UPSC Previous Year Papers PDFs Download

Download UPSC Previous Year Papers (PYQs) for Prelims & Mains. Access PDFs of last year's PDFS, practice mock tests, and enhance exam preparation.

UPSC Previous Year Paper/UPSC PYQs

UPSC conducts one of the most prestigious examinations in India to select candidates for various civil services. One of the most effective methods for preparing for the UPSC exam is solving the previous year’s question papers (PYQs). This helps candidates understand the exam pattern, frequently asked topics, and the level of difficulty.

UPSC Prelims PYQs

UPSC Prelims consists of two papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Previous year papers can give candidates insight into the variety of questions asked and the shift in trends over the years.

Key Features of Prelims PYQs:

  • General Studies Paper I: Questions focus on current affairs, history, geography, economics, environment, and polity.
  • General Studies Paper II (CSAT): Questions are related to aptitude, reasoning, and decision-making skills.

Last Ten Years UPSC Prelims Previous Year Papers Pdf:

UPSC Prelims PYQs
  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2015

UPSC Prelims 2015 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2015 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2016

UPSC Prelims 2016 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2016 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2017

UPSC Prelims 2017 General Studies Paper – I

UPSC Prelims 2017 General Studies Paper – II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2018

UPSC Prelims 2018 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2018 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2019

UPSC Prelims 2019 General Studies Paper-I

UPSC Prelims 2019 General Studies Paper-II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2020

UPSC Prelims 2020 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2020 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2021

UPSC Prelims 2021 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2021 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2022

UPSC Prelims 2022 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2022 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2023

UPSC Prelims 2023 General Studies Paper I

UPSC Prelims 2023 General Studies Paper II

  • Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2024

UPSC Prelims 2024 General Studies Paper – I

UPSC Prelims 2024 General Studies Paper – II

UPSC Mains PYQs

UPSC Mains consists of nine papers, including essay writing, general studies, and optional subject papers. Mains PYQs provide a deeper understanding of the expected answer writing format and the depth of knowledge required for each subject.

Key Features of Mains PYQs:

  • General Studies Papers (I-IV): These focus on subjects like governance, social issues, international relations, ethics, and more.
  • Essay Paper: Understanding the type of essay questions asked and how to structure the answers is crucial for Mains preparation.
  • Optional Paper: Candidates opting for a particular subject must focus on previous year papers of that subject to identify the key areas.

Last 5 Years UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers Pdf:

UPSC Mains 2020 General Studies Paper

 

UPSC Mains 2021 General Studies Paper

 

UPSC Mains 2022 General Studies Paper

 

UPSC Mains 2023 General Studies Paper

 

UPSC Mains 2024 General Studies Paper

UPSC PYQs Importance

  • Understanding the exam pattern: The UPSC exam has a specific pattern that is consistent over the years. By solving PYQs, candidates can familiarize themselves with this pattern.
  • Time management practice: By attempting papers under timed conditions, aspirants can improve their speed and efficiency.
  • Identifying important topics: Repeated questions often indicate key areas that are regularly tested, helping candidates prioritize their study areas.
  • Enhancing Concept Application:
    PYQs encourage candidates to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical questions, bridging the gap between concepts and real exam scenarios.

How to use UPSC Previous Year Papers Effectively

  • Mock Test Practice: Treat PYQs like mock exams. Set a timer and solve papers under exam-like conditions.
  • Topic-wise Analysis: After solving the papers, analyze which topics you are strong in and which ones require more attention.
  • Revision of Concepts: Use PYQs to revise concepts and understand how different topics are linked to each other in the exam.
UPSC Previous Year Papers

Are you preparing for UPSC 2025? Join IAShub’s UPSC coaching batches to boost your preparation. Enroll now!

UPSC PYQs FAQs

It is recommended to solve at least the last 10 years of UPSC Prelims and Mains question papers. This provides a good understanding of trends, frequently asked topics, and the changing exam pattern over the years.

Solving PYQs under timed conditions simulates the real exam environment. This practice improves speed and efficiency, ensuring that candidates can manage their time effectively during both the Prelims and Mains exams.

The CSAT paper assesses reasoning, comprehension, and decision-making abilities. By solving PYQs, candidates can identify the types of questions asked, understand their difficulty level, and practice logical reasoning and problem-solving skills to improve their performance.

Yes, UPSC Previous Year Papers are available online in PDF format. Many websites including the official UPSC website and various educational portals provide PYQ papers.

 

guest

0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

Join theIAShub’s Mains Answer Writing Program

Refine your answer writing skills and elevate your UPSC preparation with personalized support and expert feedback.

Fill out the form to get started with the program or any other enquiries !

Let's Connect with Counselor

Empowering Future Leaders with theIAShub

theIAShub is dedicated to shaping the next generation of civil servants by providing a transformative preparation platform tailored to the unique challenges of UPSC CSE. From mastering the foundational concepts for Prelims to crafting impactful answers for Mains and excelling in the Personality Test, we ensure every aspirant is equipped with the skills and strategies required to succeed.
With a perfect blend of online and offline learning options, our programs are designed to deliver personalized guidance and cutting-edge resources. theIAShub’s renowned Test Series for GS Prelims, Mains, CSAT, Essay, and Optional Subjects empowers aspirants through continuous evaluation and improvement, fostering a deep understanding and readiness for every stage of the examination.

Shaping Aspirants into Visionary Leaders

At theIAShub, our mission is to inspire, guide, and empower aspirants to transform their potential into tangible success. Through our innovative mentorship ecosystem, aspirants receive individualized feedback, actionable strategies, and focused attention that help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. As pioneers in UPSC preparation, we combine expertise, innovation, and commitment to create an unparalleled learning experience. Whether through engaging workshops, insightful resources, or interactive sessions, theIAShub fosters a community where aspirants not only prepare for exams but also develop the mindset of future leaders dedicated to nation-building.

Join theIAShub and become part of a transformative journey, where your aspirations meet the guidance, support, and excellence needed to succeed in the world of civil services.