to move ahead.
2. Paper I: Essay (250 Marks)
Candidates will be required to write essays on specific topics. The aim is to test the candidate’s ability to present their ideas coherently, concisely, and logically. The topics may cover:
- National and international issues.
- Social and economic topics.
- Philosophical or ethical questions.
3. General Studies Papers (Papers II – V)
Each General Studies paper carries 250 marks and tests knowledge across various subjects:
- GS Paper I (250 Marks): Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society.
- Indian culture and heritage.
- Modern Indian history and important personalities.
- World history and events shaping the modern world.
- Indian and world geography, resources, and physical geography.
- GS Paper II (250 Marks): Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.
- Indian Constitution and political system.
- Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States.
- Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population.
- International relations, India’s role in world politics.
- GS Paper III (250 Marks): Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management.
- Indian economy and government budgeting.
- Science and technology developments and applications.
- Environmental conservation, biodiversity, and climate change.
- Security challenges (internal and external) and disaster management.
- GS Paper IV (250 Marks): Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
- Ethics in public administration, accountability, and transparency.
- Ethical dilemmas, emotional intelligence, and moral integrity.
- Case studies on ethics and integrity in governance.
4. Optional Subject (Papers VI & VII)
Candidates must choose one optional subject from the list provided by UPSC. Each optional subject has two papers (250 marks each). Popular optional subjects include:
- Public Administration
- Sociology
- History
- Geography
- Political Science and International Relations
5. Language Papers
- Paper A: One Indian language (from the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution). This paper is qualifying in nature.
- Paper B: English language paper. This paper is also qualifying and tests basic language comprehension and writing skills.
UPSC Personality Test (Interview)
The final stage of the exam is the Personality Test (Interview), which carries 275 marks. The interview assesses the candidate’s personality, communication skills, and ability to handle complex issues. It aims to evaluate traits such as leadership, clarity of thought, and decision-making skills.
Preparation Strategy and Tips for UPSC 2024
- Understand the Syllabus: Keep the syllabus in hand while preparing and make sure to cover all the topics in a structured manner.
- Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between General Studies, optional subjects, and the essay paper.
- Current Affairs: Read daily newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express and follow credible online portals for updates on national and international events.
- Mock Tests: Practice previous years’ question papers and take mock tests regularly to gauge your performance.
- Answer Writing Practice: Since the Mains exam is descriptive, practice writing clear, concise, and well-structured answers.
Conclusion
The UPSC Civil Services Syllabus is vast, but with the right strategy and consistent effort, you can tackle it effectively. Understanding the syllabus is the foundation of your preparation. Make sure you follow a disciplined study plan, stay updated with current affairs, and practice regularly. Download the complete syllabus PDF from the link below and stay tuned for more UPSC preparation tips.
Good luck with your preparation!