UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025, GS Paper I and CSAT Exam, Download PDF!

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.

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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.

What is the UPSC CSE Prelims Exam Before Exploring the UPSC Prelims Syllabus

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 IIt 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 Overview 

The UPSC Prelims Syllabus is designed to test an aspirant’s knowledge, comprehension, and analytical abilities. Candidates can download the official UPSC Civil services Exam form the official website of UPSC. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

This table outlines the syllabus for the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper I, covering key subjects such as current affairs, history, geography, polity, economy, environment, and general science.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus of General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I)

Current Events of National and International Importance
  • Recent developments in politics, economy, environment, and global relations.
  • Important government schemes and programs.
History of India and the Indian National Movement
  • Ancient India: Culture, architecture, and historical significance.
  • Medieval India: Socio-economic and cultural developments.
  • Modern India: Freedom struggle, key movements, and personalities.
Indian and World Geography
  • Physical Geography: Features like mountains, rivers, and climate.
  • Human Geography: Population trends, migration, and urbanization.
  • Economic Geography: Natural resources and industrial distribution.
Indian Polity and Governance
  • Indian Constitution: Features, amendments, and schedules.
  • Political systems and governance frameworks.
  • Rights issues, public policy, and Panchayati Raj institutions.
Economic and Social Development
  • Concepts of sustainable development, poverty, and inclusion.
  • Government initiatives like Make in India, Start-Up India, and digital transformation.
Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change
  • Basics of ecology and biodiversity.
  • Environmental conservation efforts and international protocols.
General Science
  • Basic understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • Recent technological advancements and their applications.

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)

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.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus Download Pdf- UPSC Prelims Syllabus

Why Understanding of UPSC Prelims Syllabus is Important?

The UPSC Prelims syllabus holds immense importance as it serves as the foundation for the first stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE). The Prelims, which consist of General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I) and General Studies Paper II (CSAT), are designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, analytical ability, and decision-making skills.

1. Provides a Clear Roadmap

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.

2. Focuses on Relevant Topics

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.

3. Enhances Time Management

By understanding the syllabus, candidates can prioritize high-scoring topics, allocate time efficiently, and avoid wasting effort on irrelevant or less important areas.

4. Ensures Balanced Preparation

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.

5. Builds Exam Confidence

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

How to Prepare for the UPSC Prelims Syllabus

To prepare UPSC Prelims Syllabus for fetching good marks in UPSC Prelims Exam need following steps:

  • Breakdown the Syllabus: 
  • Divide the syllabus into manageable sections for daily and weekly study goals.
  • Focus on Current Affairs:
    • Follow reliable newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express.
    • Refer to monthly current affairs magazines and online compilations.
  • Refer to Standard Study Material:
    • History: NCERTs and Spectrum’s Modern History of India.
    • Polity: Laxmikanth’s Indian Polity.
    • Geography: G.C. Leong’s Physical Geography and NCERT textbooks.
    • Economy: Ramesh Singh’s Indian Economy.
    • Environment: Shankar IAS’ Environment.
  • Practice Mock Tests:
    • Enroll in a good quality content test series to assess your preparation.
    • Practice previous years’ question papers.
  • Master Time Management:
    • Allocate dedicated time slots for each subject.
    • Focus on weak areas while revising strong topics.
  • Prepare for CSAT:
    • Regularly practice comprehension and numerical ability questions.
    • Solve puzzles and logical reasoning exercises to improve speed and accuracy.

Resources for UPSC Prelims Syllabus

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:

  • Books and Study Material
    • NCERT books (Classes 6-12).
    • Standard reference books for History, Polity, Geography, Economy, and Environment.
  • Online Platforms
    • Websites like PIB, PRS India, and NITI Aayog.
    • Platforms offering online courses.
  •  Mobile Apps
    • Various mobile applications of academic content for brainstorming and revision
  •  Test Series
    • Join test series by reputed coaching institutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid while covering UPSC Prelims Syllabus

Aspiring candidates need to keep these few things in mind while covering the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.

  • Ignoring the CSAT Paper: Many aspirants neglect CSAT, assuming it is easy. Regular practice is essential to secure the qualifying marks.
  • Skipping Revision: With regular revision, retaining vast amounts of information becomes easier.
  • Over-Reliance on Current Affairs: Static subjects like Polity, History, and Geography are equally important.
  • Neglecting Time Management: Balancing preparation for GS Paper I and CSAT is crucial.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus FAQs

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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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The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:

  • Prelims: It has two papers: General Studies and CSAT.
  • Mains: It has nine papers, including essays and optional subjects.
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