UPSC CSAT Syllabus, Topic Wise Maths & Reasoning Syllabus PDF

The UPSC CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test), also known as GS Paper-2, is a significant aspect of the Prelims Examination. This comprehensive article aims to provide you with valuable insights into the UPSC CSAT Syllabus, the latest updates for 2025, the exam pattern, and each topic included in the Math and Reasoning syllabus. Furthermore, we will equip you with expert tips on how to prepare effectively for the CSAT Syllabus and excel in the Civil Services Aptitude Test.

Preparing for the UPSC CSAT Syllabus requires dedication, strategic planning, and consistent practice. By understanding the syllabus, staying updated with the latest changes, and focusing on essential topics, you can conquer the CSAT paper with ease.

What is the UPSC CSAT Syllabus?

CSAT, introduced in 2011, forms a crucial part of the UPSC Preliminary Exam. Referred to as GS Paper-2, clearing this paper is mandatory to qualify for the Mains. The UPSC CSAT evaluates candidates' comprehension, logical reasoning, general mental aptitude, and fundamental numeracy skills, playing a crucial role in determining their suitability for civil services.

UPSC CSAT Syllabus PDF

The UPSC CSAT Syllabus covers these essential topics, providing candidates with a comprehensive evaluation of their aptitude and skills. We have provided a detailed breakdown of the syllabus's key components and its significance in the examination process.

CSAT Syllabus 2025

The UPSC Syllabus for CSAT 2025 will be released along with the notification, providing candidates with the essential information to prepare effectively for the examination.

Stay ahead of the competition with the latest UPSC CSAT Syllabus for 2025. Regularly checking the official UPSC website and examination notifications closer to the exam date (25th May) will help you stay updated with any changes or additions.

UPSC CSAT Exam Pattern

To succeed in the CSAT exam, it is essential to understand the exam pattern thoroughly. This section sheds light on the structure of the CSAT paper, including various sections such as comprehension, logical reasoning, general mental ability, and basic numeracy. Knowing the marks distribution and qualifying criteria (scoring a minimum of 33%) is crucial to qualify the Prelims and proceeding to the Mains stage of the Civil Services Examination.

The table presents the CSAT Exam Pattern with essential details, including the number of questions, time allotted, negative marking, total marks, type of exam, and qualifying marks.

Topic-Wise UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2025

The UPSC CSAT Syllabus covers a wide range of topics, each carrying significant weightage in the Preliminary examination. This section provides an in-depth analysis of each topic, including comprehension, logical reasoning, decision-making, general mental ability, basic numeracy, and data interpretation. Master these topics thoroughly to qualify for the CSAT paper and secure your spot in the next stage of the Civil Services Examination.

The entire UPSC CSAT Syllabus is divided into 7 sections which are listed below:

1. Comprehension
2. Interpersonal skills
3. Logical reasoning
4. Decision-making and problem-solving
5. General mental ability
6. Basic numeracy
7. Data interpretation

CSAT Maths Syllabus 2025

For candidates preparing for the CSAT Maths section, we have an exclusive breakdown of the syllabus. Covering topics like number systems, L.C.M & H.C.F., rational numbers & ordering, percentages, and more, this section provides valuable insights to help you excel in the mathematics segment. Additionally, we focus on general mental ability topics related to mathematics, including partnership, profit & loss, time and distance, and other essential concepts for your success.

CSAT Reasoning Syllabus

The CSAT Reasoning Syllabus comprises two crucial sections: Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability (LR & AA.) and Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency (DI & DS). Under Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability, we delve into topics like analogy, classification, series, coding-decoding, and more. In the Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency section, we cover essential topics like table charts, pie charts, bar charts, arithmetical reasoning, and others. Regular practice and solving previous year’s questions will significantly enhance your reasoning skills and boost your performance in this section.

• LR & AA: mathematical puzzles and patterns, bar charts, statements and conclusions, cubes and dice, deriving conclusions, syllogism, inserting the missing character, eligibility tests, analytical reasoning, statement and assumptions, cause and effect, calendars, statements and arguments, table charts, clocks, situation reaction tests, pie charts, number ranking, time sequence tests, arithmetical reasoning, and punch lines.
• DI & DS: Alphabet test, coding-decoding, blood relation, seating arrangement, logical Venn diagram, direction sense test, mathematical operations, series, classification, analogy, etc.

CSAT Syllabus Preparation Tips

To prepare effectively for the UPSC CSAT Syllabus, at Vajiram & Ravi, we offer expert tips and a comprehensive preparation strategy. This section covers essential aspects, including understanding the syllabus, creating a well-structured study plan, practising mock tests, solving previous year's papers, utilising reliable study materials, and mastering time management during the exam. Following these guidelines will enable you to approach the CSAT with confidence and increase your chances of success in the Civil Services Aptitude Test.

Utilise expert tips and study resources to excel in the Civil Services Aptitude Test and take a significant step towards fulfilling your dream of becoming a civil servant. Familiarising yourself with the syllabus in advance will enable you to devise a comprehensive study plan, focus on relevant topics, and enhance your performance in the CSAT paper to progress to the next stage of the IAS Exam.

CSAT Syllabus FAQs

What is the UPSC CSAT Syllabus?

CSAT in UPSC syllabus refers to the Civil Services Aptitude Test, introduced in 2011 as GS Paper-2 in the Preliminary Examination. It evaluates candidates' comprehension, logical reasoning, general mental ability, and basic numeracy skills.

What are the topics in CSAT Syllabus?

The CSAT or GS paper 2 covers topics such as logical reasoning, decision-making, comprehension, general mental ability, basic numeracy, and data interpretation. It comprises 80 questions worth 200 marks.

What is the structure of the CSAT paper?

The CSAT paper has a duration of 2 hours and is conducted in pen and paper mode. It contains 80 questions and has a negative marking of 0.83 marks for each wrong answer.

Is UPSC CSAT Math tough?

The difficulty of UPSC CSAT Maths varies for each candidate. It covers topics like number systems, percentages, averages, etc. Candidates need thorough practice and conceptual clarity to perform well in this section.

How important is the CSAT paper for UPSC Prelims?

The CSAT paper is a qualifying paper, and candidates must obtain a minimum of 33% marks to qualify for the next stage, i.e. UPSC Mains.