UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025

The UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2025 outlines the structure and topics for the first stage of the Civil Services Examination. It includes two papers: General Studies (GS) Paper-I and General Studies (GS) Paper-II (CSAT). Both papers are objective type and designed to test a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, and decision-making ability. Here’s a detailed overview:

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General Studies (GS) Paper-I

Purpose: Screening test for the Main Examination. Marks are not considered for the final ranking.

Maximum Marks: 200

Duration: 2 hours

General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I) – Detailed Topics for UPSC Prelims Syllabus

Subject	Details
Current Events of National and International Importance	Focus on the latest news and significant developments in politics, economics, science, technology, environment, sports, and culture. Key international agreements and relationships impacting India and the world.
History of India and the Indian National Movement	– Ancient History: Study the Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Period, and major empires like Maurya and Gupta. – Medieval History: Explore the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, and other significant dynasties. – Modern History: Examine British rule, the independence movement, and key figures who shaped modern India.
Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World	– Physical Geography: Learn about landforms, water bodies, climate systems, and ecosystems. – Human Geography: Investigate population trends, urbanization, and migration patterns. – Economic Geography: Study resources, agricultural practices, industrial development, and global trade patterns.
Indian Polity and Governance	– Indian Constitution: Understand the origins, amendments, fundamental rights, and duties. – Political System: Analyze the workings of the Parliament, President, Prime Minister, and judiciary. – Governance and Policies: Study Panchayati Raj and public policies that address social issues and justice.
Economic and Social Development	– Indian Economy: Overview of national income, sectors, and budgeting. – Sustainable Development: Understand sustainable practices and national initiatives. – Social Issues: Examine challenges like poverty, healthcare, education, and government schemes for empowerment.
Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change	– Ecology: Explore ecosystems, pollution, and conservation. – Biodiversity: Study endangered species, hotspots, and international efforts for conservation. – Climate Change: Understand causes, impacts, and global strategies to combat climate issues.
General Science	– Physics, Chemistry, Biology: Cover fundamental principles and applications, focusing on human health, genetics, and innovations in space and technology.

General Studies (GS) Paper-II (CSAT)

• Maximum Marks: 200
• Duration: 2 hours
• Purpose: Qualifying in nature (minimum 33% required).

General Studies Paper II (CSAT) – Detailed Topics for UPSC Prelims Syllabus

Subject	Details
Comprehension	Test reading and understanding through comprehension passages.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills	Assess verbal and non-verbal communication abilities. Key areas include decision-making, listening skills, and emotional intelligence.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability	Evaluate logical thinking, statement analysis, and inference skills.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving	Answer situational questions to test problem-solving and decision-making efficiency.
General Mental Ability	Mathematical reasoning, number series, and classification for aptitude testing.
Basic Numeracy and Data Interpretation	Evaluate basic numeracy, including percentage, ratio, and speed problems. Data interpretation focuses on graphs, tables, and charts.

Click Here for Mains Syllabus

Official UPSC Website : https://upsconline.gov.in/upsc/OTRP/index.php

Key Points to Remember

• Both papers are conducted on the same day.
• Negative Marking: 1/3rd marks are deducted for incorrect answers.
• Only the marks of GS Paper-I determine selection for the Main Examination.
• A minimum of 33% is required in GS Paper-II (CSAT) to qualify.

The UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 requires a strategic and focused approach to cover current affairs, static topics, and analytical skills. Preparing in alignment with the syllabus ensures a strong foundation for the Main Examination.

Preparation Tips for UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024

1. Thorough Revision:
   • Focus on the important themes outlined in the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024. Revision is key to mastering concepts.
2. Daily Current Affairs:
   • Since current affairs dominate the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024, regular updates from trusted sources like newspapers and government portals are essential.
3. Mock Tests and PYQs:
   • Solving previous year questions aligned with the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 helps familiarize candidates with the exam’s difficulty level.
4. Dedicated Focus on Weak Areas:
   • Identify areas of improvement within the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 and allocate extra preparation time for these topics.
5. NCERTs as a Foundation:
   • Build your preparation around NCERT textbooks, which cover the basics of topics listed in the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024.

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The UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 is structured to test an aspirant’s holistic understanding of various subjects. Regular practice, conceptual clarity, and current affairs knowledge are vital to succeeding in this competitive examination.

Mains Syllabus

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024

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1. What are the key components of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024?

The syllabus comprises two papers:

• General Studies Paper-I: Covers History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Environment, and Current Affairs.
• General Studies Paper-II (CSAT): Includes Logical Reasoning, Comprehension, Decision Making, and Basic Numeracy.

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2. Does the syllabus include Current Affairs?

Yes, Current Affairs is an essential component, focusing on national and international events, government schemes, and economic developments.

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3. Has the syllabus changed compared to previous years?

No major changes have been announced. The syllabus remains focused on conceptual clarity, analytical skills, and factual knowledge.

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4. What is the focus on Environment and Ecology?

Environment and Ecology hold significant weight, covering topics like climate change, biodiversity, conservation, and international conventions.

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5. Is Ancient and Medieval History included?

Yes, the syllabus includes Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, emphasizing the Indian National Movement.

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6. What is the importance of CSAT in the Prelims?

CSAT (Paper-II) is qualifying in nature. Candidates need to score a minimum of 33% to pass.

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7. Are Science and Technology part of the syllabus?

Yes, aspirants should focus on recent advancements, applications, and their relevance to India.

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8. How significant is Indian Polity?

Indian Polity is a core area, covering the Constitution, governance mechanisms, and recent constitutional developments.

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9. How much emphasis is placed on Geography?

Geography covers physical, social, and economic aspects, including climate, agriculture, and resources.

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10. What resources are recommended for preparation?

Key resources include NCERT books, reference materials like Laxmikanth for Polity, and daily newspapers for Current Affairs.