The UPSC Syllabus 2024 outlines the comprehensive framework for the IAS examination, crucial for aspiring candidates. It encompasses two main stages: the IAS Prelims and IAS Mains examinations. The Prelims Syllabus focuses on general studies and aptitude, while the Mains Syllabus delves deeper into specialized subjects across nine papers, including essay writing and optional subjects.

For the latest updates and detailed guidelines, candidates can download the UPSC Syllabus PDF for both Prelims and Mains from official sources. This essential document provides a structured approach to understanding the exam’s scope and requirements.

UPSC Syllabus PDF

The UPSC syllabus is designed to evaluate candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and analytical skills through two main stages: the Preliminary Examination (Prelims) and the Main Examination (Mains), followed by an interview/personality test.

UPSC Syllabus for Prelims

General Studies Paper-I

The Prelims consists of two compulsory papers. General Studies Paper-I includes:

• Current Events: National and international importance.
• History of India: Indian national movement and significant historical events.
• Indian & World Geography: Physical, social, and economic geography.
• Indian Polity & Governance: Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj, public policy, and rights issues.
• Economic & Social Development: Sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and social sector initiatives.
• Environmental Ecology: General issues on biodiversity and climate change.
• General Science: Various scientific topics.

General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)

General Studies Paper-II, also known as the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), includes:

• Comprehension
• Interpersonal Skills: Including communication skills.
• Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
• Decision Making & Problem Solving
• General Mental Ability
• Basic Numeracy: (Class X level), Data interpretation.

Note: CSAT is a qualifying paper with a minimum qualifying mark of 33%. Both papers must be attempted for evaluation purposes.

UPSC Syllabus for Mains

The Mains examination includes nine papers, categorized into qualifying and merit-based papers.

Qualifying Papers

Papers Counted for Merit

Total Marks for Written Test: 1750
Personality Test: 275
Grand Total: 2025

Important Points:

• Papers A and B are qualifying in nature and not counted for ranking.
• Papers on Indian languages and English are of matriculation standard.
• Only candidates who score at least 25% in both Indian Language and English will have their marks in Papers I-VII counted for merit.
• The Mains question papers will be of conventional (essay) type and each paper will be of 3 hours duration.
• Candidates can choose to answer papers in any language included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution or in English.
• Compensatory time is available for candidates with disabilities.

UPSC Syllabus for Qualifying Papers

English Language:

• Comprehension of passages.
• Precise writing.
• Usage and vocabulary.
• Short essays.

Indian Languages:

• Comprehension of passages.
• Precise writing.
• Usage and vocabulary.
• Short essays.
• Translation between English and the Indian language.

UPSC Essay Syllabus

Candidates must write essays on multiple topics, ensuring their ideas are arranged logically and expressed concisely. Effective and exact expression is crucial.

UPSC General Studies Paper-I Syllabus

• Indian Heritage and Culture: Art forms, literature, architecture.
• Modern Indian History: Significant events, personalities, freedom struggle, post-independence consolidation.
• World History: 18th century events, industrial revolution, world wars, political philosophies.
• Indian Society: Salient features, diversity, globalization effects, social issues.
• Physical Geography: Key natural resources, geophysical phenomena.

UPSC General Studies Paper-II Syllabus

• Indian Constitution: Evolution, features, amendments, and basic structure.
• Federal Structure: Functions and responsibilities of Union and States, devolution of powers.
• Legislature and Judiciary: Structure, functioning, powers, and privileges.
• Government Policies: Development processes, welfare schemes, transparency, and accountability.
• International Relations: Bilateral and global agreements, impact on India’s interests.

UPSC General Studies Paper-III Syllabus

• Economic Development: Growth, planning, budgeting, inclusive growth.
• Agriculture: Cropping patterns, irrigation, food processing.
• Infrastructure: Energy, ports, roads, railways.
• Science and Technology: Developments and applications, IT, space, biotechnology.
• Environment: Conservation, pollution, disaster management.

UPSC General Studies Paper-IV Syllabus

• Ethics and Integrity: Essence, human values, moral attitudes.
• Public Service Values: Ethical issues, governance, accountability.
• Case Studies: Analysis of ethical dilemmas and problem-solving approaches.

UPSC Optional Syllabus

Candidates may choose one Optional Subject from a wide range of options, including:

• Agriculture
• Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
• Anthropology
• Botany
• Chemistry
• Civil Engineering
• Commerce and Accountancy
• Economics
• Electrical Engineering
• Geography
• Geology
• History
• Law
• Management
• Mathematics
• Mechanical Engineering
• Medical Science
• Philosophy
• Physics
• Political Science & International Relations
• Psychology
• Public Administration
• Sociology
• Statistics
• Zoology
• Literature of various languages

Each Optional Subject has two compulsory papers.

Related Posts

• UPSC Syllabus 2024
• UPSC Prelims Result 2024
• UPSC Age Limit
• UPSC Exam Date 2024
• UPSC Exam Pattern
• UPSC Previous Year Question Paper
• UPSC Calendar
• UPSC Marksheet
• UPSC Optional Subjects List
• UPSC CSAT Syllabus