Introduction to UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary) Examination 2024 – UPSC CSE 2024

Welcome to PreCrack! Recently, UPSC has released the Notification of Civil Service (Preliminary / Pre) Exam 2024 Notification. Due to this, UPSC Website got hanged and aspirants facing problem in using UPSC official website. This news has put the UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary) Examination 2024 to the headlines.

Why UPSC CSE Exam 2024 in News? – Latest UPSC – Recent Updates – UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Notification

Recently, on 14^th of February 2024, UPSC (Union Public Service Commission / संघ लोक सेवा आयोग) Just have released the UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary) Exam 2024 Notification. This is why, UPSC CSE Exam 2024 in News

What is UPSC Civil Service Exam – UPSC CSE?

UPSC CSE stands for Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination. It’s one of the highest competitive exams in India to join prestigious government services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS).


Think of it as a gateway to shaping India’s future through policy-making, diplomacy, and law enforcement.

UPSC CSE 2024 Age Limits and Attempts

Knowing about UPSC CSE Exam Age limits and Attempts is crucial. We have added the details about UPSC CSE Exam Age limits and Attempts below-

Age Limit

These are the age limits for UPSC CSE Aspirant

• Minimum age: 21 years; Maximum age: 32 years (as of August 1, 2024).
• Age relaxations for SC/ST, OBC, defense personnel, ex-servicemen, and PwBD candidates.

Attempts

Candidates are allowed a specific number of attempts for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, as outlined in the official rules:

• Every eligible candidate appearing in the examination is permitted six attempts.
• The restriction on the number of attempts does not apply to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes candidates who are otherwise eligible.
• Candidates belonging to Other Backward Classes, who are otherwise eligible, are allowed nine attempts.
• Candidates eligible for reservation benefits, including Persons with Benchmark Disability, have attempts equivalent to those available to candidates without disabilities, subject to the condition that a General and EWS category candidate with Benchmark Disability is eligible for nine attempts.
• The relaxation in the number of attempts is applicable to Persons with Benchmark Disability eligible for reservation.

Note:

UPSC CSE 2024 Complete Exam Syllabus

We have added a brief and expended syllabus of UPSC Civil Service Examination Below –

Note 1: Paper-II of the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination will be a qualifying paper with minimum qualifying marks fixed at 33%.

Note 2: The questions will be of multiple choice, objective type.

Note 3: It is mandatory for the candidate to appear in both the Papers of Civil Services (Prelim) Examination for the purpose of evaluation. Therefore, a candidate will be disqualified in case he/she does not appear in both the papers of Civil Services (Prelim) Examination.

Part B – Syllabus for UPSC Mains Examination (Brief)

The Main Examination is designed to assess the overall intellectual traits and depth of understanding of candidates, emphasizing their intellectual abilities rather than focusing solely on information and memory.

Pattern of Questions:

• Comprehension of given passages.
• Précis Writing.
• Usage and Vocabulary.
• Short Essays.

B. For Indian Languages:

In addition to the above, translation from English to the Indian Language and vice-versa.

Pattern of Questions:

• Comprehension of given passages.
• Précis Writing.
• Usage and Vocabulary.
• Short Essays.

Note 1: Papers on Indian Languages and English will be of Matriculation or equivalent standard and are qualifying in nature only. Marks obtained in these papers will not be counted for ranking.

Note 2: Candidates must answer the English and Indian Languages papers in English and the respective Indian language (except where translation is involved).

2. General Studies Papers (Paper II to Paper V):

• The questions in these papers will be such that a well-educated person should be able to answer without specialized study.
• Designed to test the candidate’s general awareness of various subjects relevant to a career in Civil Services.
• Questions likely to assess the candidate’s basic understanding of relevant issues, and ability to analyze and take a view on conflicting socio-economic goals, objectives, and demands.
• Candidates are expected to provide relevant, meaningful, and succinct answers.

3. Optional Subject Papers (Paper VI and Paper VII):

• The scope of the syllabus for optional subject papers is at the honors degree level.
• Corresponds to a level higher than the bachelor’s degree and lower than the master’s degree.
• For Engineering, Medical Science, and Law, the level corresponds to the bachelor’s degree.
• Syllabi of the Papers:

Part B – Syllabus for UPSC Mains Examination (Expended)

Qualifying Papers on Indian Languages and English (300 Marks Each) 

These papers are of Matriculation or equivalent standard and serve as qualifying papers; the marks obtained in these papers will not be counted for ranking. You have to achieve minimum 25% marks to qualify these papers.

Aim of the Paper:

The primary objective is to evaluate the candidates’ ability to read and comprehend serious discursive prose, along with the capability to express ideas clearly and correctly in both English and the concerned Indian language.

Pattern of Questions

These will be the pattern of those questions that will be appear in Qualifying Papers on Indian Languages and English –

A. For English Paper –

I. Comprehension of Given Passages

Evaluation of the candidate’s understanding of the content presented in the passages.

II. Précis Writing

Assessing the ability to summarize and present concise versions of the given content.

III. Usage and Vocabulary

Evaluation of language proficiency, including appropriate usage and a rich vocabulary.

IV. Short Essays

Testing the candidate’s skill in expressing ideas through short essays.

B. For Indian Languages

I. Comprehension of Given Passages

Similar to the English section, evaluating understanding in the concerned Indian language.

II. Précis Writing

Summarizing content in the respective Indian language.

III. Usage and Vocabulary

Assessing language proficiency, usage, and vocabulary in the concerned Indian language.

IV. Short Essays

Expressing ideas through short essays in the respective Indian language.

V. Translation from English to the Indian Language and Vice-Versa

Evaluating translation skills between English and the respective Indian language.

UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-1 Syllabus: Essay (250 Marks)

The Essay paper aims to evaluate the candidate’s ability to present their thoughts on a given topic coherently and effectively. The topics are generally broad and contemporary, requiring candidates to draw upon their knowledge, analytical skills, and expression.

Syllabus

• Topics: Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics covering issues of national and international significance.
• Style and Presentation: Emphasis on clarity, coherence, and effective communication of ideas.
• Word Limit: Candidates should adhere to the prescribed word limit to encourage precision and conciseness.
• Diverse Subjects: Topics can span diverse fields, including politics, economy, society, environment, culture, and more.
• Analytical Skills: Evaluation of candidate’s ability to critically analyze, discuss, and articulate thoughts.

UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-2 Syllabus: General Studies-I (250 Marks)

The objective of this paper is to assess the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of Indian Heritage, Culture, History, Geography, and Society.

Syllabus

1. Indian Heritage and Culture

• Salient Aspects of Art Forms, Literature, and Architecture from Ancient to Modern Times.
• Exploration of Indian Cultural Heritage and Traditions.

2. History

• Modern Indian History from the Mid-18th Century to the Present.
• Significant Events, Personalities, and Issues.
• The Freedom Struggle – Stages and Contributions Across the Country.
• Post-Independence Consolidation and Reorganization.

3. World History

• Events from the 18th Century: Industrial Revolution, World Wars, National Boundary Redrawal, Colonization, Decolonization.
• Political Philosophies: Communism, Capitalism, Socialism – Forms and Societal Impact.

4. Society

• Salient Features of Indian Society.
• Diversity in India.
• Role of Women and Women’s Organizations.
• Population Dynamics and Associated Issues.
• Poverty and Developmental Challenges.
• Urbanization: Issues and Solutions.
• Impact of Globalization on Indian Society.
• Social Empowerment, Communalism, Regionalism, and Secularism.

5. Geography

• Salient Features of the World’s Physical Geography.
• Distribution of Key Natural Resources Globally (Including South Asia and Indian Subcontinent).
• Factors Influencing the Location of Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Sector Industries Worldwide (Including India).
• Important Geophysical Phenomena: Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Volcanic Activity, Cyclones, etc.
• Changes in Critical Geographical Features and Effects on Flora and Fauna.

UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-3 Syllabus: General Studies-II (250 Marks)

This paper focuses on assessing the candidate’s knowledge of Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.

Syllabus

1. Indian Constitution

• Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features.
• Amendments, Significant Provisions, and Basic Structure.

2. Federal Structure

• Functions and Responsibilities of Union and States.
• Issues and Challenges in the Federal Structure.
• Devolution of Powers and Finances to Local Levels.

3. Separation of Powers

• Among Various Organs.
• Dispute Redressal Mechanisms and Institutions.

4. Comparison with Other Countries

• Indian Constitutional Scheme.

5. Parliament and State Legislatures

• Structure, Functioning, Conduct of Business.
• Powers, Privileges, and Issues Arising.

6. Executive and Judiciary

• Structure, Organization, and Functioning.
• Ministries and Departments of the Government.
• Pressure Groups, Formal/Informal Associations in Polity.

7. Representation of People’s Act

• Salient Features.

8. Constitutional Bodies

• Appointment, Powers, Functions, Responsibilities.

9. Statutory, Regulatory, and Quasi-Judicial Bodies

• Overview and Significance.

10. Government Policies and Interventions

• Development in Various Sectors.
• Design and Implementation Issues.

11. Development Processes and Industry

• Role of NGOs, SHGs, Groups, Associations, Donors.
• Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections.

12. Social Sector/Services

• Health, Education, Human Resources Management.
• Poverty and Hunger Issues.

13. Governance and Transparency

• E-Governance Applications, Models, Successes, Limitations.
• Citizens’ Charters, Institutional Measures.
• Role of Civil Services in Democracy.

14. India and its Neighborhood

• Bilateral, Regional, and Global Groupings/Agreements.
• Impact of Developed and Developing Countries on India.

15. International Institutions and Fora

• Structure, Mandate, and India’s Interactions.

12. Security Forces and Agencies

• Mandate of Various Security Forces and Agencies.

UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-5 Syllabus: General Studies-IV (250 Marks)

This paper evaluates candidates on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude, examining their approach to issues related to integrity, probity in public life, and their problem-solving abilities.

Syllabus

1. Ethics and Human Interface

• Essence, Determinants, and Consequences of Ethics in Human Actions.
• Dimensions of Ethics – in Private and Public Relationships.
• Human Values – Lessons from Great Leaders, Reformers, and Administrators.
• Role of Family, Society, and Educational Institutions in Inculcating Values.

2. Attitude

• Content, Structure, Function.
• Influence and Relation with Thought and Behavior.
• Moral and Political Attitudes.
• Social Influence and Persuasion.

3. Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service

• Integrity, Impartiality, and Non-partisanship.
• Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service.
• Empathy, Tolerance, and Compassion Towards Weaker Sections.

4. Emotional Intelligence

• Concepts, Utilities, and Application in Administration and Governance.

5. Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers

• From India and Around the World.

6. Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public Administration

• Status and Problems.
• Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in Government and Private Institutions.
• Laws, Rules, Regulations, and Conscience as Sources of Ethical Guidance.
• Accountability and Ethical Governance.
• Strengthening Ethical and Moral Values in Governance.
• Ethical Issues in International Relations and Funding.
• Corporate Governance.

7. Probity in Governance

• Concept of Public Service.
• Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity.
• Information Sharing and Transparency in Government.
• Right to Information.
• Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct.
• Citizen’s Charters.
• Work Culture, Quality of Service Delivery.
• Utilization of Public Funds.
• Challenges of Corruption.
• Case Studies on the Above Issues.

UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-6 & 7 Syllabus

Click this link to know in details about syllabus of all Optional Subjects – UPSC CSE (Mains Exam): Paper-6 & 7 Syllabus

UPSC CSE Exam Pattern

We have added the pattern of Complete UPSC Civil Service Examinations below-

Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination (Objective Type)

• The Preliminary Examination is designed for the selection of candidates eligible for the Main Examination.
• It comprises two papers of Objective type (multiple choice questions) carrying a maximum of 400 marks in subjects outlined in sub-section (A) of Section II.
• The Preliminary Examination serves as a screening test; the marks obtained in this stage are not considered for determining the final order of merit.
• Approximately twelve to thirteen times the total approximate number of vacancies are admitted to the Main Examination based on Preliminary Examination results.
• Candidates qualifying the Preliminary Examination are eligible for admission to the Main Examination, provided they meet other eligibility criteria.

Notes:

1. The Commission determines a list of qualified candidates for the Main Examination based on minimum qualifying marks (33% in General Studies Paper-II and total qualifying marks in General Studies Paper-I).
2. Negative marking is applicable:
3. For each wrongly answered question, one-third (0.33) of the marks assigned to the question will be deducted as a penalty.
4. If a candidate provides more than one answer, it will be considered a wrong answer, and the same penalty applies.
5. No penalty for questions left blank.

Civil Services (Mains) Examination (Written Type)

1. Structure of Main Examination:

• The Main Examination comprises a written examination and an interview test.
• The written examination includes 9 papers of conventional essay type in subjects specified in sub-section (B) of Section II, with two papers being of qualifying nature.
• Marks obtained in all compulsory papers (Paper-I to Paper-VII) and the Interview for the Personality Test contribute to the final ranking.

2. Main Examination Papers:

Qualifying Papers:

• Paper-A: One of the Indian Languages (300 Marks)
• Paper-B: English (300 Marks)

Papers Counted for Merit:

• Paper-I: Essay (250 Marks)
• Paper-II: General Studies-I (Indian Heritage, Culture, History, Geography of the World, and Society – 250 Marks)
• Paper-III: General Studies-II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations – 250 Marks)
• Paper-IV: General Studies-III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management – 250 Marks)
• Paper-V: General Studies-IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude – 250 Marks)
• Paper-VI: Optional Subject – Paper 1 (250 Marks)
• Paper-VII: Optional Subject – Paper 2 (250 Marks)
• Subtotal (Written Test): 1750 Marks
• Personality Test: 275 Marks
• Grand Total: 2025 Marks

3. Interview (Personality Test):

• Candidates obtaining minimum qualifying marks in the written part of the Main Examination are summoned for an interview.
• Approximately twice the number of vacancies are called for the interview, and it carries 275 marks.
• The combined marks from the Main Examination (written and interview) determine the final ranking.

4. Allocation of Services:

Candidates are allocated to various services based on their ranks in the examination and the preferences expressed by them for different services and posts.

About personality test – Key to Crack UPSC CSE 2024

Knowing about details of the personality test of UPSC CSE 2024 examination is crucial for cracking it in real. We have added the details of UPSC CSE Personality Test below-

1. Purpose of Interview:

• The interview aims to assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in public service.
• Conducted by a Board of competent and unbiased observers.

2. Nature of Questions:

• Questions revolve around matters of general interest.
• Not a strict cross-examination but a natural, directed, and purposive conversation.

3. Assessment Criteria:

• Judgment of mental caliber, intellectual qualities, and social traits.
• Evaluation of interest in current affairs.
• Qualities assessed include mental alertness, critical powers of assimilation, clear and logical exposition, balance of judgment, variety and depth of interest, ability for social cohesion and leadership, intellectual and moral integrity.

4. Technique of Interview:

• Interview technique is not a strict cross-examination.
• A natural and directed conversation to reveal the mental qualities of the candidate.

5. Scope of Questions:

• Not a test of specialized or general knowledge already covered in written papers.
• Candidates are expected to demonstrate an intelligent interest in their academic subjects and awareness of events within and outside their State or Country, as well as modern currents of thought and discoveries.

6. Encouragement for Women Candidates:

• Emphasis on gender balance, and women candidates are encouraged to apply.

Jobs List for UPSC CSE Exam – UPSC CSE 2024

These are the jobs that are targeted for UPSC Civil Service Examination. Below, we have arrange them in order of their rank.

UPSC Exam Calendar 2024 – UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Calendar

This is the colander of UPSC 2024 Upcoming Exams – Here is the Calender of Approved Annual Exams conducted by UPSC CSE 2024-

Exam Centers for UPSC CSE 2024

These are the official Canters for organizing UPSC CSE 2024-

UPSC CSE Preliminary Exam 2024 Centers

UPSC CSE Main Exam 2024 Exam Center

Application Process for UPSC CSE 2024 Exam

If you want to apply for UPSC CSE 2024, then you have to follow these simple steps-

(a) Online Application

• Visit http://www.upsconline.nic.in for online application.
• Follow detailed instructions on the website.
• Submit a single application; multiple applications allowed only in unavoidable situations.
• Ensure completeness of the application with higher RID if multiple submissions occur.

(b) Submission Guidelines

• All candidates, including those in government service, should apply directly to the Commission.
• Government employees need to submit an undertaking about application notification to their Head of Office/Department.
• Candidates whose employers withhold permission may face rejection or cancellation.

Important Notes

• Choose the examination center carefully while filling the form.
• PwBD candidates in specific categories provided with scribe facility on request.
• Compensatory time for certain PwBD categories during the examination.
• Candidates must provide information about Main Examination centers, optional subjects, and language preferences during the online application.
• Gender balance emphasized, and women candidates are encouraged to apply.

Note :

Candidates are advised to carefully read instructions and guidelines provided on the official website for a smooth application process.

UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary) Exam Notification 2024 – UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Notification

You can click this official link below to visit the Official Notification for UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary Exam) 2024-

UPSC CSE (Preliminary) 2024 Official Exam Notification Page

UPSC CSE 2024 Official Notification (PDF):-

Click here

UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Form Link

If you want to go to the main page where you can get the UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Form Link, then you can click below on the official website of UPSC CSE 2024 Exam-

UPSC CSE 2024 Official Exam Form Page Link

Last Date for Online Submission and Withdrawal of Applications

The last date of Online Submission and withdrawal of Application is 5^th of March 2024.

UPSC CSE 2024 Admit Cards

Click the link below to get your UPSC CSE 2024 Admit cards-

UPSC CSE 2024 Admit Card

UPSC CSE Exam Cutoff 2024

We’ll inform you about the cutoff of UPSC Civil Service (Preliminary) Exam, 2024 when it will release officially.

What is Salary of an IAS Officer?

The Salary of an IAS Officer can be vary according to their post or position. Adding those post and positions, we have added complete details about the salary of an IAS Officer below-

Key Facts about UPSC CSE 2024

These are the some of major key facts that you need to remember about UPSC CSE 2024

FAQs about UPSC Civil Service Exam – UPSC CSE 2024 Important Quesions

Question-1. What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)?

Answer. The UPSC CSE is a competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission for recruiting candidates into various civil services of the Indian government.

Question-2. How often is the UPSC CSE conducted?

Answer. The exam is conducted annually.

Question-3. What are the eligibility criteria for UPSC CSE?

Answer. Candidates must be Indian citizens with a degree from a recognized university. Age limits also apply.

Question-4. How many attempts are allowed for UPSC CSE?

Answer. General category candidates have 6 attempts, while OBC and SC/ST candidates have 9 and unlimited attempts, respectively.

Question-5. What is the exam pattern for the Preliminary stage?

Answer. It consists of two papers: General Studies and CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test), both of 200 marks.

Question-6. What is the syllabus for the Preliminary stage?

Answer. Syllabus includes topics like history, geography, polity, economy, environment, and current affairs.

Question-7. Is there negative marking in the Preliminary stage?

Answer. Yes, there is negative marking of 1/3 marks for incorrect answers.

Question-8. What is the language of the question papers in the Preliminary stage?

Answer. The question papers are set in both English and Hindi.

Question-9. How is the Main Examination structured?

Answer. It consists of nine papers, including essay writing, general studies, and optional subjects.

Question-10. What is the role of the interview stage in the selection process?

Answer. The interview stage, also known as the Personality Test, assesses a candidate’s suitability for a career in public service.

Question-11. How are optional subjects chosen for the Main Examination?

Answer. Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list provided by UPSC.

Question-12. Can candidates write the Main Examination in regional languages?

Answer. Yes, candidates can write the exam in regional languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Question-13. Are marks obtained in the English and Indian Language papers counted for ranking in the Main Examination?

Answer. No, these are qualifying papers, and marks are not counted for ranking.

Question-14. What is the syllabus for General Studies Paper I in the Main Examination?

Answer. It includes Indian heritage, culture, history, geography, and society.

Question-15. What does General Studies Paper II cover?

Answer. It covers governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations.

Question-16. What topics are included in General Studies Paper III?

Answer. It includes technology, economic development, biodiversity, environment, security, and disaster management.

Question-17. What is the syllabus for General Studies Paper IV?

Answer. It covers ethics, integrity, and aptitude.

Question-18. How are essays evaluated in the Main Examination?

Answer. Essays are evaluated based on a candidate’s expression, content, and coherence of ideas.

Question-19. Is there any reservation for SC/ST and OBC candidates?

Answer. Yes, there is a reservation policy for these categories.

Question-20. Do I have to appear for both Language papers of English Paper & Indian Language Paper?

Answer. Yes. You just have to appear for both of these qualifying exams. They are mendatory. You can’t select one from them.