Check the detailed UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025 for General Studies Paper I and CSAT Paper II. Know exam pattern, preparation tips, important topics, and resources to crack UPSC CSE Prelims.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the UPSC 2025 notification, detailing the syllabus for the Preliminary Examination, which includes General Studies (GS) Paper I and CSAT Paper II. Understanding the UPSC Prelims syllabus is crucial for aspirants, as it helps in strategic preparation, focusing on key topics, and managing time effectively to clear the first stage of the exam.
This article provides an in-depth look into the UPSC Prelims Syllabus, structure, preparation tips, and resources to help aspirants clear the UPSC IAS Exam.
The UPSC Exam consists of three stages of examination and two stages have defined syllabus which are UPSC Prelims Syllabus and UPSC Mains syllabus. UPSC Prelims is the first stage of the three-tier Civil Services Examination process.
| Detailed Overview of UPSC Prelims Exam Pattern | |||
| UPSC Prelims Paper | General Studies Paper I– It Tests the candidate’s knowledge of various subjects and their application to current events. | ||
| General Studies Paper II (CSAT)- It tests the analytical ability, reasoning, and comprehension ability of candidates. | |||
| Duration | 2 hours | ||
| Timings | 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM | ||
| Shift | First Shift (Morning) | ||
| Mode | Offline | ||
| Evaluation Mode | General Studies Paper I | Marks considered for prelims cut-off marks | |
| General Studies Paper II (CSAT) (Qualifying | Qualifying in Nature (need 33% of total marks) | ||
| Marks Distribution | General Studies Paper I | 200 marks | 100 Questions |
| General Studies Paper II (CSAT) | 200 marks | 80 Questions | |
Also Read: UPSC Syallbus
UPSC Prelims Syllabus of General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I) |
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| Current Events of National and International Importance |
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| History of India and the Indian National Movement |
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| Indian and World Geography |
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| Indian Polity and Governance |
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| Economic and Social Development |
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| Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change |
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| General Science |
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This table outlines the syllabus for the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper II (CSAT), focusing on comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical ability, numerical skills, and decision-making.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus of General Studies Paper II (CSAT) |
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| Comprehension | Reading and understanding passages.
Critical analysis and interpretation. |
| Interpersonal Skills and Communication | Logical reasoning and decision-making. |
| Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability | Puzzles, patterns, and analytical reasoning questions. |
| Numerical Ability and Data Interpretation | Class X-level mathematics, including percentages, ratios, and graph interpretation. |
| Decision-Making and Problem-Solving | Situational judgment and ethical dilemmas. |
The UPSC Prelims syllabus serves as a blueprint for aspirants, outlining the topics to be covered and helping them plan their preparation in a focused and organized manner.
The syllabus highlights key subjects like current affairs, history, geography, and logical reasoning, ensuring aspirants concentrate on areas that are essential for clearing the examination.
By understanding the syllabus, candidates can prioritize high-scoring topics, allocate time efficiently, and avoid wasting effort on irrelevant or less important areas.
The syllabus balances knowledge-based subjects (GS Paper I) and aptitude skills (CSAT), ensuring aspirants develop both subject expertise and critical thinking abilities required for administrative roles.
A thorough understanding of the syllabus reduces uncertainty, allowing candidates to prepare strategically, assess their strengths, and approach the Prelims with confidence.
Also read: UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025
To prepare UPSC Prelims Syllabus for fetching good marks in UPSC Prelims Exam need following steps:
Here comes the most crucial aspect of UPSC prelims preparation i.e which book, test series other sources are required to cover the UPSC Prelims Syllabus:
Aspiring candidates need to keep these few things in mind while covering the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.
Yes, the UPSC Prelims syllabus is different for GS Paper 1 and GS Paper 2. GS Paper 1 covers general studies, while GS Paper 2 (CSAT) focuses on aptitude, reasoning, and comprehension.
No, there is no significant overlap between the UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 and GS Paper 2 syllabus. GS Paper 1 focuses on general knowledge, while GS Paper 2 is aptitude-based.
Covering the syllabus is essential, but candidates must also practice mock tests, revise regularly, and stay updated with current affairs to increase their chances of clearing the exam.
The official UPSC Prelims syllabus can be found on the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in) under the "Examination" section.
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