UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026: Check out the UPSC CSAT Syllabus pdf, covering all the topics for Maths and Reasoning. Get a detailed topic-wise breakdown to help you prepare.
theIAShub | 13 Aug, 2025 | 6705 | 0 |
UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026: The UPSC CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test), also known as GS Paper-2, is an important part of the UPSC Prelims Examination. In this article, we’ll provide you with detailed insights into the UPSC CSAT syllabus, the exam pattern, and tips on how to prepare effectively for the exam. We will also break down the key topics in the Math and Reasoning sections.
Preparing for the UPSC CSAT requires dedication and regular practice. Understanding the syllabus and staying updated with the latest changes is crucial for effective preparation. In this article below, find topic-wise breakdown to help you prepare for the CSAT 2025.
UPSC CSAT is a mandatory paper in the UPSC Prelims exam and evaluates a candidate’s aptitude and general mental ability. Introduced in 2011, it includes questions on comprehension, logical reasoning, and basic numeracy. Clearing the CSAT is essential to qualify for the Mains examination.
You can download the UPSC CSAT Syllabus PDF once it is released with the official UPSC notification for 2026. This document will help you understand all the topics and help structure your preparation.
Understanding the UPSC CSAT exam pattern is key to success. The exam includes questions from comprehension, logical reasoning, numeracy, and more. Below is the table for the exam pattern:
| Feature | Details |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Mode of Exam | Pen and Paper |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Number of Questions | 80 |
| Negative Marking | 1/3rd of the marks for each wrong answer |
| Qualifying Marks | 33% (66.67 Marks) |
To qualify for the Mains, you must score at least 33% in the CSAT paper.
UPSC CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) is an important part of the IAS Prelims syllabus. It is designed to test a candidate’s reasoning, analytical skills, and critical thinking. Although it is an essential exam, the CSAT syllabus is less extensive than the General Studies Paper 1 in the UPSC Prelims. Let’s explore the detailed UPSC CSAT syllabus for 2026.
Key Areas of the UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026:
| Topic | Description |
| Comprehension | Tests the ability to understand and analyze a given passage or text. |
| Interpersonal Skills | Includes communication skills, teamwork, and the ability to handle interpersonal situations. |
| Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability | Assesses the ability to think critically and solve complex problems. |
| Decision Making & Problem Solving | Focuses on the candidate’s ability to make decisions and solve real-life problems. |
| General Mental Ability | Includes reasoning, problem-solving, and logical deduction. |
| Basic Numeracy (Class X Level) | Tests basic arithmetic skills, including numbers, relationships, and orders of magnitude. |
| Data Interpretation (Class X Level) | Includes interpreting charts, graphs, tables, and solving problems related to data. |
Important Notes:
CSAT Maths Syllabus 2026 includes topics related to numeracy and general mathematical ability. Here’s a breakdown of key topics:
| Math Topics | Details |
| Number Systems | Basics of numbers, prime numbers, etc. |
| LCM & HCF | Least Common Multiple and Highest Common Factor |
| Percentages | Calculations related to percentage increase or decrease |
| Ratio & Proportion | Relationships between numbers in different scenarios |
| Time & Work | Problems related to work and efficiency |
| Profit & Loss | Calculations in business and finance |
| Probability | Basic probability concepts and calculations |
| Mensuration | Area, volume, and surface area of geometric shapes |
Mastering these topics will ensure you are ready for the Maths section of the CSAT.
Reasoning is another important part of the CSAT. It includes two key areas: Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability (LR & AA) and Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency (DI & DS). Below is a breakdown:
| Reasoning Topics | Details |
| Logical Reasoning | Analogy, Series, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, etc. |
| Data Interpretation | Table charts, Pie charts, Bar charts, etc. |
| Mathematical Reasoning | Puzzles, Patterns, Statement-Conclusion, etc. |
| Data Sufficiency | Questions based on the adequacy of data |
Regular practice in these areas will improve your problem-solving and reasoning skills.
Here are some effective preparation tips for the UPSC CSAT 2026:
Staying consistent with your preparation and following these tips will help you perform well in the CSAT exam.
Yes, the CSAT exam is tough.
No, you should not ignore the CSAT paper in UPSC.
Yes, CSAT is compulsory for the IAS exam.
Yes, the UPSC CSAT includes maths up to the 10th-grade level. The syllabus covers topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
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The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:
This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.
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