Check the UPSC Mains Subjects List 2025, including compulsory and optional subjects. Get details on GS papers, essay, and language papers for effective preparation.
theIAShub | 14 Feb, 2025 | 6837 | 0 |
The UPSC Mains Subjects demand comprehensive preparation and a deep understanding of various topics. Each paper holds unique importance and requires tailored strategies for success. The Mains examination, the second stage of the selection process, evaluates candidates on their academic knowledge, analytical skills, and writing ability. This article provides an in-depth overview of UPSC Mains Subjects and their importance for aspirants.
The UPSC Mains Subjects are designed to assess candidates’ intellectual depth and understanding of diverse fields. This stage consists of nine papers, categorized into compulsory and optional subjects. While some papers test general aptitude and language proficiency, others evaluate the aspirant’s knowledge in specific areas.
The structure of the Mains subjects ensures a balanced evaluation, requiring candidates to excel in both their chosen optional subjects and the General Studies papers. A clear understanding of the UPSC Mains Subjects is vital for effective preparation and success in this competitive examination.
| Overview of the UPSC Mains Subjects List | ||
| Paper | Type | Marks |
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 |
| Paper B | English | 300 |
| Paper I | Essay | 250 |
| Paper II | GS 1 | 250 |
| Paper III | GS 2 | 250 |
| Paper IV | GS 3 | 250 |
| Paper V | GS 4 | 250 |
| Paper VI & VII | Optional Subject | 500 |
| Total | 1750 | |
The UPSC Mains Examination consists of nine papers, including four General Studies (GS) papers, an essay paper, two optional papers, and two qualifying language papers. The compulsory subjects for the UPSC exam include GS papers and two language papers, designed to test candidates’ comprehensive knowledge and analytical skills. Marks from seven papers (excluding qualifying papers) determine the final rank and selection.
| Paper | Description |
| Essay Paper | Candidates write two essays, one from each section, testing articulation, coherence, and structure. |
| GS Paper 1 | Covers Indian Heritage and Culture, History, Geography, globalization, social empowerment, and more. |
| GS Paper 2 | Focuses on Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations. |
| GS Paper 3 | Includes Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management. |
| GS Paper 4 (Ethics) | Deals with Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude; evaluates ethical and moral perspectives. |
| Indian Language Paper | Tests proficiency in an Indian language chosen from the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. |
| English Language Paper | Assesses English language skills; marks are not included in the final ranking. |
| Optional Paper 1 | Questions based on an optional subject chosen from UPSC’s list. |
| Optional Paper 2 | The second paper of the chosen optional subject. |
The following is the list of optional subjects offered by UPSC for the Mains examination:
UPSC offers a total of 25 optional subjects and 23 literature subjects for candidates to choose from. Each candidate must select one optional subject, which consists of two papers, contributing a total of 500 marks to the final score.
Yes, candidates can select any optional subject from the list provided by UPSC. However, it is advisable to choose a subject based on interest, background knowledge, and availability of study materials. Certain technical subjects may be more suitable for candidates with a specialized academic background.
The Indian language paper is compulsory for all candidates except those from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim. These candidates are exempted from the Indian language paper as per UPSC guidelines.
The optional subject plays a crucial role in UPSC Mains as it carries 500 marks out of the total 1750. A strong performance in the optional subject can significantly impact a candidate’s final rank and chances of selection in the Civil Services Examination.
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