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Important Topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024

It is essential to devote sufficient time to preparing Geography for UPSC Mains 2024. Focus on important topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024 to get an edge in the exam.
authorImageDeeksha Dixit18 Sept, 2024
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Important Topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024

Geography for UPSC Mains 2024: Geography is a crucial subject in the UPSC Mains examination, as evident in the previous year's questions. Over the years, this subject has been one of the most dominant sections in the UPSC Mains GS 1 Paper . Therefore, candidates must prepare geography well for the upcoming exam.

Candidates can improve their scores by thoroughly understanding the important topics in the Geography section of the General Studies Paper I. Read on to discover the most important topics of geography for UPSC Mains 2024 and effective strategies to approach this subject.

Important Topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024

As the UPSC Mains 2024 exam approaches, aspirants must ensure that they have studied all topics of Geography. However, its vast syllabus makes it essential to strategize the preparation effectively. For this, prioritize important topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024 to make the most of the available time. Here is a list of the most important Geography topics for Mains 2024, as per their relevance and geography weightage in UPSC Mains. Understanding these important topics of geography for UPSC can significantly enhance your preparation:
Important Topics in Geography for UPSC Mains 2024
Topics Subtopics
Geomorphology Interior of the Earth, Types and Characteristics of Rocks, Folding and Faulting, Volcanoes, Earthquakes
Climatology Atmosphere, Pressure Belts, Wind Systems, Cyclones and Anti-cyclones, Major Climatic Types
Oceanography Ocean Relief, Salinity, Ocean Deposits, Ocean Currents, El Niño and La Niña, Waves and Tides
Geographical Changes Changes in Critical Geographical Features (including Water-bodies and Ice-caps) and Flora and Fauna and the Effects of Such Changes
Human Geography Man & Environment, Population, Settlements, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Industries, Tertiary Activities
Biogeography Soil, Major Biomes of the World, Ecosystems.
Miscellaneous Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World, Distribution of Key Natural Resources, Industrial Location Factors

To revise these topics before the exam, refer to the Prahaar Geography PDF 2024 . This comprehensive resource provides quick insights into key concepts, making it easier to grasp important topics effectively. Using this PDF will help solidify your understanding and boost your confidence as you get ready for the UPSC Mains.

How to Study Geography for UPSC Mains?

Since the syllabus is huge, effective preparation is of utmost importance as you study Geography for UPSC Mains. You can follow these strategies by toppers while approaching the Geography for Mains:
  • Refer to Standard Textbooks: Relying solely on NCERTs for UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 is not recommended. Supplement your preparation with standard resources like GC Leong the PWONLYIAS UPSC Wallah Geography Mains Book and the PWONLYIAS PRAHAAR Geography Booklet for in-depth preparation.
  • Visual Learning: Geography is one of those subjects that requires visual aids for effective preparation, therefore utilize PW OnlyIAS videos to develop a comprehensive understanding of topics.
  • Practice Maps: Enhance your knowledge of the location of physical features, ocean currents, location factors, etc. with the help of Maps. You should also learn to enrich your answers by incorporating Maps in answers.
  • Integrate Current Affairs: Relate current affairs to geography topics. For instance, link environmental issues to conservation strategies, natural disasters to physical geography, and issues like climate change to geological phenomena.
  • Practice Answer Writing: Regular answer writing practice is crucial to score well in this subject. Enroll in the PW UPSC Mains test series to learn how to write concise, coherent, and well-structured answers. Use diagrams, maps, and flowcharts to enhance the quality of your answers.
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Geography Previous Year Questions in UPSC Mains

Every year, 7 to 8 questions from Geography have been consistently featured in the UPSC Mains GS I Paper. For instance, in the UPSC Mains 2023 exam, around 8 questions were asked in the Geography subject, covering a wide range of topics such as physical geography, human geography, and environmental geography. Analyze these Geography Mains PYQs from 2023 to get insights into the level of depth required in the answers:
Geography Previous Year Questions in UPSC Mains
Questions Word Limit Marks
Q1. Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries. 150 words 10 Marks
Q2. Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources? 150 words 10 Marks
Q3. How are the Fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most picturesque areas of the world? 150 words 10 Marks
Q4. 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? 150 words 10 Marks
Q5. Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastlines of India and highlight the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. 250 words 15 Marks
Q6. Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rainforest regions of India. 250 words 15 Marks
Q7. Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in India? 250 words 15 Marks
Q8. From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons. 250 words 15 Marks
Click Here for Solved Geography Questions from UPSC Mains
Click Here to Download our Exclusive Free Material PRAHAAR(MainsWallah) for UPSC Mains 2024
Click Here to Download Free High-Quality Solutions for all UPSC Mains PYQs for 2024
Practice answer writing for UPSC Mains 2024.  Join the PW UPSC Course to get expert guidance at every step of your preparation!

Geography for UPSC Mains 2024 FAQs

Which topic is important in geography for UPSC Mains 2024?

Important topics in geography for UPSC Mains 2024 include Geomorphology, Climatology, Oceanography, Human Geography, Biogeography, and Geological Changes.

Is NCERT enough to prepare geography for UPSC Mains?

NCERT is a good starting point, but supplement with standard resources like GC Leong and PWONLYIAS UPSC Wallah Geography Mains Book for comprehensive preparation.

How to complete the geography syllabus for UPSC Mains?

Follow a structured study plan, utilize visual aids, and practice maps, integrate current affairs, and engage in regular answer writing practice.

How much time is required to prepare geography for UPSC Mains?

Preparation time varies, but generally, dedicating 2-3 months with consistent study and revision should be adequate to cover the geography syllabus thoroughly.

Which part of geography is important for UPSC Mains 2024?

For UPSC Mains 2024, focus on physical geography, human geography, Indian geography, and world geography, including key themes like climate, resources, and environmental issues.
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