UPSC EXAM

This exam is conducted by the Government of India to recruit candidates for various civil services positions like Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and many others.

Here are the key details you need to know about the UPSC exam:

1. Exam Stages:- The UPSC exam consists of three stages: – Preliminary Examination (Prelims):

This is the first stage of the exam. It consists of two objective-type papers – General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT).

The marks obtained in Prelims are not counted for final ranking, but it’s essential to clear this stage to proceed to the next. –

Main Examination (Mains): Candidates who qualify in Prelims move on to the Mains.

It consists of nine descriptive papers – Essay, General Studies (I to IV), Optional Subject (Paper I and II), and two language papers.

Marks obtained in Mains along with the interview marks are considered for final ranking.

This is conducted by a board appointed by the UPSC.

It’s aimed at assessing the candidate’s personality, suitability for the civil services, and depth of knowledge.

2. Eligibility Criteria:- To be eligible for the UPSC exam, candidates must: – Be a citizen of India.

– Be at least 21 years old and not more than 32 years old (relaxations apply for certain categories).

– Hold a degree from a recognized university or possess an equivalent qualification.

Syllabus: The syllabus for UPSC exam is extensive and covers various subjects including History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science & Technology, Environment & Ecology, Current Affairs, and others.

Candidates also have to choose an optional subject for the Mains exam.

4. Application Process: The application process for the UPSC exam usually begins several months before the exam date.

Candidates need to apply online through the official UPSC website.

The application includes filling out personal details, educational qualifications, and uploading necessary documents.

5. Exam Dates: The UPSC exam is usually conducted in three stages spread over several months.

The Prelims are typically held in June, the Mains in September, and the interviews start from February onwards.

6. Preparation: Preparation for the UPSC exam requires consistent effort and dedication.

Candidates need to have a deep understanding of the subjects mentioned in the syllabus.

Regular reading of newspapers, reference books, and practice through mock tests are essential parts of preparation.

7. Result and Selection: The final result of the UPSC exam is usually declared in a few months after the interview stage.

Candidates are then allocated services based on their ranks and preferences.

The UPSC exam demands hard work, perseverance, and a thorough understanding of diverse subjects.

It’s not just an exam; it’s a journey that tests not only academic knowledge but also analytical skills, decision-making abilities, and personality traits.

So, if you’re aspiring to join the civil services and serve the nation, the UPSC exam is your gateway to that dream.

Preliminary Examination Syllabus:Paper-I:

General Studies

1. Current events of national and international importance: This section covers events and issues from various fields such as politics, economy, science and technology, environment, etc.

Candidates should stay updated with current affairs through newspapers, magazines, and online sources.

2. History of India and Indian National Movement: Focuses on the significant events, personalities, and movements that shaped India’s history and its struggle for independence.

NCERT textbooks, standard history books, and online resources can be referred to for preparation.

3. Indian and World Geography: This includes physical, social, economic geography of India and the world.

Maps, atlases, NCERT textbooks, and reference books on geography are useful for preparation.

4. Indian Polity and Governance: Covers the Constitution of India, political system, public policy, governance, and various constitutional bodies.

Standard textbooks on Indian polity and governance along with the Constitution of India are important for this section.

5. Economic and Social Development: Focuses on sustainable development, poverty, demographics, social sector initiatives, etc. Candidates should refer to NCERT textbooks, economic survey reports, and standard books on Indian economy.

6. General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change:** Covers environmental conservation, biodiversity, and climate change issues. NCERT textbooks on environmental science, reports of organizations like IPCC, and relevant government policies can be referred to.

7. General Science: This section tests the candidate’s understanding of basic science concepts.

NCERT textbooks of science from class 6 to 10 are helpful along with additional reference books.

Paper-II: CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test)

1. Comprehension: Testing the candidate’s ability to understand and analyze passages.

2. Interpersonal skills including communication skills:

Covers verbal and non-verbal communication, and listening skills.

3. Logical reasoning and analytical ability:

Includes questions on analogies, similarities, differences, problem-solving, etc.

4. Decision-making and problem-solving:

Assessing the candidate’s ability to make decisions and solve problems.

5. General mental ability: Testing the candidate’s logical, numerical, and verbal abilities.

Materials Required

1. NCERT Textbooks:-For basics and fundamental understanding of various subjects.

2. Reference Books: Standard textbooks recommended by toppers and coaching institutes for in-depth understanding.

3. Newspapers and Magazines:- Reading newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and magazines like Yojana, Kurukshetra, etc., to stay updated with current affairs.

4. Online Resources:- Websites like PIB, PRS, and government websites for government schemes, reports, and policy updates.

5. Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers:- Practicing mock tests and solving previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and improve time management.

6. Maps and Atlases: For the geography section, maps and atlases are essential for understanding locations and geographical features.

7. CSAT Preparation Books:- Books specifically designed for CSAT preparation focusing on comprehension, logical reasoning, etc. Remember, consistent and focused preparation along with revision is key to cracking the UPSC Preliminary Examination. Good luck!