UPSC CSE PRELIMS 2025 QUESTION PAPER
Okay, let's break down the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims 2025 question paper in detail. We'll cover the structure, syllabus, question types, common strategies, and even some hypothetical scenarios to illustrate the points.
The UPSC CSE Prelims is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination. It's a screening test to filter out candidates for the Mains examination. The marks obtained in the Prelims are not counted towards the final ranking.
General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I): Assesses knowledge of current events, history, geography, polity, economy, environment, and science & technology. (200 Marks, 100 Questions, 2 Hours)
Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper-II (CSAT): Tests comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, problem-solving, basic numeracy, and data interpretation. (200 Marks, 80 Questions, 2 Hours)
Current Events of National and International Importance: This includes significant events, government policies, international relations, summits, conferences, awards, sports, etc. (Last 1-2 years)
History of India and Indian National Movement: Ancient, Medieval, Modern Indian History. Focus on socio-economic-religious movements, British rule, and the independence struggle.
Indian and World Geography: Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World. Focus on resource distribution, climate, agriculture, population, and urbanization.
Indian Polity and Governance: Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Focus on constitutional amendments, parliamentary procedures, and the role of institutions.
Economic and Social Development: Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc. Focus on economic reforms, government schemes, and indicators of development.
General Issues on Environment Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change: General science-based questions; don't require subject specialization. Focus on environmental laws, conservation efforts, and international agreements.
General Science: Basic understanding of scientific principles and concepts (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) as applied to everyday life.
Factual Questions: Test your recall of information.
Example: "The Champaran Satyagraha was launched in which year?" (Options would be years)
Conceptual Questions: Require understanding of concepts and their application.
Example: "Which of the following is/are the characteristics of a 'Welfare State'?" (Options would be statements about social justice, economic equality, etc.)
Analytical Questions: Require you to analyze a situation and draw conclusions.
Example: "Assertion (A): Deforestation leads to soil erosion. Reason (R): Tree roots bind the soil." (Options would be about whether A and R are true, and whether R is the correct explanation of A).
Current Affairs Related Questions: Link current events to static subjects.
Example: "The recent discovery of lithium reserves in India has implications for which of the following industries?" (Options would be related to electric vehicles, battery manufacturing, etc.)
Assertion-Reason Questions:
Example: Assertion: The Himalayas are young fold mountains.
Reason: They were formed due to the collision of the Indo-Australian plate and the Eurasian plate.
Statement-Based Questions: Multiple statements are given, and you need to identify which are correct.
Example:
Consider the following statements:
1. The Reserve Bank of India is the sole issuer of currency in India.
2. The RBI formulates monetary policy.
3. The RBI regulates the foreign exchange market.
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
Question: "Which of the following factors is/are responsible for the formation of ocean currents?
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Differences in water density
3. Wind
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:
1. Rotation of the Earth: The Coriolis effect (caused by the Earth's rotation) deflects moving objects (including ocean currents) to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. So, rotation is a factor.
2. Differences in Water Density: Density differences are caused by variations in temperature and salinity. Cold water is denser than warm water, and saltier water is denser than less salty water. Density differences drive vertical currents.
3. Wind: Wind exerts a force on the ocean surface, creating surface currents. Prevailing winds are a major driver of ocean currents.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Understanding the impact of climate change on agricultural patterns (Geography + Environment).
Evaluating the effectiveness of government schemes aimed at poverty reduction (Economy + Polity).
Analyzing the geopolitical implications of international agreements (Current Events + International Relations).
Comprehension: Reading comprehension passages with questions testing understanding, inference, and critical analysis.
Interpersonal Skills including Communication Skills: Questions testing your ability to understand and respond appropriately in social situations.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Questions on logical deduction, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Situational questions requiring you to choose the best course of action.
General Mental Ability: Basic aptitude questions on number series, coding-decoding, blood relations, etc.
Basic Numeracy: Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. (Class X level)
Data Interpretation: Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency. (Class X level)
Comprehension:
Example: A passage followed by questions like "What is the main idea of the passage?", "What does the author imply by...?", "Which of the following statements is true according to the passage?"
Logical Reasoning:
Example: "A is taller than B. C is shorter than B. D is taller than A. Who is the tallest?"
Analytical Ability:
Example: A pattern of numbers or figures is given, and you need to identify the next element in the pattern.
Decision-Making:
Example: "You are a government official dealing with a flood situation. What would be your first priority?" (Options would be related to rescue operations, providing relief, etc.)
Basic Numeracy:
Example: "What is the average of the first 10 prime numbers?"
Data Interpretation:
Example: A bar graph showing the production of different crops over several years, followed by questions about the trends in production.
Question: "If 'A' is coded as 1, 'B' is coded as 2, and so on, then what is the code for 'CAT'?"
Reasoning:
1. 'C' is the 3rd letter of the alphabet, so its code is 3.
2. 'A' is the 1st letter of the alphabet, so its code is 1.
3. 'T' is the 20th letter of the alphabet, so its code is 20.
4. Therefore, the code for 'CAT' is 3120.
Answer: 3120
Understanding and analyzing complex policy documents (Comprehension).
Making informed decisions in challenging administrative situations (Decision-Making).
Interpreting data to identify trends and patterns (Data Interpretation).
Effectively communicating with colleagues and the public (Interpersonal Skills).
Let's imagine some potential scenarios and question examples, keeping in mind possible relevant developments leading up to 2025. These are purely illustrative:
1. India aims to achieve 50% of its electric power from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
2. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission is primarily focused on promoting solar energy for rural electrification.
3. The cost of solar power has decreased significantly in India over the past decade, making it competitive with fossil fuel-based power generation.
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"
1. Electronics Manufacturing
2. Pharmaceuticals
3. Textiles
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"
1. AGI systems demonstrate human-level cognitive abilities.
2. AGI is primarily used to streamline data analysis and management in companies.
3. AGI is considered to be a branch of robotics.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 only
Context: Given recent policy changes in India
Question: The Indian government has introduced a set of reforms aimed at boosting economic development. Which of the following measures is most likely to enhance economic growth?
1. Increasing import tariffs on all goods.
2. Implementing policies to improve infrastructure and reduce bureaucratic obstacles for businesses.
3. Increasing corporate taxes across all sectors.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2 only
Preparing for the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 requires a well-structured approach, a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus, consistent hard work, and effective time management. Stay updated with current events, practice regularly, and analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement. Good luck!
I. Overview of the UPSC CSE Prelims
The UPSC CSE Prelims is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination. It's a screening test to filter out candidates for the Mains examination. The marks obtained in the Prelims are not counted towards the final ranking.
Purpose: To shortlist candidates for the Mains exam. It tests a broad understanding of diverse subjects and analytical abilities.
Format: Objective-type (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQs)
Papers: Two papers, both held on the same day.
General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I): Assesses knowledge of current events, history, geography, polity, economy, environment, and science & technology. (200 Marks, 100 Questions, 2 Hours)
Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper-II (CSAT): Tests comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, problem-solving, basic numeracy, and data interpretation. (200 Marks, 80 Questions, 2 Hours)
Negative Marking: 1/3rd (0.33) of the marks are deducted for each incorrect answer in both papers.
Qualifying Nature: CSAT is a qualifying paper. You need to score at least 33% (66 marks) to qualify. GS Paper-I determines your eligibility for the Mains exam.
II. Detailed Breakdown of the Papers
A. General Studies Paper-I (GS Paper-I)
Syllabus:
Current Events of National and International Importance: This includes significant events, government policies, international relations, summits, conferences, awards, sports, etc. (Last 1-2 years)
History of India and Indian National Movement: Ancient, Medieval, Modern Indian History. Focus on socio-economic-religious movements, British rule, and the independence struggle.
Indian and World Geography: Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World. Focus on resource distribution, climate, agriculture, population, and urbanization.
Indian Polity and Governance: Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Focus on constitutional amendments, parliamentary procedures, and the role of institutions.
Economic and Social Development: Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc. Focus on economic reforms, government schemes, and indicators of development.
General Issues on Environment Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change: General science-based questions; don't require subject specialization. Focus on environmental laws, conservation efforts, and international agreements.
General Science: Basic understanding of scientific principles and concepts (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) as applied to everyday life.
Question Types and Examples:
Factual Questions: Test your recall of information.
Example: "The Champaran Satyagraha was launched in which year?" (Options would be years)
Conceptual Questions: Require understanding of concepts and their application.
Example: "Which of the following is/are the characteristics of a 'Welfare State'?" (Options would be statements about social justice, economic equality, etc.)
Analytical Questions: Require you to analyze a situation and draw conclusions.
Example: "Assertion (A): Deforestation leads to soil erosion. Reason (R): Tree roots bind the soil." (Options would be about whether A and R are true, and whether R is the correct explanation of A).
Current Affairs Related Questions: Link current events to static subjects.
Example: "The recent discovery of lithium reserves in India has implications for which of the following industries?" (Options would be related to electric vehicles, battery manufacturing, etc.)
Assertion-Reason Questions:
Example: Assertion: The Himalayas are young fold mountains.
Reason: They were formed due to the collision of the Indo-Australian plate and the Eurasian plate.
Statement-Based Questions: Multiple statements are given, and you need to identify which are correct.
Example:
Consider the following statements:
1. The Reserve Bank of India is the sole issuer of currency in India.
2. The RBI formulates monetary policy.
3. The RBI regulates the foreign exchange market.
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
Step-by-Step Reasoning (Example):
Question: "Which of the following factors is/are responsible for the formation of ocean currents?
1. Rotation of the Earth
2. Differences in water density
3. Wind
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:
1. Rotation of the Earth: The Coriolis effect (caused by the Earth's rotation) deflects moving objects (including ocean currents) to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. So, rotation is a factor.
2. Differences in Water Density: Density differences are caused by variations in temperature and salinity. Cold water is denser than warm water, and saltier water is denser than less salty water. Density differences drive vertical currents.
3. Wind: Wind exerts a force on the ocean surface, creating surface currents. Prevailing winds are a major driver of ocean currents.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Practical Applications:
Understanding the impact of climate change on agricultural patterns (Geography + Environment).
Evaluating the effectiveness of government schemes aimed at poverty reduction (Economy + Polity).
Analyzing the geopolitical implications of international agreements (Current Events + International Relations).
B. Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper-II
Syllabus:
Comprehension: Reading comprehension passages with questions testing understanding, inference, and critical analysis.
Interpersonal Skills including Communication Skills: Questions testing your ability to understand and respond appropriately in social situations.
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Questions on logical deduction, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Situational questions requiring you to choose the best course of action.
General Mental Ability: Basic aptitude questions on number series, coding-decoding, blood relations, etc.
Basic Numeracy: Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. (Class X level)
Data Interpretation: Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency. (Class X level)
Question Types and Examples:
Comprehension:
Example: A passage followed by questions like "What is the main idea of the passage?", "What does the author imply by...?", "Which of the following statements is true according to the passage?"
Logical Reasoning:
Example: "A is taller than B. C is shorter than B. D is taller than A. Who is the tallest?"
Analytical Ability:
Example: A pattern of numbers or figures is given, and you need to identify the next element in the pattern.
Decision-Making:
Example: "You are a government official dealing with a flood situation. What would be your first priority?" (Options would be related to rescue operations, providing relief, etc.)
Basic Numeracy:
Example: "What is the average of the first 10 prime numbers?"
Data Interpretation:
Example: A bar graph showing the production of different crops over several years, followed by questions about the trends in production.
Step-by-Step Reasoning (Example):
Question: "If 'A' is coded as 1, 'B' is coded as 2, and so on, then what is the code for 'CAT'?"
Reasoning:
1. 'C' is the 3rd letter of the alphabet, so its code is 3.
2. 'A' is the 1st letter of the alphabet, so its code is 1.
3. 'T' is the 20th letter of the alphabet, so its code is 20.
4. Therefore, the code for 'CAT' is 3120.
Answer: 3120
Practical Applications:
Understanding and analyzing complex policy documents (Comprehension).
Making informed decisions in challenging administrative situations (Decision-Making).
Interpreting data to identify trends and patterns (Data Interpretation).
Effectively communicating with colleagues and the public (Interpersonal Skills).
III. Strategies for Preparing for the Prelims 2025
Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Know the scope of each subject and focus your studies accordingly.
NCERT Books are Fundamental: Start with NCERT textbooks (Classes VI to XII) for a solid foundation in basic concepts.
Standard Textbooks: Supplement NCERTs with standard textbooks for each subject (e.g., Laxmikanth for Polity, Spectrum for Modern History, Ramesh Singh for Economics).
Current Affairs are Crucial: Follow a reliable newspaper (The Hindu or Indian Express) and a current affairs magazine regularly. Make notes of important events and issues.
Practice Previous Years' Question Papers: Solve previous years' question papers to understand the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level.
Mock Tests are Essential: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level, identify your weak areas, and improve your time management skills.
Time Management: Learn to allocate your time effectively during the exam. Don't spend too much time on a single question.
Elimination Technique: Learn to eliminate incorrect options to increase your chances of guessing correctly.
Revision is Key: Regularly revise the concepts and facts you have studied.
CSAT Preparation: Don't neglect CSAT. Practice regularly to improve your comprehension, reasoning, and aptitude skills.
Stay Positive and Motivated: The UPSC CSE is a challenging exam. Maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
Answer only the known questions: Avoid blind guessing. The negative marks may be costly for you.
IV. Hypothetical Scenarios and Question Examples for 2025
Let's imagine some potential scenarios and question examples, keeping in mind possible relevant developments leading up to 2025. These are purely illustrative:
Scenario 1: Increased Focus on Renewable Energy
Context: Given the global emphasis on climate change and India's commitments to renewable energy, expect questions related to this area.
Question: "Consider the following statements regarding India's renewable energy sector:
1. India aims to achieve 50% of its electric power from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030.
2. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission is primarily focused on promoting solar energy for rural electrification.
3. The cost of solar power has decreased significantly in India over the past decade, making it competitive with fossil fuel-based power generation.
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"
Scenario 2: India's Role in Global Supply Chains
Context: Geopolitical events and the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative might lead to questions about India's position in global supply chains.
Question: "Which of the following sectors is/are critical for enhancing India's participation in global value chains?
1. Electronics Manufacturing
2. Pharmaceuticals
3. Textiles
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"
Scenario 3: Developments in Artificial Intelligence
Context: AI will continue to advance.
Question: Which of the following statements about Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is/are correct?
1. AGI systems demonstrate human-level cognitive abilities.
2. AGI is primarily used to streamline data analysis and management in companies.
3. AGI is considered to be a branch of robotics.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3 only
Scenario 4: Changes in the Indian Economy
Context: Given recent policy changes in India
Question: The Indian government has introduced a set of reforms aimed at boosting economic development. Which of the following measures is most likely to enhance economic growth?
1. Increasing import tariffs on all goods.
2. Implementing policies to improve infrastructure and reduce bureaucratic obstacles for businesses.
3. Increasing corporate taxes across all sectors.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2 only
V. Conclusion
Preparing for the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 requires a well-structured approach, a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus, consistent hard work, and effective time management. Stay updated with current events, practice regularly, and analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement. Good luck!
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