The Comprehensive Guide to UPSC Prelims and Mains Syllabus

Dear aspirants, in this detailed guide, we will explore the comprehensive structure of the UPSC Prelims and Mains exams. Understanding the syllabus is crucial for success, as it serves as a roadmap to your preparation journey. Let’s dive right in!

UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2022

The Preliminary Examination of the UPSC Civil Service Examination marks the beginning of your journey, with a success rate of 5%. This exam is known for its vast coverage of topics, making it essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus before you start your preparation.

Structure of UPSC Prelims

General Awareness (GS Paper I): Questions on current affairs, static GK, and general reasoning. Compulsory Paper II: Comprehension, logical reasoning, and verbal ability.

Key Sections:

Current Affairs: Including national and international news, happening in society, and politics. Static GK: Including geography, economics, history, and culture. Reasoning: Including problem-solving, logical thinking, and general mental ability. Comprehension: Including reading and comprehension tests, correction of grammar, and writing skills.

UPSC Mains Syllabus

The UPSC Mains Paper offers multiple-choice question papers, providing candidates with an opportunity to explore various subjects. Resources for aspirants to pick their strengths, thereby increasing their overall scores.

Language Papers (Paper I and II)

Indian Language and English: While these papers are qualifying in nature, failure to score above 25 marks will disqualify you from further evaluation. The structure includes:

One Essay Question (100 Marks): Candidates must choose one out of several given topics. Reading Comprehension (60 Marks): Comprehension and related questions follow a set pattern. Precise Writing (60 Marks): Written in a structured format with grid-spacing. Translation (40 Marks): Includes translation from English to chosen language and vice versa. Grammar and Basic Usage (40 Marks): Questions on synonyms, sentence correction, etc.

Essay Writing

Essay writing in the UPSC Mains syllabus does not have a prescribed syllabus. However, candidates are expected to write two essays from a chosen list covering various topics, with a total of 250 marks. The emphasis is on staying focused and organizing thoughts effectively.

General Studies (GS) Papers

There are four GS papers, each covering different domains to test candidates' knowledge and analytical skills.

GS Paper I - Indian Culture and Modern History

This paper covers various aspects of Indian culture, literature, and architecture from ancient to modern times. It also includes:

Significant events, issues, and personalities during the mid-18th century to the present. The freedom struggle and post-independence consolidation. Modern Indian history and significant milestones.

GS Paper II - Constitution and Governance

This paper tests knowledge about the Indian Constitution, including:

Evolution and historical backdrop of the Indian constitution. Functions and responsibilities of the union and states. Issues pertaining to the federal structure. Structure and functioning of the judiciary, different ministries, and bodies.

GS Paper III - Economy and Environment

This section evaluates knowledge of India's economy, issues related to planning, investments, and infrastructure. It also covers:

Scientific and technological developments and their applications. Environmental conservation and disaster management. Issues related to social sector services, including health, education, and poverty.

GS Paper IV - Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

This paper assesses candidates' attitudes and problem-solving approach to ethical issues:

Essence of ethics and human interface. Ethical sensitivity and governance. Public and civil service values and ethics in public administration.

Optional Subject

After completing the Mains, candidates can choose from 48 optional subjects. For example, Ujjwal Tyagi chose Geography. The optional subject can help you specialize in a specific field and excel in the interview stage.

Conclusion

Understanding the UPSC Prelims and Mains syllabus is the first step towards success. With the right approach, you can navigate this challenging journey effectively. Best of luck to all the aspirants!