UPSC Syllabus

 

Understanding the UPSC Syllabus

UPSC Syllabus is the list of topics candidates must cover to pass the civil services exam. Acknowledging its contents and devising an effective study plan are vital components to succeeding at this highly-competitive exam.

Prelims exam comprises two papers - General Studies Paper 1 (GS Paper 1) and CSAT Paper 2 (GS Paper 2). An optional subject paper carrying no marks, called General Studies Paper 3, may also be taken. Finally, Interview/Personality Test worth 275 marks will complete this examination process.

Geography

Geography is one of the most sought-after optional subjects for the UPSC Civil Services Entrance Exam and General Studies Paper 1 of its Mains examination, so it is vital to thoroughly comprehend its syllabus. Topics within geography range from geomorphology, climate science, oceanography and regional planning as well as environmental and sociological sciences - making Geography an excellent subject choice.

Aspirants who wish to pursue geography as a subject need to fully grasp its concepts before sitting for any examination in this subject area. Geography can be quite scientific in its approach and sometimes complicated questions arise; students from humanities academic backgrounds may find it challenging to grasp these ideas quickly. A great way to prepare is by reading related books or consulting NCERTs for guidance in your preparation.

IAS exam candidates taking part in Indian and World Geography must know both India and World geography to pass. The General Studies paper covers specific geographical aspects, while prelims exam questions require candidates to know information such as latitude, longitude, and time zone of India and/or the world.

At the mains examination, candidates must demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of geomorphology, climatology and oceanography as well as human and economic aspects of world geography, including population growth, migration, industrial development and urbanization. Furthermore, candidates should understand environmental issues like ozone depletion and climate change; identify major natural resources of the planet; understand erosion processes like landslides and droughts as well as be familiar with basic processes causing erosion such as erosion of rockslides; as well as locate primary, secondary, and tertiary industries globally.

History

History is one of the most sought-after optional subjects for both prelims and mains exams, offering many options. It covers ancient, medieval, modern Indian, world and historiographic interpretations as well as engaging critically with historiography - making this subject an excellent way to gain a comprehensive knowledge of past cultural, social and economic changes.

As history is one of the more challenging and time-consuming subjects to cover, preparation should include taking an approach that ensures consistent revision, plenty of mock tests practice and a thorough knowledge of all syllabus topics covered. By doing so, aspirants have their best chance at succeeding with this rigorous yet rewarding subject.

Aspirants hoping to take the history exam should begin their preparation by reading NCERT books from classes VII-XII in order to gain familiarity with its syllabus and key themes. Once this step has been accomplished, aspirants can add other reference books that focus on individual topics or eras of history for further preparation. Additionally, aspirants should read newspaper articles that cover current events related to historical developments and their effect on contemporary society. This will enable aspirants to stay abreast of any changes to the UPSC syllabus, adapt their preparation strategies accordingly and create concise notes while studying for quick revision. Furthermore, taking as many UPSC mock tests and soliciting advice from mentors will help strengthen an aspirant's answer-writing skills.

Political Science

UC's Political Science program gives students the chance to explore the people, policies and institutions that shape public life worldwide. By emphasizing research methods in its curriculum, students also develop analytical and organizational skills necessary for advancement in careers such as government service, law practice, international organizations membership management or non-profit work as well as survey research journalism teaching.

Political science is the study of how and why people gain power, how it is sustained or lost and whether it can be restored or lost. It entails investigating issues concerning individuals, groups and nations across a range of contexts such as American politics and government history; modern state systems; comparative politics; political theory as well as moral considerations when using power for various ends.

Candidates need a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered by the UPSC Syllabus for Prelims and Mains exams. Making note of important points as well as any modifications over time is vital to planning effective preparation strategies for exams like Civil Services Examination 2021. Keeping motivated during long preparation processes will be key in reaching success; by following these tips you can ensure you put forth your best effort towards reaching this goal and being successful! Good luck!

Economics

Economics in the UPSC syllabus is an integral component of both Prelims and Mains Civil Services Exams, offering dynamic insights into society from policy, markets, and society perspectives. Economics offers easy comprehension with fascinating subject matter; therefore becoming a popular optional choice among aspirants. This article by Rau's IAS delves deeper into its UPSC Economics syllabus while offering advice to aspirants wishing to prepare for this important subject area.

Understanding your Economics syllabus and its structure is the foundation of preparation. Doing this will enable you to plan your study sessions effectively, select quality study material and create a clear roadmap to guide you as you take on exam day.

NCERT books provide an ideal starting point, covering the essential principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. You may also benefit from reading economics-related articles in newspapers and magazines - this will give an excellent overview of current economic issues and trends.

Note that economics questions rarely hinge solely on theory. They frequently involve current events and the impact of government policies and steps taken, making it essential to understand India's and other nations' current economic situations.

UPSC Economics syllabus contains extensive topics on market structure and theories of monopolistic competition, duopoly and oligopoly as well as understanding money's role in an economy - from money multiplier quantity theory to Keynes' theory of demand for money. Furthermore, understanding goals and instruments used for managing money in closed and open economies as well as knowing what relationship exists between Central Banks and Treasury is necessary for success in any society.

General Science

Science is one of the cornerstones of UPSC exams for Civil Servant aspirants, necessitating extensive preparation. However, due to its complexity, an intensive effort is required in order to score highly in this subject area. NCERT books (Class VI to XII) can provide a strong basis in the topic area while newspapers like The Hindu and Indian Express may provide updates regarding space exploration missions, AI developments or reports related to COVID outbreaks - keeping up-to-date is essential!

Zoology is one of the core science subjects you must focus on if you want to achieve high marks in any exam. Key areas in zoology to concentrate on include animal classification, tissue structure and physiology; genetics, biotechnology and transgenic crops should also be familiarised with; furthermore medical advancements, including cures and prevention methods should also be explored thoroughly.

The General Studies (GS) Paper 2 syllabus for the UPSC Civil Service exam encompasses topics from all three primary subjects - Physics, Chemistry and Biology. To be successful at becoming part of Civil Services, all aspirants must take this qualifying examination paper - it determines eligibility for main examination. To increase your chances of doing well in this paper and score well on it make sure to regularly revise subjects and answer all questions correctly.