Understand the UPSC Mains Marks Distribution and how marks are allocated across various papers and subjects. Learn how this distribution affects your exam strategy.
theIAShub | 08 Jan, 2025 | 6164 | 0 |
The UPSC Mains Marks Distribution is a crucial aspect of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, as it provides candidates with a clear understanding of how their performance will be evaluated across various papers. The Mains exam consists of several written papers, including General Studies, Optional Subjects, and an Essay paper, each contributing a significant portion to the final score.
The UPSC Mains examination consists of nine papers, out of which seven are counted for merit ranking. The remaining two are qualifying in nature. Each paper is subjective, and the total marks for the Mains examination are 1750. Adding the Interview stage (275 marks), the total marks for the UPSC Civil Services Examination come to 2025.
The UPSC Mains exam consists of multiple papers, each carrying different marks. Understanding the subject-wise marks distribution is essential for aspirants to plan their preparation effectively and focus on key areas that contribute to the final score. Here’s the detailed breakdown:
The two language papers—Paper A (Indian Language) and Paper B (English)—are of qualifying nature.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Nature |
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper B | English | 300 | Qualifying |
Paper I of the UPSC Mains is the Essay paper, which carries 250 marks. Aspirants are required to write two essays, showcasing their critical thinking, coherence, and ability to articulate ideas clearly.
The General Studies (GS) section includes four papers, each carrying 250 marks:
| Paper | Subjects Covered | Marks |
| GS Paper I | Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society | 250 |
| GS Paper II | Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations | 250 |
| GS Paper III | Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management | 250 |
| GS Paper IV | Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude | 250 |
Optional subjects allow candidates to choose based on their expertise or interest. There are two papers for the optional subject:
| Paper | Marks |
| Optional Paper 1 | 250 Marks |
| Optional Paper II | 250 Marks |
Paper 6 and 7 in UPSC Mains are the two optional subject papers, each carrying 250 marks. These papers allow candidates to delve into a subject of their expertise or interest.
The lowest marks in UPSC Mains can vary each year based on the cut-off and performance of candidates. However, securing below the minimum qualifying marks in any paper (language or merit-based) can lead to disqualification.
The marks required to secure a position in the IAS cadre depend on the cut-off, which varies annually. Typically, candidates need to score around 950-1050 marks or above to ensure a spot in the IAS list.
The total marks for the UPSC Mains and Interview combined is 2025. The Mains exam carries 1750 marks, while the Interview (Personality Test) is worth 275 marks.
The UPSC Mains exam is allotted a total of 1750 marks, which includes 9 papers across various subjects, including General Studies and Optional Subjects.
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