UPSC Syllabus 2024 PDF – UPSC IAS Prelims & Mains Syllabus

We are providing a general overview of the UPSC syllabus for your understanding. The UPSC examination consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test/Interview.

The Preliminary Examination consists of two papers: General Studies Paper-I and CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) Paper II.

The General Studies Paper-I includes topics such as current events of national and international importance, the history of India and the Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography- Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World, Indian Polity and Governance, Economic and Social Development, General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change, and General Science.

The CSAT Paper II is designed to test the candidate’s comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, problem-solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy, and data interpretation skills.

The following is a detailed breakdown of the UPSC Preliminary Examination syllabus:

Paper-I:

Current events of national and international importance

This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of recent events that have taken place both in India and around the world. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of the latest developments in politics, economics, science and technology, and other important fields.

Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.

This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of the Indian Constitution and its various provisions, as well as the political system of India. Candidates are also expected to have a good understanding of issues related to public policy, rights, and governance.

Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.

This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of various economic and social issues that affect the country. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and various social sector initiatives.

General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization

This section tests the candidate’s understanding of various environmental issues such as ecology, biodiversity, and climate change. Candidates are not required to have any subject specialization in this area.

General Science

This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of basic scientific concepts, theories, and principles.

Paper-II:

Comprehension

This section tests the candidate’s ability to understand and interpret various passages.

Interpersonal skills including communication skills

This section tests the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively and interact with others in various situations.

Logical reasoning and analytical ability

This section tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and analyze various situations.

Decision-making and problem-solving

This section tests the candidate’s ability to make decisions and solve problems effectively.

General mental ability

This section tests the candidate’s general mental ability, including the ability to understand and analyze various situations.

It is important to note that Paper II is only qualifying in nature and its marks are not counted in the candidate’s final score. However, candidates are required to score a minimum of 33% in this paper to qualify for the Main Examination.

The UPSC Preliminary Examination syllabus is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge, understanding, and analytical abilities in various fields. Candidates are advised to go through the syllabus carefully and prepare accordingly. It is also important to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in various fields and have a good understanding of the basic concepts and principles. With the right preparation and hard work, candidates can crack the UPSC Preliminary Examination and move on to the next stage of the CSE.

The Main Examination consists of nine papers, out of which seven are considered for ranking and two are qualifying in nature. The seven papers that are considered for ranking include Essay, General Studies Paper-I, General Studies Paper-II, General Studies Paper-III, General Studies Paper-IV, Optional Subject Paper-I, and Optional Subject Paper-II. The two qualifying papers include Indian Language and English Language. The Essay paper requires candidates to write essays on multiple topics. The General Studies Papers cover topics related to Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society, Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations, Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management, and Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. The Optional Subject Papers allow candidates to choose one subject from a list of optional subjects.

The Main Examination consists of nine papers, out of which seven are counted for merit ranking. The Main Examination is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge, analytical abilities, and writing skills in various fields.

The following is a detailed breakdown of the UPSC Main Examination syllabus:

Paper A: Indian Language

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of any Indian language listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. The paper is designed to test the candidate’s comprehension, grammar, and writing skills in the chosen language.

Paper B: English

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s comprehension, grammar, and writing skills in English.

Paper I: Essay

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s ability to write an essay on a given topic in a structured and coherent manner. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of the topic, and their essay should reflect their analytical abilities and thought processes.

Paper II: General Studies I

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of various subjects such as Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of the historical and cultural context of India and the world.

Paper III: General Studies II

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of various subjects such as Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of the Indian Constitution and its provisions, as well as the political system of India.

Paper IV: General Studies III

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of various subjects such as Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of various economic and environmental issues that affect the country.

Paper V: General Studies IV

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s understanding of various ethical and moral issues that arise in public life. Candidates are expected to have a good understanding of various ethical concepts and principles, as well as their application in public life.

Paper VI: Optional Subject Paper I

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of their optional subject. Candidates can choose one optional subject from the list provided by the UPSC.

Paper VII: Optional Subject Paper II

This paper is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of their optional subject. Candidates can choose one optional subject from the list provided by the UPSC.

It is important to note that the UPSC Main Examination syllabus is extensive and requires a lot of preparation and hard work. Candidates are advised to go through the syllabus carefully and prepare accordingly. They should also keep up-to-date with the latest developments in various fields and have a good understanding of the basic concepts and principles.

The UPSC Main Examination syllabus is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge, analytical abilities, and writing skills in various fields. Candidates who are well-prepared and have a good understanding of the syllabus and the basic concepts and principles can crack the examination and move one step closer to their dream of serving the country.

The Personality Test/Interview is the final stage of the UPSC examination and is designed to assess the candidate’s personality, interests, and current affairs knowledge.

The Personality Test is conducted by a board of experienced and knowledgeable individuals who have years of experience in the relevant fields. The board comprises eminent personalities from various fields such as academia, civil services, and other relevant domains. The board assesses the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, and overall suitability for the job.

The following is a detailed breakdown of the UPSC Personality Test/Interview:

Objectives of the Interview

The primary objective of the interview is to assess the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, and overall suitability for the job. The interview panel also tries to gauge the candidate’s depth of knowledge, clarity of thought, and analytical abilities.

 Duration and Format of the Interview

The interview lasts for around 30 minutes to an hour. The format of the interview is an open-ended conversation between the candidate and the interview panel. The panel may ask questions on a wide range of topics such as the candidate’s background, education, work experience, hobbies, interests, and current affairs.

 Assessment Criteria

The interview panel assesses the candidate based on various criteria such as:

Mental alertness and critical powers of assimilation

Clear and logical exposition

Balance of judgment

Variety and depth of interest

The ability for social cohesion and leadership

Intellectual and moral integrity

 Preparation for the Interview

Preparation for the interview is crucial as it can make or break the candidate’s chances of success. Candidates should keep the following things in mind while preparing for the interview:

Be thorough with the information provided in the Detailed Application Form (DAF)

Stay updated with the latest news and current affairs

Develop a strong understanding of the optional subject chosen

Practice mock interviews to improve communication skills and build confidence

Read and understand the basics of the Indian Constitution, polity, economy, and other relevant subjects

 Dos and Don’ts for the Interview

Candidates should keep the following Dos and Don’ts in mind while appearing for the interview:

Dos:

Dress appropriately in formal attire

Be confident and maintain eye contact with the panel members

Listen to the questions carefully and answer them with clarity and precision

Support your answers with relevant examples and data

Be honest and candid in your answers

Don’ts:

Don’t be overconfident or arrogant

Don’t try to bluff or mislead the panel

Don’t lose your cool or get flustered if you don’t know the answer to a question

Don’t make derogatory remarks about any individual or community

The UPSC Personality Test/Interview is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination, and it is designed to test the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, and overall suitability for the job. Candidates should prepare well and be confident while appearing for the interview. They should also keep the Dos and Don’ts in mind to ensure that they present themselves in the best possible light. With the right preparation and approach, candidates can crack the interview and move one step closer to their dream of serving the country.

Please note that this is a general overview of the UPSC syllabus, and the actual syllabus may vary from year to year. Candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website for the latest information on the syllabus and examination pattern.