UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026, Download Subject-wise Syllabus PDF for GS Paper 2
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 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 2026
UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 covers diverse areas such as comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, basic numeracy, and data interpretation. Since CSAT is qualifying in nature, candidates must score at least 33% (66 marks out of 200) to clear it. A strong grasp of the CSAT Syllabus ensures aspirants don’t take the paper lightly and prepare thoroughly. Below is a quick overview:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Paper Name | General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) |
| Conducted By | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Mode | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Type of Questions | Objective (MCQs) |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Exam Date | 24 May 2026 (Sunday) |
| Exam Shift | Afternoon Session |
UPSC CSAT Exam Pattern 2026
UPSC CSAT Exam Pattern 2026 is designed to test a candidate’s aptitude, reasoning, and problem-solving ability through objective-type questions. The paper is held in the second half of the Preliminary Examination day. It consists of 80 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a total of 200 marks. Each correct answer carries 2.5 marks, while 1/3rd of the marks are deducted for every wrong response. The paper duration is 2 hours, and it is available in both English and Hindi (except for questions related to English comprehension).
Even though marks in CSAT are not added to the prelims merit list, failure to qualify leads to disqualification from the exam, no matter how well a candidate performs in GS Paper-I.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Paper Name | General Studies Paper-II (CSAT) |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Type of Questions | Objective (MCQs) |
| Number of Questions | 80 |
| Marks per Question | 2.5 |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Negative Marking | 1/3rd (0.83 marks deducted per wrong answer) |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Qualifying Marks | 33% (66 marks) |
| Language | English & Hindi (except English comprehension) |
UPSC CSAT Syllabus in Detail
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
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.
| Subject | Description | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| English (Comprehension & Language Skills) | Tests reading ability, vocabulary, and writing skills. | - Reading comprehension (passage-based questions) - Precis writing in grid format - Essay writing (on given topics) - Synonyms, antonyms, sentence correction - Grammar and basic language usage - Translation (English ↔ Indian Language, for qualifying paper only) |
| Decision Making and Problem Solving | Measures judgment and ethical decision-making ability; rarely asked but important when included. | - Situational judgment questions - Case studies on governance and public issues - Ethical dilemmas with multiple solutions - Problem-solving scenarios requiring logical reasoning |
| Communication Skills & Interpersonal Skills | Focuses on understanding, interpretation, and effective communication in different contexts. | - Interpersonal communication skills - Clarity of expression and comprehension - Effective message delivery and interpretation - Basic social interaction and conflict resolution questions |
UPSC CSAT Syllabus PDF Download
Aspirants can access 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
Analysing UPSC CSAT Topic-wise Weightage from 2014 to 2025 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 2024, while Logical Reasoning carried more weight in earlier years like 2014–2017. Understanding this distribution helps candidates prioritise practice and prepare a balanced strategy for UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026.
How to Prepare for UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026?
Preparing for 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 UPSC journey.
UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 FAQs
Ques. What is UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026?
Ans. UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 includes comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, basic numeracy, and data interpretation.
Ques. Is CSAT qualifying for UPSC 2026?
Ans. Yes, CSAT is a qualifying paper where candidates need to score 33% marks (66 out of 200).
Ques. How many questions are asked in UPSC CSAT 2026?
Ans. The CSAT paper has 80 questions, each carrying 2.5 marks.
Ques. Does UPSC CSAT 2026 have negative marking?
Ans. Yes, there is a 1/3rd negative marking for every incorrect answer.
Ques. What is the level of mathematics in UPSC CSAT 2026?
Ans. The mathematics section is of Class 10 level, covering basic numeracy, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
Ques. How to prepare for UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026 effectively?
Ans. Solve previous year papers, take mock tests, and strengthen weak areas in reasoning, comprehension, and basic maths.
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