UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2025 QUESTION PAPER
Okay, let's break down the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 question paper in detail. This will be a comprehensive guide, including its structure, subjects, types of questions, preparation strategies, and practical applications of the knowledge you gain.
Current Events of National and International Importance: This section focuses on significant events of the past year or so.
History of India and Indian National Movement: Includes Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, with an emphasis on the freedom struggle.
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: These topics are general awareness-based, but a scientific understanding is expected.
General Science: Basic science understanding (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) expected of a well-educated person, not requiring specialized study.
1. Current Events:
Question: "Consider the following statements regarding the 'Digital India' initiative:
1. It aims to ensure that government services are available to citizens electronically.
2. It focuses on increasing digital literacy among the rural population.
3. It plans to connect all villages with high-speed internet by 2025.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?"
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Reasoning: You need to be aware of the core objectives and ongoing progress of the Digital India initiative. Statement 1 is a fundamental goal. Statement 2 is also a significant aspect. Statement 3 requires knowledge of the current targets for rural internet connectivity.
2. History:
Question: "The 'Quit India Movement' was launched in response to:
(a) The Cabinet Mission Plan
(b) The Cripps Proposal
(c) The Simon Commission Report
(d) The Wavell Plan"
Reasoning: This requires understanding the timeline of events leading up to the Quit India Movement. The Cripps Proposal's failure was the immediate trigger.
3. Geography:
Question: "Which of the following factors are responsible for the formation of ocean currents?
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Wind patterns
3. Differences in water density
4. Tectonic plate movement
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4"
Reasoning: You need to understand the driving forces behind ocean currents. Rotation of the Earth (Coriolis effect), wind patterns, and density differences (salinity, temperature) are all major factors. Tectonic plate movement doesn't directly cause ocean currents (though it influences ocean basin shape over geological timescales).
4. Polity:
Question: "Which of the following schedules of the Constitution of India deals with the allocation of seats in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to the States and Union Territories?
(a) Second Schedule
(b) Fourth Schedule
(c) Fifth Schedule
(d) Sixth Schedule"
Reasoning: This is a direct factual question testing your knowledge of the Schedules of the Constitution.
5. Economics:
Question: "What is/are the likely impact/impacts of Inflation on an economy?
1. It reduces the purchasing power of money.
2. It discourages investment.
3. It affects the savings in the economy.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: Inflation erodes the value of money (impact 1). High and unpredictable inflation can discourage investment (impact 2). It certainly impacts the real value of savings (impact 3).
6. Environment:
Question: "Which of the following is/are the indicators used to assess the environmental impact of a project?
1. Air Quality Index (AQI)
2. Water Quality Index (WQI)
3. Biodiversity Index
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: All three indicators are commonly used in environmental impact assessments.
7. General Science:
Question: "Which of the following statements about viruses is/are correct?
1. Viruses can replicate independently.
2. Viruses contain both DNA and RNA.
3. Viruses require a host cell to reproduce.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only reproduce inside a host cell (statement 3 is correct). They contain either DNA or RNA, but not both (statement 2 is incorrect). They cannot replicate independently (statement 1 is incorrect).
Comprehension: Reading passages and answering questions based on them.
Interpersonal Skills including Communication Skills: Questions testing your ability to understand and respond to interpersonal situations.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Questions on deductions, inferences, and analyzing patterns.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Scenarios presented requiring you to choose the best course of action.
General Mental Ability: Basic numerical skills, data interpretation, and reasoning.
Basic Numeracy: (Class X level) Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.
Data Interpretation: (Class X level) Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc.
1. Comprehension:
Passage: "The human development index (HDI) is a summary measure of average achievement in key dimensions of human development: a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable and having a decent standard of living. The HDI is the geometric mean of normalized indices for each of the three dimensions."
Question: "According to the passage, the HDI primarily measures:"
(a) Economic growth
(b) Average achievement in health, education, and standard of living
(c) Technological advancement
(d) Political stability
Reasoning: The answer is (b), directly stated in the first sentence of the passage.
2. Logical Reasoning:
Question: "If all cats are mammals, and some mammals are pets, then:
(a) All cats are pets.
(b) Some cats are pets.
(c) No cats are pets.
(d) None of the above can be definitively concluded."
Reasoning: The correct answer is (b). Since some mammals are pets, and cats are a subset of mammals, there's a possibility (though not a certainty) that some cats are pets.
3. Decision-Making:
Scenario: "You are a government officer and you discover that a local factory is illegally dumping toxic waste into a river, causing significant harm to the environment and public health. What is the most appropriate course of action?
(a) Ignore the issue to avoid conflict with powerful factory owners.
(b) Inform your immediate superior and follow their instructions.
(c) Immediately order the factory to cease operations and investigate the matter.
(d) Leak the information to the media to create public pressure."
Reasoning: The best answer is (c). As a government officer, you have a duty to uphold the law and protect public health and the environment. Ordering the factory to cease operations is a necessary immediate step.
4. General Mental Ability:
Question: "If A is taller than B, B is shorter than C, and D is taller than C, then who is the tallest?"
Reasoning: D is the tallest.
5. Basic Numeracy:
Question: "What is 20% of 50?"
Reasoning: 20/100 50 = 10
6. Data Interpretation:
Question: (A bar graph showing sales figures for different products over several years is presented). "In which year did the sales of Product X increase by the highest percentage compared to the previous year?"
Reasoning: You need to analyze the bar graph and calculate the percentage increase for each year.
1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Don't just skim the syllabus; analyze each topic and subtopic.
2. NCERT Textbooks (Foundation): Start with NCERT textbooks (especially for History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Science) to build a solid foundation. Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization.
3. Standard Reference Books: Supplement NCERTs with standard reference books for each subject. Some popular choices:
History: Spectrum's "A Brief History of Modern India," "Ancient India" by R.S. Sharma, "Medieval India" by Satish Chandra
Polity: "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth
Economics: "Indian Economy" by Ramesh Singh (or any other standard text), Economic Survey, Budget
Geography: NCERTs (Class XI and XII), "Certificate Physical and Human Geography" by Goh Cheng Leong, Oxford School Atlas
Environment: Shankar IAS Environment
4. Newspaper Reading (Daily): Read a national newspaper like The Hindu or The Indian Express daily. Focus on editorials, articles related to the syllabus, and government policies. Make notes.
5. Current Affairs Magazines/Websites: Supplement newspaper reading with a good current affairs magazine (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra) or reliable websites like PIB (Press Information Bureau).
6. Regular Revision: Revision is key to retaining information. Schedule regular revision sessions.
7. Practice MCQs: Solve as many MCQs as possible. This helps you understand the exam pattern, identify your weak areas, and improve your speed and accuracy. Solve previous years' question papers.
8. Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests regularly (at least once a week in the months leading up to the exam) to simulate the exam environment and assess your preparation level. Analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement.
9. Time Management: Practice time management techniques while solving MCQs and mock tests. Learn to allocate time to each question effectively.
10. CSAT Preparation: Don't neglect CSAT. Even though it's qualifying, it can be challenging for candidates from non-mathematics backgrounds. Practice comprehension passages, logical reasoning questions, and numerical ability problems.
11. Answer Elimination Techniques: Learn and practice answer elimination techniques to improve your chances of answering correctly even if you don't know the exact answer.
12. Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated on important government policies, schemes, and initiatives.
13. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to maintain your physical and mental well-being.
14. Join a Coaching Institute (Optional): Coaching can provide structured guidance and support, but it's not essential. Many candidates clear the exam through self-study. If you choose to join a coaching institute, do your research and select one that suits your needs and learning style.
The UPSC CSE Prelims is a challenging exam, but it is definitely achievable with a well-planned strategy, consistent effort, and the right resources. Stay focused, stay motivated, and believe in yourself. Good luck!
I. Understanding the UPSC CSE Prelims Exam
Purpose: The Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims is the first stage of the rigorous selection process for various civil services of India, including the IAS, IPS, IFS, etc. It acts as a screening test to filter candidates for the more comprehensive Mains examination.
Nature of the Exam: It is an objective-type, multiple-choice question (MCQ) based exam.
Negative Marking: There is negative marking. For each wrong answer, 1/3rd of the marks allotted to that question are deducted. Unanswered questions do not attract any penalty.
Qualifying Nature: The Prelims is qualifying in nature. The marks obtained in the Prelims exam are not counted towards the final merit list. You only need to clear the cut-off to be eligible for the Mains exam.
Exam Format: Two papers, both held on the same day.
II. Paper-wise Breakdown
A. General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I)
Marks: 200
Number of Questions: 100
Marks per Question: 2 marks
Duration: 2 hours
Syllabus (Broadly Defined by UPSC):
Current Events of National and International Importance: This section focuses on significant events of the past year or so.
History of India and Indian National Movement: Includes Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, with an emphasis on the freedom struggle.
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: These topics are general awareness-based, but a scientific understanding is expected.
General Science: Basic science understanding (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) expected of a well-educated person, not requiring specialized study.
Examples of Question Types and Reasoning for GS Paper-I:
1. Current Events:
Question: "Consider the following statements regarding the 'Digital India' initiative:
1. It aims to ensure that government services are available to citizens electronically.
2. It focuses on increasing digital literacy among the rural population.
3. It plans to connect all villages with high-speed internet by 2025.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?"
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Reasoning: You need to be aware of the core objectives and ongoing progress of the Digital India initiative. Statement 1 is a fundamental goal. Statement 2 is also a significant aspect. Statement 3 requires knowledge of the current targets for rural internet connectivity.
2. History:
Question: "The 'Quit India Movement' was launched in response to:
(a) The Cabinet Mission Plan
(b) The Cripps Proposal
(c) The Simon Commission Report
(d) The Wavell Plan"
Reasoning: This requires understanding the timeline of events leading up to the Quit India Movement. The Cripps Proposal's failure was the immediate trigger.
3. Geography:
Question: "Which of the following factors are responsible for the formation of ocean currents?
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Wind patterns
3. Differences in water density
4. Tectonic plate movement
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4"
Reasoning: You need to understand the driving forces behind ocean currents. Rotation of the Earth (Coriolis effect), wind patterns, and density differences (salinity, temperature) are all major factors. Tectonic plate movement doesn't directly cause ocean currents (though it influences ocean basin shape over geological timescales).
4. Polity:
Question: "Which of the following schedules of the Constitution of India deals with the allocation of seats in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to the States and Union Territories?
(a) Second Schedule
(b) Fourth Schedule
(c) Fifth Schedule
(d) Sixth Schedule"
Reasoning: This is a direct factual question testing your knowledge of the Schedules of the Constitution.
5. Economics:
Question: "What is/are the likely impact/impacts of Inflation on an economy?
1. It reduces the purchasing power of money.
2. It discourages investment.
3. It affects the savings in the economy.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: Inflation erodes the value of money (impact 1). High and unpredictable inflation can discourage investment (impact 2). It certainly impacts the real value of savings (impact 3).
6. Environment:
Question: "Which of the following is/are the indicators used to assess the environmental impact of a project?
1. Air Quality Index (AQI)
2. Water Quality Index (WQI)
3. Biodiversity Index
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: All three indicators are commonly used in environmental impact assessments.
7. General Science:
Question: "Which of the following statements about viruses is/are correct?
1. Viruses can replicate independently.
2. Viruses contain both DNA and RNA.
3. Viruses require a host cell to reproduce.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3"
Reasoning: Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only reproduce inside a host cell (statement 3 is correct). They contain either DNA or RNA, but not both (statement 2 is incorrect). They cannot replicate independently (statement 1 is incorrect).
Practical Applications of GS Paper-I Knowledge:
Informed Citizenry: Understanding current events, history, geography, polity, economics, environment, and science makes you a more informed and engaged citizen.
Policy Analysis: You can better analyze and understand government policies and their impact.
Decision-Making: In your personal and professional life, you'll be able to make more informed decisions based on a broader understanding of the world.
Effective Communication: You can communicate more effectively on a wide range of topics.
Critical Thinking: The process of preparing for the exam enhances your critical thinking and analytical skills.
B. Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper-II
Marks: 200
Number of Questions: 80
Marks per Question: 2.5 marks
Duration: 2 hours
Qualifying Marks: 33% (66 marks)
Syllabus (Broadly Defined by UPSC):
Comprehension: Reading passages and answering questions based on them.
Interpersonal Skills including Communication Skills: Questions testing your ability to understand and respond to interpersonal situations.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Questions on deductions, inferences, and analyzing patterns.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Scenarios presented requiring you to choose the best course of action.
General Mental Ability: Basic numerical skills, data interpretation, and reasoning.
Basic Numeracy: (Class X level) Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc.
Data Interpretation: (Class X level) Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc.
Examples of Question Types and Reasoning for CSAT Paper-II:
1. Comprehension:
Passage: "The human development index (HDI) is a summary measure of average achievement in key dimensions of human development: a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable and having a decent standard of living. The HDI is the geometric mean of normalized indices for each of the three dimensions."
Question: "According to the passage, the HDI primarily measures:"
(a) Economic growth
(b) Average achievement in health, education, and standard of living
(c) Technological advancement
(d) Political stability
Reasoning: The answer is (b), directly stated in the first sentence of the passage.
2. Logical Reasoning:
Question: "If all cats are mammals, and some mammals are pets, then:
(a) All cats are pets.
(b) Some cats are pets.
(c) No cats are pets.
(d) None of the above can be definitively concluded."
Reasoning: The correct answer is (b). Since some mammals are pets, and cats are a subset of mammals, there's a possibility (though not a certainty) that some cats are pets.
3. Decision-Making:
Scenario: "You are a government officer and you discover that a local factory is illegally dumping toxic waste into a river, causing significant harm to the environment and public health. What is the most appropriate course of action?
(a) Ignore the issue to avoid conflict with powerful factory owners.
(b) Inform your immediate superior and follow their instructions.
(c) Immediately order the factory to cease operations and investigate the matter.
(d) Leak the information to the media to create public pressure."
Reasoning: The best answer is (c). As a government officer, you have a duty to uphold the law and protect public health and the environment. Ordering the factory to cease operations is a necessary immediate step.
4. General Mental Ability:
Question: "If A is taller than B, B is shorter than C, and D is taller than C, then who is the tallest?"
Reasoning: D is the tallest.
5. Basic Numeracy:
Question: "What is 20% of 50?"
Reasoning: 20/100 50 = 10
6. Data Interpretation:
Question: (A bar graph showing sales figures for different products over several years is presented). "In which year did the sales of Product X increase by the highest percentage compared to the previous year?"
Reasoning: You need to analyze the bar graph and calculate the percentage increase for each year.
Practical Applications of CSAT Paper-II Knowledge:
Effective Communication: Comprehension skills are crucial for understanding written and spoken information.
Problem-Solving: Logical reasoning and decision-making skills are essential for solving problems in everyday life and professional settings.
Data Analysis: Data interpretation skills are increasingly important in a data-driven world.
Critical Thinking: CSAT helps you develop your analytical and critical thinking abilities.
Improved Decision-Making: You will be better equipped to make sound judgments in complex situations.
III. Preparation Strategies for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025
1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Don't just skim the syllabus; analyze each topic and subtopic.
2. NCERT Textbooks (Foundation): Start with NCERT textbooks (especially for History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Science) to build a solid foundation. Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization.
3. Standard Reference Books: Supplement NCERTs with standard reference books for each subject. Some popular choices:
History: Spectrum's "A Brief History of Modern India," "Ancient India" by R.S. Sharma, "Medieval India" by Satish Chandra
Polity: "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth
Economics: "Indian Economy" by Ramesh Singh (or any other standard text), Economic Survey, Budget
Geography: NCERTs (Class XI and XII), "Certificate Physical and Human Geography" by Goh Cheng Leong, Oxford School Atlas
Environment: Shankar IAS Environment
4. Newspaper Reading (Daily): Read a national newspaper like The Hindu or The Indian Express daily. Focus on editorials, articles related to the syllabus, and government policies. Make notes.
5. Current Affairs Magazines/Websites: Supplement newspaper reading with a good current affairs magazine (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra) or reliable websites like PIB (Press Information Bureau).
6. Regular Revision: Revision is key to retaining information. Schedule regular revision sessions.
7. Practice MCQs: Solve as many MCQs as possible. This helps you understand the exam pattern, identify your weak areas, and improve your speed and accuracy. Solve previous years' question papers.
8. Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests regularly (at least once a week in the months leading up to the exam) to simulate the exam environment and assess your preparation level. Analyze your performance and identify areas for improvement.
9. Time Management: Practice time management techniques while solving MCQs and mock tests. Learn to allocate time to each question effectively.
10. CSAT Preparation: Don't neglect CSAT. Even though it's qualifying, it can be challenging for candidates from non-mathematics backgrounds. Practice comprehension passages, logical reasoning questions, and numerical ability problems.
11. Answer Elimination Techniques: Learn and practice answer elimination techniques to improve your chances of answering correctly even if you don't know the exact answer.
12. Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated on important government policies, schemes, and initiatives.
13. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to maintain your physical and mental well-being.
14. Join a Coaching Institute (Optional): Coaching can provide structured guidance and support, but it's not essential. Many candidates clear the exam through self-study. If you choose to join a coaching institute, do your research and select one that suits your needs and learning style.
IV. Specific Tips for Different Subjects:
History: Focus on understanding the key events, their causes and consequences, and the personalities involved. Pay attention to the social, economic, and cultural aspects of history.
Polity: Understand the basic structure of the Constitution, the powers and functions of different institutions, and the important amendments. Follow current political developments.
Economics: Focus on understanding the basic concepts of economics, such as GDP, inflation, unemployment, fiscal policy, and monetary policy. Stay updated on current economic trends.
Geography: Understand the physical features of India and the world, the distribution of resources, and the impact of human activities on the environment. Use maps extensively.
Environment: Focus on understanding the key environmental issues, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and deforestation. Stay updated on international environmental agreements and national policies.
Science: Focus on understanding the basic principles of science. Don't try to memorize too many facts. Pay attention to the applications of science in everyday life.
V. Key Skills to Develop:
Reading Comprehension: Ability to quickly and accurately understand written information.
Analytical Reasoning: Ability to analyze information, identify patterns, and draw conclusions.
Critical Thinking: Ability to evaluate information, identify biases, and form independent judgments.
Decision-Making: Ability to make sound judgments based on available information.
Time Management: Ability to allocate time effectively and work under pressure.
Stress Management: Ability to manage stress and maintain focus during the exam.
VI. Important Resources:
UPSC Official Website: upsc.gov.in
NCERT Textbooks: Class VI to XII
Standard Reference Books: (As mentioned above)
Newspapers: The Hindu, The Indian Express
Magazines: Yojana, Kurukshetra, Economic and Political Weekly
Websites: PIB, PRS Legislative Research, Down To Earth
Previous Years' Question Papers: Available on the UPSC website and various other platforms.
VII. Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Ignoring the Syllabus: Not understanding the syllabus thoroughly.
Rote Learning: Memorizing facts without understanding the underlying concepts.
Neglecting Current Affairs: Not staying updated on current events.
Insufficient Practice: Not solving enough MCQs and mock tests.
Poor Time Management: Not managing time effectively during the exam.
Neglecting CSAT: Underestimating the importance of CSAT.
Lack of Revision: Not revising regularly.
Negative Marking: Making too many guesses and incurring negative marks.
Stress and Anxiety: Allowing stress and anxiety to affect performance.
Lack of a Study Plan: Not having a structured study plan.
VIII. Final Thoughts:
The UPSC CSE Prelims is a challenging exam, but it is definitely achievable with a well-planned strategy, consistent effort, and the right resources. Stay focused, stay motivated, and believe in yourself. Good luck!
0 Response to "UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2025 QUESTION PAPER"
Post a Comment