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- Overview
- Exam Pattern
- Marking Scheme
- Analysis
- Preparation and Tips
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Preliminary Examination, commonly known as the UPSC Prelims, is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. The examination is a crucial step towards becoming an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) or IPS (Indian Police Service) officer, and is considered one of the most competitive and challenging examinations in the country.
The primary objective of the UPSC Prelims is to test the candidates' knowledge, aptitude, and analytical skills in various subjects. The examination aims to identify the most suitable candidates for the next stage of the CSE, which is the Main Examination
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Frequency | Once in a Year |
| Prescribed Age limit | 21 – 32 years (upper age relaxation for reserved candidates) |
| Mode | Offline Exam |
| Exam Date | 16 June 2024 |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in/ |
| Exam Duration | 2 Hours |
| Languages of Paper | English and Hindi |
| UPSC Important Document | PDF 1 |
| Previous Year Question Papers | Questions Papers PDF |
| Answer Key | Answer Keys PDF |
| Syllabus | Syllabus PDF |
| Application form fees | For General/OBC category = Rs 100 For ST/SC/Women = NIL |
| Total Number of Papers | 2 |
| Exam Component | General Studies 1 | General Studies 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 100 | 80 |
| Exam Mode | Pen Paper Test | Pen Paper Test |
| Negative Marking | Yes (1/3rd of the maximum marks for the question) | Yes (1/3rd of the maximum marks for the question) |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Exam Date | 16 June 2024 | 16 June 2024 |
| Max Marks | 200 | 200 |
UPSC Prelims exam is a challenging examination that requires thorough preparation and strategic planning. The exam analysis highlights the importance of developing a strong foundation in General Studies subjects and practicing current events and CSAT sections. Candidates should focus on improving their analytical skills and time management to perform well in the exam.
Common Issues:
Many candidates reported difficulties in completing the paper within the given time frame.
Some candidates felt that the questions were biased towards recent events and current affairs.
A few candidates reported errors in question paper layout and formatting.
Step 1: Understanding the Exam Pattern
Before starting your preparation, it's essential to understand the exam pattern and format. The UPSC Prelims consists of two papers: Paper-I (General Studies I) and Paper-II (CSAT). Paper-I tests your general knowledge, current events, and analytical skills, while Paper-II assesses your language skills, comprehension, and analytical abilities.
Step 2: Setting a Study Plan
Create a study plan that covers all the topics and syllabi for both papers. Break down your study material into smaller chunks, and allocate time for each topic. Set specific goals for each day or week to stay focused and motivated.
Step 3: Reading Material
Use authentic sources for reading material, such as:
- Online resources like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and other reputed newspapers
- India's Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra
- Tata McGraw Hill CSAT Manual
- Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R S Aggarwal
- Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
- NCERT XI (Ancient & Medieval)
Step 4: Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them. For example, if you struggle with current events or history, allocate more time for these topics.
Step 5: Practice Mock Tests
Practice mock tests to simulate the actual exam experience. This will help you:
- Get familiar with the exam pattern and timing
- Identify areas of improvement
- Develop strategies for tackling difficult questions
- Boost your confidence
Step 6: Current Affairs
Stay updated on current events through:
- Daily newspaper reading
- News apps like Inshorts, News in Shorts, or Firstpost
- Online news websites like Indian Express, Hindustan Times, or The Hindu
Step 7: Focus on CSAT
CSAT is a crucial component of the UPSC Prelims. Focus on improving your language skills through:
- Practice reading comprehension passages
- Enhancing vocabulary through word lists or quizzes
- Improving analytical skills through logical reasoning exercises
Step 8: Revision and Practice
Regularly revise and practice what you've learned. Review notes, make concept maps, and practice solving previous year's question papers.
Step 9: Time Management
Develop a strategy for managing your time effectively during the exam. Allocate time wisely between sections and questions to ensure you complete all questions within the allotted time.
Step 10: Staying Motivated
Stay motivated by:
- Celebrating small milestones
- Joining online forums or discussion groups
- Setting achievable goals
- Rewarding yourself for progress
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- Overview
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Exam Mode: ONLINE
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Preliminary Examination, commonly known as the UPSC Prelims, is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. The examination is a crucial step towards becoming an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) or IPS (Indian Police Service) officer, and is considered one of the most competitive and challenging examinations in the country.
The primary objective of the UPSC Prelims is to test the candidates' knowledge, aptitude, and analytical skills in various subjects. The examination aims to identify the most suitable candidates for the next stage of the CSE, which is the Main Examination
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Frequency | Once in a Year |
| Prescribed Age limit | 21 – 32 years (upper age relaxation for reserved candidates) |
| Mode | Offline Exam |
| Exam Date | 16 June 2024 |
| Official Website | https://upsc.gov.in/ |
| Exam Duration | 2 Hours |
| Languages of Paper | English and Hindi |
| UPSC Important Document | PDF 1 |
| Previous Year Question Papers | Questions Papers PDF |
| Answer Key | Answer Keys PDF |
| Syllabus | Syllabus PDF |
| Application form fees | For General/OBC category = Rs 100 For ST/SC/Women = NIL |
| Total Number of Papers | 2 |
Syllabus details are not available.
UPSC Prelims exam is a challenging examination that requires thorough preparation and strategic planning. The exam analysis highlights the importance of developing a strong foundation in General Studies subjects and practicing current events and CSAT sections. Candidates should focus on improving their analytical skills and time management to perform well in the exam.
Common Issues:
Many candidates reported difficulties in completing the paper within the given time frame.
Some candidates felt that the questions were biased towards recent events and current affairs.
A few candidates reported errors in question paper layout and formatting.
Step 1: Understanding the Exam Pattern
Before starting your preparation, it's essential to understand the exam pattern and format. The UPSC Prelims consists of two papers: Paper-I (General Studies I) and Paper-II (CSAT). Paper-I tests your general knowledge, current events, and analytical skills, while Paper-II assesses your language skills, comprehension, and analytical abilities.
Step 2: Setting a Study Plan
Create a study plan that covers all the topics and syllabi for both papers. Break down your study material into smaller chunks, and allocate time for each topic. Set specific goals for each day or week to stay focused and motivated.
Step 3: Reading Material
Use authentic sources for reading material, such as:
- Online resources like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and other reputed newspapers
- India's Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra
- Tata McGraw Hill CSAT Manual
- Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R S Aggarwal
- Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
- NCERT XI (Ancient & Medieval)
Step 4: Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them. For example, if you struggle with current events or history, allocate more time for these topics.
Step 5: Practice Mock Tests
Practice mock tests to simulate the actual exam experience. This will help you:
- Get familiar with the exam pattern and timing
- Identify areas of improvement
- Develop strategies for tackling difficult questions
- Boost your confidence
Step 6: Current Affairs
Stay updated on current events through:
- Daily newspaper reading
- News apps like Inshorts, News in Shorts, or Firstpost
- Online news websites like Indian Express, Hindustan Times, or The Hindu
Step 7: Focus on CSAT
CSAT is a crucial component of the UPSC Prelims. Focus on improving your language skills through:
- Practice reading comprehension passages
- Enhancing vocabulary through word lists or quizzes
- Improving analytical skills through logical reasoning exercises
Step 8: Revision and Practice
Regularly revise and practice what you've learned. Review notes, make concept maps, and practice solving previous year's question papers.
Step 9: Time Management
Develop a strategy for managing your time effectively during the exam. Allocate time wisely between sections and questions to ensure you complete all questions within the allotted time.
Step 10: Staying Motivated
Stay motivated by:
- Celebrating small milestones
- Joining online forums or discussion groups
- Setting achievable goals
- Rewarding yourself for progress