UPSC Prelims Guide
Monk welcomes you to ‘Prelims Specific preparation’ for UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE).
The Preliminary Examination (commonly called Prelims) is the first stage of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. This crucial screening test requires strategic preparation and focused approach to ensure you advance to the next stage.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help new(beginner) aspirants navigate the complex journey of UPSC preparation with clarity.
Prelims Specific Updates 🔔
UPSC CSE Prelims Exam, 2025 is scheduled on 25 May, 2025
Read all Articles
UPSC Prelims Exam
The
Develop Basic understanding of UPSC Prelims Exam
UPSC Prelims Exam Strategy
UPSC Prelims Papers
Paper 1
General Studies (GS)
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 specialization.
General Science.
Paper 2
Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT)
CSAT Strategy
Most repeated questions in CSAT in UPSC Prelims.
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)
Download Prelims Specific Material
Prelims Syllabus
You will also subject wise strategy, important areas to cover and related FAQs.
Prelims Booklist
You will also subject wise strategy, important areas to cover and related FAQs.
Prelims PYQs
You will also subject wise strategy, important areas to cover and related FAQs.
Prelims Books to Buy
Essential Books
10 Year-wise Solved Papers
A
By Disha Publication
Suggestion: Must Have
The Answer Writing Manual
A
By Disha Publication
Suggestion: Must Have
Books written by Toppers
Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing
A step-by-step Guide to help you ace the UPSC Mains Exam
By Anudeep Durishetty
Suggestion: Must Have
The Answer Writing Manual
For UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations
By Shrusthi Deshmukh
Suggestion: Must Have
What I Wish I Had Known Before Starting UPSC Preparation
A step-by-step Guide to help you ace the UPSC Mains Exam
By Suyash Chavan
Suggestion: Must Have
HOW I TOPPED THE UPSC AND HOW YOU CAN TOO :
What It Really Takes to Crack the World’s Toughest Exam
By Gamini Singla
Suggestion: Must Have
FAQs
What is UPSC Prelims exam pattern?
What are UPSC Prelims Subjects?
What is UPSC Prelims 2024 Exam Date and Time?
What is UPSC CSE Application Registeation Date?
Will my attempt count if I filled in the form but didn’t give the exam?
No.
What is the medium of the Prelims Exam?
The question papers will be set both in Hindi and English.
Is there a negative marking for the Prelims Exam?
Yes. ⅓ rd Negative Marking of the marks assigned to that question
Is there similar negative marking in both the papers of the Prelims exam?
Yes. Its ⅓ rd a Negative Marking of assigned marks but in absolute terms -0.6666666667 marks in GS Paper 1 and -0.8333333333 marks in CSAT Paper 2
What happens if I mark two or three options?
As per UPSC, it will be treated as a wrong answer and there will be ⅓ rd Negative Marking.
What happens, if a question is left blank?
There will be no penalty for that question. You will be allotted Zero (No)marks.
What is the schedule of the CSAT Paper in the Prelims Exam?
Generally, GS Paper is scheduled in the morning shift (from 9:30 am to 11:30 am) and CSAT paper is conducted in the Afternoon session (from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm) on the exam day.
FAQ Sources: UPSC CSE Official Notification
Read more
Post-Prelims Strategy
If you’re confident of clearing Prelims, begin Mains preparation immediately without waiting for results. Our UPSC Mains section provides comprehensive guidance for the next stage of your journey.
Remember, Prelims is not just about knowledge but also about strategy and accuracy. A methodical approach with consistent practice is your key to success.