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UPSC CSE Prelims 2025: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination on Sunday, May 25, 2025. This crucial screening stage consists of two objective-type papers — General Studies (GS) Paper 1 and the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT or Paper 2). The GS Paper 1 assesses candidates on subjects such as history, geography, polity, economy, and current affairs in science and technology. The CSAT paper evaluates comprehension, reasoning, and analytical ability. The CSAT is qualifying in nature, requiring a minimum 33% score to advance to the Mains stage.

Each paper will carry 200 marks, and the duration is two hours. The question papers will be available in both Hindi and English. Candidates must be well-versed in both content and strategy to navigate this highly competitive examination successfully.

Also Read: SBI Clerk Mains Result 2025 Date And Time Live Updates: Scorecard, Cut-Off, Merit List At sbi.co.in, Check More Details Here

Admit Cards and Entry Instructions: Download Now, Read the Rules

The UPSC has released admit cards on its official portal — upsconline.gov.in. Candidates must download and print the e-Admit Card, as physical copies will not be sent by post.

Important exam-day guidelines include:

  1. Arrive 60 minutes before the reporting time.

  2. Entry closes 30 minutes before the start: 9:00 AM for GS and 2:00 PM for CSAT.

  3. Only appear at the center mentioned on your admit card.

  4. Carry a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence).

  5. Electronic devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, and study material, are strictly prohibited.

  6. Candidates must dress modestly and avoid bringing any banned items.

Forgot your Registration ID (RID)? Use the “Forgot RID” feature on the UPSC website by entering your email and date of birth.

High-Yield Current Affairs: Topics That May Appear in GS Paper 1

With current affairs playing a pivotal role in GS Paper 1, here are some of the most exam-relevant topics from recent events:

Science & Technology:

  1. ISRO’s SpaDeX Mission: First autonomous satellite docking — vital for India’s space station goals.

  2. International Year of Quantum Science (2025): Declared by the UN to highlight quantum breakthroughs.

  3. Scramjet Engine Test: Boosts India’s hypersonic missile program.

  4. IIT Delhi's Jigyasa: Public science outreach to promote innovation.

  5. ISRO's Satellite 'Dogfight' Simulation: Demonstrates advanced orbital maneuverability.

International Affairs and National Initiatives

  1. AI Action Summit 2025: Co-hosted by India and France, emphasizing ethical AI.

  2. Expo 2025 Osaka: Focus on sustainability and innovation.

  3. 144th IOC Session: Kirsty Coventry becomes first African woman IOC President.

  4. Malian Protests: Anti-regime demonstrations highlight governance issues in Africa.

  5. National Geospatial Mission: India modernizes land records and planning using geospatial tech.

Negative Marking & Strategy: Be Accurate, Not Just Quick

As with previous years, negative marking is in place. A wrong answer will lead to a penalty of one-third of the marks assigned to that question. Importantly, selecting multiple options for a question will be considered incorrect, even if one choice is right. However, no penalty is applied to unattempted questions — encouraging candidates to skip uncertain ones.

To excel, manage time carefully and avoid careless guesses. Strategy matters: solve sure-shot questions first and leave time to revisit tricky ones.

Last 4 Days Strategy: Focused Revision and Mindset Management

As the exam nears, candidates should focus on smart revision and mental preparation. Here's a 5-day plan:

  • Day 1-2: Revise static subjects and high-yield current affairs.

  • Day 3: Take a full mock test, simulate real exam conditions.

  • Day 4: Light revision, relax, and ensure logistics (admit card, ID, travel plan).

Avoid new study material now. Focus on polishing your strengths and avoiding burnout. Sleep well, eat balanced meals, and stay calm to perform optimally.

The UPSC CSE Prelims is not just a test of knowledge but also strategy, patience, and focus. With preparation nearing completion, the key lies in execution. Stick to your revision plan, follow exam-day protocols strictly, and enter the examination hall with confidence.

To all aspirants — believe in the work you’ve done, stay composed, and give it your best shot. The path to the Mains begins here. Good luck!

Also Read: TNPSC Combined Technical Services Exam 2025 Notification For 615 Posts; Apply Online At Official Website tnpsc.gov.in