Grasping the UPPSC PCS Syllabus 2025 is essential for those preparing for the exam. This guide explains the subjects and topics from which the exam questions are drawn. Being clear about the UPPSC PCS Exam Pattern 2025 allows candidates to identify the weightage of each topic and plan their study schedule effectively.

Understanding the exam structure makes it easier to recognize the question format, marking scheme, and types of questions at each selection stage. This approach helps build a focused and organized preparation plan.

Uttar Pradesh PCS Exam Structure 2025: An Overview

UPPSC PCS Exam Pattern 2025

The UPPSC PCS Exam is organized into three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The Preliminary stage consists of two papers. General Studies-I and General Studies-II (CSAT) serve as qualifying tests. The Mains Exam comprises eight descriptive papers covering General Hindi, an Essay, and six General Studies papers. The final Interview evaluates personality and decision-making skills.

Below is the detailed exam pattern with marks distribution and duration for each paper:

UPPSC PCS Syllabus for Preliminary Examination

The preliminary exam features two papers. This stage is common to both the Combined State/Upper Subordinate Services Examination and the Assistant Conservator of Forest/Range Forest Officer Services Examination.

Paper-I: General Studies-I

This paper covers a range of topics including national and international current events. Candidates must stay informed about significant global events and the milestones of Indian history, particularly those linked to the independence movement. A broad view of social, political, and economic history is expected.

Geography topics span both India and the world, covering physical, social, and economic aspects. A working knowledge of world geography is useful. The section on Indian governance and polity examines the constitution, political structure, the Panchayati Raj system, and public policies. Issues related to rights also form an important part of the syllabus.

Economic and social development topics highlight sustainable growth, poverty, and demographic trends. Candidates should be aware of government social initiatives. The syllabus also tests environmental topics like biodiversity and climate change, along with basic general science concepts.

Paper-II: General Studies-II

This paper evaluates candidates on comprehension and communication skills. It tests logical reasoning, analytical ability, and decision-making skills. In addition, the paper includes elementary mathematics and assesses proficiency in both general English and Hindi.

Elementary Math:

• Arithmetic covers number systems, percentages, profit-loss calculations, and time-work problems.
• Algebra includes factors, equations, and basic set theory.
• Geometry involves shapes, perimeter, area, and volume calculations.
• Statistics touches on data collection, tables, graphs, and measures of central tendency such as mean, median, and mode.

General English & Hindi (Up to Class 10):
Language proficiency is measured through comprehension passages and grammar exercises. Topics include active and passive voice, direct and indirect speech, and sentence transformation. Vocabulary exercises, such as word meanings, idioms, and phrases, also appear, along with fill-in-the-blank tasks. This syllabus ensures candidates possess the necessary problem-solving skills and language proficiency required for administrative roles.

UPPSC PCS Main Exam Syllabus

The UPPSC PCS Main Examination consists of an Essay, Optional subjects, and six General Studies papers. Each paper focuses on various subjects including history, politics, economy, geography, ethics, and governance. The detailed paper-wise syllabus is as follows:

सामान्य हिन्दी (General Hindi)

1. Analysis and Q&A on the provided prose passage.
2. Summary writing.
3. Writing for government and semi-government letters, circulars, office orders, notifications, and memorandums.
4. Vocabulary and usage including:
   • Use of prefixes and suffixes.
   • Antonyms.
   • One-word substitution for phrases.
   • Spelling and sentence correction.
5. Proverbs and idiomatic expressions.

Essay Paper

The essay paper is divided into three sections, each addressing a distinct area to assess a candidate’s knowledge and writing style. Candidates must construct well-organized arguments and use relevant examples to communicate their ideas clearly.

Candidates select one topic from each section and write an essay of approximately 700 words per section. The sections are:

• Section A:
  Topics related to literature, cultural heritage, social issues, and political structure.
  Examples include:
  • Literature and cultural heritage
  • Social challenges
  • Political systems and governance
• Section B:
  Focuses on science, economy, and trade.
  Examples include:
  • Advances in science and technology
  • Economic policies and financial systems
  • Agriculture, industry, and business sectors
• Section C:
  Deals with current affairs and natural calamities.
  Examples include:
  • Significant national and global events
  • Natural disasters like floods, droughts, and earthquakes
  • Government schemes and development projects

General Studies – Paper I

This paper covers history, culture, and geography. Topics include:

• Indian cultural heritage such as art, architecture, and literature.
• Modern Indian history (1757–1947) and major events in the freedom struggle.
• The reorganization of India post-independence up to 1965.
• Global events including the French Revolution, Industrial Revolution, and World Wars.
• Social aspects of Indian society, including the role of women and social challenges.
• Economic transformations like liberalization, privatization, and globalization.
• Distribution of natural resources and factors influencing industrial location.
• Physical geography including earthquakes, tsunamis, and ocean currents.
• Trends in human migration, refugee issues, and urbanization.

General Studies – Paper II

This paper focuses on governance, constitution, politics, and international relations. Topics include:

• The evolution and structure of the Indian Constitution.
• Federalism and the distribution of power between the Centre and States.
• The role of the Finance Commission in managing financial relations.
• Separation of powers and mechanisms for dispute resolution.
• Comparison of India’s constitutional framework with other democracies.
• Functions and organization of the legislature, executive, and judiciary.
• Public administration, policy-making, and governance structures.
• The impact of NGOs, self-help groups, and public welfare organizations.
• India’s foreign relations, global alliances, and involvement in international institutions.
• Current national and international affairs.

General Studies – Paper III

This paper examines the economy, environment, science, and internal security. Topics include:

• Economic planning in India and sustainable development goals.
• Issues like poverty, unemployment, and inclusive growth.
• Agricultural policies, irrigation, and food security initiatives.
• Industrial policies, infrastructure development, and trade practices.
• Advances in science and technology, including space research and biotechnology.
• Environmental challenges, climate change, and disaster management.
• National and international security concerns, including cybercrime and terrorism.
• The roles of security forces and defense policies.

General Studies – Paper IV

This paper covers ethics, integrity, and public administration. Topics include:

• Ethical practices in governance and moral responsibilities.
• The influence of family, society, and education on value systems.
• The role of emotional intelligence in administration.
• Contributions by Indian and global thinkers on ethical issues.
• Ethical dilemmas in public administration and corporate governance.
• Right to Information, transparency, and accountability measures.
• Case studies that highlight ethical challenges and effective governance practices.

General Studies – Paper V

This paper focuses on the history, governance, and socio-economic development of Uttar Pradesh. Topics include:

• The historical and cultural legacy of Uttar Pradesh.
• The freedom struggle and contributions of UP’s freedom fighters.
• Social structure, festivals, dialects, and traditions unique to UP.
• The political framework, governance system, and judicial setup of the state.
• Law and order issues, security challenges, and cybercrime trends.
• Public services, welfare schemes, and e-governance efforts.
• Economic development, industrial growth, and land reform policies.
• Tourism, innovation, and job creation within the state.

General Studies – Paper VI

This paper addresses the economic, industrial, and environmental dimensions of Uttar Pradesh. Topics include:

• The state’s economic structure, trade, and commerce.
• The state government’s budget, financial policies, and welfare programs.
• Agricultural practices, irrigation systems, and rural development.
• Management of natural resources, wildlife conservation, and pollution control.
• Development of industrial infrastructure, power resources, and transportation networks.
• Impacts of climate change, biodiversity issues, and environmental sustainability.
• Advances in science and technology at the state level.
• The role of public-private partnerships in fostering state development.

This comprehensive outline of the UPPSC PCS Exam Structure 2025 and its detailed syllabus aims to offer candidates a clear view of what lies ahead. The structured content ensures that each area is covered thoroughly, helping candidates develop a strategic study plan and approach the exam with confidence.