UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 for GS 1 & GS 2, Prelims Syllabus PDF

The UPSC Prelims Syllabus serves as a foundational guide for candidates preparing for the first stage of the Civil Services Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. It encompasses a broad range of subjects, including current events, history, geography, polity, economics, environmental studies, and general science. This syllabus aims to assess a candidate's knowledge, analytical skills, and aptitude for a career in public service, providing a comprehensive overview of the topics essential for clearing the preliminary examination.

The UPSC Prelims Test consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I, which covers a wide range of General Studies subjects, and General Studies Paper II (CSAT), which tests comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability. Success in the Prelims is essential for advancing to the Mains examination. 

UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 Overview

UPSC Prelims Test is conducted in two phases- 

• General Studies Paper 1
• General Studies Paper 2 (CSAT)

Here is an overview of UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 and Prelims GS Paper 2 Syllabus- 

UPSC Prelims Syllabus for CSAT

The UPSC Prelims CSAT, officially known as General Studies Paper II, is a qualifying paper in the Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Candidates need to secure at least 33% (66 marks out of 200) to qualify. The CSAT syllabus encompasses a variety of subjects aimed at evaluating a candidate's mental ability, comprehension skills, and decision-making aptitude. The syllabus includes:

1. Comprehension:
   • Testing the ability to understand and interpret written texts.
   • Answering questions based on given passages.
2. Interpersonal Skills and Communication:
   • Assessing basic communication and interpersonal skills.
   • Situational judgment tests.
3. Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability:
   • Questions on logical reasoning.
   • Analytical problems to test the candidate's reasoning skills.
4. Decision Making and Problem Solving:
   • Scenarios requiring decision-making and problem-solving skills.
   • Assessing the candidate's judgment and problem-solving capabilities.
5. General Mental Ability:
   • Numerical and mental ability tests.
   • Questions on basic arithmetic operations and their applications.
6. Basic Numeracy and Data Interpretation:
   • Numbers and their relations.
   • Orders of magnitude, data sufficiency, charts, and graphs.

The CSAT is designed not only to test the knowledge of the candidates but also to evaluate their cognitive and analytical abilities. This ensures that aspiring civil servants have the necessary skills to tackle complex problems and make informed decisions in their professional roles.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus for GS Paper 1

General Studies Paper 1 (GS Paper 1) of the UPSC Prelims is designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge across a broad spectrum of subjects critical for understanding contemporary issues and historical contexts. This paper tests candidates' grasp of key areas including:

• Current Affairs: Awareness of national and international news, significant political and economic developments, and important social issues.
• History of India: Understanding of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history, including major events, figures, and socio-political changes.
• Indian and World Geography: Knowledge of physical and human geography, environmental issues, and spatial understanding of both India and the world.
• Indian Polity and Governance: Familiarity with the Indian Constitution, political institutions, and governance structures.

This paper demands not only factual knowledge but also the ability to connect historical events and geographical factors with current issues. A well-rounded preparation involves integrating information from various sources and understanding its application in contemporary contexts.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2024 for Current Affairs

The Current Affairs section of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is crucial for assessing candidates' awareness of recent events and developments at both national and international levels. This part of the syllabus demands up-to-date knowledge about contemporary issues that influence global and domestic affairs.

Key areas of focus include significant political, economic, social, and environmental events, as well as advancements in science and technology. Candidates are expected to stay informed about major government policies, international relations, and current trends affecting various sectors.

• Indian Express and The Hindu Newspapers
• Down to Earth Magazine
• Yojana Magazine and Kurukshetra Magazine
• Economic and Political Weekly
• Press Information Bureau (PIB) releases

UPSC Prelims Syllabus – History of India and Indian National Movement

The History of India and Indian National Movement Syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to test candidates' understanding of India's historical evolution and the various movements that shaped its path to independence. This segment covers a broad spectrum of historical periods, from ancient and medieval times to the modern era.

Key areas include the rise and fall of major dynasties and empires, significant cultural and socio-religious developments, and the intricate details of India's struggle for independence. The syllabus emphasizes important historical figures, pivotal events, and the socio-political transformations that occurred over time.

A thorough grasp of these topics not only requires memorization of facts and dates but also an understanding of their broader implications on India's history and development. This approach ensures that candidates can contextualize historical events and their impact on contemporary India, which is essential for both the Prelims and subsequent stages of the UPSC examination.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Ancient History of India

1. Prehistoric cultures in India
2. Indus Valley Civilization. Origins- the different phases- society, economy, and culture- Contacts with other cultures- factors lead to the decline.
3. Geographical distribution and characteristics of pastoral and farming society.
4. Vedic society-Vedic texts- change from Rig Vedic to later Vedic phases.
5. Vedic society Religion- Upanishad thought-Political and social organisation, the evolution of the Varna system and monarchy.
6. Formation of the State and urbanisation, from the Mahajanapadas to the Nandas.
7. Buddhism and Jainism- Factors for the spread of Buddhism.
8. The Mauryan Empire- Chandragupta and Megasthenes.
9. Ashoka and his inscriptions, his dhamma, culture, administration, and art
10. Society of Post-Mauryan India, BC 200- AD 300- Evolution of Jatis.
11. The Satavahanas and formation of the state in the Peninsula.
12. Sangam texts and society.
13. Indo-Greeks, Sakas, Parthians, Kushans, Kanishka-Contacts with the outer world.
14. Different Religion- Bhagavatism, Shaivism, Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana, Jainism and Culture and art.
15. The Guptas and their descendants.
16. Literature Science, Arts, Economy, and society -Modification in the political organization of empire.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Medieval Indian History

1. Early Medieval India. Major dynasties; Political and Agrarian organisation. Status of women, Extent of social mobility. The Arabs in Sind and the Ghaznavids.
2. Cultural trends, 750-1200, Religious circumstances: the significance of temples and monastic institutions; Sankaracharya; Islam; Sufism. Art and architecture. Literature and Science.
3. 13th and 14th Centuries: Ghorian invasions reasons and consequences. Delhi Sultanate under the Slave Rulers. Aladdin Khalji: invasion; administrative, agrarian and economic measures. Muhammad Tughlug’s innovations. Firuz Tughluq and the decline of the Delhi Sultanate. Development of urbanisation and commerce. Spiritual movements in Hinduism and Islam. Literature. Architecture, Technological changes.
4. The 15th and early 16th Century: Key Provincial dynasties; Vijayanagara Empire. The Lodhis, First stage of the Mughal Empire: The Sur Empire and administration. Monotheistic movements: Kabir; Guru Nanak and Sikhism; Bhakti. The spread of regional literature. Art and Culture.
5. The Mughal Empire, Akbar: invasion, administrative measures, Policy of Sulh-I-Kul. Jagir and Mansab systems; Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb: extension of Mughal empire in the Deccan; religious policies. Shivaji. Persian and regional literature. Religious idea: Abul Fazl; Maharashtra dharma. Architecture. Painting. Economy: state of affairs of peasants and artisans, escalation in trade; trade with Europe. Social stratification and position of women.
6. The decline of the Mughal Empire, Reason behind the decline. Maratha power under the Peshwas. The Afghans. Regional states. Most important components of composite culture. Sawai Jai Singh, astronomer. The rise of the Urdu language.

Modern India -Indian National Movement

1. British extension: The Carnatic Wars, invasion of Bengal. Mysore and its confrontation to British expansion: The three Anglo-Maratha Wars. Regulating and Pitt’s India Acts. Early composition of the British raj.
2. Economic Impact of the British Raj: land revenue settlements like Zamindari, Ryotwari, Mahalwari; Deindustrialisation; Railways and commercialisation of agriculture; increase of landless labour.
3. Cultural encounter and social changes: the inception of western education and modern thoughts. Indian Renaissance, religious and social reform movements; Social reforms events before 1857. Development of Indian middle class; the vernacular press and its effects: the rise of modern literature in Indian languages.
4. Confrontation to British rule: Early uprisings; The 1857 Revolt-reasons, character, course and result.
5. Indian Freedom struggle the first stage: Growth of national consciousness; creation of Associations; Establishment of the Indian National Congress and its Moderate stage; Swadeshi Movement; Economic Nationalism; The development of Extremism and the split in Congress; The policy of Divide and Rule; Congress-League Pact of 1916.
6. Gandhian thoughts and techniques of mass mobilisation- Civil Disobedience, the Khilafat movement, Non-Cooperation Movement, and Quit India Movement; another strand in the National Movement-Revolutionaries, Subhash Chandra Bose, and the Indian National Army.
7. Separatist movements in Indian politics- the Hindu Mahasabha and the Muslim League; Partition and Independence; The post -1945 developments.
8. India became independent in 1964. A parliamentary, democratic, secular. Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision, Foreign policy of Non-alignment, Planning and state-controlled industrialisation. Agrarian modification.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian and World Geography

The Indian and World Geography Syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to assess candidates' understanding of both the physical and human geography of India and the world. This segment of the syllabus is crucial, as it provides insights into the spatial aspects of human life, the natural environment, and the intricate interactions between them.

The syllabus covers a wide array of topics, including physical geography, which focuses on the natural features of the Earth such as landforms, climate, flora, and fauna. It also delves into human geography, examining the distribution of populations, cultural landscapes, urbanization, and economic activities. Additionally, candidates need to understand the geographic factors influencing environmental changes, resource distribution, and geopolitical dynamics.

A thorough preparation for this section involves not only memorizing facts but also developing a conceptual understanding of geographical phenomena and their real-world implications. This approach ensures that candidates can analyze and interpret geographic information accurately, a skill essential for effective decision-making in civil services.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Indian Geography

1. The basic idea about India
   1. Location, latitude, longitude, time zone,
   2. Neighbouring countries
   3. States and its position and the states on International boundaries
   4. Important straits
2. Physical features of India
   1. The Himalayas
      1. Geological Formation
      2. Physiographic divisions
      3. Climate, Vegetation, Soil and Biodiversity
      4. Major passes
      5. Significance
      6. Recent issues
   2. The Great North Indian plains
      1. Geological Formation
      2. Physiographic divisions
      3. Climate, Vegetation, Soil and Biodiversity
      4. Significance
   3. Peninsular Plateau
      1. Geological formation
      2. Deccan plateau
      3. Central Highlands
      4. Western and Eastern Ghats
      5. Socio-economic issues related
   4. Indian Desert
   5. Coastal plains and Islands
3. River systems – Characteristics, comparison and significance
   1. Himalayan rivers
   2. Peninsular rivers
   3. River basins
   4. Hydro-Power projects, Power plants and Major Dams
   5. Regional development and planning
   6. West flowing and east-flowing rivers
   7. Interlinking of rivers
4. Climate in India
   1. Monsoon
      1. Driving mechanism
      2. Effects of La-Nino and El-Nino
      3. Recent theories
   2. Season of India
   3. Cyclones
5. Mineral and industries
   1. Distribution of minerals
   2. Industrial policies
   3. Location factors
   4. Issues and challenges of the industries
   5. Industrial clusters
6. Agriculture and Allied-characteristics and Problems
   1. Land utilisation
   2. Types of agriculture practices
   3. Soils and Crops
   4. Trends agriculture (Green revolution )
   5. Irrigation
   6. Major irrigation projects
   7. Land reforms
   8. Government policies and schemes
   9. Animal husbandry (livestock resources)
7. Natural vegetation and fauna- Characteristics, importance, comparison and significance
   1. Classification of natural vegetation
   2. Rainfall distribution
   3. Wildlife sanctuaries
   4. National Forest Policy
   5. Biosphere reserve
   6. National parks
   7. Environmental issues
   8. Red-listed species (in recent news)
8. Economic infrastructure
   1. Transportation,
   2. Road(National Highways)- Rail- Air- Water(Major inland waterways) and its Significance
   3. Power and energy sector
   4. Sources of conventional and non-conventional energy
   5. Energy conservation and crisis
   6. Recent developments
9. Human Geography
   1. Demographics
   2. Recent census- 2011

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- World Geography & Physical Geography

1. Universe
   1. Theories related to Solar System
   2. Theories related to the formation of the universe
   3. Recent updates on the same
2. The basic idea about Earth
   1. The motion of the Earth – Rotation and Revolution
   2. Latitudes and Longitudes
   3. The inclination of the Earth’s Axis – effect on seasons
   4. Solar Eclipse, Lunar Eclipse and Tides and their significance
3. Geomorphology
   1. Earth’s movement (exo-genetic and endo-genetic)
   2. Earthquakes, volcanic activity
   3. The basic idea about Continental Drift Theory, Plate Tectonics Theory, Sea Floor Spreading
4. Interior of the earth
   1. lithosphere
   2. Interaction of lithosphere with other spheres
   3. Boundaries and composition
5. Mass Movements of landforms, erosion and deposits
   1. Basic information about geographical landforms and their significance
   2. Rock system and Classification of Rocks
6. Climatology
   1. Structure and composition of the atmosphere
   2. Factors controlling the temperature distribution
   3. Insolation and terrestrial radiation
   4. Heat budget
   5. Global warming and ozone layer
   6. Humidity and condensation
   7. Clouds
   8. Classification of clouds
   9. Precipitation
   10. Precipitation mechanism
   11. Different types and forms of precipitation
   12. Pressure belts
   13. Atmospheric circulation
   14. Winds
   15. Planetary Winds
   16. Seasonal and Local Winds
   17. Cyclones Tropical and Temperate cyclone
   18. Formation of cyclone, characteristics and impact
   19. Jet streams
   20. Various atmospheric phenomenon
7. The hydrosphere
   1. Bottom relief of ocean
   2. Salinity and temp variation
   3. Ocean Currents
   4. Ocean deposit
   5. Ocean resources
   6. Recent issues and development with ref to oceanography- Eg: UNCLOS
8. Biosphere
   1. Major Biomes
   2. Flora and fauna
   3. International organisation for biodiversity
   4. Conservation of Biodiversity
   5. Recent issues
9. Economic geography
10. Map work
11. Places in News

UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian Polity and Governance

The Indian Polity and Governance section of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is a fundamental component that evaluates a candidate's knowledge of the political and administrative framework of India. This section aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the constitutional, legal, and institutional structures that govern the country, as well as the political dynamics at play.

Key topics include the Constitution of India, covering its salient features, amendments, and significant provisions; the functioning of the Parliament and State Legislatures; the roles and responsibilities of the President, Prime Minister, and other key officials; and the structure and functions of the judiciary. Additionally, it encompasses governance issues such as public policy, rights issues, and the role of various governmental and non-governmental organizations.

To excel in this section, candidates must not only familiarize themselves with theoretical concepts but also stay updated with current events and contemporary issues in Indian polity and governance. This dual approach ensures a well-rounded preparation, enabling candidates to understand both the foundational principles and the evolving nature of governance in India.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Indian Polity and Governance

1. Preamble
   • Features of preamble
   • 42nd Amendment
   • Swaran Singh committee
2. Schedules
   • The basic idea about 12 schedules
3. Constitution of India
   • The basic idea about All articles
   • Historical Background
   • Drafting committee and the making of the Constitution
   • Influence of other constitutions
   • Its salient features
4. Union and its Territory
   • The basic idea about Article 1-4
   • State reorganization and different Commissions
   • Federal nature
   • Recent issues
5. Citizenship
   • The basic idea about Article 5-11
   • PIO, NRI, OCI and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
   • Privileges available for Indian citizens and foreigners
   • Citizenship Amendment Act of 2016
   • New policies, schemes and recent changes in voting.
6. Fundamental Rights (FR)
   • The basic idea about Article 12-35
   • A thorough understanding of Articles 14- 30 and Art. 32
   • Rights and privileges available to citizens of India only and both to citizens and foreigners
   • 44th amendment act
   • Different types of Writs
   • Enforcement and Exceptional cases with regard to FR’s
   • RTE and recent issues related to FR
7. Fundamental Duties(FD)
   • Article 51A
   • Difference between FR and FD
   • Significance and Criticism
   • Enforcement of FD’s
   • Recent issues about FD
8. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
   • The basic idea about Article and Article 36-51 and Article 368
   • Sources and key features of DPSP
   • Classification of DPSP
   • Comparison/ conflicts between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles
   • Keshavananda Bharathi, Minerva Mills, Golaknath Case, Maneka Gandhi case.
   • Important Amendments- 42nd Amendment, 44th Amendment, and 97th amendment
9. Union
   • The basic idea about Article 52-73
   • Qualification and Election
   • Function and Powers- (Executive, Legislative, Financial, Judicial, Diplomatic, Military and Emergency Powers)
   • Resignation and impeachment
   • Role and responsibilities and relationship with Prime minister, Council of Minister, Cabinet ministers.
   • Prime minister and council of ministers- Basic idea about Article 74-75
   • Powers and Functions
   • Council of ministers
   • Resignation and Removal
   • Attorney general
   • Parliament
     • The basic idea about article related
     • Role and functions of the Parliament
     • Sessions, Motions, Parliamentary procedure – Summoning, Prorogation, Joint Sitting
     • Parliamentary proceedings like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and Adjournment Motion, etc.
     • Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha,
     • Special powers of Rajya Sabha
     • Anti-defection law and 10th schedule
     • Parliamentary Privileges
     • Bill and lawmaking procedure
     • Budget, funds and it’s summary
     • Parliamentary Committees
10. Judiciary
    • The basic idea about article related to the judiciary.
    • Powers of Supreme court and high court
    • Qualification and appointment
    • Removal procedure
    • Recent controversy, verdicts, and constitutional provisions.
11. State Government- State Executive
    • Governor- appointment, removal and special powers.
    • Executive, Legislative, Financial, Judicial powers and discretionary of the governor
    • 7th constitutional amendment
    • Chief minister and council of ministers
    • Power of chief minister
    • State Legislature
      • State legislature compared to the Parliament with regard to composition, powers, and functions.
      • Bicameral legislatures
      • Creation and abolition of the Legislative councils
    • Administration of Union Territories (UT)
    • Special provision for Delhi
    • Administration and jurisdiction in UT’s
12. Administration of Special Areas
    • Basic idea about 5thSchedule 6th Schedule
    • Recent issues related to Administration of Special Areas
    • Special provision for Jammu and Kashmir-Article 370
    • Difference between constitutional provisions related to Jammu and Kashmir
13. Emergency Provisions
    • National emergency- Article 352
    • President’s rule or State emergency- Article 356
    • Financial emergency- Article 360
    • 44th amendment act
    • Effects and implications of emergency
    • Role of President in emergency time
    • The State of FR, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha
    • Revoking emergency
14. State- centre and interstate relations
    • The basic idea about Articles 262 and 263
    • Composition and functions of Interstate council and Zonal council
    • Inter-State trade and Commerce
    • Recent disputes between states, controversies etc
    • New policies or schemes which impact interstate relations
15. Panchayati Raj and municipalities
    • Elections, auditing, powers and authority of panchayats
    • 3 tier structure
    • 73rd Amendment Act and the 74th Amendment Act
    • Relation with FR and DPSP
    • Schemes introduced
    • Metropolitan planning committee and urban development
16. Reservation
17. Constitution Bodies
    • Election Commission
    • UPSC
    • SPSC
    • JPSC
    • Finance Commission
    • National Commission for SCs and ST’s,
    • Composition, Powers and functions, Removal of the Constitutional bodies
18. Non-Constitutional Bodies
    • The basic idea about Composition, Functions, Working of the Non-Constitutional bodies such as National Human Rights Commission, Central Information Commission, Central Vigilance Commission, Central Bureau of Investigation, State Human Rights Commission, State Information Commission, etc.
19. Tribunals
    • The basic idea about Article 323A and tribunals under Article 323B
    • Recent controversial issues related to tribunals
    • Different tribunals and importance
20. Special Provisions for SCs, STs, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
    • Privileges and right issued to SC’s, ST’s, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
    • Issues related to vulnerable sections like women, child, SC’s, ST’s, Backward Classes, Minorities and Anglo-Indians
21. Current affairs
    • Recent issues related to above-mentioned categories
    • Important schemes, programs, missions, laws, and policies launched by the government.
    • Recent Government Bills and Governance- Actions

UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Indian Economy

The Indian Economy syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is a critical area that tests candidates' understanding of the economic principles, policies, and issues relevant to India. This section is designed to assess the depth of knowledge regarding the country's economic framework and its application to real-world scenarios.

Key topics within this section include the fundamentals of economic growth and development, poverty, and unemployment, as well as key economic sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services. Candidates must also be well-versed in government policies related to taxation, budgeting, and public expenditure, as well as financial institutions and markets. Furthermore, issues like inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, international trade, and the impact of globalization are integral components of the syllabus.

To effectively prepare for this section, candidates should integrate a thorough understanding of theoretical concepts with an awareness of current economic developments and government initiatives. Staying updated with economic surveys, budget analyses, and relevant news from reliable sources is essential. This approach ensures candidates are well-equipped to analyze economic issues and their implications, a skill vital for a career in civil services.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus- Economic and Social Development

1. Economic growth and development – basic concept and definition of Economy and economics, uses and transfer of resources, distributive effects, macro and microeconomic policy, micro-macro balance, distributive impact of economic policies, development versus growth, determinant of growth and development, concepts such as HPI/MPI, HDI, PQLI, GEM, GDI/GII, TAI, Green index, sustainable development, India’s ranking in the various indices.
2. Poverty – definitions, causes, distribution-deprivation, income versus calories, measurement of poverty, the status of poverty, eradication programmes, poverty and resource policy, tribal rights and issues, livelihood mission.
3. Inclusion – definition, relevance, types, financial inclusion, recent initiatives.
4. Demographics – census data, populations by gender, by state, by age group, socio-economic status, caste, religion, literacy levels, etc. Trends in human development – interstate comparison, etc.
5. Fiscal policy – definition, component, receipts, revenue and capital account, tax revenue, expenditure, budget.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus – Science and Technology 

The Science and Technology syllabus of the UPSC Prelims General Studies Paper 1 is designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge of scientific principles, technological advancements, and their applications in contemporary society. This section is crucial as it covers the dynamic field of science and its ever-evolving nature, reflecting the importance of staying updated with the latest developments.

Key topics include the basics of physics, chemistry, and biology, as well as their real-world applications. It encompasses recent advancements in technology, such as information technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and space technology. Candidates must also be aware of the initiatives and policies related to science and technology undertaken by the Indian government, including research and development efforts and their societal impacts.

To prepare effectively for this section, candidates should focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. Keeping abreast of current scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and reading scientific publications and reputable sources of news will aid in understanding and contextualizing the information. This comprehensive approach ensures candidates are well-prepared to tackle questions related to Science and Technology in the UPSC Prelims.

1. Universe – Big Bang, Redshift, Blueshift
2. Star Formation – Stellar Evolution, Life Cycle of A Star
3. Solar System Formation – Nebular Theory of Laplace
4. Solar System – Planets, Inner Planets, Outer Planets
5. Sun – Internal Structure, Atmosphere
6. Nuclear Fission, Nuclear Reactor Types
7. India’s Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme
8. Cell Organelles – Plant Cell vs Animal Cell
9. Carbohydrates – Monosaccharides, Polysaccharides
10. Proteins – Amino Acids, Enzymes
11. Vitamins and Minerals – Deficiency Diseases
12. Fats – Healthy Fats and Unhealthy Fats
13. Animal Tissues – Epithelium, Connective Tissues
14. Human Digestive System – Digestive Glands
15. Respiratory System – NCERT General Science
16. Endocrine Glands and Hormones
17. Human Neural System – Human Brain
18. Muscular and Skeletal System
19. Nucleic acids – DNA and RNA, Recombinant DNA
20. Mitosis – Cell Cycle, Cell Division, Meiosis – Mitosis – Meiosis Comparison
21. Inheritance – Mendel’s Laws of Inheritance, Chromosomal Theory, Human Genome Project
22. Sex Determination – Genetic Disorders
23. Diseases Caused by Microorganisms
24. Microbes in Human Welfare – Useful Microbes
25. Immunity – Human Immune System
26. AIDS, Cancer – causes
27. Drugs and Alcohol Abuse
28. Diseases – Acute, Chronic, Communicable Diseases
29. Blood – Blood Groups – Formed Elements
30. Circulatory System, Double Circulation
31. Excretory System – Kidney, Urine Formation
32. Origin and Evolution of Life on Earth
33. Biological Classification
34. Five Kingdom Classifications of Plants and Animals
35. Plant Parts and Their Functions
36. Plant Kingdom – Halophytes, Bryophytes
37. Plants with Seeds – Gymnosperms and Angiosperms
38. Plant Tissue – Simple, Complex Permanent Tissue
39. Plant Nutrition – Photosynthesis, Nitrogen Cycle, Fixation
40. Sexual and Asexual Reproduction in Plants
41. Classification of Animal Kingdom (Animalia)
42. Classification of Vertebrata (Phylum Chordata)
43. Human Reproductive System
44. Biotechnology – Genetic Engineering – Processes and Applications
45. Atomic Theory – Structure of an Atom

UPSC Prelims Syllabus FAQs

Q1. Can I crack UPSC in 1 year?

Ans. Yes, with dedicated preparation and a strategic study plan, it is possible to crack the UPSC exam in one year.

Q2. Can I pass UPSC Prelims in 3 months?

Ans. Passing the UPSC Prelims in 3 months is challenging but possible with focused and intensive preparation.

Q3. What are the 9 papers in UPSC prelims?

Ans. UPSC Prelims consists of two papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT).

Q4. Is 2 months enough for UPSC prelims?

Ans. Two months is a tight timeframe for UPSC Prelims preparation, requiring intense and focused study.

Q5. Is prelims UPSC tough?

Ans. Yes, the UPSC Prelims is considered challenging due to its wide-ranging syllabus and the need for in-depth understanding and quick recall.