upsc essay paper syllabus

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Essay Syllabus

In this article, we will discuss the UPSC essay syllabus and its importance in the preparation for the prestigious Civil Services Examination. The essay paper is a vital component of the UPSC mains exam, and it evaluates a candidate’s ability to express their thoughts in a concise and coherent manner. We will explore the structure and format of the essay paper, the types of topics that usually appear, and the approach that candidates should adopt while attempting the essay. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the IAS essay syllabus and how to prepare for it effectively.

Importance of Essay Paper

Aspiring candidates preparing for the UPSC IAS examination must pay close attention to the Essay Paper section. It holds significant weightage and plays a vital role in determining the candidate’s overall rank. You must dedicate time and effort to develop this skill, as the Essay Paper is a reflection of your critical analytical and comprehensive aptitude. This paper evaluates your presentation skills, creativity, and thought process. Moreover, it tests your ability to articulate your thoughts coherently and succinctly. So, start working on your writing skills from today to make the most of this crucial paper.

Syllabus Overview

The syllabus for the essay paper is not specifically defined . Aspiring civil servants preparing for the highly competitive UPSC IAS exam must focus their attention on the essay paper. This is where candidates can showcase their writing skills and analytical abilities.

The essay paper is divided into two sections, each consisting of four topics. Candidates are required to write two essays in a span of three hours. The essays carry a total of 250 marks and are a crucial part of the selection process. It covers a wide range of topics from socioeconomic issues, to political and philosophical musings.

However, it is important to note that candidates are not expected to be experts in any particular subject. Rather, the essay paper tests their ability to articulate their thoughts and opinions. It is crucial that candidates start preparing for the essay paper well in advance, paying careful attention to the type of essays and common mistakes to avoid.

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Types of Essays

When it comes to the UPSC Essay Syllabus , it’s crucial to understand the types of essays you’ll be asked to write. As such, you must know the different types of essays that are tested in the examination, such as Informative essays, Descriptive essays, Narrative essays, and Persuasive essays. Each type has its unique writing style, skill set, and format to adhere to.

Thus, mastering each essay type is important to score high marks in the exam. While an informative essay highlights the positive and negative points of the given topic, a descriptive essay must focus on describing the topic. The narrative essay must follow a story-style narration while the Persuasive essay must be written in a way to convince the reader about the given topic.

Therefore, a deep understanding of the types of essays is necessary to excel in the UPSC IAS Exam.

Topics for Essay Writing

The UPSC Essay paper is an important part of the Civil Services Examination. As a part of the UPSC essay syllabus , candidates need to write two essays for the examination. The essays are supposed to be on topics of national and international importance, relevant social, economic, and political issues, cultural, historical and geographical significance, and contemporary issues of interest.

The topics for essay writing can range from the economy, politics, education, health, women empowerment, environmental issues, human rights, current affairs, science, technology, and more. It is advisable to read newspapers and books to keep oneself updated with the latest developments and possible essay topics. Additionally, candidates can also refer to previous years’ question papers to understand the nature of the questions and topics that are frequently asked.

Candidates should choose a topic that they are familiar with and express their thoughts and opinions in a coherent and structured way. The essay should be well-researched, free from grammatical errors, and should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. By choosing the right topic and writing an impressive essay, candidates can score well on the UPSC IAS Essay paper .

Essay Writing Tips

Here are some tips for candidates to excel in the essay writing section:

Understand the topic: It’s important to read and comprehend the essay topic thoroughly. Ensure that you understand the question’s intent, the tone of the essay, and the arguments that you need to present.
Prepare an outline: Creating an outline before writing helps the writer organise their thoughts and arguments logically. It ensures that the essay is structured and coherent.
Write in a simple and lucid language: UPSC exams are not meant to test your vocabulary. Therefore, try to write in simple and clear language.
Stick to the word limit: The UPSC sets a word limit for each essay question. Exceeding the limit can result in a deduction of marks. Therefore, it is crucial to practice writing essays within the stipulated word limit.
Provide examples and facts: To support your arguments, use real-life examples and factual data to reinforce your views.

By following these tips and practising regularly, aspiring candidates can improve their essay-writing skills, making it easier to crack the UPSC exam successfully.

How to Prepare for an Essay Paper

The essay paper is an integral part of the UPSC IAS exam, and it requires a different level of preparation compared to other papers. In order to ace the essay paper, it is important to have a clear strategy and methodical approach.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand the types of essays that might appear in the exam. This will help in creating a plan for essay writing and practicing accordingly.

Another important aspect is staying updated on current affairs and trending topics. Keeping oneself informed about world events and happenings helps in generating ideas and content for the essay.

It is also crucial to focus on improving language skills and creative thinking. Reading widely, practicing writing every day, and taking mock essay tests can help in enhancing these skills.

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When it comes to time management, it is recommended to allocate a fixed amount of time for brainstorming, outlining, and writing the essay. This helps in maintaining a structured and organized approach.

Lastly, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes like using too many quotes, memorizing essays, or not staying relevant to the topic. These mistakes can be easily avoided by focusing on the guidelines and practicing regularly.

Overall, preparing for the essay paper requires focus, dedication, and a structured approach. By following these tips, one can improve their chances of acing the essay paper and moving closer to their dream of becoming an IAS officer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Essay Writing

UPSC essay writing is an important component of the civil services examination. However, many students make some common mistakes while writing their essays that can prove detrimental to their scores. Here are a few errors to avoid when writing your UPSC essays :

Lack of clarity: One of the most common mistakes that students make is writing unclear or ambiguous essays. Ensure that the language and ideas that you use are clear and concise.
Overuse of quotes: Many students use too many quotations in their essays, which makes them sound less original. Try to use quotes sparingly, and only when they add significant value to your essay.
Poor structure: A well-structured essay requires an introduction, several paragraphs supporting your arguments, and a conclusion. Ensure that your essay has a clear and logical structure.
Lack of relevance: Many students write essays that are not directly relevant to the question asked, which can result in a reduced score. Make sure you understand the question and write an essay that is directly relevant to it.
Poor time management: UPSC essay writing requires a student to demonstrate their ability to write coherently and without errors within a given period. Students must manage their time effectively, allowing ample time for each paragraph, revision, and proofreading.
Lack of examples: Candidates should use examples from real life, which strengthens their arguments and provides more depth to their essays.

Avoid these common mistakes during your UPSC essay writing , and you are one step closer to achieving a high score that will make you proud.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):-

Q1. Which type of essay comes in the IAS exam?

Ans: The four types of essays that come in the IAS exam are Informative essays, Descriptive essays, Narrative essays, and Persuasive essays.

Q2. How to write a UPSC-level essay?

Ans: Tips to write UPSC Essay are given in the article above.

Q3. What is a good score for a UPSC essay?

Ans: An average score falls within the range of 110-125. However, exceptional essays can receive marks as high as 150-160.

Q4. How long is the UPSC essay paper?

Ans: The candidate is to write two essays in a span of 3 hours with a word limit of 1000-1200 words per essay. There are two sections which contain 4 topics each and out of which the candidate has to pick a single topic from each section to write an essay on.

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UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024, GS Paper 1, 2, 3, 4 Syllabus PDF

by Vajiram & Ravi

The UPSC Mains Syllabus comprises nine theory papers, with marks from seven papers contributing to the final merit list. The other two papers, English and Indian Language, are qualifying, requiring candidates to achieve a minimum score of 25% to be considered for selection.

The UPSC Mains Syllabus is a comprehensive framework designed for candidates aiming to excel in the Civil Services Examination, one of India’s most prestigious and competitive exams. As the second phase of the UPSC CSE selection process, it covers a wide range of subjects and topics essential for success.

The syllabus for UPSC Mains 2024 is detailed below, and aspirants can also download the UPSC Mains Syllabus PDF

UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024

The UPSC Mains syllabus is comprehensive and aims to evaluate a candidate's academic talent and ability to present knowledge in a clear and coherent manner.

The Mains examination consists of nine papers, which include:


Paper A	Compulsory Indian language	3 hours	300 (Qualifying)
Paper B	English	3 hours	300 (Qualifying)
Paper I	Essay	3 hours	250
Paper II	General Studies I – Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society	3 hours	250
Paper III	General Studies II – Governance, Constitution, Welfare Initiatives, Social Justice & International Relations	3 hours	250
Paper IV	General Studies III – Technology, Economic Development, Agriculture, Biodiversity, Security & Disaster Management	3 hours	250
Paper V	General Studies IV – Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude	3 hours	250
Paper VI	Optional Subject – Paper I	3 hours	250
Paper VII	Optional Subject – Paper II	3 hours	250

Each paper is designed to test specific aspects of a candidate’s knowledge and aptitude, encouraging a broad and diverse preparation strategy. A deep understanding of the syllabus and focused study on each area is crucial for success in the UPSC Mains Examination.

UPSC Mains Topic Wise Syllabus

The Mains syllabus encompasses diverse fields such as Indian Heritage and Culture, Governance, Technology, Economic Development, and Ethics, among others. Each paper and its topics are crafted to test different facets of a candidate's intellect, from factual knowledge and conceptual clarity to critical thinking and ethical reasoning.

This detailed, topic-wise breakdown is essential for aspirants to strategize their preparation, enabling them to cover every aspect of the syllabus comprehensively.

UPSC Mains Syllabus Language Papers

UPSC Mains Language papers- Paper A and Paper B are only qualifying in nature, candidates should not be complacent. Failing to score at least 25% in either paper will result in their remaining answer sheets not being evaluated.

Paper A: Indian Language (Qualifying)

Candidates can choose any one of the Indian languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The paper is designed to test the candidates’ ability to read and understand serious discursive prose, and to express their ideas clearly and correctly.


	12. Odiya
	13. Punjabi
	14. Sanskrit
	15. Sindhi
	16. Tamil
	17. Telugu
	18. Urdu
	19. Bodo
	20. Dogri
	21. Maithili
	22. Santhali

Paper B: English (Qualifying)

The English paper aims to test the candidates’ ability to read and understand serious discursive prose, and to express their ideas clearly and correctly in English.

UPSC Mains Syllabus- Essay Papers

The Essay Paper in the UPSC Mains examination is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to express ideas clearly, coherently, and effectively. It is crucial for demonstrating the ability to organize thoughts and present them in a structured manner. Candidates are required to write two essays, selecting one topic from each section.

Candidates will be provided with a set of topics divided into two sections. They must choose one topic from each section and write two essays in total.
Topics may cover a wide range of subjects, including current events, philosophical themes, socio-economic issues, political scenarios, and environmental concerns.

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 1

UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 1 delves into a wide array of subjects, including Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society. This paper aims to evaluate a candidate’s understanding of historical contexts, cultural developments, and geographical knowledge essential for comprehensive civil services preparation.UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 includes-

Indian Culture – Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Significant events, issues, personalities during the middle of the eighteenth century (1750s) until the present.
Different stages and important contributors and contributions from various parts of the country in ‘The Freedom Struggle’.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganisation within the country.
History of the world
Events, forms and effect on society since the 18th century (world wars, industrial revolution, colonisation, redrawal of national boundaries, decolonisation, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, etc.)
Indian society and diversity – Salient aspects.
Role of women and women’s organisations, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanisation, their problems and remedies.
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Effects of globalization on Indian society.
Distribution of key natural resources across the world including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent; factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world including India.
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclones etc.
Geographical features and their location, changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and polar ice caps) and, in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Salient features of the world's physical geography.

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 2

UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 2 focuses on Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations. This paper assesses a candidate's knowledge of the political and administrative framework of India, as well as their understanding of critical issues affecting governance and international affairs. UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 includes-

historical underpinnings,
evolution, features
amendments, significant provisions
basic structure doctrine
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Separation of powers between various organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
Structure, organisation and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary
structure, functioning
conduct of business
powers & privileges and issues arising out of these
Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
Government policies and interventions aimed at development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Development processes and the development industry – the role of NGOs, Self Help Groups, various groups and associations, institutional and other stakeholders.
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and the States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Issues relating to poverty and hunger
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures
Role of civil services in a democracy
India and its neighborhood – International relations
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting the Indian interests
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Important International institutions, agencies, their structure and mandates

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 3

UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 3 covers Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management. This paper evaluates a candidate's understanding of contemporary issues related to economic growth, technological advancements, environmental challenges, and security concerns, emphasizing practical knowledge and problem-solving skills. UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 includes-

Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilisation of resources, growth, development and employment.
Government Budgeting.
Inclusive growth and associated issues/challenges
Effects of liberalisation on the economy (post 1991 changes), changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Infrastructure – Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models (PPP etc)
Major cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers
Economics of animal rearing.
Food processing and related industries in India – scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions
Land reforms in India.
Recent developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
Achievements of Indians in science & technology.
Indigenisation of technology and developing new technology.
General awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nanotechnology, bio-technology
Issues relating to intellectual property rights
Conservation,
Environmental pollution and degradation
Environmental impact assessment
Disaster Management (Laws, Acts etc.)
Challenges to internal security (external state and non-state actors)
Linkages between development and spread of extremism
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges,
Basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention
Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandates

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 4

UPSC Mains General Studies Paper 4 focuses on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. This paper assesses a candidate's ability to apply ethical principles to public administration, evaluate moral dilemmas, and demonstrate integrity and effective decision-making in complex scenarios, essential for responsible and ethical governance. UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 includes

Essence of Ethics, Determinants and Consequences of Ethics in Human Interaction
Dimensions of Ethics
Ethics in private and public relationships
Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators
Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating moral and ethical values
Content, structure and function of attitude
Influence of attitude in thought and behaviour
Relation of attitude to thought and behaviour
Moral and Political attitudes
Social influence and persuasion
Aptitude and foundational values of Civil Service
Impartiality and non-partisanship
Objectivity
Dedication to public service
Empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections of the society
Concepts of emotional intelligence
Utility and application of emotional intelligence in administration and governance
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world to the concepts of morality
Status and associated problems
Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions
Laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance
Accountability and ethical governance
Strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance
Ethical Issues in international relations and funding
Corporate governance
Concept of public service
The philosophical basis of governance and probity
Information sharing and transparency in government
Right to Information
Codes of ethics
Codes of Conduct
Citizen’s Charters
Work culture
Quality of service delivery
Utilization of public funds
Challenges of corruption

UPSC Mains Syllabus- Optional Papers

Candidates must select one optional subject from a list of 48 options, with two papers contributing a total of 500 marks. Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Mains is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration.

Other Related Posts of UPSC Exam

UPSC Mains Syllabus FAQs

Q1. What is the UPSC mains syllabus?

Ans. The UPSC Mains syllabus includes nine papers covering various subjects such as General Studies, Essay, and Optional Subjects.

Q2. What are the 9 papers in UPSC Mains?

Ans. The nine papers are Essay, General Studies Paper 1-4, and two papers each on one Optional Subject and qualifying papers in Indian Language and English.

Q3. Is 7 months enough for UPSC mains?

Ans. Seven months can be sufficient with focused and intensive preparation.

Q4. What is the syllabus of UPSC Mains exam 2024?

Ans. The syllabus for UPSC Mains 2024 includes General Studies (four papers), Essay, Optional Subject (two papers), and qualifying papers in Indian Language and English.

Q5. Can I clear mains in 3 months UPSC?

Ans. Clearing UPSC Mains in 3 months is challenging but possible with rigorous and strategic preparation.

Q6. Can I prepare for UPSC mains in 5 months?

Ans. Preparing for UPSC Mains in 5 months is feasible with dedicated study and effective time management.

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UPSC Exam Information

UPSC CSE 2024 Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Looking for a detailed Syllabus and Exam Pattern for the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024 ? This article decodes the same to give you a comprehensive idea of the UPSC Civil Services Examination’s syllabus and exam pattern.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) every year to select candidates for India’s most prestigious jobs such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS) etc. This exam is conducted in three stages. One needs to have a comprehensive understanding of the Syllabus and Exam Pattern for the three stages of the exam in order to prepare well for the same.

Synoptic Overview of UPSC Syllabus and Exam Pattern


Stage I	Preliminary Examination (Prelims)	Objective	2 Papers (General Studies and CSAT)
Stage II	Main Examination (Mains)	Descriptive	9 Papers (General Studies I-IV, Essay Paper, Optional Paper I & II, 2 Compulsory Language Papers)
Stage III	Personality Test (Interview)	Viva-voce	Viva-voce Examination

Exam Pattern for UPSC Prelims Exam

The UPSC Preliminary Examination (Prelims) serves as a screening test only, and the marks obtained in this exam are not counted for determining the final merit list. However, it must be noted that it is mandatory to clear this exam, failing which one will not be allowed to appear for the Main Examination.

The exam pattern for UPSC Prelims Exam can be seen as follows:


General Studies-I (GS)	Objective	Marks counted for preparing Prelims result	100	200	2 Hours
General Studies-II (CSAT)	Objective	Qualifying (minimum qualifying marks – 33%)	80	200	2 Hours

As per the current exam pattern for the UPSC Prelims Exam, the marking scheme is as follows:

i. General Studies-I (GS) Paper – 2 marks are awarded for every correct answer, and 0.66 marks are deducted for every wrong answer.

ii. General Studies-II (CSAT) Paper – 2.5 marks are awarded for every correct answer, and 0.83 are deducted for every wrong answer.

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Exam

The syllabus for the two papers of the Prelims Exam, as provided by the UPSC, consists of a list of topics that are only indicative in nature. However, one needs to understand what all needs to be studied in order to cover a topic comprehensively. Thus, understanding the syllabus demands understanding the topics listed therein along with their detailed break-ups.

The UPSC syllabus for the two papers of the Prelims Exam is discussed in detail as follows:

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Paper-I: General Studies

Current events of national and international importance.

Current Events of National Importance – news of national importance related to History & Culture, Geography, Social Issues, Polity & Governance, Economy, Internal Security, Environment, Science & Technology etc.
Current Events of International Importance – major news related to India’s Bilateral Relations, International Organizations, Multilateral Bodies & Organizations, International Treaties & Agreements etc.

History of India and Indian National Movement

Ancient History of India – Pre-History Period; Indus Valley Civilization; Vedic Period; Rise of Heterodox Sects such as Buddhism, Jainism etc; Pre-Mauryan Period, Mauryan Period & Post-Mauryan Period; Gupta Period; Post-Gupta Period etc.
Medieval History of India – Early Medieval India; Delhi Sultanate; Mughal Period; Maratha Kingdom etc.
History of Modern India – Period from the decline of Mughals upto establishment of the British Rule in India; Revolt of 1857; Rise of Nationalism; India’s Freedom Struggle etc.

Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World

Physical Geography – Latitude & Longitude; Geomorphology; Oceanography; Climatology; Biogeography; Environmental Geography
Social and Economic Geography – Human population and its distribution and growth; Primary, Secondary, Tertiary, and Quaternary activities; Distribution of Minerals in India and the World; Location of Industries in India and the World; Agriculture in India and the World; Energy Resources, Transport etc in India and World.
World Geography – The continents and major geographic features therein such as Mountains, Plateaus, Rivers, etc.
Indian Geography – Physiographic Divisions of India; Drainage System of India; Indian Climate; Soils and Vegetations of India.

Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc .

Constitution of India – The Indian Constitution, its evolution and salient features; Preamble to the Indian Constitution; Citizenship; Fundamental Rights; Directive Principles of State Policy; Fundamental Duties; Amendment of the Constitution, etc.
Federal System of Government – Federalism; Centre-State Relations; Inter-State Relations; Emergency Provisions etc.
Legislature – Parliament; Parliamentary Committees; State Legislature; Major issues related to Legislature.
Executive – President; Vice President; Union Council of Ministers; Governor; State Council of Ministers; Local Self Governments including Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies
Judiciary – Supreme Court; High Court; Subordinate Courts; Major issues related to Indian Judiciary
Other areas – Major Constitutional Bodies; Major Non-Constitutional Bodies; Elections and Political Parties etc.

Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc .

Fundamentals of Economics – Factors of Production; Law of Demand and Supply; National Income Accounting etc.
Growth and Development – Human Development; Poverty, Inequality and Inclusive Growth; Employment and Skill Development etc.
Fiscal Policy in India – Development Planning and NITI Aayog; Government Annual Budgeting; Taxation System in India; Inflation; Business Cycles etc.
Monetary Policy in India – Money and its supply; Reserve Bank of India and Banking System in India etc.
Financial System in India – Money Market; Capital Market
Sectors of Indian Economy – Agriculture; Manufacturing and Industries; Service Sector etc.
External Sector – Foreign Trade; Balance of Payment; Foreign Exchange, Foreign Investment etc.
International Economic Organizations – World Bank; International Monetary Fund (IMF); World Trade Organization (WTO) etc.
Other areas – Infrastructure such as Transport, Energy etc; Investment Models etc.

General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization

Fundamental of Ecology and Ecosystem – basic terminologies such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Species, Speciation, Succession etc.
Biodiversity – Animal Diversity, Plant Diversity and Marine Organisms in India and World etc.
Protection and Conservation of Biodiversity – Protected Area Network in India such National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries etc; Other India efforts for biodiversity conservation such as Environmental Acts & Policies, Environmental Institutions etc; Global initiatives for biodiversity conservation such Man And Biosphere (MAB) program, international environmental organizations and conventions etc.
Environmental Pollution – types of Pollution; Climate Change, Global Warming, Acid Rain etc; Indian and International Efforts to fight Climate Change.
Other areas – Farming Systems, Irrigation Systems etc which aid in environmental protection.

General Science

Biology – Cell Biology; Genetics; Human Physiology; Health and Diseases
Physics – Force and Laws of Motion; Work, Energy and Power; Fluids; Heat & Temperature; Wave Motion; Sound; Optics; Electrostatics; Magnetism etc.
Chemistry – Matter & its states; Structure of Atom; Classification of Elements; Chemical Reactions; Chemistry in everyday life.

Some important links for UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I Preparation are listed below:

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Paper-II: CSAT

Reading Passages and answering questions based on them.
Verbal Interpretations; Analogies; Critical Reasoning etc.
Sequence & Series; Coding & Decoding; Blood Relations; Venn Diagrams; Distance & Directions; Seating Arrangements; Puzzles etc.
Ethical dilemmas and hypothetical questions based on them
Profit & Loss; Mixture & Alligations; Time & Work; Time & Distance
Geometry; Mensuration & Area
Partnerships; Clocks; Dices etc.
Number Systems; LCM & HCF; Averages; Fractions; Ratio & Proportion
Averages; Percentage; Simple & Compound Interests etc.
Pie Charts, Bar Graph, Line Graph, Tables etc.

Some important links for UPSC Prelims CSAT Paper preparation are listed below:

Exam Pattern for UPSC Main Exam

The UPSC Main Examination (Mains) is a Written Examination consisting of a total of 9 papers of subjective type. The total marks obtained in this examination are counted to determine the final merit list.

The exam pattern for UPSC Main Exam can be seen as follows:

(minimum Qualifying Marks – 25% of total marks)


Paper A	One language selected by the candidate from the languages included in the 8 Schedule to the Constitution	300	3 Hours
Paper B	English	300	3 Hours


		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours
		250	3 Hours

1750 Marks

a. The two Qualifying Papers (Paper A and Paper B) are of Matriculation or equivalent standard.

b. Candidates may choose any one of the optional subjects from amongst the list of subjects provided by the UPSC.

Syllabus for UPSC Main Exam

The UPSC has provided the syllabus for each of the 9 papers of the Main Exam in the form of a list of topics that are only indicative in nature. Understanding the syllabus holistically requires a clear-cut understanding of what all needs to be studied in order to cover a topic comprehensively. Thus, the topics listed in the syllabus as well as their detailed break-ups must be understood to get a clear picture of the syllabus for the UPSC Main Exam .

The syllabus for the 9 papers of the UPSC Main Exam is discussed in detail as follows:

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-A: Indian Languages

Comprehension of given passages
Precis Writing
Usage and Vocabulary
Short Essays
Translation from English to the Indian Language and vice-versa

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-B: English

Syllabus for upsc main paper-i: essay.

This paper expects the candidates to write essays on multiple topics. As per the current pattern, the Essay Paper is divided into two sections having multiple topics. The candidate is expected to write essays on two topics, choosing one from each of the two sections.

The UPSC expects that the essays are presented as an effective expression of ideas that are relevant to the topic and are arranged in an orderly fashion.

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-II: General Studies-I

The title for this paper, as given by the UPSC, is – Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society . The topics given as part of the syllabus for Main General Studies-I paper and their detailed break-ups are presented as follows:

Evolution and salient features of Constitution; Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policies, Fundamental Duties; Process of amendment, Basic Structure.
Indian Federalism and its features; Centre-state relations and related issues; Inter-state relations and related issues; Cooperative Federalism; Emergency provisions etc.
73rd Constitutional Amendment, PRIs and issues faced by them; 74th Constitutional Amendment, ULBs and issues faced by them.
Doctrine of separation of powers and constitutional provisions related to it; System of checks and balances
Functional overlaps among various organs of the government and issues arising out of it; Dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions such as Inter-State Council, Judiciary, NITI Aayog etc.
Major sources of Indian Constitution; Comparison of major features of Indian Constitution vis-a-vis that of other democracies
Structure, functions and major issues related to Parliament and State Legislatures such as misuse of Money Bill, inadequate control of Legislature over Executive etc; Parliamentary Committees; Sovereignty of Parliament; Parliamentary Privileges etc.
Executive – Powers and functions of President and Governor; Parliamentary System of Government and functioning of Union and State Council of Ministers.
Judiciary – Powers and functions of the Supreme Court and High Courts and issues related to them such as Judicial Accountability, Judicial Overreach etc.
Subordinate Courts, their structures and functions; Lok Adalats, Gram Nyayalayas etc.
Pressure Groups, their functions and significance.
Major provisions of Representation of People’s Acts of 1950 and 1951; Election System in India and issues related to it such as Model Code of Conduct, Criminalization of Politics etc.
Major Constitutional Bodies of India such as Election Commission of India, Finance Commission, Comptroller and Auditor General etc, their functions and issues relating to them.
Major Statutory Bodies such as Securities Exchange Board of India, National Human Rights Commission etc, their functions and issues related to them
Major Regulatory Bodies such as Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Competition Commission of India etc, their functions and issues related to them
Major Quasi-Judicial Bodies such as National Green Tribunal, Central Information Commission etc, their functions and issues related to them
Major schemes and policies of the government related to areas such as Drinking Water, Sanitation etc, and challenges remaining.
Civil Society Organizations, NGOs, SHGs etc, their functions, significance and issues related to them; Participatory governance and people’s participation in governance
Vulnerable sections such as Women, Children, SCs etc, challenges faced by them and initiatives taken for their betterment.
Major schemes and policies of the government related to Health, Education, Employment, Skill Development etc, and challenges remaining.
Poverty, its causes, implications and steps taken to alleviate poverty.
Transparency and Accountability, their meaning, significance and steps taken to promote them; Corruption in India.
e-Governance, its meaning, significances and applications, challenges in implementation etc.
Citizen Charter, its meaning, benefits, challenges in its implementation etc.
Role of Civil Services in governance; Reforms in civil services, its need and recommendations of major committees thereon
India’s bilateral relationship with its neighboring countries such as Pakistan, China, Nepal etc.
India’s bilateral relationship with major countries of its interests such as Russia, USA etc.
Regional and Global Groupings such as BRICS, SAARC, G-20 etc.
Major developments from across the globe which impacts India’s interests such as Ukraine War, change in US Visa Policy etc.
Indian Diaspora, their roles in promoting India’s interests, challenges faced by them etc.
International bodies such as the UN, IMF, WHO etc, their structure, functions, challenges faced by them etc.

Some important links for UPSC Main General Studies-I Paper Preparation are listed below:

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-III: General Studies-II

The title for this paper, as given by the UPSC, is – Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations .The topics given as part of the syllabus for Main General Studies-II paper and their detailed break-ups are presented as follows:

Indian Diaspora, their roles in promoting India’s interests, challenges faced by them etc.

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-IV: General Studies-III

The title for this paper, as given by the UPSC, is – Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management .

The topics given as part of the syllabus for Main General Studies-III paper and their detailed break-ups are presented as follows:

Planning in India, its achievements & failures, and challenges faced; primary tools for mobilization of resources such as government budgeting, taxation, disinvestment etc.
Growth path of Indian economy from independence till now, and issues related to it such as Regional Disparity.
Employment and skill development, challenges therein, and initiatives taken to promote them
Inclusive growth, challenges and initiatives taken; Issues related to inclusive growth such as poverty, income inequality etc.
Government Budget, its types, issues with budgeting process, and issues related to it such as Gender Budgeting; Other Fiscal Policies of the government.
Major crops of India such as Rice, Wheat etc and their cropping pattern across the country.
Major types of irrigation system prevalent in India, and issues therein
Storage, transport and marketing of agricultural goods, their needs and issues therein
Different types of agricultural subsidies, their needs and issues therein
Agricultural price policies of the government; MSP, its needs and issues therein
PDS, its needs, limitations, and initiatives taken to revamp it.
Food Security, present status in India, challenges associated with it, steps taken to achieve it such as Buffer Stock, and related issues such as Hunger, Food Safety etc.
Major technology missions related to agriculture in India such as Green Revolution, National Mission on Agricultural Extension & Technology, promotion of Farm Mechanisation etc.
Livestock sector, its significance, challenges faced by it and steps taken
Food Processing Industries, its potential and present status in India, its significance for India, challenges faced by it, and steps taken.
Factors necessitating land reform in India, its progress, and challenges coming in its way.
Liberalization, policy changes made under it and their impacts on different sectors of the economy such as external trade, foreign investment, agriculture etc.
Industrial Policy, its need and evolution from the Industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 through New Industrial Policy of 1991 upto present.
Major industrial infrastructures as mentioned above, steps taken for their development, challenges coming in the way such as their financing, land constraints etc, and other issues related to them.
Need for investment in the Indian economy, its types such as FDI, and issues related to it.
Types of investment models such as PPP, their advantages and limitations, and steps taken to promote them
Major emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT, their applications and impacts.
Role of Science & Technology in areas such as Health, Education, Agriculture etc, major developments in those directions and issues arising out of them
Development of science & technology in India since 1950s upto now, and major achievements such as atomic energy, missiles, space etc.
Steps taken towards indigenization of technologies in major sectors such as Defense, Manufacturing etc.
Major developments in the fields of IT & Computers, Nano-Technology, Bio-Technology etc such as GM Crops, AI etc, their applications, and issues related to them.
Intellectual Property Rights such as Patent, GI etc, their benefits and issues related to them.
Efforts taken for conservation of natural resources such as forest, wildlife, rivers etc at India and international level.
Environmental pollution, its major types, causes, and their impacts such as Global Warming, Ozone Depletion etc.
Environmental Impact Assessment, its need, initiatives taken and challenges faced
Basic concepts related to Natural Hazards, Disasters, and Disaster Management; Different phases of disaster management, steps taken in India such as Disaster Management Act of 2005
Major types of disasters concerning India such Flood, Drought, Earthquake etc, their causes, impacts, and steps taken to mitigate them
Relation between developmental issues and rise of extremism; Various forms of extremism in India such as Left-Wing Extremism, Insurgency etc, factors helping their rise, challenges posed by them, steps taken to contain them and remaining challenges.
Security challenges posed by external state actors such as those by Pakistan, China etc; Security challenges posed by non-state actors such as Terrorism, Smuggling etc.
Security challenges posed by social media and other forms of media such as propagation of extremism, rumor mongering etc.
Cyber security, its significance, steps taken and challenges faced
Money laundering, its process, challenges posed by it and steps taken
Land and Coastal Borders of India, challenges in their management, and steps taken
Organized crimes, its types such as Trafficking, Smuggling etc, challenges posed by them, their connecting with terrorism, and steps taken to tackle them
Major security agencies of India such as Central Armed Police Forces, Intelligence Agencies etc, their functions and related issues.

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-V: General Studies-IV

The title for this paper, as given by the UPSC, is – Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude . The topics given as part of the UPSC syllabus for Main General Studies-IV paper are as follows:

Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
Case Studies on above issues.

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-VI: Optional Papers I and II

One may choose any optional subject from amongst the list of Optional Subjects as provided in the notification for UPSC CSE. The UPSC syllabus for different optional subjects is different.

Some important links for UPSC Main Optional Paper preparation are listed below:

Personality Test (Interview)

It is the third and final stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. It is a Viva-voce type of examination wherein the candidate is interviewed by a Board.

UPSC does not provide any defined syllabus for this stage of examination. However, the experiences of the past interviewees suggest that questions asked in the interview are generally based on the Detailed Application Form (DAF) of the candidate, matters of general interest, current affairs, etc.

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UPSC Syllabus for CSE Prelims, Mains and Interview

UPSC Syllabus for Civil Services Examination

IAS, IPS, or IFS aspirants can access the UPSC Syllabus for Civil Service Exam (CSE) from this page.

ClearIAS has prepared topic-wise notes and classes to explain each of the keywords mentioned in the UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains Syllabus.

ClearIAS Study Materials and Courses can be accessed through hyperlinks on this page. Aspirants may bookmark this page for complete notes on the UPSC syllabus topics.

UPSC CSE Syllabus: Decoding

There are three stages in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.

Preliminary Examination (MCQs)
Main Examination (Written Exam)
Personality Test (Interview)

UPSC Syllabus – Civil Services Preliminary Exam

The Civil Services Preliminary exam comprises two compulsory papers of 200 marks each (General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II). The questions will be of multiple-choice, objective type. The marks in prelims will not be counted for the final ranking, but just for qualification for the main exam.


	General Studies Paper I (GS)	200	2 hours
	General Studies Paper II (CSAT)	200	2 hours

UPSC CSE Syllabus: Keywords Explanation

UPSC CSE candidates can click on each of the links given below to read articles about every topic mentioned in the UPSC Syllabus.

This keyword explainer project regarding the UPSC syllabus is one of the FREE initiatives of ClearIAS.

UPSC Syllabus for Paper-I – 200 marks

This objective paper is for two hours. There will be 100 questions. Marks of only this paper is counted to decide the toppers of the preliminary exam. The syllabus of GS Paper 1 is given below.

Current events of national and international importance .
History of India and Indian National Movement .
Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World .
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc .
General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization .
General Science .

UPSC Syllabus for Paper-II – 200 marks

This objective paper is for a duration of two hours. There will be 80 questions. Marks of this paper are counted to decide the toppers of the preliminary exam. This paper is only qualifying in nature. Aspirants just need to ensure that they score at least 33% marks in this paper. The syllabus of GS Paper 2 (CSAT) is given below.

Comprehension .
Interpersonal skills including communication skills .
Logical reasoning and analytical ability .
Decision-making and problem-solving .
General mental ability .
Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) (Class X level) .
Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. – Class X level) .

The Commission will draw a list of candidates to be qualified for the Civil Service (Main) Examination based on the criterion of minimum qualifying marks of 33% in General Studies PaperII of Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination and total qualifying marks of General Studies Paper-I of Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination as may be determined by the Commission.


	100	80
	2	2.5
	200	200
	-0.66 marks for every incorrect answer. (ie. 1/3rd of the maximum marks for the question)	-0.83 marks for every incorrect answer. (ie. 1/3rd of the maximum marks for the question)
	Counted for selection into the next stage (Mains). But not counted for the final ranking after Mains and Interview.	Not counted for selection into the next stage (Mains). This paper is qualifying in nature. However, the candidate needs 33% marks (67/200 marks)

UPSC Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam

A candidate’s rank in the UPSC Civil Service Exam depends only on the mark scored in the Main and Interview. The main exam has 1750 marks while the interview has 275 marks.

The written examination (main) will consist of the following nine papers, but only 7 papers will be counted for the final merit ranking. Each paper is for 250 marks. Thus the total mark for the Main exam is 1750.

For the rest two papers, the candidate should secure the minimum marks prescribed by UPSC each year. For each of the qualifying papers, it is usually 25% i.e. 75/300 marks.


	Essay	250
	General Studies – I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)	250
	General Studies – II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations)	250
	General Studies – III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Security and Disaster Management)	250
	General Studies – IV (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)	250
	Optional Subject – Paper I	250
	Optional Subject – Paper II	250
	Indian Language	300
	English Language	300

1. Paper‐I: (Essay) – 250 Marks

In Essay Paper, candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep close to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

2. Paper‐2: (General Studies 1) – 250 Marks.

General Studies 1 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam consists of the below major areas: Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society. The detailed syllabus is given below:

Indian culture

Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times .

Modern Indian History

Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present – significant events, personalities, and issues .
The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country .
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country .

World History

Events from the 18th century such as :

industrial revolution
redrawal of national boundaries
colonization
decolonization
political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc. – their forms and effect on the society .

Indian Society

Salient features of Indian Society
Diversity of India
Role of women and women’s organization
Population and associated issues
Poverty and developmental issues
Urbanization: their problems and their remedies
Effects of globalization on Indian society
Social empowerment: communalism, regionalism & secularism .

World Geography

Salient features of the world’s physical geography
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent)
Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclones etc.
Geographical features and their location
Changes in critical geographical features (including water bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

3. Paper‐3: (General Studies 2) – 250 Marks

General Studies 2 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam consists of the below major areas: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations. The detailed syllabus is given below:

Indian Constitution: Historical underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant provisions and Basic structure
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States
Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure
Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein
Separation of powers between various organs
Dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these
Structure, organization, and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary
Ministries and Departments of the Government
Pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions, and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies
Statutory, regulatory, and various quasi-judicial bodies

Governance and Social Justice

Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
Development processes and the development industry – the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes
Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
Issues relating to poverty and hunger
Important aspects of governance
Transparency and accountability
e-governance – applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential
Citizen’s charters
Transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures
Role of civil services in a democracy

International Relations

India and its neighbourhood relations
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Indian Diaspora
Important International institutions, agencies and fora – their structure, mandate
India’s soft power and cultural diplomacy

4. Paper‐4: (General Studies 3) – 250 Marks

General Studies 3 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam consists of the below major areas: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management. The detailed syllabus as provided by UPSC is as below:

General Studies 3 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains

Economic Development

Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment .
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it .
Government Budgeting .
Land reforms in India .
Effects of liberalization on the economy
Changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth .
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc .
Investment models .

Agriculture

Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country
Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage
Transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints
e-technology in the aid of farmers
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices
Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping
Issues of buffer stocks and food security
Technology missions
Economics of animal-rearing .
Food processing and related industries in India – scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management .

Science and Technology

Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
Achievements of Indians in Science & technology
Indigenization of technology and developing new technology .
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology
Issues relating to intellectual property rights .

Biodiversity and Environment

Conservation
Environmental pollution and degradation
Environmental impact assessment
Disaster and disaster management

Internal Security

Linkages between development and spread of extremism .
Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks
Role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges
Basics of cyber security
Money laundering and its prevention
Security challenges and their management in border areas
Linkages of organized crime with terrorism
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate .

5. Paper‐5: (General Studies 4) – 250 Marks

General Studies 4 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam consists of the below major areas: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. Details of the syllabus as provided by UPSC is as below: This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem-solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered:

General Studies 4 Paper Syllabus for UPSC Civil Services Mains

Ethics and Human Interface:

Ethics and Human Interface
Essence, determinants, and consequences of Ethics in human actions
Dimensions of ethics
Ethics in private and public relationships

Human Values

Human Values – Lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators
Role of family, society, and educational institutions in inculcating values
Attitude: content, structure, function
Attitude and its influence and relation with thought and behaviour
Moral and political attitudes
Social influence and persuasion
Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service
Impartiality and non-partisanship
Objectivity
Dedication to public service
Tolerance and Compassion towards the weaker sections

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence – concepts
Utilities and application of Emotional Intelligence in administration and governance

Moral Thinkers and Philosophers

Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world

Civil Service Values

Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems
Ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions
Laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance
Accountability
Ethical governance
Strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance
Ethical issues in international relations and funding
Corporate governance .
Probity in Governance
Concept of Public Service
The philosophical basis of governance and probity
Information sharing and transparency in government
Right to Information
Codes of Ethics
Codes of Conduct
Citizen’s Charters
Work culture
Quality of service delivery
Utilization of public funds
Challenges of corruption

Case Studies

Case Studies on the above issues .

6. Paper‐6: (Optional Subject Paper 1) – 250 Marks

7. paper‐7: (optional subject paper 2) – 250 marks, syllabi for optional subjects:.

History Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Geography Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Economics Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Sociology Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Public Administration Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Philosophy Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Psychology Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Political Science Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Agriculture Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Anthropology Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Botany Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Chemistry Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Civil Engineering Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Commerce Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Electrical Engineering Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Geology Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Law Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Mathematics Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Management Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Mechanical Engineering Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Medical Science Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Physics Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Statistics Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
Zoology Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC .
The literature of any one of the following languages: Assamese , Bengali , Bodo , Dogri , Gujarati , Hindi , Kannada , Kashmiri , Konkani , Maithili , Malayalam , Manipuri , Marathi , Nepali , Oriya , Punjabi , Sanskrit , Santhali , Sindhi , Tamil , Telugu , Urdu and English .

Qualifying Paper A – Not counted for final ranking

Paper ‐ A – Indian Language – Syllabus . (One of the Indian Languages to be selected by the candidate from the Languages included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution. This paper will not be compulsory for candidates hailing from the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim.) 300 Marks.

Qualifying Paper B – Not counted for final ranking

Paper ‐ B – English Language – Syllabus. 300 Marks.

UPSC Syllabus – Civil Services Interview

The candidate will be interviewed by a Board that will have before them a record of his/her career. He/she will be asked questions on matters of general interest. The object of the interview is to assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in public service by a Board of competent and unbiased observers. The test is intended to judge the mental calibre of a candidate. In broad terms, this is really an assessment of not only his/her intellectual qualities but also social traits and his/her interest in current affairs. Some of the qualities to be judged are mental alertness, critical powers of assimilation, clear and logical exposition, a balance of judgement, variety and depth of interest, ability for social cohesion and leadership, intellectual and moral integrity.
The technique of the interview is not that of a strict cross-examination but of a natural, though directed and purposive conversation which is intended to reveal the mental qualities of the candidate.
The interview test is not intended to be a test either of the specialised or general knowledge of the candidates which has been already tested through their written papers. Candidates are expected to have taken an intelligent interest not only in their special subjects of academic study but also in the events which are happening around them both within and outside their own state or country as well as in modern currents of thought and in new discoveries which should arouse the curiosity of well-educated youth.

Sub Total (Written test): 1750 Marks Personality Test: 275 Marks Grand Total: 2025 Marks

CSE Prelims and Mains Syllabus Decoding

Concerning the UPSC CSE syllabus, the Commission has provided an overview of the subjects or topics from which questions will be framed. For most of the Prelims subjects – just the names are indicated, nothing more.

For example, just one line is mentioned about the topic ‘History of India and the Indian National Movement’ in the UPSC CSE Prelims syllabus. The details of the sub-topics that come under it are not listed.

However, this outline may not be adequate to get a holistic view of the UPSC syllabus for most of the IAS/IPS/IFS aspirants. To solve this problem, ClearIAS has created hundreds of notes (study materials) by decoding and elaborating on each of the topics mentioned in the UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains syllabus.

Such explainer notes of ClearIAS can be accessed as hyperlinks on this page. We believe this will help students save valuable time while preparing self-notes.

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We try to personally guide each aspirant who joins ClearIAS – online or offline. You would be surprised to find out how fast you can learn!

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Latest UPSC Pattern Analysis and other FAQs

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UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam New Syllabus (2013) .
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Reader Interactions

April 27, 2015 at 3:23 pm

Sir,whether we have to choose one or two optional subjects from the list.if I choose English literature as my only one optional subject,is it enough?

April 18, 2016 at 3:31 am

Yes, it is.

July 3, 2018 at 12:42 pm

BUT THERE ARE TWO OPTIONAL PAPERS?

July 4, 2018 at 8:43 am

Optional Subject is 1. But it includes Paper 1 and Paper 2, both having separate syllabus. For ex, Public Administration has Paper 1 and Paper 2, having weight-age of 250 marks each.

July 19, 2018 at 10:59 pm

sir could u plsss tell me which books to refer for IAS preparation plss sir

July 28, 2018 at 11:23 am

Indian politics Lakshmi kant

August 25, 2018 at 4:42 pm

Keep Calm!!! and make your own research and strategy… Best of luck Ąýęśhă…

September 8, 2018 at 3:25 pm

Ncert and different authors book you need to prepare for upsc

September 11, 2018 at 9:56 am

Sir which books of NCERT should we refer for upsc preparation either old or new..?

October 4, 2018 at 9:28 pm

Sir I have a question could u plzz tell me if once prelims is completed but dropped in mains would this prelims be considered for next mains examination of not.

October 23, 2018 at 3:59 pm

1 OPTIONAL SUBJECT enough BUT one optional contains TWO papers each peaper of 250*2=500 that’s it It’s a new pattern of UPSC CSE

May 23, 2015 at 10:36 pm

SIR , please tell me the complete process for form application

June 21, 2015 at 9:26 pm

What is the real Purpose that according to you One should aspire, such that he diligently Should think himself that he/ she is fit to be an IAS. I ask this to see whether are you fit to Teach me.

April 6, 2018 at 8:37 am

The real purpose itself lies in the full form of UPSC. its a service to mankind with full of effort and intelligence into the wellness of society.

April 28, 2018 at 4:10 am

You just have to explore yourself with full of confidence towards the nation and mankind too. Which will automatically bring the ability to become an IAS or IPS. All the best.

June 28, 2015 at 10:41 am

sir, I have seen the following mains syllabus in upsc official website, it has four optional papers, two gs papers and total marks is 2300, please give me more information

July 18, 2015 at 4:35 pm

Sir,i have read this syllabus..so how many subjects should select for paper 6th and 7 th

July 18, 2015 at 5:39 pm

April 28, 2018 at 4:12 am

You can select only 1 subject from thw above all list of optional subject given by commission.

July 20, 2015 at 3:10 pm

Sir,Please suggest book for Mathematics?

April 10, 2016 at 11:46 pm

Manjul tyagi

July 21, 2015 at 9:55 pm

sir, pleas tell me that the syllabus for eng. and hindi qualifying paper and syllabus for optional paper eng. and hindi are same.

August 4, 2015 at 3:32 pm

Sir, plz say me all ias exam imp book, but language in marathi medium

April 28, 2018 at 4:13 am

You should joint the telegram appz it will help you . To find the books and extra details.

August 7, 2015 at 1:14 am

When started prelium exam of upsc and when and how can find the result

November 7, 2017 at 8:36 pm

It comes on upsc online portal

August 11, 2015 at 2:08 pm

if i persue b.tech from c.s. then will i be eligible for u.p.s.c.. bcoz here c.s. is not mentioned

April 27, 2018 at 10:34 pm

Graduation complete chahiye bs stream matter ni krtu

August 11, 2015 at 9:18 pm

IAS ke exam me maths compulsary hota he kya sir

April 6, 2018 at 8:40 am

No. Maths is not compulsary for attempting UPSC exam. you only need to complete your graduation in any stream.

August 1, 2018 at 4:35 pm

no bro but you have to do some reasoning questions pf paper 2 that is prelims

August 14, 2015 at 2:19 am

I am software engineer… I cant find any computer science engineering syllabus…. Can I apply for for IAS exam?

June 29, 2016 at 8:42 pm

No should select the optional subjects from the list

August 14, 2015 at 2:28 am

I m a software engineer.. Can I appear

August 15, 2015 at 7:45 pm

i m student of bsc 2nd year and want to start my prepartion for IAS kindly guide me how to start prepration without coaching and books essential for it .

April 30, 2018 at 10:14 pm

Tum se na ho payega beta……..

May 29, 2018 at 7:53 pm

Tumse ho paya?

June 3, 2018 at 1:29 pm

Why ? Can you tell me ?

July 31, 2018 at 4:19 am

IAS exam is one of non specialised, ineffective, foolish exam. They are bunch of people who have no specialisation only have wikipedia like information in brain. They are bunch of unproductive, non innovative moron. As soon as bureaucracy remove these bunch of moron & take specialist professional India will be developed in one decade.

August 1, 2018 at 4:38 pm

yes you can do it without coaching

August 20, 2015 at 5:55 pm

dear, sir i want to be an IAS . who can i prepare for this exam. i believe in self study therefore plz. guide for preparation…..

August 23, 2015 at 7:38 am

Sir i m of class11th and i want to prepare for upsc..but i m not able to understad the syllabus.kindly help me…..explain me

May 19, 2016 at 2:11 am

its too early to think about upsc. get into a college first and then you would 4 years to think about upsc…

August 16, 2016 at 9:53 am

Hey I m in class 12 and know syllabus very well but I need someone to prepare with me can u please

November 24, 2016 at 3:29 pm

Me 2 do u know how to prepare for upsc exams?? Or sm suggestions.. books ??????????

August 25, 2015 at 12:57 am

When the 2015 prelim result will declare

August 26, 2015 at 2:44 am

I can , cracks & win

August 31, 2015 at 11:38 pm

which is basic subject those who learning after 12

September 6, 2015 at 7:35 pm

if we take science stream can we become a civil servant

September 19, 2015 at 3:27 pm

Dear Sir, With reference to the Paper-A, where a candidate has to choose a language it is not made compulsory for candidates hailing from the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim. What I understood is that it has been introduced in order to enable candidates from diverse background with different mother-tongue to be able to write in a language of their choice as their mother tongue is not there in the list. My question here is why is Tripura and Assam not included in the list in spite of being a north-eastern states. The indigeneous people of Tripura commonly called as Tripuris also have a different mother-tongue, not mentioned in the list. It is a huge disadvantage for us as we have to choose from the list whereas candidates from other north-eastern states are not made compulsory. The population of Bangladeshi immigrants to Tripuris in the state of Tripura is 7 :3 which signifies that Bangladeshi immigrants are more in numbers with respect to the indigenous Tripuris. Does it mean that the non Bangladeshi-Bengali speaking IAS aspirants of Tripura has to learn the other language first in order to prepare for IAS exam when we are already comfortable with English ? Sir please take a look on it to make the competition even for all the citizens of our country. Or please kindly give us some direction so that our state Tripura could also be included in the non-compulsory list of states.

September 20, 2015 at 8:46 am

We understand your concern, but it’s ultimately the decision of the government and UPSC. But considering the fluent language you used above, we are sure you will pass the other compulsory language too. You just need to secure a minimum mark in that.

November 7, 2017 at 3:34 pm

sir ias and kas notes

November 7, 2017 at 3:36 pm

which this sir

September 21, 2015 at 2:06 pm

Dear Sir How to choose the elective subjects. Is it compulsory to choose two subjects and is order of choice of subjects will make any difference?

October 13, 2018 at 5:31 pm

Like each subject and love for one subject this is the your best sub….

September 22, 2015 at 1:51 pm

Iam 2nd dental student but iam unable to understand syllabus n subejects.please help me

September 25, 2015 at 5:04 pm

plz muje upsc me ips banahe to ek must book batavo in gujarati & english.

September 28, 2015 at 12:33 pm

can i write main exam in kannada

April 24, 2017 at 3:55 pm

Yes ..you can use your language..

April 3, 2018 at 8:15 pm

Sir is kannada language tuff language

April 6, 2018 at 8:45 am

Nothing is tough in this world. You only need to give your best into it and everything is possible.

September 30, 2015 at 10:51 pm

Dear sir /medam. I m student of pali literature . So, can i appear in UPSC IAS exams? And how to prepare for this exams? Please kindly instruct in detail. Thanks you.

October 20, 2015 at 12:52 pm

Sir I would like to know whether I can take English as one language paper and as optional too at same time.

October 23, 2015 at 6:53 pm

Please mughe DM banana hai to koi accha book kon- as hai

October 27, 2015 at 6:21 pm

Dear sir, I’m sharan what’s important from merit papers? and how to accept new pattern of csat2? please guide me.

October 30, 2015 at 2:48 pm

Sir,I want to have information about age criteria? And also about the chances to apply for civil services exam for a general category student?

April 25, 2016 at 4:03 am

General students attempt 6 times and minimum age is 21 and maximum 32 years

November 20, 2015 at 4:37 pm

Thanks for giving information about the exam syllabus.

December 3, 2015 at 5:58 am

Sir plz guide me upsc… Related

December 9, 2015 at 5:58 pm

sir can an arts student take science paper as optional subject

December 10, 2015 at 4:35 pm

December 13, 2015 at 5:48 pm

What is the minimum marks to be scored for merit ranking

February 24, 2018 at 8:10 pm

Medam give details about IAS, which are the subjects are there and please clarify me

December 22, 2015 at 10:43 am

sir can i take english as both a language paper and optional language and as a engineering student can i take history or economics as my optional subjet?

December 24, 2015 at 9:26 pm

how many marks i hav to score in prelims to qualify for main exams?

May 16, 2018 at 3:28 pm

33% out of 200

January 4, 2016 at 6:42 pm

I am an IAS aspirant. I still Have 2 Years to finish my degree. But I am eager for the time to come. I will start my preparation soon.

January 11, 2016 at 1:30 pm

i am a second year btech. electrical engg. student how can i prepare for ias exam ?

January 16, 2016 at 11:24 am

can i take literature subjects for mains ? ive not graduated in literature

January 19, 2016 at 7:45 pm

sir am now studying b.com 3rd year,which type of books will be preferablly read at this time…….

January 20, 2016 at 9:44 am

Sir I left m.b.b.s because I want to be IAS but my collage don’t give me my document. I got duplicate documents from my board gandhinager so I will Chan’s to do any graduation

January 20, 2016 at 11:46 am

pls r suggests book for prelims

February 11, 2016 at 3:12 pm

Sir, there is any negative marking in preliminary exam

February 11, 2016 at 7:43 pm

February 14, 2016 at 7:48 pm

Sir out of two optionals i want to take history for paper 1 and political science &int relation for paper 2.is it possible since iam not interested in pol.sci. paper 1 & i have great interest for international relations.

February 14, 2016 at 7:51 pm

@skmr94 – At the moment, there is only 1 optional subject.

February 23, 2016 at 12:40 pm

Fools give this exam!

February 28, 2016 at 3:29 am

Sir, I’ m a P.R. In Australia. Can I prepare for I A S

March 10, 2016 at 8:41 pm

Sir I’m tushar thakre and I’m studying Bsc agriculture and I want to become an IAS officer ,how do I start preparation for this exam

March 27, 2016 at 12:24 pm

Sir I am studying bcom 2 year so I am thinking to start prepare for civil service exam for 2 hours for a day. And my aim is to become IPS officer in my life. So my question is it is possible to complete 70 % of syllabus for civil service exam before completing my BCOM.so please give me the information sir.And give me the another details how to speak English fluently

April 2, 2016 at 12:07 pm

Sir, can i take english literature as optional subject

April 17, 2016 at 11:13 pm

hello sir,this is uma naik,i’m studing b.tech third year still i’m having one more year to complete my degree so can you PLEASE guide me how can i prepare for PRELIMINARY exam

May 1, 2018 at 12:47 pm

April 20, 2016 at 10:38 am

dear sir/Madum I’m Nirmalagowda I want to prepare for IAS exam pls give me suggestion.

April 26, 2016 at 10:54 am

Hi sir I jz wanted to know that which documents should we need for exam and selection proces

April 27, 2016 at 5:59 am

Dear sir, I passed b.tech in electronics&communication from AMIE . Can i fill upsc form?

May 1, 2016 at 5:12 pm

Sir, I m an IAS aspirant can u guide me with the study materials for this exam.

May 6, 2016 at 8:10 pm

Sir please tell me…which books for physics are suitable to clear ias

May 11, 2016 at 11:55 am

Civil service my aim Please help me

May 12, 2016 at 2:07 pm

Am bba topper how can I prepare for iAS exam

May 12, 2016 at 2:16 pm

Sir I am B.Sc.student give me guidance for preparations upsc

May 14, 2016 at 2:42 pm

please give me some materials for upsc preparation

May 16, 2016 at 6:10 pm

Sir There are I to VII papers in Main if I select Vi & VII paper any Indian letuare Language like Bengali,Hindi in that case what will be filled in >>Language Medium for Examination for Paper I to Paper VII –English or Respective Language as I want to appear Paper I to V in english

May 26, 2016 at 10:18 pm

how m How should I start preparation for UPSC..pls suggest

September 1, 2017 at 11:12 am

Start reading with (NCERT) these are the basic text books which will give you grist.class (6th-12th) read line by line.these books will clear your basic idea.

May 31, 2016 at 1:50 pm

sir i want to take maths in class11 then in future will i b able to apper in upsc or any else xam related to an IAS officer..

April 3, 2018 at 8:19 pm

June 3, 2016 at 4:01 am

I have completed my graduation in history from English medium and I am also preparing for upsc for the past 1 month. I have found some important books for prelims as well as for mains. I am sharing a list of some important books which will definitely help you.

Geography: Ncert of class 11&12+ mahesh Barnwall (you can order this book from Amazon it is available there in hindi)

Indian polity : M. Laxmikant it is also available in hindi. This is the Bible for polity just go through this book.

History:spectrum and ncert of class 11th and 12th would be enough.

Science and technology : ncert of class 10,11 and 12 also newspaper reading is essential because sometimes we get questions on new innovations and other things.

Indian economy: start from ncert first and there are some good series on mrunal On Indian economy. Also if you have time you can read ramesh singh indian economy its a vast book, it will help you in mains but for prelims basic knowledge is require your bases should clear and understanding on different aspects of Indian economy.

For environment :same you can rely upon a single source and that is your ncert books and newspaper reading but if you want something extra then there is a book in market by shiv kumar on environment in hindi you can buy.

Sources I have mentioned above are all available in hindi. All the best:)

July 8, 2016 at 3:54 pm

please send me more books for history

March 26, 2017 at 10:17 pm

September 26, 2017 at 10:25 am

My optional subject is history.. plz recommend me the best book for it..

April 3, 2018 at 8:20 pm

June 8, 2016 at 12:27 pm

can u pls tell me the books i should refer for geography option

June 13, 2016 at 9:15 pm

My subjecta are political science and public administration I wanted to become an IAS Is my subjects are easy to clear the exam? Can u suggest me the right way to clear the exam?

June 13, 2016 at 10:23 pm

sir/madam, I am student of the yr.

I want to write the upsc exam (mains paper 1to7) in my own mother language. is it possible? please tell me sir/madam.

June 17, 2016 at 1:55 pm

sir I,m studying bachelor of vocational from dairy technology ,after this degree I m give the exam of ias.

June 23, 2016 at 3:44 pm

Sir, I am in 11 & I want to prepare for IAS but I want to become a doctor & that’s why I want to drop maths…..so my qstn is can I apply for IAS without maths? & can I become IAS after MBBS?….pls reply sir

June 24, 2016 at 6:44 pm

sir, i have completed degree and i am intending to become an ias officer. sir, please clarify my following doubts. 1) how many optional subjects in the mains? 2)where, the required material is available for the telugu and english languages ?

i solicited early reply.

June 26, 2016 at 11:05 pm

sir, can we choose same subject in both optional papers

June 29, 2016 at 7:44 pm

sir,can we take same subject in both optional papers

September 5, 2016 at 7:20 pm

July 3, 2016 at 3:30 pm

i am mba and worked retail job can i appear ias exam

July 5, 2016 at 11:51 am

i have done engineering in computer science so i am not getting the computer science option in subject choose option can you please tell me the subject which i choose

September 16, 2016 at 8:48 pm

I DO HAVE SAME PROBLEM………….. SIR, LET US KNOW WHAT TO DO…….?

July 7, 2016 at 10:51 am

sir/ madam Iam a 2nd year paramedical student. I would like to appear for upsc exams after my graduation.Will I be eligible for the same?? I come from a middle class family and I think I cannot afford for coaching now. Can I clear it without coaching and from where must I start?? which books must i read?? waiting eagerly for your advice..

June 21, 2018 at 10:04 am

Yes,you are eligible for UPSC

July 17, 2016 at 3:45 pm

Does core branch of b. Tech help in subjects

Just for optional subjects.

September 1, 2017 at 11:17 am

July 20, 2016 at 9:14 am

sir/ I m bed student .I like only IAS job and no like out her jobs.plz help me.

July 23, 2016 at 9:34 pm

halo sir , i just pass my +2 in PCM , which field is beter for me for gradution ie arts or science / which is more usefull from both of them

July 24, 2016 at 11:16 am

Sir m army m GD post PR job kr RHA hu muje join kiye five year ho gye meri qualifications BA Arts se complete h ..kya m..UPSC test de shkta hu ydi de shkta hu..to please muje btao muje kyon kyone si book read krni padegi ..ar UPSC test ki tyari kese kru…plz btao..plz

July 30, 2016 at 6:24 pm

Good information about civil services exam

August 1, 2016 at 8:53 pm

I’m studying my 1st year civil engineering would you please suggest me for preparing for my upsc

August 3, 2016 at 9:59 pm

नमस्कार सर जी,

मैं आपके समस्त आर्टिकल्स को रेगुलर स्टडी करता हूँ, और मुझे आपके सभी आर्टिकल्स बहुत ही अच्छे लगते हैं, ये बहुत ही सरल भाषा में हैं जिसको कोई भी व्यक्ति आसानी से समझ और याद कर सकता है, मैं हिंदी माध्यम से तैयारी कर रहा हूँ, क्या आपकी साईट पर उपलब्ध समस्त अध्ययन सामग्री हिंदी में उपलब्ध हो सकती है. अगर आपकी सामग्री हिंदी माध्यम में मिल जाए तो इस से मुझे बहुत ही सहायता मिल सकती है, मुझे आपके उत्तर का इन्तजार बेसब्री से रहेगा.

आपका नियमित पाठक,

August 5, 2016 at 11:17 am

August 7, 2016 at 6:33 pm

sir nw I m pursuing bsc degree in PCB subjects,further I want to appear for upsc exams keeping my main sub as either botany or zoology…soo can I appear for upsc after pursuing graduation degree with these sub..sir plzz guide me and how many times can I appear for upsc exams as I come under general category plzz sir help me out..

September 5, 2016 at 7:18 pm

Yes, you can appear for upsc soon after you graduation and you should be 22 year old. An the upper age limit is 30 years. You have plenty of time. so start preparing. Best of Luck

August 31, 2016 at 7:31 pm

How is the mains exam conducted is it totally in written form or will it have choices (MCQ)

August 31, 2016 at 9:20 pm

Sir,agr hm main sub political science li h to kon kon se sub ke test Dene honge IAS or IPS exm ke liye

September 10, 2016 at 9:31 pm

Krishan kumar jamuatand balrampur chhattisgarh My aim is civil service please sir help me I am a

September 13, 2016 at 3:07 pm

Sir I am in 11th and I just want to ask you that how should I prepare for UPSC.From where should I start.

September 15, 2016 at 1:34 pm

I am presently in class 10 and a class topper. Political science and history are my favorites. What are the best books to read at present ? I am reading only TN state syllabus. And what other syllabus books should I read parallely?

September 19, 2016 at 10:45 pm

Sir,please could u sent me prelim and main syllabus…n in main syllabus total 7paper are there so i m too much confused….in 1st paper essay so what type…what is syllabus of 1st paper essay…plzz sir

September 25, 2016 at 5:12 pm

Sir I am Sam. I am currently studying 1 st year Physics in Chennai i am an IAS aspirant and can you say me few tips or guide me to study from now itself

September 27, 2016 at 1:01 am

Hlo sir,I m 2nd year student of engineering frm electronics and communication branch,kya mai IAS exam kai liye prepare kr sakti hu?? Kyu ki ye branch option mai hai hi ni…..plzzz reply,I m so confused..

October 11, 2016 at 2:31 am

Good Day:) I would like to know how many hours need to prepare for exam(Preliminary and Main) ?

October 13, 2016 at 10:24 pm

October 14, 2016 at 11:30 am

Sir, i am a 27 years married woman , unfortunately i stoped my studies in class 12, and then after 10 years i started to study , now iam doing my degree sencond year in DR.BR Ambedkar open university, my dream is to become an IAS / IPS Officer , please tell iam eligible for groups exam?? and my english also ver poor , forgive me any mistakes in my post, pleade do reply sir

August 7, 2017 at 6:57 pm

Exactly I m in same position .now I m in my second year of degree in Ambedkar open university.am I eligible?just guide me what to do?please

October 18, 2016 at 7:50 am

I m in bsc ist year n i want to become an ias officer. What should i do now onwards so that i can be familiar with the preparation by that tym after my graduation

October 18, 2016 at 9:21 am

May I chose only one subject pol. Sc for both of the optional papers

November 4, 2016 at 9:39 am

Sir’I am not proficient in speaking English can I give interview in telugu even English is chosen as language to write main exam

November 17, 2016 at 12:09 pm

Sir I’m preeti from shikohabad u.p and there is no such best coaching for ias exams. I’m b.a 2 year student nd want to prepare for upse exam. plzzz guide me from where nd how can i start preparation for upse exams….

November 17, 2016 at 12:14 pm

Sir I’m preeti from shikohabad u.p and I want to become a ias. I have not enough money to pay for high level coaching. I’m b.a 2nd year student so plz guide me to where and how can I start preparation for upse exams. .

September 1, 2017 at 11:26 am

@ preeti…As per my perspective you need to require the basic requirement to fullfill this exam yet like newspaper reading,Ncert reading that is enough yet.

November 26, 2016 at 5:25 pm

Same as preeti i also want to apper for ias examination

I am studying in 12 th std. Sir plzzz guide me…

December 5, 2016 at 4:47 pm

Sir, i am prajkta salve of class 11th science and i want to prepare for UPSC..but i am not able to understand the syllabus kindly help me..explain me

December 16, 2016 at 3:56 am

I am complete BSCIT in smu can i do upsc exam

December 22, 2016 at 1:50 pm

can we appear for the IAS exam after 12th ?? or else after tybcom…? can we appear for this exam by doing commerce ….?

December 30, 2016 at 10:02 am

Sir, I am student of class-12th(pcb) want to become IAS officer. So I request you plz suggest me about preparation for this exam.

January 5, 2017 at 10:59 pm

Sir I am student of B.Sc.3rdyear. I want to become IAS officer. Please guide me for preparation this exam.

January 7, 2017 at 12:08 am

Sir plz tell me ias syllabus and send ias previous year paper and ias related book tell me at my email main ke essay how to ask exam ias

February 12, 2017 at 7:57 am

Sir i really need ur valuable suggestion, i hv passed 12 with pcb n aspire for upsc. I want to take arts after 12 and i knw political science, economics, sociology,geography and history are important subjects and all are offered in ba only(plz correct me if i am wrong).sir i am new to these subjects and i love these subjects coz i always wanted to know about my country and surroundings except economics coz i dont even know what is economics but am willing to go a step ahead.sir but it wud be more comfortable to me if i take bio subjects like microbiology,zoology in B.A. as i have a basic background from biology. what are the most preferrable things i can do.can u guide me with these ?it will be highly appreciated.thanks in advance.

March 8, 2017 at 12:15 am

Sir I am persuing Ba 2nd year (private) in history, political science and geography. This decision is good for my IAS preparation?? Tell me sir .

March 25, 2017 at 4:01 pm

March 31, 2017 at 6:09 pm

Nice Sir i m in 1st year n i want to prepare for civil services. For this i want precise guidance Sir i also want to learn answer drafting for that i want ur help

April 8, 2017 at 6:42 pm

please tell me civil service examination’ s syllabus in hindi in detail.

April 27, 2017 at 10:13 pm

Sir/Ma’am what are the starting step for the preparation of ias and which institute is best for its preparation and how much time is enough for the preparation …..please guide me how to start the preparation…

May 18, 2017 at 4:45 pm

June 7, 2017 at 10:42 am

how i become a IAS officer

June 27, 2017 at 2:30 pm

Sir I am confused that should I take admission in college for graduation either coaching or self study

August 5, 2017 at 8:52 pm

Hello Sir I am an IT engineering student which subject should I take as optional , Which subject is related to my course ??

August 21, 2017 at 2:04 pm

Is it the updated pattern nd syllabus?

August 21, 2017 at 2:19 pm

August 23, 2017 at 7:03 pm

SIR, MYSELF ABHISHEK AND MY BROTHER WANTS TO BECOME IAS SO I WANT TO KNOW THAT WHICH BOOKS ARE BEST FOR HIM?

September 12, 2017 at 5:15 am

Sir/madam, I’m a bcom 1st year student. How can I start my preparation for upsc?Please guide me.

September 13, 2017 at 7:17 pm

I am study in class 11th. So i want to beacome an i.a. s officer. Please give me ideas its syllabus and I will prepare for it.

October 21, 2017 at 8:20 pm

Sir, what kind type of book is mainly usefull for upsc exam . To be an ips

October 22, 2017 at 9:44 am

Hlw sir, m puja i m complete graduation 2015 in honors philosophy only 6.3 CGPA n studying M.A in philosophy in distance under the guwahati university (IDOL).H.S passaed in only 51% HSCL passed in hindi medium school 41% . Can i eligible for UPSC exam. Plz suggest me …plz

November 17, 2017 at 7:59 pm

Yes u are eligible..as far I consern… Because for attempt the IAS exam one should be graduate by only qualifying marks which is 40 %..

November 17, 2017 at 7:55 pm

Two optional paper consist of aggregate 500 marks…should we chose these two papers from only one subject or from different subject..??

December 11, 2017 at 10:10 am

Sir is this compulsory to get maximum marks in prelims 1st paper to enter in prelims merit list. And if I get qualifying marks in prelims 1st paper then can I qualify for mains exam . Sir plz give information Thanks sir

January 3, 2018 at 12:38 am

Sir I have done BA English hons with 49.62 .can I prepare for upsc exam.

February 11, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Sir upsc ke PT or main mai kitna number ka puch jata hai pls give me answer fast

February 19, 2018 at 2:18 pm

sir kya mai upsc ki tyari hindi medium me kar sakta hu. interview ke liye english neccessary hai. Please mujhe margdarsan kare jald se jald.mai aapka jabab ja intajar karuga.

February 23, 2018 at 6:18 pm

which languages are available for prelim and mains paper

March 11, 2018 at 10:32 am

What level of mathematics and science do we get in UPSC- IAS paper?

March 14, 2018 at 8:35 pm

Hello Admin,

I was reading your entire article and the question asked over here. I have a also one question for which i want to get clear direction. Firstly let me proivide here my basic academic/profession details before asking my question:- Edu:- BCA + MAC Profession – Technical Manager (Java/J2EE), working with one of the top MNC and having 7+ years of total IT experience. State belongs to – Jammu & Kashmir

From past few months, i am inclining towards a prestige and honorable job by which i can do somthing better for my localites and needful persons. So this thought bringing me towards UPSC to become civil servant.

I better understand having THINKING and IMPLEMENTATION has a huge difference, but still for self satisfaction i want to make an attempt for UPSC.

Could you plese suggest/guide upon this, shall I go for UPSC or its too late to go?

March 15, 2018 at 6:11 pm

It’s never late if you are truly passionate about civil service. All the best!

March 19, 2018 at 3:29 pm

Thanks, one more thing, for optional which subject would be more reliable to me as i belongs to IT background.

April 17, 2018 at 11:18 pm

Please update previous exam model papers & practice papers for mathematics

April 29, 2018 at 10:09 pm

Hello sir.. I m Rubishta.. i cleared 12th std with 90% in 2014-15 and gave bcom final year xam this year via Rajasthan university i m also doing CS..its mt CS final year and … I want to prepare for UPSC xams.. i need some advise regarding best coaching institutes.. Thank you sir.

May 2, 2018 at 7:15 am

I can study bsc ( maths) can i take a political science as a optional

May 2, 2018 at 5:08 pm

sir i wanted to know that i am a bsc(home science) student am i eligible for appearing in upsc cse and cds examination?

May 3, 2018 at 12:35 pm

Thanks for the great information sir It will b really useful

May 3, 2018 at 8:00 pm

Covering NCERT in the sense we have to cover all subjects and also covering all group 10 th to 12 th books ah……

May 5, 2018 at 2:36 pm

Sir l was complete my MA to sociologi with 55% marks can l apply for upse exam 2018.

May 5, 2018 at 3:25 pm

Can we have same subjects in optional subject 1 and optional subject 2 papers ???

May 10, 2018 at 3:13 pm

If we get year back in engineering Can I write upsc(Ias) exams…?

May 14, 2018 at 7:29 pm

Sir , please tell me upsc civil service exam is really so difficult to crack.

May 29, 2018 at 6:34 pm

I am graduate of horticulture studying MSc horti in dept of fruit science, so shall I select agriculture as my main subject or any other subject which may easy for my better result in upsc

June 10, 2018 at 3:00 am

What is Paper A & Paper B?

June 10, 2018 at 11:24 am

Good morning sir, in graducation i took epp(economic,poliical science,public administrative)so is it good sir ,for upsc exam?

June 12, 2018 at 11:24 pm

Hello…sir/ madam, l am in B.Sc 1st year, l aspire to be an IAS but…l am very weak in maths and I have a threat that.. for preparing for UPS, what problems I would face bcz of weak mathematics???

June 14, 2018 at 1:38 pm

How much duration it will take to complete IAS BEGINNING FROM FIRST LEVEL

June 18, 2018 at 6:19 pm

sir,I passed 12th class in science & I want to become a IAS so how to I prepare for upsc exam please explain me as soon as

June 28, 2018 at 12:16 am

Sir , i want know about the role of performance in graduation, and schooling?

June 28, 2018 at 12:18 am

And what is required marks and percentages for UPSC?

July 2, 2018 at 10:16 pm

hi sir, i have done my m.tech in biotechnology, but i want to prepare for upsc exam, please help my understand about how to start preparation for that.

July 6, 2018 at 6:07 pm

Thanks sir your website is great.

July 15, 2018 at 11:28 am

Sir If I cleared pre, however I failed in mains, then I have to prepare for Mains Or I would have to start again from Pres???

July 23, 2018 at 11:52 am

sir could you plz tell me what books to prepare for UPSE exam

July 23, 2018 at 3:27 pm

My DoB is 5 Aug 1998 May I appear next year in 2019 IAS exam. I have completed graduation this year.

July 24, 2018 at 3:34 pm

hi sir, can you tell me which is the best books and study material fro UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS.

waiting for your reply sir.

July 29, 2018 at 8:44 pm

Sir i am studying bsc maths .how could i prepare for the upsc exams

July 30, 2018 at 10:00 am

Sir me Hindi medium SE Hu ap mujhe Hindi me upsc mains and pre Ka syllabus De sakte ha kya

August 1, 2018 at 9:41 pm

Sir, I am studying in f y b.com.After graduation if I pass UPSC prilims and mains, can I got the job in my surrounding area??

August 15, 2018 at 11:28 am

Can anyone please give me syllabus for Nepali compulsory paper

August 22, 2018 at 11:30 am

Sir, food inspector ke liye kon sa subject choose krna hoga animal husbandry ya kuch aur

September 9, 2018 at 11:39 am

which book for commerce and accountancy

September 11, 2018 at 11:10 am

This is an excellent website, I am an unemployed South African male that has never spoken an Indian language. I am interested mainly in Geography and Metallurgy, Please advise me on how to proceed to further educate myself. Kind Regards.

October 17, 2018 at 6:47 pm

hey this is excellent stuff you are adding here, people do not get free this kind of stuff , Appreciated !!

November 25, 2018 at 9:13 am

I’m in degree final year and i have little family problems still too i wanted to work hard and make my dreams come true so from now what strategy would make me to clear IAS, i mean from where should i start my preparation, many websites put many books for this preparation but which books you would suggest and also how to start my preparation?

November 25, 2018 at 9:21 am

Hi Sudhaa, refer ClearIAS Beginners Guide . This should give you all the details. All the best!

December 15, 2018 at 4:25 pm

Thank you all for commenting. As we have released a new ebook to clarify most of your queries, we are closing this comment thread. It has been pretty long, isn’t it?

Download our ebook “UPSC Civil Services Exam – The Beginner’s Guide to Success” from the “Start” section.

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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
Whither Indian democracy? -1995
How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
Need for transparency in public administration -1996
The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
Justice must reach the poor -2005
Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
Judicial activism. -1997
A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
Food security for sustainable national development -2005
Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
The composite culture of India. -1998
The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
Role of media in good governance -2008
Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
BPO boom in India. -2007
Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
What is real education? -2005
“Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
Life is a long journey between being human and being humane. (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
Wisdom finds truth -2019
A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
Truth is lived, not taught -1996
When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
If youth knew, if age could. -2002
Youth culture today. -1999
Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
Useless life is an early death. -1994
Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
If women ruled the world -2005
The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
National identity and patriotism -2008
Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
The masks of new imperialism. -2003
As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
The implications of globalization for India. -2000
My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
The global order: political and economic -1993
India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
Good fences make good neighbours -2009
Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
Terrorism and world peace -2005
True religion cannot be misused. -1997
History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
Modern technological education and human values. -2002
Value-based science and education. -1999
The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Year	Lectures	Powerpoint
2023	Free Lecture:	Free Powerpoint:
2022	Free Lecture:	Free Powerpoint:

Essay: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

IAS Preparation
UPSC Syllabus

UPSC Syllabus 2024 PDF - IAS Prelims & Mains Syllabus

Aspirants of Civil Services Examination are at the right place to get the details of the UPSC Syllabus. Here, at BYJU’S, you will find the complete IAS Syllabus for all the stages of the examination:

Preliminary Stage – General Studies & CSAT
Mains Stage – 9 Theory Papers (GS I-IV, Language Papers, Essay & Optional)
Personality Test – Interview

UPSC Syllabus in English (IAS Prelims):- Download PDF Here

UPSC Syllabus in Hindi (IAS Prelims):- Download PDF Here

Table of Content for Syllabus of UPSC:

UPSC Syllabus for CSE Prelims

IAS Prelims is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination. More than 11 lakhs candidates applied for UPSC Prelims in 2023 while approximately 10 lakh candidates applied for the same in 2022.

It is important to know the syllabus for IAS Prelims as it is the screening test that qualifies candidates for the next stage, i.e. Mains. All UPSC Exam aspirants must familiarise themselves with the exam pattern and IAS Exam syllabus first, and then move on with the preparation.

Aspirants preparing for UPSC 2024 must start preparing for the Civil Services exam in February 2023. One year of preparation is a must thing if aspirants want to score well in UPSC 2024 exam. This timeline of almost a year is crucial if you want to have a planned and smooth preparation phase where you can strengthen your concepts and clarify all doubts related to topics.


	General Studies Paper-I
	General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)
	100
	80
	400;
	⅓ of the total marks allotted to the question will be deducted for every wrong answer
	Two hours each;

The two papers of the IAS prelims are discussed in detail below:

The General Studies test is the first paper of the preliminary examination.
This test is intended to test the general awareness of a candidate in a wide range of subjects that include: Indian Polity, Geography, History, Indian Economy, Science and Technology, Environment and Ecology, International Relations and associated UPSC current affairs .
This UPSC Prelims syllabus for CSAT intends to assess the aptitude of the candidate in solving ‘Reasoning and Analytical’ questions, apart from ‘Reading Comprehension’ and the occasionally asked ‘Decision Making’ questions.
The ‘Decision Making’ based questions are generally exempt from negative marks.

To be noted:

The preliminary examination is only meant for screening a candidate for the subsequent stages of the exam.
The marks obtained in the Prelims will not be added up while arriving at the final rank list.

The subjects included in the prelims are common for all. However, there is an option to opt for a few subjects in the mains phase of the examination. Get the detailed list of IAS Subjects included in the syllabus for UPSC prelims and mains at the linked article.

UPSC Syllabus for GS Paper (Prelims Paper I)

Current events of national and international importance.
History of India and Indian National Movement.
Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World.
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialisation.
General Science

Some important links for UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I Preparation are listed below:

UPSC Syllabus for CSAT Paper (Prelims Paper-II)

Comprehension
Interpersonal skills including communication skills
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problem solving
General mental ability
Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) (Class X level), Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc. – Class X level)

Candidates are advised to refer to the following links below that will help them to cover the UPSC CSE syllabus for the CSAT paper:

Get in touch with previous years’ questions asked in prelims from the UPSC Civil Services syllabus. The compilation of topic-wise UPSC Prelims Questions PDF can be downloaded from the linked article.

UPSC Syllabus for Mains

IAS Mains Exam Pattern


Paper-I	Essay (can be written in the medium of the candidate’s choice)	250
Paper-II	General Studies – I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society)	250
Paper-III	General Studies – II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations)	250
Paper-IV	General Studies – III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Security & Disaster Management)	250
Paper-V	General Studies – IV (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude)	250
Paper-VI	Optional Subject – Paper I	250
Paper-VII	Optional Subject – Paper II	250

Must-Know Facts about UPSC Mains

The Mains examination constitutes the 2nd phase of the Civil Services Examination. Only after successfully qualifying in the prelims exam would the candidates be allowed to write the IAS Mains.
The Mains exam tests the candidate’s academic talent in depth and his/her ability to present his/her understanding according to the requirements of the question in a time-bound manner.
The UPSC Mains exam consists of 9 papers, out of which two are qualifying papers of 300 marks each.
Any Indian Language Paper
English Language Paper
The papers on Essay, General Studies and Optional Subject of only such candidates who attain 25% marks in both the language papers as a minimum qualifying standard in these qualifying papers, will be taken cognizance of, for evaluation.
In case a candidate does not qualify in these language papers, then the marks obtained by such candidates will not be considered or counted.

Initiative. It covers expert questions from GS 1 to GS 4. Categorized into sub-topics, this answer-writing would help you understand the demand of different subjects included in the IAS Syllabus.

IAS Syllabus for UPSC Mains GS-I

General Studies‐I is also called Paper-II of UPSC Mains. It covers – Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society. The detailed UPSC Syllabus for this paper is given below:

Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present – significant events, personalities, issues.
The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
Effects of globalization on Indian society.
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Salient features of world’s physical geography.
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone. etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

Get the UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 Strategy in the linked article.

IAS Syllabus for Mains GS-II

General Studies-II is also called Paper-III of UPSC Mains. It majorly covers Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations. The detailed UPSC syllabus for this paper is given below:

Constitution of India —historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries.
Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Issues relating to poverty and hunger.
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
Role of civil services in a democracy.
India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

Get the UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 Strategy in the linked article.

IAS Syllabus for Mains GS-III

General Studies-III is also called Paper-IV of the UPSC Mains. The major topics covered are Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management. The detailed UPSC syllabus for this paper is given below:

Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Government Budgeting.
Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers.
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
Food processing and related industries in India- scope’ and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
Land reforms in India.
Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models.
Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Disaster and disaster management.
Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.

Get the UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 Strategy in the linked article.

IAS Syllabus for Mains GS-IV

General Studies Paper-IV is also called Paper-V of UPSC Mains. The major topics covered under it are Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude. This paper will include questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem-solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilize the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered:

Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker sections.
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
Case Studies on the above issues.

Get the UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Strategy in the linked article.

IAS Syllabus for Language and Essay Papers

Essay Paper – It is the Paper-I of UPSC Mains

Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep close to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

Get important information on UPSC Essay Paper from the links below:

Qualifying Papers on Indian Languages and English

Structure of the language papers:

The types of questions asked are –

Essay – 100 marks
Reading comprehension – 60 marks
Precis Writing – 60 marks
English to compulsory language (e.g. Hindi) – 20 marks
Compulsory language to English – 20 marks
Grammar and basic language usage – 40 marks

The rest of the seven papers can be written in any of the languages mentioned under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India or in English.

The aim of the papers is to test the candidates’ ability to read and understand serious discursive prose and to express ideas clearly and correctly, in English and Indian language concerned. The pattern of questions would broadly be as follows :

(i) Comprehension of given passages.

(ii) Precis Writing.

(iii) Usage and Vocabulary.

(iv) Short Essays.

Indian Languages:-

(i) comprehension of given passages.

(v) Translation from English to the Indian Language and vice-versa.

The following articles might help candidates who find it challenging to prepare for UPSC syllabus w.r.t language papers:

Please download the detailed UPSC Mains General Studies Syllabus from the linked article.

UPSC Syllabus for Optional Subjects

The UPSC Mains syllabus gives a list of 48 Optional Subjects which include Literature of different languages. Candidates need to choose any one of the ‘Optional Subjects’ from the list of subjects given below:

IAS Syllabus For UPSC Mains Optional Subjects:

Candidates can check the success rate of optional subjects in the linked article.

Aspirants looking for Topper’s excerpts and guidance as to which optional subject to opt for, they can visit the UPSC Toppers’ Optional Subjects page and get the required assistance. They can get the list of subjects opted by top rank holders in the past.

UPSC Syllabus for IAS Interview

Known as Personality Test, UPSC Interview is the last stage of the examination. There is no defined UPSC syllabus for the interview. Questions are asked from wide-ranging issues.

Candidates who qualify the UPSC Mains Exam will be called for the ‘Personality Test/Interview’. These candidates will be interviewed by a Board appointed by the UPSC.
The objective of the interview is to assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in civil services by a board of competent and unbiased observers.
The interview is more of a purposive conversation intended to explore the mental qualities and analytical ability of the candidate.
The Interview test will be 275 marks and the total marks for the written examination is 1750. This sums up to a Grand Total of 2025 Marks, based on which the final merit list will be prepared.

Candidates should note that there are no changes in UPSC Syllabus 2023 in comparison to UPSC Syllabus 2022 and UPSC Syllabus 2021.

FAQ about UPSC Syllabus

What are the subjects in upsc, what is the fee of upsc application form, is ias syllabus tough, does upsc syllabus pdf contain prelims and mains syllabus both, can an aspirant download the upsc syllabus in marathi.

Updated – UPSC Syllabus in English:- Download PDF Here

Updated – UPSC Syllabus in Hindi:- Download PDF Here

More UPSC Preparation Articles

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Can you tell me which books I have refer for IAS prelims means from where to start my preparation

Hi Janvi You can check the following links: 1. NCERT Books for UPSC 2. UPSC Books

Please provide same analysis after 2013.

For Prelims refer to UPSC Prelims Subject-Wise Weightage . For Mains, check below links: 1. GS 1 Strategy 2. GS 2 Strategy 3. GS 3 Strategy

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Hi Get Punjabi Literature Syllabus at the linked article.

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Get Malayalam Literature Book List at the linked article.

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It is never too late to start. If you meet the eligibility criteria of the UPSC Exam , you may start now.

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1. Understand UPSC Syllabus 2. Start with NCERTs and complement with daily newspaper. 3. Refer to UPSC previous years’ question papers. 4. Read Rajiv Ahir’s Brief of Modern History, M. Laxmikanth’s Indian Polity for GS 1 and 2 respectively. 5. Revise often. 6. Take mock tests periodically

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Read how to study IAS after 12th in the linked article.

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UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024

The Civil Services Mains examination aims to test the academic talent and the ability of the candidate to present the answers in a clear and coherent manner. The Examination is intended to assess the overall intellectual traits and understanding of the concepts rather than merely to check their information and memory. UPSC CSE mains exam 2023 will be held on September 15.

How to Prepare for UPSC IAS Mains Exam 2024?

UPSC Syllabus for UPSC Exam (Mains)

UPSC Exam Pattern (Mains) & IAS Mains Syllabus

	Language -300 Marks	Candidate can take any Modern Indian language but this paper is of qualifying nature
	English -300 Marks	This paper is of qualifying nature
	Essay - 250 Marks	Can be written in the medium or language of the candidate's choice
	General Studies-I 250 Marks	(Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)
	General Studies -II: 250 Marks	(Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations))
	General Studies -III 250 Marks	(Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)
	General Studies -IV 250 Marks	(Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude) Marks carried by General Studies papers are 4X 250=1000
	Optional Subject - Paper 1 -250 Marks
	Optional Subject - Paper II -250 Marks	Candidate is allowed to take up literature as an optional subject "without the condition of having it at the graduation level."
	Sub Total (Written test) 1750 Marks	Marks of English and Language will not be counted in the total tally of marks for the written exam. So the total of the Mains exam will be 1750 Marks Only.
	Interview/Personality Test - 275 marks	This part of the exam comes only after the results of the mains exams are declared. Candidates can give preference of the language in which they may like to be interviewed. UPSC will make arrangement for the translators. THe marks fetched in this stage of the exam is combined with the marks obtained in the upsc mains.

A candidate is allowed to use any one language from the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution or English as the medium of writing the examination.

Language -300 Marks
Candidate can take any Modern Indian language but this paper is of qualifying nature

English -300 Marks
This paper is of qualifying nature

Essay - 250 Marks
Can be written in the medium or language of the candidate's choice

General Studies-I 250 Marks
(Indian Heritage and Culture,
History and Geography of the World and Society)

General Studies -II: 250 Marks
(Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

General Studies -III 250 Marks
(Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)

General Studies -IV 250 Marks
(Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)
Marks carried by General Studies papers are 4X 250=1000

Optional Subject - Paper 1 -300 Marks

Optional Subject - Paper II -300 Marks
Candidate is allowed to take up literature as an optional subject "without the condition of having it at the graduation level."

Marks of English and Language will not be counted in the total tally of marks for the written exam. So the total of the Mains exam will be 1750 Marks Only.

This part of the exam comes only after the results of the mains exams are declared. Candidates can give preference of the language in which they may like to be interviewed. UPSC will make arrangement for the translators. THe marks fetched in this stage of the exam is combined with the marks obtained in the upsc mains.

A candidate is allowed to use any one language from the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution or English as the medium of writing the examination.

IAS Exam Pattern & IAS Exam Syllabus in Detail

The written Mains exam as per upsc cse syllabus consists of the following papers:

Paper A - Modern Indian language 300 Marks - Qualifying nature - Marks not counted - Passing mandatory-

(i) Comprehension of given passages.

(ii) Precis Writing

(iii) Usage and Vocabulary.

(iv) Short Essay

(v) Translation from English to the Indian language and vice-versa.

Note 1: The Papers on Indian Languages and English will be of High School level and will be of qualifying nature only. The marks obtained in these papers will not be counted for final ranking.

Note 2 : The candidates will have to answer the English and Indian Languages papers in English and the respective Indian language (except where translation is involved).

Paper B - English - 300 marks - Qualifying nature - Marks not counted- Passing mandatory

The aim of the paper is to test the candidates' ability to read and understand serious discursive prose, and to express his ideas clearly and correctly, in English and Indian Language concerned.

The pattern of questions would be broadly as follows:-

(i) Comprehension of given passages

(iii) Usage and Vocabulary

(iv) Short Essay.

Essay - 250 Marks - To be written in the medium or language of the candidate's choice. Candidate is required to write an essay on a specific topic. The choice of subjects will be given. They are expected to keep their thoughts closely to the subject and arrange their ideas in orderly fashion and be concise. Credit will be given to effective and coherent expression.

General Studies-I 250 Marks (Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)

Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
The Freedom Struggle - its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawing of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society.
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
Role of women and women's organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies.
Effects of globalization on Indian society
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Salient features of world's physical geography.
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

General Studies -II: 250 Marks (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations)

Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries
Parliament and State Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People's Act.
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Development processes and the development industry the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health , Education, Human Resources.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources, issues relating to poverty and hunger.
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
Role of civil services in a democracy.
India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests, Indian diaspora.
Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate.

General Studies -III 250 Marks (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)

Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment.
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Government Budgeting.
Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
Food processing and related industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
Land reforms in India.
Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models.
Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Disaster and disaster management.
Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention
Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate

General Studies -IV 250 Marks (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)

This paper will include questions to test the candidates' attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and his problem solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced by him in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered.
Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public relationships.
Human Values - lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen's
Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
Case Studies on above issues.

Optional Subject - Paper I -250 Marks

Optional Subject - Paper II -250 Marks

Candidates may choose any ONE optional subject from amongst the list of subjects given below.

Subjects in UPSC Mains Exam

--> --> --> -->

Compulsory Papers	Optional Subject ( Choose Any One )
Compulsory Papers	Social Science	Science	Languages	Others

Interview/Personality Test - 275 Marks IAS Candidate can give preference of the language in which they may like to be interviewed. UPSC will make arrangement for the translators.

Marks obtained by the candidates for all papers EXCEPT PAPER A & B will be counted for merit ranking by the UPSC. However, the Commission will have the discretion to fix qualifying marks in any or all papers of the examination. Aspirants can log on to UPSC's official website (www.upsc.gov.in) to see the detailed notification for the 2023 upsc mains syllabus.

Note: French, German, Russian, Arabic, Persian and Pali were removed from the list of optional subjects in 2014.

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Civil Service Essay Contest May - June 2024

Are elections free and fair in India?
Is employment is real issue in India as compared to other countries? What can we do to improve the situation?
Should we do away with reservation and open up to all as equal opportunity?

Civil Service Essay Contest (March 2024)

Changing trends in the female workforce, how it can be harnessed for better growth. Views : 1910
Is the caste barrier breaking due to increased love marriages in India? Views : 2848

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UPSC Syllabus 2024, Download IAS Prelims and Mains Syllabus PDF

Comprehensive guide to the UPSC syllabus 2024 for IAS and Civil Services exam preparation. Explore detailed topics for Prelims and Mains, including General Studies, Essay, and Optional Subjects. Download the UPSC Syllabus PDF from the direct link here to boost your IAS preparation journey.

Table of Contents

Union Public Service Commission conducts the civil service exam to recruit the Group A and B posts. Every year, Lakhs of candidates prepare for the UPSC Exam, and yet only a few get selected. The UPSC CSE consists of two written exams followed by a personal test or interview. Prelims include two compulsory papers: General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT). The main examination is more specialized, consisting of nine papers, including one essay paper and four General Studies papers. Getting an idea about the UPSC Syllabus is the first step. In this article, we have discussed the UPSC Syllabus 2024 in detail.

UPSC Syllabus 2024

The commission conducts the exam on an annual basis. The two stages are preliminary and main exams. The Latest UPSC Syllabus 2024 release along with the Official notification. The Syllabus for UPSC is designed to assist the candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and analytical abilities. We have provided the IAS Syllabus for all the stages of the examination:

Preliminary Stage – General Studies & CSAT
Mains Stage – 9 Theory Papers (GS I-IV, Language Papers, Essay & Optional)
Personality Test – Interview
UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024

The First Phase of the Civil Service Examination is UPSC Prelims which is qualifying and objective in nature. Every year lakh of Candidates apply for the UPSC Preliminary exam. In 2023, over 11 lakh aspirants registered for the UPSC Prelims, a notable increase from the roughly 10 lakh applicants in 2022. Explore the journey and significance of these escalating numbers in the pursuit of becoming esteemed civil servants. Exam Pattern for Prelims consists of two objective-type papers, including:

General Studies Paper I
General Studies Paper II (CSAT – Civil Services Aptitude Test)

As the preliminary exam qualifies applicants for the main examination, it is crucial to understand the UPSC Prelims syllabus 2024 . All candidates for the UPSC Exam must first become familiar with the UPSC Exam Pattern 2024 and Civil Services Syllabus before continuing their studies. If you want to have a structured and efficient preparation phase where you may enhance your notions and clear up any topic-related questions, this almost one-year schedule is essential.


	Details
	General Studies Paper-I
	General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)
	100 Questions
	80 Questions and is Qualifying in nature

	1/3 of the total marks allotted to the question will be deducted for every wrong answer
	Two hours each;

UPSC CSE 2024 General Studies Paper 1 Syllabus

General Studies 1 of the UPSC Preliminary syllabus mainly consists of History , Geography , Polity , Economy , Environment and Ecology, Science and Technology, General Science and Current Affairs events. UPSC categorizes the General Studies Prelims Paper 1 Syllabus into the following broad categories: Unit 01

Current events of national and international importance
History of India and Indian national movement
Physical, social, economic geography of India and the world
Constitution, political system, panchayati raj, public policy, rights issues, etc
Sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, social sector initiatives, etc
General issues on environmental ecology, biodiversity, and climate change
General science

UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2024

General Studies 2 of UPSC Prelims is also known as the CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) Paper. This paper was first introduced in 2011 as a compulsory qualifying paper for every candidate. This is a part of the UPSC Preliminary examination in order to assess the aptitude, analytical skills, and reasoning ability of the candidate. To qualify for this paper, a minimum of 33% (66 marks) is required for every candidate.

Comprehension
Interpersonal skills including communication skills
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problem-solving
General mental ability
Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. – Class X level
Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency etc. — Class X level
UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024

IAS Mains Syllabus consisted of 9 conventional/theoretical papers out of which 2 are qualifying papers of 300 marks each and the remaining 7 papers’ marks are counted for the final merit list. Every paper has its own significance. The UPSC Mains 2024 examination will be conducted in 5 days by the commission. The UPSC CSE Mains Examination’s objective is to assess the overall intellectual abilities and level of understanding of candidates instead of just testing candidates’ knowledge and memory. The UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024 is described below in detail.


	Essay (can be written in the medium of the candidate’s choice)	250
	General Studies – I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society)	250
	General Studies – II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations)	250
	General Studies – III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Security & Disaster Management)	250
	General Studies – IV (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude)	250
	Optional Subject – Paper I	250
	Optional Subject – Paper II	250

UPSC Mains Qualifying Papers 2024

There are two qualifying papers included in the UPSC Mains 2024:

Any Indian Language Paper
English Language Paper

The purpose of these papers is to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude for reading and comprehending serious discursive prose as well as for expressing ideas in the relevant Indian and English languages in a clear and precise manner. Some important facts about these Qualifying Papers:

The marks obtained in these papers would not be used to determine to rank.
These papers are of a qualifying nature only (a minimum of 25% marks are required in each paper).
The marks a candidate obtains in other papers will not be taken into account or counted if they are disqualified for these language papers.


General Studies Paper I	consists mainly of History and Geography of the World and Society, Indian Heritage and Culture. This paper mainly revolves around History, Geography and Society.
General Studies Paper II	General Studies Paper II consists mainly of Polity, Constitution, Governance, Social Justice and International relations.
General Studies Paper III	consists mainly of Economic Development, Technology, Environment, Biodiversity, Security and Disaster Management.
General Studies Paper IV	General Studies Paper IV consists mainly of Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude.

IAS Syllabus For Mains General Studies I

The main topics of the first General Studies paper are the History, Heritage, Geography, and Culture of the World and Society. The commission has outlined the essential themes of the General Studies I syllabus, which is mentioned below for candidates. Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society:

Indian Culture: It covers the salient features of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture from ancient times to modern times.
Modern Indian History: It includes the significant events, personalities, and issues from the middle of the 18th century until now.
In The Freedom Struggle, Various stages, important contributors, and contributions from different parts of the country.
Consolidation and Reorganisation of the country after independence.
Events from the 18th century will be included in the history of the world, such as the Industrial Revolution, world wars, redrawing of national borders, colonisation, and decolonization, as well as political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism, and others—their manifestations and social effects.
Important characteristics of Indian society and India’s diversity.
The role of women and the organisation of women, population and related issues, poverty and developmental challenges, urbanisation, associated problems, and solutions.
The social effects of globalization in India.
Communalism, Regionalism, Secularism, and Social Empowerment.
Important physical geography characteristics of the world.
Distribution of major natural resources worldwide (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent); determinants of where primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries are located globally (including India).
Critical geographic features and their location-changes in flora and fauna, as well as in water bodies and ice caps and the impact of such changes. Important geophysical phenomena include earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic activity, cyclones, etc.

IAS Syllabus For Mains General Studies II

The Polity, Governance, Constitution, Social Justice, and Interrelations topics are covered in the UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies II paper. The detailed syllabus is provided to candidates below. Governance, Polity, Constitution, Social Justice and International Relations:

The basic structures, features, modifications, major provisions, and historical context of the Indian Constitution.
Functions and duties of the Union and the States, problems and difficulties with the federal system, and obstacles with the devolution of authority and resources to local levels.
Power separation between multiple organs, conflict resolution procedures, and institutions.
Comparing the Indian constitutional design to other countries’ systems
Structure, administration, business practices, powers, and privileges of the Parliament and State Legislatures, and challenges resulting from these.
Governmental Ministries and Departments; Pressure Group organizations and formal/informal associations; and their purpose in the Polity.
Structure, organisation, and operation of the Executive and the Judiciary.
The Representation of People’s Act’s key characteristics.
Appointment to several constitutional Bodies and their respective duties and responsibilities.
Statutory, regulatory, and various quasi-judicial agencies; Government interventions for development in many sectors; Problems resulting from the planning and execution of these interventions.
The role of NGOs, SHGs, diverse groups and associations, funders, charities, institutional, and other stakeholders in development processes and the development industry.
Welfare programs put in place by the federal government and individual states for the population’s most vulnerable groups, as well as the effectiveness of these programs, institutions, laws, and other organizations created to safeguard and improve the lives of these vulnerable groups.
Issues about the growth and administration of the social sector and services in health, education, and human resources.
Hunger and poverty-related issues.
Transparency and accountability are crucial components of governance, as are e-governance applications, models, accomplishments, limitations, and possibilities; citizens’ charters, transparency & accountability. And institutional and other measurements.
The function of the civil service in a democracy
India’s relationship with its neighbors.
Groupings and agreements at the bilateral, regional, and international levels involving or impacting India and its interests.
Effect of developed and developing countries’ policies and politics on India’s interests and the diaspora.
Important international organizations, agencies, and forums: their makeup and objectives.

IAS Syllabus For Mains General Studies III

The subjects of Science, Technology, Economics, Defense, Disaster Management, and Nature are thoroughly covered in UPSC Mains General Studies III. This paper will raise questions relating to many facets of life and recent developments in all areas of life. Economic Development, Technology, Environment, Bio-diversity, Security and Disaster Management:

Indian Economy, including planning, resource mobilization, growth, development, and employment difficulties.
Inclusive growth and the problems it raises.
Budgeting of Government.
Major crops, patterns of cropping in various regions of the nation, various types of irrigation and irrigation systems, challenges with storage, transport, and marketing of agricultural products, and related limitations; the use of e-technology by farmers.
Concerns about buffer stocks and food security, direct and indirect farm subsidies, and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System goals, operations, and shortcomings; Technology missions; and the economics of animal husbandry.
Food processing and related sectors in India: their size and importance, where they are, what is needed upstream and downstream, and supply chain management.
Indian land reforms.
The economic implications of liberalization, changes to industrial policy, and how these affect the expansion of the industrial sector.
Infrastructure includes things like ports, roads, airports, and railroads.
Models for investments.
Science and technology breakthroughs and how they are used and impact daily life.
Scientific and technological advances made by Indians, indigenization of technology, and the creation of new technology.
Awareness of issues relating to intellectual property rights as well as IT, space, computers, robotics, nanotechnology, and biotechnology.
Environmental impact assessment, pollution and degradation of the environment, and conservation.
Disasters and disaster management; Relationships between extremism’s growth and dissemination.
The contribution of non-state and state actors from outside to the problems with domestic security.
Threats to internal security posed by communication networks, the media’s and social media’s role in such threats, the fundamentals of cyber security, and money laundering and its prevention.
Security issues and how to manage them in border regions – connections between organized crime and terrorism.
The function of various security agencies and organizations.

IAS Syllabus For Mains General Studies IV

This paper contains questions to assess the candidate’s attitude and approach toward matters relating to integrity, probity in public life, and their policy to problem-solving when dealing with various societal challenges and disputes. Questions may use the case study approach to determine these elements and cover area. Ethics and Human Interaction:

The purpose, factors, and outcomes of ethical behavior in people; the dimensions of ethics; and the application of ethics in both personal and professional settings.
The importance of family community and educational institutions in instilling values may be seen in the study of human values, which draws lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers, and administrators.
Social influence
Persuasion are all aspects of attitude that include its content
Relationship to cognition and behavior.
Objectivity
Non-partisanship
Dedication to public service
Compassion for the weaker groups
Contributions from moral philosophers and thinkers in India and around the world.
Public Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration
Status and Issues
Ethical Issues in International Relations and Funding
Probity in governance includes the idea of public service
The philosophical underpinnings of governance and integrity
Information sharing and transparency in government
The right to information
Codes of ethics and conduct
Citizen’s charters
Workplace culture
Effectiveness of service delivery
Use of public resources
Challenges posed by corruption.
Case Studies on the concerns above

UPSC Syllabus 2024 in Hindi: Click to Check

UPSC Syllabus 2024 For Essay Paper

Essays Writing on a wide range of topics will be asked of the candidates. They must write concisely and stick to the essay’s topic. They will also be expected to organize their thoughts. An essay is one of those papers where candidates can score better and improve their rank meticulously. The essay paper is divided into two sections, each containing 4 topics. Each essay you write obtains a score of 125, for 250 marks. Structure of The Language Papers: The language papers are divided into different sections to check candidates’ ideas clearly and correctly in every possible manner.

Essay – 100 marks
Reading comprehension – 60 marks
Precis Writing – 60 marks
English to compulsory language (e.g., Hindi) – 20 marks
Compulsory language to English – 20 marks
Grammar and basic language usage – 40 marks

Patterns of The Language Papers are:

Comprehension of given passages.
Precis Writing.
Usage and Vocabulary.
Short Essays.
Translation from English to the Indian Language and vice-versa.

After clearing the prelims, candidates can sit in the mains examination. The main General Studies paper consists of four papers. Check the table below for a better understanding of the General Studies paper of mains

UPSC Optional Syllabus 2024

The UPSC Optional Syllabus 2024 for Papers 6 and 7 includes both compulsory and optional subjects. These papers are crucial for candidates as they can score well in them, given that they are either graduation subjects or subjects of interest for the candidates.

Each optional subject has a comprehensive syllabus that candidates must read before making a decision. There are several factors consider while selecting the best optional subject for the UPSC mains exam, such as the syllabus, available resources for that subject, and the time required for preparation.

UPSC Literature Syllabus 2024

Candidates can check How to Choose UPSC Optional Subject-related queries and suggestions here.

UPSC Interview Syllabus 2024

The UPSC Interview 2024 , which is the final stage of the UPSC Examination, does not have an established syllabus for the year 2024. The main objective of the personal interview process is to assess the candidate’s qualifications for a career in the civil service. Unlike the written exam, the interview is more of a purposeful dialogue that aims to probe the candidate’s mental capabilities and capacity for analysis. The written exam carries a maximum score of 1750 marks, while the interview is worth 275 points. The total score of both the written exam and the interview is 2025 marks, which will be used to create the final merit list.

Candidates can check UPSC Interview Tips and Strategies for better preparation.

UPSC Syllabus PDF Download 2024

The Commission released the UPSC Syllabus 2024 in PDF Format on its official website, upsc.gov.in. Candidates can now download the UPSC Syllabus 2024 PDF, which gives an idea of the better and more detailed information on the Syllabus for UPSC 2024. You can download the detailed Syllabus PDF from the link provided here.

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UPSC Syllabus 2024 FAQs

What are the subjects for upsc cse.

The main subjects of the UPSC CSE exam are History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment and Ecology, Science and Technology and Current Affairs.

Is UPSC CSE easy to crack?

Without a doubt, UPSC CSE is a tough exam. To crack this exam, candidates need proper planning, preparation and perseverance along with the proper guidance and strategy.

What are the 7 papers of UPSC?

In UPSC CSE mains exam, there are 7 papers which are counted for a merit namely Essay paper, General Studies paper I, II, III, IV and Optional paper 1 and 2.

What are the compulsory subjects in UPSC?

Except Indian Language and English paper, all other 7 papers out of 9 is a compulsory paper in UPSC CSE mains exam and compulsory subjects are History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Environment and Science and Tech.

Can a weak student crack IAS?

UPSC demands a basic educational qualification to appear in the UPSC CSE exam. This exam required only dedication and proper planning according to the syllabus, exam pattern and level of examination. So, there is no harm if you are weak.

What is the full syllabus of UPSC?

Current events of National & International importance. History of India & Indian National Movement. Indian & World Geography – Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India & the World. Indian Polity & Governance etc

How many subjects are taken in UPSC?

There are 25 subjects and 23 literature languages subjects to choose from.

Does UPSC have maths?

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Mains Exam comprises Mathematics as one of the Optional Subjects with 2 papers (Paper I and Paper II)

What is the IAS salary?

The IAS Officer Salary per Month in the beginning and at the entry level is ₹56100, which leads to ₹56100 – 132000 per month.

Is there optional subject in UPSC 2024?

There are 26 optional subjects in UPSC namely Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Anthropology, Botany etc.

What are the 5 compulsory subjects in UPSC?

History, geography, Indian politics and government, general science, and economic and social development are all compulsory subjects.

Which stage of UPSC is difficult?

Civil Services Preliminary Exam – the first step in UPSC CSE – is considered by many as the toughest stage.

Am I eligible for UPSC 2024?

The candidates must have attained 21 years of age and be less than 32 years of age as of 1st August 2024

यूपीएससी 2024 का सिलेबस क्या है?

जीएस पेपर 1 में इतिहास, भूगोल, अर्थशास्त्र, राजनीति और करंट अफेयर्स जैसे विषय हैं, जीएस पेपर 2 में बुनियादी मात्रात्मक तर्क, तार्किक तर्क, समझ और डीआई से संबंधित विषय हैं। यूपीएससी प्रीलिम्स में निगेटिव मार्किंग भी है।

How can I prepare for UPSC syllabus?

Here are some important steps for the preparation of UPSC Syllabus: 1. Understand the Exam 2. Create a Study Plan according to UPSC Syllabus 3. Stay updated with current affairs 4. Enhance Writing Skills 5. Seek guidance from toppers or experiences persons.

What are the subjects in IAS?

The main subjects for the UPSC Exam are Indian Politics, Indian Economy, International Relations, Science and Technology, Geography, History, Environment and Ecology, and related Current Affairs.

What is the syllabus for the Preliminary Examination?

The Preliminary Examination syllabus consists of two papers:

Paper I: General Studies Paper II: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT)

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Essay Syllabus for UPSC – Edukemy

UPSC Notification of Civil Services Examination is not very detailed about the Essay syllabus. UPSC mentions this about Essay papers -” Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep close to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.”

Table of Contents

UPSC Essay Syllabus

The UPSC Mains does not have a specific syllabus for the essay paper. According to UPSC guidelines, candidates should look closely at the essay topic, organize their ideas logically, and write concisely. Effective and precise expression is highly valued.

Candidates must write two essays from a list of provided topics, with a combined score totaling 250 marks .

Essay – Topics and Sub-Topics

The impact of technology on human communication
The role of social media in shaping public opinion
Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
The effects of automation on employment
Climate change and its consequences
Deforestation and its impact on biodiversity
The importance of renewable energy sources
Strategies for sustainable living
The pros and cons of online education
The role of standardized testing in education
Addressing the challenges of access to education globally
The importance of lifelong learning
Mental health awareness and destigmatization
The impact of a sedentary lifestyle on health
Healthcare disparities and access to medical services
The role of nutrition in overall well-being
Gender inequality and its manifestations
Racial and ethnic discrimination
LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance
Poverty and its consequences
Cultural implications of globalization
Economic disparities in a globalized world
The role of international organizations in fostering cooperation
Nationalism vs. global citizenship
The role of media in shaping political opinions
Challenges to democracy in the 21st century
Corruption in politics and its consequences
The importance of civic engagement
Income inequality and its impact on society
The role of small businesses in the economy
Economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic
Sustainable economic practices
Ethical considerations in scientific research
The balance between scientific progress and environmental conservation
The impact of technology on personal privacy
Bioethics and the moral implications of medical advancements
The role of art in society
Cultural appropriation in the arts
The influence of technology on the entertainment industry
Preserving cultural heritage in a globalized world

FAQs for Essay for UPSC

1. what is the format and structure of the upsc essay paper.

Answer: The UPSC essay paper is part of the Civil Services Main Examination. Candidates are required to write two essays from a choice of topics. Each essay carries 125 marks, making a total of 250 marks. Typically, candidates are given a choice of 4 topics for each essay. The essays should be structured with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. A well-organized essay with coherent arguments and proper paragraphing is crucial.

2. How are essays evaluated in the UPSC exam?

Answer: Essays in the UPSC exam are evaluated on various parameters including clarity of thought, coherence, relevance, and depth of content. Examiners look for originality, analytical ability, and a balanced approach. Proper language, grammar, and style also play a significant role in scoring. Candidates are expected to present well-rounded arguments and avoid one-sided viewpoints.

3. What are some effective strategies for preparing for the UPSC essay paper?

Answer: Effective strategies for UPSC essay preparation include:

Reading Widely: Reading newspapers, magazines, and books to gather diverse perspectives on various topics.
Practicing Regularly: Writing practice essays on a wide range of topics to improve writing skills and speed.
Analyzing Previous Years’ Papers: Understanding the type and nature of essay topics asked in previous years.
Improving Language Skills: Focusing on grammar, vocabulary, and overall language proficiency.
Feedback and Revision: Getting essays reviewed by mentors or peers and incorporating their feedback.

4. What common mistakes should be avoided in the UPSC essay?

Answer: Common mistakes to avoid in the UPSC essay include:

Lack of Structure: Writing without a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Poor Time Management: Spending too much time on one essay and rushing through the second.
Over-Complex Language: Using unnecessarily complex vocabulary and convoluted sentences.
Repetition: Repeating points instead of providing new insights.
Neglecting Multiple Perspectives: Failing to consider different viewpoints and arguments.

5. Can personal opinions be included in the UPSC essay?

Answer: Yes, personal opinions can and should be included in the UPSC essay, but they need to be presented in a balanced and reasoned manner. It’s important to substantiate personal views with facts, examples, and logical arguments. However, candidates should avoid being overly biased or emotional. The essay should reflect analytical thinking and the ability to consider multiple dimensions of a topic.

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UPSC Syllabus 2024: Download PDF for IAS Prelims and Mains Syllabus

Upsc syllabus 2024: the cse syllabus comprises prelims, mains and interviews. the prelims examination syllabus is divided into parts such as general studies and csat. the marks scored in general studies will be considered for the shortlisting of candidates in mains examination. overall, the nature of prelims examination is qualifying and the marks in this will not be added to the final merit list..

UPSC Syllabus 2024: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Service Examination (CSE), which is the most prestigious examination in the country. Every year, lakhs of candidates fill out the application form to compete for approximately a thousand posts. With over 10 lakh candidates who apply for the exam, candidates need to focus on establishing a solid understanding and foundation of the UPSC syllabus to crack the exam.

The UPSC syllabus is composed of three phases, prelims, mains and interview. The UPSC prelims examination is qualifying in nature and the marks scored in this exam will not be added while preparing the final merit list. Candidates who qualify the Prelims appear for the MAins exam which is descriptive in nature and lastly an interview is held for those who are successful in the Mains exam.

UPSC Syllabus 2024

The UPSC syllabus 2024 is broadly divided into two stages, i.e., prelims and mains. The UPSC Prelims is the first stage of the UPSC IAS exam, consisting of two papers such as General Studies (GS) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). The CSAT paper is qualifying in nature and candidates need to score a minimum of 33% marks to qualify while the marks scored in the GS paper are counted to shortlist candidates for the UPSC mains examination which consists of 9 papers and each paper is descriptive in nature where candidates need to write detailed answers. The UPSC Mains papers are Essay, English language, Indian language, General Studies 1, General Studies 2, General Studies 3, General Studies 4, Optional Paper 1 and Optional Paper 2. Continue reading below to know more about the UPSC Prelims and UPSC Mains detailed syllabus.

UPSC Syllabus 2024 Highlights

UPSC Syllabus 2024 PDF Download

UPSC Prelims Syllabus

The UPSC prelims exam is the first stage of IAS selection process. This examination is conducted to shortlist candidates for the UPSC Mains exam and the marks scored by candidates in this stage will not be added while preparing the merit list. The UPSC Prelims exam consists of two papers that are Paper 1 (GS) and Paper 2 (CSAT).

UPSC Prelims Syllabus for Paper 1

Current events of national and international importance.
History of India and Indian National Movement.
Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World.
Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
General issues on environmental ecology, Biodiversity and climate change that do not require subject specialisation.
General Science.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus for Paper 2

Comprehension
Interpersonal skills, including communication skills
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision making and problem solving
General mental ability
Basic numeracy (numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.) (Class X level), Data
interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc.)—Class X level

UPSC Mains Syllabus

Candidates who clear the UPSC Prelims exam will be eligible to appear for the Mains Exam. The UPSC mains exam is a descriptive paper consisting of nine papers that includes an essay, general studies paper, and an optional subject. The UPSC Mains examination assesses a candidate's in-depth understanding of a certain issue as well as their ability to express that information within the time period specified.

UPSC Mains Syllabus for Qualifying Papers (Indian Languages and English)

The aim of this paper is to assess candidates ability to read and understand the languages and provide their ideas clearly and concisely in English and Indian languages. The pattern of questions would be broadly as follows:

(i) Comprehension of given passages.

(ii) Precise Writing.

(iii) Usage and vocabulary.

(iv) Short Essays.

Indian Languages

UPSC Essay Syllabus

Upsc mains gs 1 syllabus.

The UPSC Mains GS 1 paper is also known as paper II. It majorly covers Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society. Check the list below for important subtopics.

Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, and issues.
The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonisation, decolonisation, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
Role of women and women’s organisations, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanisation, their problems and their remedies.
Effects of globalisation on Indian society.
Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Salient features of world’s physical geography.
Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

Check the official syllabus below:

UPSC Mains GS 2 Syllabus

Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries.
Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Issues relating to poverty and hunger.
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
Role of civil services in a democracy.
India and its neighborhood- relations.
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Important International institutions, agencies and forums—their structure, mandate.

UPSC Mains GS 3 Syllabus

Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Government Budgeting.
Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, - different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers.
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System-objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
Food processing and related industries in India- scope’ and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
Land reforms in India.
Effects of liberalisation on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models.
Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, Nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Disaster and disaster management.
Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
Security challenges and their management in border areas - linkages of organised crime with terrorism.
Various security forces and agencies and their mandate.

UPSC Mains GS 4 Syllabus

Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics - in private and public relationships. Human Values - lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilisation of public funds, challenges of corruption.
Case Studies on above issues.

UPSC Optional Syllabus

Once you have a good understanding of the UPSC syllabus and pattern, you should create a study plan to make the most of your preparation time. We created an exclusive article on some of the most significant recommendations after speaking to many experts, which will help you create a successful plan. Read about the UPSC preparation plan for beginners.

Get here latest School , CBSE and Govt Jobs notification and articles in English and Hindi for Sarkari Naukari , Sarkari Result and Exam Preparation . Download the Jagran Josh Sarkari Naukri App .

What is UPSC Mains Syllabus? + The UPSC Mains syllabus consists of 9 papers i.e. Essay, English, Indian Language, Ethics, Science and Tech, Optional Papers, stc.
What is UPSC Prelims Syllabus? + The UPSC Prelims syllabus which consists of General Studies Paper 1 and CSAT include subjects such as History, Polity, Indian constitution, Science & Tech, English Comprehension, Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude.
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UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024 PDF Download

2.1.1 Paper I: Essay
2.1.2 Paper II: General studies Paper-I
2.1.3 Paper III –General Studies Paper- II
2.1.4 Paper IV -General Studies Paper- III
2.1.5 Paper V -General Studies Paper- IV
2.2.1 General Studies paper- I detailed syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus
2.2.2 General Studies Paper-II Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus
2.2.3 General Studies Paper-III Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus
2.2.4 General Studies Paper-IV Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus
2.2.5 Optional Paper (Paper VI and VII)
2.2.6 FAQs related to Mains syllabus
2.2.7 Share this:

Detailed syllabus of mains examination as per UPSC official syllabus

The Mains test is the second step of the Civil Services Exam. Only after passing the prelims test applicants will be permitted to appear for the main exam.

The Mains exam assesses the candidate’s academic skills in depth as well as his or her ability to articulate his or her understanding in accordance with the requirements of the question in a timely way.

The rank of a candidate in the UPSC Civil Service Exam is determined by the marks obtained in the Main and Interview.

Pattern and marking scheme of main examination

The UPSC Mains exam has nine papers for a total of 1750 marks. Out of nine papers, two papers are qualifying, 300 marks each.

The two qualifying papers are as follows:

Any Paper in the Indian Language
Language Paper in English

A candidate must qualify in these language papers to ensure that the marks obtained by such candidates will not be considered or counted. Candidates can write Paper I to Paper VII in English or any of the languages mentioned in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Paper I to Paper VII will be taken for evaluation only if the candidate obtained 25% of the marks in Paper A and Paper B. There are 48 Optional Subjects in the UPSC exam. The candidate has to select any one subject among them. Two papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) will be conducted from that for 250 marks each.

There are 9 papers in the UPSC Mains Exam:


	Indian Language (Any of the language mentioned in 8th schedule)	300
	English	300
	Essay	250
	General Studies – I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World & Society)	250
	General Studies – II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations)	250
	General Studies – III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Security & Disaster Management)	250
	General Studies – IV (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude)	250
	Optional Subject – Paper I	250
	Optional Subject – Paper II	250

Paper I: Essay

Paper II: General studies Paper-I

It covers topics of Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.

Art & Culture: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Modern History: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, and issues. The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
Post-Independence: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.
World History: The history of the world will include events from the 18th century such as the Industrial Revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effects on the society.
Indian Society: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects of globalization on Indian society. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism & secularism.
Physical Geography: Salient features of the world’s physical geography.
Human and Economic Geography: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
Geophysical Phenomena: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclones etc., geographical features and their location-changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

Paper III – General Studies Paper- II

It covers topics of governance, constitution, polity, social justice and international relations.

Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries.
Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Development processes and the development industry —the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Issues relating to poverty and hunger.
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
Role of civil services in a democracy.
India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Important International institutions, agencies, and fora- their structure, mandate.

Paper IV -General Studies Paper- III

It covers topics from technology, economic development, bio diversity, environment, security and disaster management

Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.
Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.
Government Budgeting.
Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers.
Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
Food processing and related industries in India- scope’ and significance, location, upstream and downstream requirements, supply chain management.
Land reforms in India.
Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models.
Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Disaster and disaster management.
Linkages between development and spread of extremism.
Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.

Paper V -General Studies Paper- IV

This paper includes topics of ethics, aptitude and integrity
It includes questions to test the candidates’ attitude and approach to issues relating to integrity, probity in public life and problem-solving approach to various issues and conflicts faced in dealing with society. Questions may utilise the case study approach to determine these aspects. The following broad areas will be covered :
Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service, integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance and compassion towards the weaker-sections.
Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance.
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and funding; corporate governance.
Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
Case Studies on the above issues.

Detailed analysis of the mains syllabus

General studies paper- i detailed syllabus as per upsc official syllabus .


	Indian Philosophy
	Indian Literature	Archaeological literature includes Inscriptions/Epigraphs, Numismatics/coins.
	Architecture
	Temple Architecture
	Indo-Islamic Art and Architecture
	Modern Art and Architecture
	Performing Art
	Religious Movements in India
	Other sub-topics in art and Architecture


	History from the middle of the eighteenth century until the present– significant events, personalities, issues
	Important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country
	Other topics
	Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country

Various events from the 18th Century to till date

Political philosophies and their forms and effect on society.

Subject	Topics	Sub topics
	Salient features of Indian Society
	Diversity of India
	Role of women and women’s organization
	Population and associated issues
	Poverty and developmental issues
	Urbanization, their problems and their remedies
	Effects of globalization on Indian society
	Social empowerment


	Physical Geography	Physical Geography of world Physical Geography of India
	Human and Economic Geography	Human and Economic Geography of World Human and Economic Geography of India General topics
	Geophysical Phenomena

General Studies Paper-II Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus

Indian Polity and Constitution

Governance

Social justice

International Relations

India and its Neighborhood- Relations.

General Studies Paper-III Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus


Indian Economy and Economic Development		Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment. Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it. Meaning and importance
Science and Technology
Bio-diversity and Environment
Security
Disaster Management

General Studies Paper-IV Detailed Syllabus as per UPSC official syllabus


Ethics and Human Interface	Essence, Determinants and Consequences of Ethics in – Human Actions Dimensions of Ethics Ethics – in Private and Public Relationships. Human Values – Lessons from the Lives and Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers and Administrators Role of Family Society and Educational Institutions in Inculcating Values.
Attitude	Content, Structure, Function Its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour Moral and Political Attitudes Social Influence and Persuasion
Aptitude and Foundational Values	Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service Integrity Impartiality and Non-partisanship Objectivity Dedication to Public Service Empathy Tolerance and Compassion towards the weaker-sections.
Emotional Intelligence	Emotional Intelligence-Concepts, and their Utilities and Application in Administration and Governance.
Moral Thinkers and Philosophers	Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers from India and World.
Public/Civil Services Values and Ethics in Public Administration	Status and Problems Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in Government and Private Institutions Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Sources of Ethical Guidance Accountability and Ethical Governance Strengthening of Ethical and Moral Values in Governance Ethical Issues in International Relations and Funding Corporate Governance.
Probity in Governance	Concept of Public Service Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity Information Sharing and Transparency in Government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work Culture, Quality of Service Delivery, Utilization of Public Funds, Challenges of Corruption.
Case Studies	Case Studies on above issues.

Optional Paper (Paper VI and VII)

The UPSC mains exam syllabus also includes 48 optional subjects covering a wide horizon of subjects including Literature, Arts, Science, Agriculture, Etc. Candidates have to select one optional subject from the IAS syllabus and there will be two papers for 500 marks (250 marks each).

The scope of the syllabus for optional subject papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) for the examination is broadly of the honours degree level i.e. a level higher than the bachelor’s degree and lower than the master’s degree. In the case of Engineering, Medical Science and law, the level corresponds to the bachelor’s degree.

The candidates must give relevant, meaningful and succinct answer.

Candidates need to choose any one of the below-mentioned subjects as their optional.


1	Agriculture
2	Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
3	Anthropology
4	Botany
5	Chemistry
6	Civil Engineering
7	Commerce & Accountancy
8	Economics
9	Electrical Engineering
10	Geography
11	Geology
12	History
13	Law
14	Management
15	Mathematics
16	Mechanical Engineering
17	Medical Science
18	Philosophy
19	Physics
20	Political Science & International Relations
21	Psychology
22	Public Administration
23	Sociology
24	Statistics
25	Zoology

1	Assamese
2	Bengali
3	Bodo
4	Dogri
5	Gujarati
6	Hindi
7	Kannada
8	Kashmiri
9	Konkani
10	Maithili
11	Malayalam
12	Manipuri
13	Marathi
14	Nepali
15	Oriya
16	Punjabi
17	Sanskrit
18	Santhali
19	Sindhi
20	Tamil
21	Telugu
22	Urdu
23	English

FAQs related to Mains syllabus

What are the qualifying language papers in the Mains Examination?

The qualifying language papers include an Indian language paper and an English language paper. These papers are of a qualifying nature, and candidates need to score a minimum mark to pass them.

What is the syllabus for the essay paper in the Mains Examination?

The essay paper requires candidates to write essays on varieties of topics. The syllabus is not specific, but candidates are expected to write coherently and express their thoughts effectively.

How one can prepare for optional without any coaching?

Preparing for optional topics necessitates deep study and specialization. Candidates are recommended to use specialised books and resources for their optional topics. Self-study is key for all the exam papers.

How one can effectively manage time during Mains preparation?

Time management is essential in Mains preparation. Create a well-structured study plan, allocate sufficient time for each paper, and practice time-bound answer writing. Regularly assess your progress and adapt your study strategy as needed.

How to improve writing and analytical skills for the Mains Examination?

To improve writing and analytical skills, practice writing essays and answers regularly. Reading and critical analysis of diverse subjects can also enhance your analytical abilities.

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The Revised Syllabus of CISF AC (Exe) LDCE-2025

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Analysing the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Develop a clear understanding of both basic and advanced chapters. Identify your weak and strong areas and focus on them individually.
Memorise theorems, formulas, and tricks in a fun and engaging way to ensure you can recall them easily during the examination.
English: Scoring well in English is achievable with proper preparation. Make it a habit to read newspapers, books, and magazines that adhere to proper grammar rules to improve your reading comprehension and vocabulary.
General Knowledge: General Knowledge can be tricky. To improve in this area, candidates should read newspapers daily to stay updated on national and international news. Make short notes of all important events that have occurred recently. Additionally, review your NCERT books (latest editions) to gain a clear understanding of each subject covered under General Knowledge.

Mock Tests and Previous Years’ Question Papers

Upsc nda exam 2 syllabus, visual stories.

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UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2022 PDF Download
UPSC Mains Compulsory Papers Syllabus Essay PDF
UPSC CSE MAINS 2021 ESSAY QUESTION PAPER
UPSC Syllabus and Exam Pattern
Syllabus of UPSC Essay
UPSC CSE Mains Essay Syllabus को Decode कैसे करें?

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Essay Syllabus
Essay Syllabus - Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC. Last updated on April 3, 2024 by Alex Andrews George. UPSC Civil Service Mains Paper 1 (popularly known as essay paper) is now of 250 marks. Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep close to the subject of the essay to arrange their ideas in ...
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UPSC CSE Syllabus: Keywords Decoded
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UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 30 years (1993-2022)
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The Revised Syllabus of CISF AC (Exe) LDCE-2025
Previous Question Papers; Cut-off Marks; Answer Keys; Marks Information; Public Disclosure of marks & other details of non-recommended willing candidates; Specimen Question Cum Answer Booklet (QCAB) Common mistakes committed by the candidates in Conventional Papers; Revised Syllabus and Scheme; Representation on Question Papers; Demo Files ...
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UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024, GS Paper 1, 2, 3, 4 Syllabus PDF

UPSC Mains Syllabus 2024

UPSC Mains Topic Wise Syllabus

UPSC Mains Syllabus Language Papers

Paper A: Indian Language (Qualifying)

Paper B: English (Qualifying)

UPSC Mains Syllabus- Essay Papers

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 1

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 2

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 3

UPSC Mains Syllabus General Studies Paper 4

UPSC Mains Syllabus- Optional Papers

UPSC Mains Syllabus FAQs

UPSC CSE 2024 Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Synoptic Overview of UPSC Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Exam Pattern for UPSC Prelims Exam

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Exam

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Paper-I: General Studies

History of India and Indian National Movement

Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World

Indian Polity and Governance-Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc .

Economic and Social Development-Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc .

General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization

General Science

Syllabus for UPSC Prelims Paper-II: CSAT

Exam Pattern for UPSC Main Exam

Syllabus for UPSC Main Exam

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-A: Indian Languages

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-B: English

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-II: General Studies-I

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-III: General Studies-II

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-IV: General Studies-III

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-V: General Studies-IV

Syllabus for UPSC Main Paper-VI: Optional Papers I and II

Personality Test (Interview)

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UPSC Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam

1. Paper‐I: (Essay) – 250 Marks

2. Paper‐2: (General Studies 1) – 250 Marks.

Indian culture

Modern Indian History

World History

Indian Society

World Geography

3. Paper‐3: (General Studies 2) – 250 Marks

Governance and Social Justice

International Relations

4. Paper‐4: (General Studies 3) – 250 Marks

Economic Development

Agriculture

Science and Technology

Biodiversity and Environment

Internal Security

5. Paper‐5: (General Studies 4) – 250 Marks