Exam Overview
Preliminary Examination
Objective screening test with two papers: GS Paper I and CSAT (Paper II). Only GS marks count for qualification.
200 marks each | 2 hours duration | Negative marking
Main Examination
Descriptive written exam with 9 papers (2 qualifying + 7 merit-ranking). Tests in-depth knowledge and writing skills.
1750 total marks | 3 hours per paper
Personality Test (Interview)
Assesses candidate's personality traits, mental alertness, and suitability for a career in civil services.
275 marks | 30-45 minutes
Prelims Pattern
- GS Paper I: Current events, history, geography, polity, economy, environment
- CSAT (Paper II): Comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision making
- Only GS Paper I marks considered for cutoff
Mains Pattern
- Qualifying: English + Indian language (300 marks each)
- Merit: Essay + GS I-IV + Optional papers (250 marks each)
- Total 1750 marks for merit ranking
Interview
- Tests personality, communication skills, and leadership qualities
- Based on Detailed Application Form (DAF)
- 275 marks added to Mains score for final ranking
Preparation Roadmap
(Daily)
(Months 1-4)
(Months 5-8)
(Months 9-12)
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-4)
- Complete NCERT books (Classes 6-12) for basic concepts
- Start with Indian Polity, History, and Geography
- Begin daily newspaper reading (The Hindu/Indian Express)
- Make concise notes for quick revision
Phase 2: Core Preparation (Months 5-8)
- Cover standard reference books for all GS papers
- Start answer writing practice for Mains
- Begin solving previous year questions
- Join test series for Prelims and Mains
Phase 3: Revision & Test Series (Months 9-12)
- Intensive revision of all subjects
- Full-length mock tests under exam conditions
- Focus on current affairs compilation
- Optional subject final preparation
Recommended Resources
Books for Prelims
- Indian Polity - Laxmikant
- Indian Economy - Ramesh Singh
- Geography - GC Leong
- History - Bipin Chandra/RS Sharma
- Environment - Shankar IAS
- CSAT - TMH/CSAT Manual
Books for Mains
- Governance in India - Laxmikant
- Ethics - Lexicon
- Internal Security - Ashok Kumar
- India's Foreign Policy - Rajiv Sikri
- Social Issues - Ram Ahuja
Current Affairs
- The Hindu/Indian Express
- Yojana/Kurukshetra
- PIB (Press Information Bureau)
- PRS India (Legislative Research)
- Economic Survey & Budget
Online Resources
- UPSC Official Website
- ClearIAS/PMLearning
- Vision IAS Monthly Magazine
- Insights on India
- Mrunal.org (Economy)
Preparation Tips
Time Management
Create a realistic study plan allocating time for each subject. Balance between static and current affairs preparation.
Answer Writing
Practice writing answers daily for Mains. Focus on structure, content, and time management (7-8 mins per answer).
Revision Strategy
Follow 3-4 revision cycles for each subject. Make short notes for quick revision before exams.
CSAT Preparation
Don't neglect CSAT. Practice comprehension, reasoning, and basic numeracy regularly.
Optional Subject
Choose optional carefully based on interest and background. Master the syllabus and previous year questions.
Interview Preparation
Develop personality traits, communication skills, and knowledge of your background and DAF details.