Understanding the new UPSC exam pattern: Changes and implications
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has recently introduced a new exam pattern for civil services exam, and it has created quite a buzz among aspirants. The new pattern proposes some significant changes in the format of the exam, syllabus, and marking scheme. It is essential to understand the implications of these changes before starting your preparation.
Let us take a closer look at the changes and their implications:
- Prelims Exam pattern:
The preliminary exam will now include more questions from current affairs and aptitude test, while the number of questions from traditional subjects like History, Geography, and Polity has reduced. The new pattern aims to test the aspirant’s analytical and reasoning abilities, along with overall awareness.
Implications: Aspirants need to dedicate more time and attention to current affairs and decision-making skills. They must read newspapers daily, follow relevant blogs, and practice aptitude questions regularly.
- The syllabus for Mains:
The syllabus for Mains remains the same as before. However, the new pattern emphasizes more on contemporary issues and India’s global relationships, including international economics and diplomacy.
Implications: Aspirants need to stay updated on the latest socio-economic and political issues at both national and international levels. They have to go through additional sources, such as news portals and reports, to gain a broad understanding of these topics.
- The introduction of the additional Aptitude Test:
The preliminary level now includes an additional Aptitude test to measure the aspirant’s decision-making and problem-solving abilities. The test includes reasoning, math, data interpretation, and English comprehension.
Implications: This test is newly introduced, and aspirants may find it challenging initially. Regular practice is essential, and aspirants must focus on weak areas to improve their scores.
- Changes in Marks Distribution:
The new pattern distributes marks for the Preliminary test, Mains, and interview in the ratio 2:7:1, respectively. The marks for the Preliminary exam now hold less weightage.
Implications: Aspirants must prioritize Mains preparation over Prelims. The marks for the essay paper in Mains have increased. Therefore, aspirants must focus on improving essay writing skills.
- The inclusion of the Ethics paper:
The Mains exam now includes an Ethics Paper, which tests the aspirant’s ethical and moral values and their ability to apply them in real-life situations.
Implications: Aspirants must understand the ethical principles and read relevant case studies to perform well in this paper. They must also work on enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Finally the new UPSC exam coaching aims to create a comprehensive and holistic evaluation of aspirants. It focuses on their decision-making skills, ethical values, and overall awareness about socio-economic and political issues. Aspirants must adapt to these changes and strategize their preparation accordingly. With proper planning and execution, aspirants can tackle the new pattern and achieve their dream of becoming a civil servant.
