UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Analysis for Prelims & Mains: Check Subject-Wise Analysis & Difficulty Level

Updated By Tiyasa Khanra on 09 Jan, 2024 13:07

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UPSC CSE Paper Analysis 2024 (Prelims & Mains)

The UPSC IAS exam analysis 2024 for both Mains and Prelims is now available. The UPSC CSE 2024 prelims exam will be conducted on May 26, 2024, and the mains exam will be held in September 2024. As per student reactions, the Mains GS Paper 2 will not be too tough but somewhat tricky. Overall, the difficulty level will be moderate to difficult as papers are manageable to a great extent.

The Mains Examination evaluates a candidate's knowledge across various subjects like Indian culture, history, geography, politics, economics, ethics, and current affairs. It comprises nine papers (2 qualifying language papers and 7 merit-based papers). Marks from the latter seven papers determine the rank and cut-off. The subjects cover essay writing, General Studies Paper-I, II, III, and IV, along with an optional subject chosen by the candidate from a list of options.

The language papers serve as qualifiers, necessitating candidates to achieve a minimum level of proficiency in English and a regional language. The merit-based papers play a crucial role in ranking candidates for subsequent selection stages, including the interview round. For those who plan to get into Civil Services, the analysis of the UPSC Exams is an essential step in their UPSC preparation. Check the UPSC CSE 2024 paper analysis provided on this page.

Upcoming Exams :

UPSC CSE Prelims Analysis 2024 for GS Paper 1

UPSC will conduct the CSE Prelims Exam 2024 on May 26, 2024 for Paper 1 and Paper 2 (CSAT). The exam will be conducted in two shifts: 

  • UPSC Prelims Paper-1: 09:30 AM to 11:30 AM
  • UPSC Prelims Paper-2: 02:30 PM to 04:30 PM. 

UPSC Prelims 2024 Paper 1 is the GS Paper while UPSC Prelims 2024 Paper 2 is the CSAT exam. 

After the UPSC Prelims Exam 2024 is over, we will update the detailed UPSC Exam Analysis along with section-wise weightage. Know more about the difficulty level of the exam, the number of questions asked in each section, and more. 

Expected UPSC CSE 2024 Exam Analysis - Subject Wise

Students can refer to the table below for the subject-wise analysis of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2024.

Subject 

Number of Questions

History

13

Geography

25

Economics 

15

Polity

12

Environment and Ecology

10

Science and Tech

9

International Relations

11

Note: This list will be updated after the UPSC CSE Result 2024 for the Preliminary exam is released.  

UPSC CSE Prelims Analysis 2024 for GS Paper 2 [CSAT]

Topic-Wise Analysis of UPSC CSE Prelims for GS Paper 2

UPSC Prelims CSAT is a qualifying paper. Know more about the difficulty level of the exam, the number of questions asked in each section, and more.  

Topics

Number of questions 

Data Sufficiency

To be updated

Number System

To be updated

Algebra

To be updated

Average

To be updated

Profit, Loss, and Discount

To be updated

Percentage

To be updated

Ratio

To be updated

Time, Speed and Distance

To be updated

Time and Work

To be updated

Data Interpretation

To be updated

Selection / Combination

To be updated

Geometry / Mensuration

To be updated

Directions

To be updated

Statement/ Conclusion

To be updated

Series

To be updated

Ranking – DS

To be updated

Row arrangement

To be updated

Logical Puzzle

To be updated

Clocks and Calendar

To be updated

Single/Two Question RCs (Critical Reasoning Based)

To be updated

Also ReadUPSC Prelims Question Paper - 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019

UPSC IAS Mains 2024 Exam Analysis: GS Paper I and II

The UPSC IAS Mains exam 2024 will be held in two shifts - the first shift from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and the second shift from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m in September 2024. 

Expected UPSC Mains GS Paper I 2024 Paper Analysis: Question-wise

A comprehensive discussion of each question in UPSC Mains GS Paper I 2024 is provided below. 

Questions

Section/Subject

Marks

Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient India.

Art & Culture

10

What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism?

Modern History

10

Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different countries of the world.

World History

10

Discuss the consequences of Climate Change on food security in tropical Countries.

Geography

10

Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources.

Geography

10

How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world?

Geography

10

Why is the South-West Monsoon called ‘Purvaiya” (easterly) in Bhojpur region? How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of the region.

Geography

10

Do you think marriage as a sacrament is losing its value in modern India?

Society

10

Why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society?

Society

10

Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.

Society

10

What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?

Ancient & Medieval History

15

What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence Indian society?

Ancient & Medieval History

15

How did colonial rule affect the tribal in India and what was the tribal response to colonial oppression?

Modern History

15

Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and Highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas.

Geography

15

Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of Natural Vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rainforest regions of India.

Geography

15

Why did Human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India.

Geography

15

From being a net food importer in the 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons.

Geography

15

Does urbanisation lead to more segregation and/or marginalisation of the poor in Indian metropolises.

Society

15

Why is caste identity in India both static and fluid?

Society

15

Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity of communalism.

Society

15

UPSC Mains GS 2 2024 Paper Analysis: Question-wise

Candidates can find the detailed discussions on each question in UPSC Mains Paper 2 2024 provided in the table below.

Question

Section/Subject

Marks

Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy

Polity & Constitution

10

Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.

Polity & Constitution

10

“The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.”

Polity & Constitution

10

Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty.

Polity & Constitution

10

Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.

Polity & Constitution

10

The crucial aspect of the development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this adequacy.

Social Justice

10

Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.

Social Justice

10

e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features?

Social Justice

10

‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’. In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating problems.

International Relations

10

Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.

International Relations

10

” The Construction of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society”. Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty.

Polity & Constitution

15

Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.

Polity & Constitution

15

Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.

Polity & Constitution

15

Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.

Polity & Constitution

15

Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?

Polity & Constitution

15

Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of the Indian Parliament?

Polity & Constitution

15

“Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.

Social Justice

15

Skill development programs have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyze the linkages between education, skill, and employment.

Social Justice

15

‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.

International Relations

15

‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting the environment and enhancing maritime safety and security.

International Relations

15

UPSC IAS Mains 2024 Exam Analysis: GS Paper III and IV

The UPSC Mains examination for GS Paper 3 will be conducted in September 2024, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This paper will consist of 20 questions, totaling 250 marks, and the duration of the exam was 3 hours. Following this, the UPSC Mains examination will continue on the same day with GS Paper 4, which will be scheduled from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Similar to GS Paper 3, GS Paper 4 also carry 250 marks and comprised 20 questions. The candidates had a 3-hour time frame to complete this paper. In the following tables, a question-wise analysis is provided for UPSC GS Paper III and IV.

Expected UPSC Mains GS 3 2024 Paper Analysis: Question-wise

Candidates can delve into the detailed discussion of each question in UPSC Mains Paper 3 2024 in the table below 

Question

Section/Subject

Marks

Faster economic growth requires an increased share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Government in this regard.

Economy

10

What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the problems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.

Economy

10

How does e-Technology help farmers in the production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it.

Agriculture

10

State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how the land ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under economic criteria.

Agriculture

10

Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to the privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare?

Science & Tech

10

Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current fuel shortage.

Science & Tech

10

Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, resulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyze the various causes of dam failures. Give two examples of large dam failures.

Environment & DM

10

What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful to a country like India?

Environment & DM

10

Winning 'Hearts and Minds' in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.

Internal Security

10

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat.

Internal Security

10

Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improvements.

Economy

15

Distinguish between 'care economy' and 'monetized economy'. How can the care economy be brought into the monetized economy through women empowerment?

Economy

15

Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in consumption patterns and marketing conditions.

Agriculture

15

What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to the farm sector in India? Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in relation to agricultural subsidies.

Agriculture

15

The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles?

Environment & DM

15

What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the 'Virtual Launch Control Centre' at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota.

Science & Tech

15

Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the Government of India and name a few of India’s wetlands of international importance included in the Ramsar Sites.

Environment & DM

15

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted a global sea level rise of about one meter by AD 2100. What would be its impact on India and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region?

Environment & DM

15

What are the internal security challenges faced by India? Give the role of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats.

Internal Security

15

Give the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the 'No Money for Terror' (NMPT) Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.

Internal Security

15

UPSC Mains GS 4 2024 Paper Analysis: Question-wise

Candidates can refer to the detailed question-wise discussion on UPSC Mains Paper 4 in the table available below:

Question

Section/Subject

Marks

What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency’ in the context of corporate governance of India? Illustrate with suitable examples.

Ethics – Theory

10

“International aid” is an accepted form of helping ‘resource-challenged’ nations. Comment on ethics in contemporary international aid. Support your answer with suitable examples.

Ethics – Theory

10

“Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in society.” In your opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values of society?

Ethics – Theory

10

In the context of the work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion’ and ‘undue influence’ with suitable examples.

Ethics – Theory

10

“The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Ethics – Theory

10

To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Once she is on the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation moves. – Jawahar Lal Nehru

Ethics – Theory

10

Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, completing the circle. – Swami Vivekananda

Ethics – Theory

10

What really matters success, character, happiness, and lifelong achievements are a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ – not just purely cognitive abilities that are measured by conventional IQ tests. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer.

Ethics – Theory

10

Differentiate moral intuition from moral reasoning with suitable examples.

Ethics – Theory

10

Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules, and regulations in the context of ethical decision-making? Discuss.

Ethics – Theory

10

Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic development.’ Discuss.

Ethics – Theory

10

What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.

Ethics – Theory

10

Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance?

Ethics – Theory

10

Ethics – Case Study 1

Ethics – Case Study

20

Ethics – Case Study 2

Ethics – Case Study

20

Ethics – Case Study 3

Ethics – Case Study

20

Ethics – Case Study 4

Ethics – Case Study

20

Ethics – Case Study 5

Ethics – Case Study

20

Ethics – Case Study 6

Ethics – Case Study

20

Top of Form

UPSC Civil Services Previous Year Paper Analysis

UPSC Prelims 2021 Analysis

The weightage of the UPSC Prelims 2021 Question Paper was almost equal for all the subjects. As per the analysis, UPSC Prelims Paper 1 saw a good number of questions from Polity and Economics. Ancient History had 3 questions. 

UPSC Prelims Analysis 2021 for GS Paper 1 

Check the distribution of questions in the UPSC Prelims Question Paper for GS Paper 1

Subject 

Number of Questions

History

20

Geography

10

Economics 

15

Polity

14

Environment and Ecology

15

Science and Tech

12

Current Affairs / Art and Culture

14

UPSC Prelims Analysis 2021 for GS Paper 2 [CSAT]

The CSAT 2021 Question paper was of moderate difficulty level.

Topics

Number of questions 

Data Sufficiency

6

Number System

9

Algebra

5

Average

4

Profit, Loss, and Discount

1

Percentage

1

Ratio

2

Time, Speed and Distance

1

Time and Work

1

Data Interpretation

2

Selection / Combination

2

Geometry / Mensuration

2

Directions

2

Statement/ Conclusion

3

Series

3

Ranking – DS

2

Row arrangement

1

Logical Puzzle

2

Clocks and Calendar

4

Single/Two Question RCs (Critical Reasoning Based)

27

Total

80

Also ReadList of NCERT Books Required for UPSC Preparation 2024

UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis  

The UPSC Mains (Written) Exam 2021 was conducted for a period of 5 days – 7th, 8th, 9th, 15th, and 16th January 2022. The points concluded after the UPSC Mains Analysis 2021 are:

  • The essay paper was philosophical and unpredictable.
  • UPSC Mains 2021 Paper was different from the previous year's trends.

UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis GS Paper 1

GS Paper I was a bit soothing, and the questions asked were on the expected lines. The weightage of the Geography questions was higher than the previous year's questions. Unexpectedly, a single question was asked from the Art & Culture section.

Subjects/Topics

Number of Questions asked

Society

5

(2 – 10 marks; 3 – 15 marks)

Geography

9

(5 – 10 marks; 4 – 15 marks)

Art & Culture

1

(1 – 10 marks)

Post Independence

1

(1 – 10 marks)

Modern India

3

(1 – 10 marks; 2 – 15 marks)

World History

1

(1 – 15 marks)

UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis GS Paper 2 

The GS Paper II was moderate to difficultly level. Current affairs-based questions were asked in the paper, along with polity and constitution sections were straightforward. The questions from social justice were a mix of both static and current affairs. 

Subjects/Topics

Number of Questions asked

Social Justice

4

(1 – 10 marks; 3 – 15 marks)

Polity & Constitution

10

(5 – 10 marks; 5 – 15 marks)

International Relations

4

(2 – 10 marks; 2 – 15 marks)

Governance

2

(2 – 10 marks)

UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis GS Paper 3

The GS Paper III was moderate to difficultly level. More focus was given to the environment and disaster management topics. A question from defense technology was asked this year, which was pretty uncommon. There was also a mix of concepts such as GDP, Budget, and Land Reforms.

Subjects/Topics

Number of Questions asked

Indian Economy & Agriculture

8

(4 – 10 marks; 4 – 15 marks)

Internal Security

4

(2 – 10 marks; 2 – 15 marks)

Environment & Disaster Management

5

(3 – 10 marks; 2 – 15 marks)

Science and Technology

3

(1 – 10 marks; 2 – 15 marks)

Also ReadUPSC CSE Mains Passing Marks 2024

UPSC Mains Exam 2021 Analysis GS Paper 4

The GS IV Paper had 12 questions in total in the 2021 Mains Paper. Section A had a moderate difficulty level. The question paper did not ask for basic theories but aimed to test the analytical skills and decision-making capability of the candidates. The questions were also asked from the emotional intelligence part of the syllabus.

The paper analysis of UPSC CSE 2024 Prelims and Mains will be completed after all the exams are successfully conducted by the exam conducting committee. Students can check the latest update related to UPSC CSE Paper Analysis 2024 here. Subject-wise and topic-wise paper analysis of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2024 will be updated within few days after the exam is conducted. 

Analysing the UPSC CSE Exam Pattern 2024, and doing an in-depth analysis of the previous year's question paper is very important to get an insight into the UPSC examination. This further helps a student in UPSC CSE Preparation 2024and eases the process of learning to appear in the national-level competitive examination.  Below mentioned articles will give you more insights regarding the important chapters of UPSC CSE, subject-wise weightage and more. 

Helpful Articles: 

For more information, keep exploring at CollegeDekho!

Want to know more about UPSC Civil Services

FAQs about UPSC Civil Services Exam Analysis

What is UPSC Paper Analysis?

The UPSC analysis is an essential step in the UPSC preparation, as it helps in organizing the systematic efforts to maximize the output. It helps to frame the right UPSC Preparation Strategy.

The UPSC IAS Prelims Analysis includes the complete UPSC prelims trend analysis, types of questions asked in the exam, the number of questions from each subject along with the difficulty level of the exam.

How many papers are there in UPSC Prelims?

UPSC Prelims comprises two objective type papers ( General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II/CSAT) carrying 400 marks. Each paper of Prelims will carry 200 marks and will be of 2 hours duration.

Is there any negative marking in UPSC Prelims?

Yes, for every wrong attempt you will be penalized by 1/3rd of the total marks allocated for that question in the UPSC Prelims exam. This negative marking is in both papers of IAS Prelims – General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT). However, no marks will be deducted for unanswered questions.

What is the pass mark for IAS?

Union Public Service Commission arrives at the cutoff for each category after the exam. The candidate needs to score more marks than their category cutoff to get selected.

Related Questions

What are the best books to prepare for UPSC CDS? What are the best coaching centers for UPSC CDS?

-SairamgorantlaUpdated on June 04, 2021 11:39 PM
  • 2 Answers
Jayita Ekka, CollegeDekho Expert

Dear Student,

Here are some of the best books to prepare for the Union Public Service Commission Combined Defence Services (UPSC CDS) exam:

  • NCERT Books - For History and Geography
  • High School English Grammar by Wren and Martin and Word Power Made Easy - For English
  • Pathfinder for CDS by Arihant
  • Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Agarwal

Apart from that, keep yourself updated with the latest GK and current affairs by regularly reading the newspaper. Reading the Pratiyogita Darpan magazine is also highly recommended for UPSC CDS aspirants.

You can also refer to our UPSC CDS exam preparation …

READ MORE...

How Can I be a CID officer?

-Manjeet kumarUpdated on August 17, 2020 08:05 PM
  • 1 Answer
Samiksha Rautela, Student / Alumni

Dear Student,

To become a CID officer, it is of utmost importance to fulfil the basic eligibility criteria or the career path. 

Mentioned below are ways that you can adopt to be a successful CID officer.

  • Join the police force as assistant police or a Hawaldar as per the qualification. Qualify the internal exams as it can help in joining the department of CID.

  • Pass the UPSC exam, after graduation (in any stream) and join the team of CID as an Assistant sub-inspector.

  • Clear the Graduation in criminology and qualify the UPSC exam. It also helps in joining the CID …

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