Among the competitive exams in India, the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is considered one of the most challenging ones because of its level of complexity. Yet, up to date preparation strategy makes it possible to pass even for beginners with their first try.
If the year is 2025 and you will be writing the UPSC examination for the first time and don’t understand a thing then be calm, this guide will get you one such UPSC Prelims strategy which is smart, simple, clear and meant for the beginners only.
What is UPSC Prelims?
The most important exam is the first round of the UPSC CSE. It is an objective type and consists of two papers MCQ based. The candidate has to qualify for Mains. There is no negative marking for the wrong answers. The marks obtained in the Prelims are not considered
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS Paper I | History, Geography, Polity, etc. | 200 | 2 hrs |
| CSAT Paper II | Reasoning, Maths, English | 200 | 2 hrs |
Both papers are eligible for Mains through CSAT.
In the CSAT examination, get at least one-third (33%) of the total marks, as well as pass the GS cut-off (typically 90-105 marks)
UPSC Prelims Strategy for Beginners
Below is a well-described plan that one can use to start from the beginning and establish a steady and healthy base.
Start with NCERT CLASS 6-12
- Why? NCERTs are uncomplicated, trustworthy, and include all the elementary details.
- Things to concentrate on:
- History
- Geography
- polity
- Economy
- science
Read The Hindu or The Indian Express along with Current Affairs
- Make sure to read a single national paper every day
- Focus on
- Government Schemes
- Supreme Court ruling
- Environment and international event
- Use monthly current affairs magazine
Stick to a Learning Schedule Every Day
| Time Slot | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM | Newspaper reading |
| 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM | NCERT / Standard Book |
| 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Current affairs / revision |
| 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM | Mock test / practice MCQs |
Use just the Right Amount of Good Sources
Do not study across ten different books. Stick to:
- NCERT
- 1 Standard book per topic
- 1 source of current affairs
- 1 place to do mock exams