UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026, Download Subject-wise Syllabus PDF for GS Paper 2

The UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 forms the foundation of the General Studies Paper-II in the Civil Services Preliminary Exam. This paper evaluates candidates on essential skills such as comprehension, logical reasoning, decision-making, and basic numeracy. While it is only qualifying in nature, securing the minimum marks is mandatory to advance in the UPSC selection process. A well-structured preparation based on the CSAT Syllabus ensures aspirants build accuracy, speed, and confidence for the exam.

UPSC CSAT Syllabus in Detail

The UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 includes topics from comprehension, logical reasoning, data interpretation, decision-making, and mathematics up to

Class 10 level. Below is the detailed syllabus division:

CSAT Maths Syllabus 2026

The CSAT Maths Syllabus 2026 covers basic numeracy and mathematical problem-solving up to the Class 10 level. Questions are designed to test fundamental concepts, speed, and accuracy.

Key Topics in CSAT Maths:

• Number System: Natural numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, and simplification.
• Algebra: Basic algebraic identities, equations, and simple applications.
• Geometry & Mensuration: Properties of shapes, areas, perimeters, volumes, surface areas.
• Arithmetic: Ratio & proportion, percentages, averages, simple & compound interest, profit & loss, discount.
• Time & Work / Time, Speed & Distance: Pipes & cisterns, boats & streams, relative speed.
• Data Interpretation: Pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, and tabular data.
• Probability & Permutation Combination: Simple problems of arrangements and likelihood.

CSAT Reasoning Syllabus 2026

The CSAT Reasoning Syllabus 2026 focuses on logical and analytical ability, testing decision-making and problem-solving skills. These questions check how quickly candidates can process information and arrive at conclusions.

Key Topics in CSAT Reasoning:

• Analytical Reasoning: Puzzles, seating arrangements (linear & circular), matrix-based problems.
• Logical Reasoning: Coding-decoding, series (numbers, letters, figures), syllogisms.
• Critical Reasoning: Statement & assumptions, statement & conclusions, cause & effect.
• Decision Making: Situational judgment and problem-solving questions.
• Directions & Blood Relations: Direction sense problems, family relation puzzles.
• Non-Verbal Reasoning: Mirror images, paper folding, figure classification, pattern recognition.

UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 – English, Decision Making & Communication Skills

The UPSC CSAT Syllabus also covers subjects like English, Decision Making, and Communication Skills, which test a candidate’s overall aptitude beyond maths and reasoning. These sections focus on comprehension, ethical judgment, and effective interpersonal interaction, making them essential for evaluating the well-rounded abilities of an aspirant. The table below provides a clear subject-wise breakdown of topics for better understanding and preparation.

UPSC CSAT Syllabus PDF Download

Aspirants can access the UPSC CSAT Syllabus PDF for a structured understanding of all topics included in the exam. Having the syllabus in PDF format helps in quick reference, offline study, and systematic preparation. Click the link below to download the detailed UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 PDF for free.

UPSC CSAT Topic-wise Weightage

Analyzing the UPSC CSAT Topic-wise Weightage from 2014 to 2023 gives aspirants valuable insight into the exam’s changing trends. While Reading Comprehension consistently holds a significant share, the balance between Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning/Decision-Making has varied over the years. For instance, Quantitative Aptitude dominated in 2020 and 2023, while Logical Reasoning carried more weight in earlier years like 2014–2017. Understanding this distribution helps candidates prioritize practice and prepare a balanced strategy for the UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026.

How to Prepare for UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026?

Preparing for the UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 requires consistency, practice, and smart time management.

• Solve UPSC Previous Year question papers to understand the exam’s difficulty level.
• Follow a focused UPSC CSAT Prelims Strategy that balances comprehension, reasoning, and maths practice.
• Take mock tests under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy.
• Identify and strengthen weak areas like reading comprehension, logical puzzles, or basic numeracy.
• Revise frequently and practice short-cut methods for maths and reasoning to save time in the exam.

By following the right approach, aspirants can comfortably clear the qualifying cutoff and move ahead in the UPSC journey.