UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Guide 2026

Overview

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and challenging competitive exams in India. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, it is the gateway to careers in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and other Group A and B services.

Exam Pattern

The UPSC CSE consists of three sequential stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Objective)

This stage is qualifying in nature and consists of two papers:

• General Studies Paper-I: 100 questions, 200 marks, 120 minutes.
• General Studies Paper-II (CSAT): 80 questions, 200 marks, 120 minutes. (Qualifying at 33%)

2. Main Examination (Descriptive)

Consists of 9 papers, including:

• 2 Qualifying Papers (Indian Language and English)
• 1 Essay Paper
• 4 General Studies Papers (GS I, II, III, IV)
• 2 Optional Subject Papers

3. Personality Test (Interview)

A face-to-face interview with the UPSC board to assess candidate suitability for administrative roles.

Detailed Syllabus

Preliminary - GS Paper I

• Current events of national and international importance.
• History of India and Indian National Movement.
• Indian and World Geography.
• Indian Polity and Governance.
• Economic and Social Development.
• General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity, and Climate Change.
• General Science.

Preliminary - GS Paper II (CSAT)

• Comprehension.
• Interpersonal skills including communication skills.
• Logical reasoning and analytical ability.
• Decision-making and problem-solving.
• General mental ability.
• Basic numeracy (Class X level).

Marking Scheme

• Correct Answer: GS I (+2 Marks), GS II (+2.5 Marks)
• Negative Marking: 1/3rd of the marks assigned to the question (-0.66 for GS I, -0.83 for GS II).
• Unanswered: 0 Marks.

Preparation Strategy

1. Read NCERTs: Start with Class 6-12 NCERT books for a strong foundation in History, Geography, and Polity.
2. Current Affairs: Read a national newspaper (The Hindu or Indian Express) daily.
3. Optional Selection: Choose your optional subject early based on interest and scoring potential.
4. Answer Writing: Practice descriptive answer writing for the Mains from the beginning.
5. Mock Tests: Take regular Prelims mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

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