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UPSC Notification for Civil Services (P) Exam 2012 Notification : HCS & Other Allied Services Preliminary Exam 2011

Expected Changes in I.A.S. Main Exam Pattern

Posted on February 22, 2012 by RAU'S IAS Share 50 This article featured in Competition Success Review in their March edition

Rau's IAS After successfully introducing changes in the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2011, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is now looking at bringing about some changes in its Main Examination pattern as well. The scheme of Civil Services Preliminary Examination has been changed from 2011 as per the recommendations of the Alagh Committee, the Second Administrative Reforms Commission and an Expert Committee constituted by UPSC under the chairmanship of Prof. S.K. Khanna (Ex-Chairman, UGC).

The changes in the Preliminary Examination have been well received, as they provide the candidates a level playing field leading to improvement in the quality of selections. Consistent with the need for selecting the right kind of persons from the huge pool consisting of multiple languages, creeds, culture and communities, UPSC has constituted a high power committee to suggest possible changes in the pattern of the Civil Services Main Examination. UPSC Chairman Prof. D.P. Aggarwal, on the third UPSC foundation day, said that UPSC is to insure that all the candidates are judged on the basis of indepth knowledge and understanding, rather than information gathered at the last movement. The Committee of Experts appointed in December, 2011 by the UPSC will review the existing structure of Civil Services Main Examination and will suggest necessary changes. The committee will consist of the following members :1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Prof. Arun S. Nigavekar, Ex-Chairman, UGC; Chairman Shri Yogendar Narain, Retd. IAS, Former Defence Secretary, Member Government of India; Shri Prakash Chandra, Former Chairman, CBDT; Member Prof. Pankaj Chandra, Director, IIM, Bangalore; Member Prof. Priyankar Upadhyay, BHU; Member Shri R.N. Datta, Former Chairman, PWC South Asia and Member India; Additional Secretary, DoP&T, Govt. of India; Member (Ex-Officio) Additional Secretary, UPSC Member Secretary

The terms of reference of the Committee will be as follows. (i) To identify the desired profile including the skill sets for the Civil Servants to enable them to deliver good governance in the fast changing domestic and global socio economic and technological scenario. (ii) To study the various selection methods currently in vogue globally for selection of Civil Servants. (iii) To propose appropriate mechanisms and methodologies for selecting candidates with desired profile and skill sets indicated in (i) above suited to Indian context for the next decade. (iv) To recommend a system for evaluation of the effectiveness of the selection methodology adopted by the Commission and the periodicity in which corrective action, if any, may be made in the selection methodology; for ensuring that it keeps pace with the changing requirements of the services. (v) To recommend the role of the Commission in the assessment of performance of the candidates recommended by it during and at the end of the mandatory training period and in particular, where such assessments have the effect of altering the initial merit order recommended by the Commission as also where it is proposed to extend or terminate the probation of a direct recruit on the basis of unsuitability for Civil Service.

Any other issue, which the Committee may feel relevant to the process of selection of Civil Servants for the country, or which may be referred to the Committee by the Commission. For its functioning, the Committee will devise its own procedures and it may set up such study group and take assistance of such experts as it may consider necessary in consultation with the Commission. The Committee will submit its report within six months from its formation. In my opinion, while suggesting the changes in the pattern of the Civil Services Main Examination, the Committee will look into the previous reports, particularly the Alagh Committee Report and Second ARC Report. The Alagh Committee, which was constituted by the UPSC in 2001, dealt elaborately with the changes in the pattern of the Main Examination. The Committee proposed to replace the optional subjects with a set of compulsory papers designed to test a broad spectrum of knowledge, skills and attitudes which would be more relevant to the requirements of entrants to the higher civil services. Each of the perspectives will lay the foundation on which the designated training academies for the civil services will build the necessary knowledge-base, skills-set and the desired attitudes required in the high demanding life of civil servants. The candidates are tested and awarded a degree for the specific discipline by the universities. This serves as the entry point for them to apply for the civil services. The compulsory papers in the Mains examination will aim towards helping candidates widen their perspective so that they show a degree of readiness for entering a career in the service of the nation. Prospective civil servants cannot have a narrow or limited understanding of a particular discipline. They should be able to comprehend the factors which are relevant to the society to be served and display a level of understanding as may be expected of those desirous of entering the civil services. They should have sensitivity to current issues and debates, and know of some of the attempts of the government and civil society to address these issues and problems. Given these aims, the papers should be such that they test the interest and the readiness of the candidates to work for society with some understanding of what they will face. The focus of these papers, therefore, should be to cover issues related to our society, social structure, political, technological and administrative governance, emerging areas of change social, economic, political, and modern developments in science and technology as they affect society. More importantly, they should reflect (i) the ideals and values enshrined by the Founders of the Constitution, and (ii) total commitment to the most disadvantaged sections of our society. The students who are preparing with the present scheme of Main Examination are worried not about the changes in the Main Examination pattern, but about when the changes will be implemented. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet. In my opinion, the term of reference of the Expert Committee suggests that it will be a time taking process. If we look at the previous changes introduced by the UPSC, they were quite slow in implementation. So, I suggest to the Civil Services aspirants they should not worry about the changes and the time of changes, instead they should focus on preparing for the exam on the basis of present pattern.

References: 1. Hindustan times 2. Times of India This entry was posted in Articles, Choose Optionals, Civil Services (Main) Exam, Media and tagged changes in civil services exam, changes in Mains exam 2013, Civil Services Exam, civil services main exam. Bookmark the permalink. UPSC Notification for Civil Services (P) Exam 2012 Notification : HCS & Other Allied Services Preliminary Exam 2011

49 Responses to Expected Changes in I.A.S. Main Exam Pattern

1.

K. aggarwal says: February 26, 2012 at 6:07 pm Sir, At present the change in mains 2013 is not clear. I would like to ask that uptill what time we will get notification from UPSC regarding applicability of pattern for mains 2013, that is, maximum upto which date UPSC will bring clarity on pattern of mains 2013 exams. Please reply. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: February 28, 2012 at 5:39 am If UPSC will, then it would notify not before September 2012. It could be anytime from September till December 2012. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

2.

angad singh says: March 2, 2012 at 11:12 pm sir according to you will public administration be of any help if the pattern changes?or any other subject for that matter. please reply Reply

RAU'S IAS says: March 6, 2012 at 8:24 am Yes Angad, Pub Ad should definitely help in the changed pattern. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

angad singh says: March 8, 2012 at 11:26 pm thank you so much.my another doubt is if any changes can be made in the no. of attempts and more importantly in the maximum age limit which is currently 30 for general category.thank you once again Reply

JM says: April 12, 2012 at 10:19 pm Reducing age would amount to huge opposition. So, even if it is brought in then it would not be applicable for those who are already 26 years of age. Reply

3.

sandip says: March 8, 2012 at 9:57 am Sir,right now if I start preparing for 2013 IAS Exam & if UPSC make the changes in between then what is the impact of this on my preperation. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: March 10, 2012 at 8:05 am

Dear Sandip, In case pattern changes in 2013: (There is a speculation that optional subjects might be removed and replaced by compulsory papers) First of all, the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants. However, you must read our article on Expected Changes analytically and try to figure such subjects (or subject knowledge) which will retain their importance and prominence even in the revised pattern. For example your knowledge in General Studies, Public Ad, Pol Sc, Economics, etc would not go waste even in the revised pattern. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time on acquiring knowledge (by learning such optional subjects) which you feel UPSC might not be interested to check/test you on in the revised pattern and the pattern changes, then you will end up wasting that much time. What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing) and not on irrelevant optional subjects. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

4.

Sourabh says: March 16, 2012 at 4:34 pm Sir, I am an engineering aspirant from civil branch. I want to start my preparations for IAS exams from now. So how should I start as I was thinking for your study material but as the pattern is changing from 2013. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 9, 2012 at 11:58 am Dear Sourabh,

In case pattern changes in 2013 (There is a speculation that optional subjects might be removed and replaced by compulsory papers) You must read our article on Expected Changes in IAS Mains Exam analytically and try to figure such subjects (or subject knowledge) which will retain their importance and prominence even in the revised pattern. For example your knowledge in General Studies, Public Ad, Pol Sc, Geography, Sociology, Economics, etc would not go waste even in the revised pattern. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time on acquiring knowledge (by learning such optional subjects) which you feel UPSC might not be interested to check/test you on in the revised pattern and the pattern changes, then you will end up wasting that much time. How to prepare for Civil Services 2013 exam? What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing) but do not focus on irrelevant optional subjects. Level 1: Self study (laying foundation) The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. Reference material at Level 1 NCERT Books: Social Studies Civics: 6th 10th standard Political Science: 11th and 12th standard Geography: 6th 12th standard Sociology: 11th and 12th standard History: 6th 12th standard Economics: 9th 12th standard (latest edition) NCERT Books: General Science Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view) The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan Level 2: Targeted Study (structured approach) Once you get familiar with the basic concepts of General Studies, have refreshed your memory with basic knowledge acquired in various disciplines of Social Studies and General Science (in school), it is time for you to adopt a targeted and structured approach towards the Civil Services Exam. When you

enter this level, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test). The syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question. Therefore, you must start preparing for General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together and in an integrated manner. Also, you must start preparing for Aptitude Test/CSAT alongside. This is because Aptitude test is a practice based paper and therefore you should spread the contents of this paper across the entire duration of General Studies preparation and practice them regularly. Reference material at Level II At this level, you must follow: For General Studies Raus IAS study material + focus on notes and lectures delivered in class + Substantiate this by going through the special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity. For Aptitude (CSAT) Raus IAS study material+ Wren and Martin Grammar book Be careful to what you might pick and study in the area of Aptitude testing from the market. The CSAT is an Aptitude Test modified to test the competency of a prospective IAS officer who ensures social justice and takes decisions under the shadow of ethics. All Aptitude Tests are modified Intelligence Tests (IQ Tests). Under the axiom that human intelligence is a function of two skills Ability to express thoughts better and understand what others have to convey, and Cognitive Ability, all aptitude tests check for Verbal and Numerical Ability, with a smattering of Reasoning questions. Apart from this CSAT, being a test of recruitment to Civil Services, will test whether a candidate can handle the kind of Decision Making under the shadow of Ethics that an ideal IAS is capable of. For Current Affairs and General Knowledge You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current affairs and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. Besides regularly reading Frontline and Pratiyogita Darpan you must refer to Manorama Year Book + India Year Book (GoI). Regards, Raus IAS Reply

5.

abhinav says: March 16, 2012 at 7:29 pm too much doubts had cleared in previous communication.do you suggest some books regarding that pattern? and how the coaching going? for the new batch? please guide me! I am willing to join the coaching for 2013 in june for the new batch. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 9, 2012 at 12:57 pm Dear Abhinav, There is no such book. The new session will commence from 1st June 2012. Admission in on first cum first served basis. Please feel free to contact our counselors should you need further information, counseling, etc. All the best, Raus IAS Reply

6.

Rahul Kapoor says: March 24, 2012 at 12:53 pm Respected Sir/Madam, The information provided by you here is really helpful. I will complete my Masters degree in Mathematics in July 2012. I believe that if mains pattern changes then Maths will be of no use. I wish to know which subject will be beneficial from the purpose of mains exam, so that I can prepare for the mains 2013. The subjects in my mind are : 1. Political Science 2. Public Admn 3. Law 4. Politics ( International Relations) I am targeting mains 2013. Kindly suggest me subjects (from above or any other) which will be helpful because Ive Science background. I just wish to know that which subjects will definitely be there in the changed pattern (any guess ?)

Thanks in advance Rahul Kapoor Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 9, 2012 at 12:22 pm Dear Rahul, See, out of the subjects you have shortlisted, Political Science and Politics (International Relations) is one and the same thing. The subject is called Political Science with International Relations. So, basically, you have shorlisted three subjects, 1)Pol Sc 2) Pub Ad 3) Law Even out of these, Pub Ad and Pol sc are similar subjects and therefore they are not allowed to be taken together. Political Science is lengthier than Pub Ad and takes care of International Relations (which is a very important section in GS as well). Law is a technical subject. One needs to have studied Law in graduation to take it in the capacity of an optional subject in Civils. Though nothing can be said with certainty about the subjects that will be retained in the changed patten, but subjects like, Sociology, Geography, Pub Ad, Pol Sc, Economics should retain their importance even in the changed pattern. In case you are targeting to appear in 2013 exam, you must start preparing for GS (Prelims and Mains together) and CSAT on the side (since this is a practice based subject, you can spread this across and study for it regularly especially solving comprehensions). Along with this, you may pick up just one optional (maybe Pol Sc/Pub Ad) which will be helpful in one shape/form or another. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

7.

Dushyant Kumar says:

March 27, 2012 at 2:23 pm Sir, I am 1st year Economics (hons.) student. I selected economics (hons.) as my graduation degree keeping in mind that I will be have Economics and history as my optionals. I am totally determined to be an IAS. But right now I am little worried about these subjects. Will they be helpful even after change in the pattern after. Will the history be so wide for the exam after changes?, because I have started to mug up history as my optional. waiting for your reply sir. thankyou Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 13, 2012 at 8:42 am Dear Dushyant, First of all, the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants. My suggestion would be that you focus on mastering Economics for now (which will help both in your graduation and in Civils later . Economics as a subject will remain relevant. Do not worry about 2nd optional subject already. Instead, if you must you should start studying for General Studies. Instead of mugging up History from now onwards, a better idea would be that you go self study in the following direction: The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. NCERT Books: Social Studies Civics: 6th 10th standard Political Science: 11th and 12th standard Geography: 6th 12th standard Sociology: 11th and 12th standard History: 6th 12th standard Economics: 9th 12th standard (latest edition) NCERT Books: General Science Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards

For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view) The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan Regards, Raus IAS Reply

8.

Anand says: March 27, 2012 at 8:11 pm Sir, I was planning to take CSE in 2013 but had not decided for the optional papers. I am a 4rth year B.tech Comp-sc student and comfortable with CSAT. Since no comp. sc. papers were there, I was planning on taking Geography with some other paper for mains. I have a little interest in Physics, but previous year questions were pretty difficult and your study material is also not available for physics. How good will be Pub Ad with geography. Will it be too vast to handle ? With the changes in view Will this be a good combination ? Regards, Anand Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 13, 2012 at 8:35 am Dear Anand, In short, Pub Ad with Geography will be a very good optional mix. This combination is also widely opted by majority science graduates. Both these subjects will also be relevant in the changes scheme of Mains exam. Another relevant subject that you may consider your interest in is Sociology. All the best, Regards, Raus IAS Reply

9.

purohit says: March 29, 2012 at 10:27 am http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-05/jaipur/31123596_1_upscexam-union-public-service-commission-ans Reply

10.

amani says: March 31, 2012 at 1:27 pm sir, Now im planning for coaching for appearing prelims in 2013. should i take optionals or mains first Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 4, 2012 at 4:16 am Dear Amani, If you are planning to appear in Prelims 2013, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test) and one optional subject. Level 1: Self study (laying foundation) The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. Reference material at Level 1 NCERT Books: Social Studies Civics: 6th 10th standard Political Science: 11th and 12th standard Geography: 6th 12th standard Sociology: 11th and 12th standard History: 6th 12th standard Economics: 9th 12th standard (latest edition) NCERT Books: General Science Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards

For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view) The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan Level 2: Targeted Study (structured approach) Once you get familiar with the basic concepts of General Studies, have refreshed your memory with basic knowledge acquired in various disciplines of Social Studies and General Science (in school), it is time for you to adopt a targeted and structured approach towards the Civil Services Exam. When you enter this level, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test). The syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question. Therefore, you must start preparing for General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together and in an integrated manner. Also, you must start preparing for Aptitude Test/CSAT alongside. This is because Aptitude test is a practice based paper and therefore you should spread the contents of this paper across the entire duration of General Studies preparation and practice them regularly. Reference material at Level II At this level, you must follow: For General Studies Raus IAS study material + focus on notes and lectures delivered in class + Substantiate this by going through the special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity. For Aptitude (CSAT) Raus IAS study material+ Wren and Martin Grammar book Be careful to what you might pick and study in the area of Aptitude testing from the market. The CSAT is an Aptitude Test modified to test the competency of a prospective IAS officer who ensures social justice and takes decisions under the shadow of ethics. All Aptitude Tests are modified Intelligence Tests (IQ Tests). Under the axiom that human intelligence is a function of two skills Ability to express thoughts better and understand what others have to convey, and Cognitive Ability, all aptitude tests check for Verbal and Numerical Ability, with a smattering of Reasoning questions. Apart from this CSAT, being a test of recruitment to Civil Services, will test whether a candidate can handle the kind of Decision Making under the shadow of Ethics that an ideal IAS is capable of.

For Current Affairs and General Knowledge You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current affairs and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. Besides regularly reading Frontline and Pratiyogita Darpan you must refer to Manorama Year Book + India Year Book (GoI). Regards, Raus IAS Reply

11.

abhijeet says: April 4, 2012 at 1:59 pm respected sir, Id lik to ask dat is der any possibility in expected reforms by dr.nigvekar comittee to omit technical background students lik medicine or engineering?? Plz reply. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 13, 2012 at 10:29 am Dear Abhijeet, The changes will be brought only in the scheme of the exam, by replacing optional subjects with compulsory papers for all. There might be no technical papers but only compulsory papers for all which will test you on things required to be a good civil servant (which will be general knowledge in a wide array of things economics, sociology, geography, pol sc, pub ad, general science, sci and tech, etc etc). But there is going to be no changes regarding eligibility. Every graduate will be eligible to appear in the exam. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

abhijeet says:

April 17, 2012 at 2:58 pm thanks a lot sir.it matters.. Reply

12.

nirbhay says: April 7, 2012 at 5:13 am sir, what subjects will be der in the new syllabus and what will be the pattern? when will it come out officially? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 13, 2012 at 9:03 am Dear Nirbhay, Nothing can be said unless UPSC declares the syllabus officially. It does not seem that UPSC will notify about the changes before October 2012. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

13.

Nittin says: April 9, 2012 at 3:43 pm Sir plz tel me 1 thng is it possible to clear ias wth 1yr preparatn.i ve completd my prelims syllabus. Prsntly in b.com ll.m vry hard wrkng.maintaing 70% agg in st.xvr and regular practicing bankng sylabus .PLZ REPLY Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 10, 2012 at 7:41 am

Dear Nitin, There have been examples where candidates cleared Civils and got good ranks within their first attempt. There are also examples (only last year, in 2010, a girl from South India topped Civils in her 2nd attempt) wherein candidates have cleared Civils and got very good ranks in their 2nd attempt. And there are also cases wherein candidates have exhausted all their attempts without getting selected. It all depends upon the candidate, his/her aptitude, study methodology and the direction he/she follows. There is no such fixed limit of time that is required for the preparation. There are instances when people start preparing for the examination right from the school days. However serious preparation can be taken up from the midcourse of the graduation and must essentially peak soon after graduation. However there are instances when students have decided to take up this examination after masters degree. It is normally found that it takes about one year of serious preparation towards the attainment of the goal. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

14.

Nittin says: April 10, 2012 at 6:12 am Replyplz Reply

15.

Raam says: April 10, 2012 at 9:37 am Hello sir, Considering my abilities and capacities , I have decided to give my first attempt in 2014 after two years of coaching(I am going to complete my engineering graduation this year). Initially,I had planned to cover optional and GS parallely. I had two options in my mind, history and geography but after reading your article I have decided not to go for my earlier plan instead cover the GS paper thoroughly and one optional paper. Is there any possibility that the new syllabus will get rid of two

optionals and instead have only one or are they going to completely get rid optional subjects itself? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 23, 2012 at 7:20 am Dear Raam, Speculation is that optional subjects will get replaced by compulsory papers (compulsory papers will be relevant to the job area of civil servants). The exact scheme of examination will get clear only after UPSC formally notifies the changes. It is completely safe to start preparation in GS (Prelims-cum-Mains), Essay and Aptitude paper. In optional subjects, you can start with Geography. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

Raam says: April 24, 2012 at 4:03 am Thank you so much for replying sir. Would the GS be there even after the change in pattern? If it would then ,Would the syllabus be the same? Do you offer notes for GS mains? Thank you. Reply

16.

Nittin says: April 10, 2012 at 11:45 am Thank u vry much sir. Reply

17.

rehana mansuree says: April 12, 2012 at 3:27 pm r/s sir, i m studying in msc(c.s.) 2nd sem(with english medium).i want to know about the optional subjects for upsc main exams.which subjects are vary easy and scoring for upsc exam? and plz. send me their syllabus.& which books are best for them?? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 18, 2012 at 12:41 pm Dear Rehana, 1) List of Optional subjects in Mains http://www.rauias.com/mainoptional.php 2) For help on selecting the optional subjects please go though our blog and related Q&As http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69. 3) Exhaustive Syllabus is available here http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

18.

sivakumar says: April 14, 2012 at 3:47 pm sir, At present i joined as assistant executive engineer in irrigation department . I can hardly find 10 to 8 hours time to study. I cant take long leave till my probationary period (2 years) is completed. Is it possible for me to crack civilservice, by making the self study and by making self notes by going through standard text books. Reply

RAU'S IAS says:

April 19, 2012 at 11:29 am Dear Sivakumar, Nothing is impossible. Guidelines for self study One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in ones mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area. Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance. The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. NCERT Books: Social Studies Civics: 6th 10th standard Political Science: 11th and 12th standard Geography: 6th 12th standard Sociology: 11th and 12th standard History: 6th 12th standard Economics: 9th 12th standard (latest edition) NCERT Books: General Science Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view) The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan

Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upscs pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. For study material click here Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively. Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.] You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view. All the best. Raus IAS Reply

19.

vaibhav khandelwal says: April 14, 2012 at 7:55 pm Sir, m a student of b.a.prgrm 1st year. i am a civil aspirant. i look forward to give my exam in 2014. so with the news regarding change in pattern could you accordingly tell me that what should i start with now . whats are the initial steps to b taken now ? how to start with my preparation ? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 23, 2012 at 7:23 am Dear Vaibhav, Speculation is that optional subjects will get replaced by compulsory papers (compulsory papers will be relevant to the job area of civil servants). The exact scheme of examination will get clear only after UPSC formally notifies the changes. You must start preparation in GS (Prelims-cum-Mains), Essay and Aptitude paper. Since you are 1st year only, do not worry about optional subjects already. I suggest that till you get in 2nd year, you self study (work towards laying foundation). The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. Reference material NCERT Books: Social Studies Civics: 6th 10th standard Political Science: 11th and 12th standard Geography: 6th 12th standard Sociology: 11th and 12th standard History: 6th 12th standard Economics: 9th 12th standard (latest edition) NCERT Books: General Science Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards Important: For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view) The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan Regards, Raus IAS Reply

20.

Sumit Kashyap says:

April 19, 2012 at 5:43 am Sir/Madam, I am planning to write for CSAT 2013. I am working, and I generally work on Saturdays, so in which form can Raus help me. I am free whole day on Sundays and generally free by 7pm on weekdays, so is there any option for correspondence which some interactive features. Please guide. Reply

Sumit Kashyap says: April 19, 2012 at 5:54 am Also, I am like everyone is very confused about main. I am an engineer by qualification but electronics and instrumentation not being an option,closest is electrical which is I am not very comfortable with. Earlier I wanted to take Maths as an option but there is almost no material available for the subject, also Economics is also not very preferential choice I guess. Other subjects which interests me are Political Science, Philosophy. But I am open to Public Ad. and History too. Please guide which subject I should chose among above mentioned. Also, should I look beyond it. I have already started preparation for GS. But what to do about Optionals? should I leave it for the moment? How much time will I need given that what even I choose will be completely new to me. Is maths and economics a good option? If so when should I start and what should be my strategy ? Please reply. Thanks. Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 23, 2012 at 8:36 am Dear Sumit, We do not have any mix of correspondence and doubt clearance (partial interaction). We provide: 1) study material (these are our books only without any assistance) 2) Personal Guidance program (coaching)

The only coaching program that I can suggest for you given your occupation is our Weekend Program wherein classes are conducted only on Saturdays (5-8) and Sundays (9 6). See details here. About optional subjects: One is that you go through our blog on optional subject selection and related/similar queries from http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69. Secondly, optionals that you should consider in the changing scenario are Public Ad/Political Sc, Geography, Sociology (basically subjects you feel will remain relevant with the job profile of a civil servant). (Economics will get difficult and lengthy while Mathematics does not fit in the new proposed scheme of things). Also, better would be that you initiate preparation in GS (Pre-cum-Mains), Essay and CSAT immediately and on the basis of your understanding and liking developed in various sections of GS (while studying) you consider picking optionals later. All the best, Raus IAS Reply

21.

vaibhav khandelwal says: April 23, 2012 at 9:38 am thnk u so much sir for ur valuable advice !! just one more query that m plannin to start with my general studies (prelims cum main) coaching from november,12 onwards (i.e in my 2nd year) is it appropriate or should i do it in november,13 .?? Reply

22.

varsha says: April 23, 2012 at 11:20 am Sir/Mam, Im a final yr Engineering student. I wish to take up CSE next yr. Owing to the possibility that 2013 mains may change, I have decided upon taking geography as one of my optional and the other i am still not sure. Which of these will be more helpful for GS(prelims and mains)? and better in overall view? 1)Geography and Pub Ad or 2)Geography and Political science & IR? Please guide me through. Thanks

Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 26, 2012 at 12:24 pm Dear Varsha, Nothing can be said with certainty regarding the relevance of present optional subjects in the changed pattern unless UPSCs formally notifies about the changes. However, both Pub Ad and Pol Sc are relevant subjects considering the changed pattern. You can go with either. Between Pub Ad and Pol Sc, the former is shorter in course length than the latter. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

23.

Abhinab says: April 23, 2012 at 6:31 pm i have been reading about the expected changes in the mains.the committe was made in december. We have a interview of UPSC chairman during march 2012 that he would like the chnages to happen in 2013 and he also said that the report will be coming by next year. does that mean that we will be informed about the change not before next year?? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 26, 2012 at 12:29 pm At least not before later in this year. Regards, Raus IAS Reply

24.

varsha says: April 25, 2012 at 5:37 pm Sir/Mam, I have also read ur previous comments on Geography and Political science that they are a bit lengthier. If in case You r suggesting geog and political science, will it be possible to cover them both in the stipulated time? Is it like Political science is a sub to be taken by tat sub major? Reply

RAU'S IAS says: April 26, 2012 at 1:02 pm Dear varsha, Yes, the syllabus to be covered in Pol Sc and Geography is comparatively lengthier (as compared to other subjects for example Pol Sc which is similar to Pub Ad has comparatively more syllabus than Pub Ad), however, the extra length gets compensated by their syllabus overlap with General Studies. Both these optionals are good and successful in civil services. In case you feel interested to take these subjects, then we recommend them!! All the best, Raus IAS Reply

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