How Many Papers in UPSC Mains: The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of India’s most prestigious and competitive exams, attracting thousands of aspirants each year.
Among its various stages, the Main examination is a critical phase that tests candidates on a wide range of subjects, assessing their depth of knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to articulate ideas effectively.
How Many Papers in UPSC Mains
The UPSC CSE Main examination consists of a total of nine papers, out of which two papers (Paper-A and Paper-B) are qualifying in nature. Let’s delve into each of these papers to understand their purpose and significance in the examination process:
Essay (Paper-I):
- Objective: This paper assesses the candidate’s ability to compose a coherent and well-structured essay on a given topic. It tests the candidate’s clarity of thought, writing skills, and capacity to critically analyze diverse topics.
General Studies I to IV (Paper-II to V):
- Objective: These papers evaluate the candidate’s understanding of various subjects relevant to the administration and governance of India. The four General Studies papers cover topics such as Indian Heritage and Culture, Governance, Social Justice, International Relations, Ethics, and aptitude.
Optional Subject Paper I & II (Paper-VI & VII):
- Objective: Candidates choose one optional subject from the UPSC’s list of subjects. Each optional subject has two papers, which delve deep into the chosen subject’s concepts, theories, and practical applications. These papers carry substantial weightage and require thorough preparation.
Qualifying Papers – Indian Languages and English (Paper-A & Paper-B):
- Objective: These papers are designed to test the candidate’s proficiency in the selected Indian language and English. Although qualifying in nature, candidates must achieve a minimum standard to clear the Main examination.
UPSC Mains Syllabus
A thorough breakdown of the subjects and topics candidates must study for the Civil Services Mains Examination can be found in the UPSC Mains Syllabus. A detailed overview of the UPSC Mains syllabus is provided below:
| UPSC Mains Syllabus | |
| Paper-A (One of the Indian Languages) | Candidates can choose one Indian language from the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This paper tests candidates’ proficiency and comprehension skills in the chosen language. |
| Paper-B (English) | This paper assesses candidates’ English language skills and includes comprehension passages, essay writing, precise writing, and grammar-related questions. |
| Essay | Candidates are required to write essays on multiple topics. This paper evaluates candidates’ ability to present coherent and well-structured arguments on contemporary issues. |
| General Studies I | Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society |
| General Studies II | Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations |
| General Studies III | Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management |
| General Studies IV | Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude: This paper evaluates candidates’ ethical and moral values, integrity, and aptitude for civil services. |
| Optional Subject Paper 1 | Candidates can choose one optional subject from the UPSC’s approved list. The syllabus for this paper varies depending on the chosen subject. |
| Optional Subject Paper 2 | Similar to Paper 1, this paper also covers the chosen optional subject. |
UPSC Mains Exam Pattern
The UPSC Mains Exam Pattern comprises nine papers, of which two are qualifying and seven are used to determine the final merit ranking.
| UPSC Mains Exam Pattern | |||
| Paper | Subject | Duration | Marks |
| Paper-A | One of the Indian Languages | 3 hours | 300 |
| Paper-B | English | 3 hours | 300 |
| Paper-I | Essay | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-II | General Studies I | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-III | General Studies II | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-IV | General Studies III | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-V | General Studies IV | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-VI | Optional Subject Paper 1 | 3 hours | 250 |
| Paper-VII | Optional Subject Paper 2 | 3 hours | 250 |
Preparation Strategy for UPSC CSE Mains Examination
Comprehensive Understanding of Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly understanding the UPSC prescribed syllabus for each paper. The syllabus acts as a roadmap, guiding candidates on what to study and how in-depth they need to prepare.
Selection of Optional Subject: Choose your optional subject wisely, considering your interests, background, and scoring potential. Refer to standard textbooks and study materials recommended by experts.
Current Affairs Integration: Stay updated with current affairs, as they are integral to answering questions in General Studies papers and even in the optional subject papers where relevant.
Answer Writing Practice: Practice writing answers regularly. Focus on structuring your responses logically, providing relevant examples, and maintaining a balanced perspective on various issues.
Mock Tests and Previous Years’ Papers: Take mock tests and solve previous years’ papers to simulate exam conditions and gauge your preparation level. Analyze your performance to identify strengths and areas needing improvement.