Ultimate Guide to UPSC Exam Pattern: Tips, Strategies & Preparation Techniques

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Ultimate Guide to UPSC Exam Pattern

Naman Sharma | Jul 26, 2023 |

Ultimate Guide to UPSC Exam Pattern: Tips, Strategies & Preparation Techniques

Ultimate Guide to UPSC Exam Pattern: Tips, Strategies & Preparation Techniques

Are you a driven person hoping to land a top position with the Indian government? If so, you might find what you’re seeking for by taking the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam. A thorough knowledge of the UPSC exam format and diligent preparation are required for this demanding and comprehensive exam. So let’s break down the UPSC test procedure step by step to assist you in creating the most effective study schedule for your UPSC journey.

In India, one of the most difficult tests is the UPSC Civil Services Exam. The three-stage exam gauges a candidate’s readiness for public service in terms of knowledge, skills, and aptitude. The exam format is intended to evaluate a candidate’s prospects for success in the Indian Civil Service in general.

The Preliminary Examination is the first part of the test. General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II are the two required papers for this test. The first General Studies Paper assesses the candidate’s understanding of science, politics, economics, history, geography, and current events. The General Studies Paper II examines the candidate’s capacity for analysis and problem-solving. For General Studies Paper I, the minimum passing score is 33%, and for General Studies Paper II, the minimum passing score is 66. The only applicants who will be permitted to take the Main Examination are those who pass the Preliminary Examination.

Table of Content
  1. First Stage of UPSC Exam Pattern:
  2. Second Stage for UPSC Exam Pattern:
  3. Final Stage for UPSC Exam Pattern:
  4. Tips for UPSC Exam:

First Stage of UPSC Exam Pattern:

The Preliminary Examination is the initial step in your UPSC career. It comprises of two objective tests, General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (also known as CSAT – Civil Services Aptitude Test).

This paper assesses the candidate’s understanding of current events, Indian history, Indian and global geography, Indian polity and governance, economic and social development, environmental ecology, and general science.

The General Studies Paper II (CSAT) examines the candidate’s aptitude, comprehension, decision-making, and problem-solving ability. Questions on comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical abilities, and English language comprehension skills are included in the paper.

Second Stage for UPSC Exam Pattern:

The Main Examination is the second stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. This exam consists of nine papers:

Paper I: Essay
Paper II: General Studies 1
Paper III: General Studies 2
Paper IV: General Studies 3
Paper V: General Studies 4
Paper VI: Optional Subject 1
Paper VII: Optional Subject 2
Paper VIII: Language Paper (A)
Paper IX: Language Paper (B)

The papers in the Main Examination are of 250 marks each, except for Paper VIII and Paper IX, which are of 300 marks each. The qualifying marks for the Main Examination are 25% for each paper.

Final Stage for UPSC Exam Pattern:

This is the last stage of the IAS Exam before the results are announced. Officially known as the Interview/Personality Test, it is included in the Mains Examination for merit ranking purposes. It is considered the third step of preparation because preparation tactics for the written and interview stages differ. The UPSC board will conduct an interview to examine the candidates’ fitness for a civil service career and concomitant duties, according to the IAS exam pattern. The board is made up of qualified and neutral observers with prior knowledge of the candidates’ careers. The board would assess the candidates’ mental and social abilities by posing general-interest questions. Mental alertness, critical capacities of absorption, clear and logical presentation, a balance of judgement, range and depth of interest, aptitude for social cohesion and leadership, intellectual and moral integrity are some of the attributes that the board looks for.

Tips for UPSC Exam:

Here are some more preparation ideas for the UPSC Civil Services Examination:

  1. Begin early and leave plenty of time for studying.
  2. Make a study schedule and stick to it.
  3. Join a study group or locate a mentor to assist you in your preparation.
  4. Test your knowledge by answering questions from past years’ papers.
  5. Examine your progress with simulated examinations.
  6. Maintain your motivation and do not give up.

The total number of marks available for the UPSC Civil Services Examination is 2025. The Preliminary Examination marks are not factored towards the final ranking. The results of the Main Examination and the Personality Test are combined to determine the candidates’ final ranking.

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is a difficult exam, but it also provides an opportunity to serve your country meaningfully. If you want to work for the Indian Civil Service, I recommend you to read more about the exam and start studying right now through Our official website.

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