Stages
Prelims → Mains → Interview
GS Papers
Prelims (2) + Mains (4)
Optional
1 subject, 2 papers in Mains
Best Use
Convert topics into weekly study targets
Quick Navigation
Syllabus Overview
The UPSC syllabus is the blueprint for the Civil Services Examination. It is divided into three stages:
- Prelims (Objective): Two papers – General Studies Paper I and CSAT.
- Mains (Written): Nine papers – Essay, 4 GS, 2 Optional, and 2 qualifying language papers.
- Interview (Personality Test): Tests suitability for public service.
Use the syllabus as a checklist. Every book, note, and test should map back to a syllabus line.
UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2026
General Studies Paper I covers the broad foundation areas:
- Current events of national and international importance
- History of India and Indian National Movement
- Indian and World Geography
- Indian Polity and Governance
- Economic and Social Development
- General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity & Climate Change
- General Science
CSAT (Paper II) is qualifying in nature and includes:
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Decision-making and problem solving
- General mental ability
- Basic numeracy and data interpretation (Class X level)
Full breakdown: UPSC Prelims Syllabus 2026.
UPSC Mains Syllabus 2026
UPSC Mains has 9 papers. Two are qualifying (language + English) and seven are counted for ranking.
| Paper | Focus |
|---|---|
| Essay | Argument, clarity, coherence, and depth |
| GS I | History, Geography, Society, Culture |
| GS II | Polity, Governance, IR, Social Justice |
| GS III | Economy, Environment, Science, Security |
| GS IV | Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude |
| Optional I & II | Deep subject specialization |
Full breakdown: UPSC Mains Syllabus 2026.
Optional Subjects
UPSC allows one optional subject with two papers. Options span humanities, sciences, engineering, and literature.
- Choose based on interest, overlap with GS, and availability of resources.
- Popular choices include Geography, Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology, and Public Administration.
- Always confirm the latest official list in the UPSC notification.
How to Use the Syllabus
- Convert each syllabus line into a sub-topic checklist.
- Map books and notes to each sub-topic.
- Track progress weekly with a simple spreadsheet.
- Prioritize high-weightage subjects (Polity, Economy, Geography, Current Affairs).
Syllabus vs Exam Pattern
Syllabus tells you what to study. Exam pattern tells you how it is tested. Use both together.
See the full pattern here: UPSC Exam Pattern 2026.
Official Sources
- UPSC official website: upsc.gov.in
- Official notification PDF (released with the exam cycle)
FAQs
Is the UPSC syllabus the same every year?
The broad framework stays stable, but UPSC may tweak focus areas. Always check the latest notification.
Should I start with Prelims or Mains?
Start with an integrated plan. Build strong GS basics early, and use Mains-style notes for deeper topics.
Where can I find topic-wise notes?
Browse subject notes here: Clarity UPSC Subjects.