UPSC 2012 Civil Service Prelims: Exam Pattern Analysis (Paper-II)

PAPER – II : CSAT

This paper consisted of total 80 questions. With 36 questions in comprehension skills, we can say that this was the area of focus. Background knowledge of basic physics & general knowledge was required for the questions on Aptitude.  “Interpersonal Skills and Decision making” had no negative marking. Hence, it would be wise to attempt all the questions in this section.

Analysis Paper II - GS

This year Comprehension had the maximum number of questions with 46 % covering the section. Logical Reasoning and analytical Ability followed next with 25%. English Language Comprehension and Decision Making covered almost 9 % of the section. This year Non Verbal Reasoning was introduced 6% of the questions were from this section. Basic Numeracy and Data Interpretation had the least number of questions.

2011 vs 2012

There are significant changes in the paper-II compared to last year. First is the entry of Non-Verbal Reasoning. Mati-Gati learning does offer this section. So UPSC 2013 aspirants can check it out. Another noticeable difference is the drastic reduction in Numeracy questions. Decision Making has pretty much the same weight. Comprehension and Logical Reasoning have greater weightage this year.

Analysis of Paper - I