How Many Questions in UPSC Prelims Paper I and CSAT Are Asked?
Sheetal Gaur28 May, 2025
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How many questions in UPSC Prelims are asked in Paper 1 and CSAT? It is the most frequently asked question by UPSC aspirants. The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2025 was held on May 25th, 2025, and consisted of two papers: Paper 1 (General Studies) and Paper 2 (CSAT or Civil Services Aptitude Test).
Paper 1 consisted of 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2 marks, totaling 200 marks. Paper 2 (CSAT) had 80 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2.5 marks, also totaling 200 marks. Read on to check out the detailed overview of the number of questions asked in the UPSC Prelims, along with strategic advice on how many questions to attempt in UPSC Prelims for a better score.
Number of Questions in UPSC Prelims 2025
The UPSC Prelims had a total of 180 questions. Paper 1 (General Studies) includes 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each worth 2 marks, adding up to 200 marks. Paper 2, the CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test), has 80 questions, each carrying 2.5 marks, for also total of 200 marks. However, Paper 2 is a qualifying paper, meaning you need at least 33% to clear it. Here’s a breakdown of both papers to answer the question of how many questions are asked in the UPSC Prelims:| Number of Questions in UPSC Prelims Exam | |||||
| Paper | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Marks per Question | Negative Marking | Minimum Passing Marks |
| General Studies Paper I | 100 | 200 | 2 | 0.66 | As per the Prelims Cut-Off |
| CSAT (General Studies Paper II) | 80 | 200 | 2.5 | 0.83 | 66 (33%) |
How Many Questions to Attempt in UPSC Prelims?
Achieving a high score in UPSC Prelims requires a blend of accuracy and a well-considered approach to the number of attempts. In the UPSC Prelims, the number of questions you should attempt depends on various factors like your preparation, time management, and accuracy. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, aspirants should aim to attempt enough questions to comfortably clear the expected cutoff while minimizing the risk of negative marking for the 2025 Prelims exam. Here is your answer to how many questions to attempt in UPSC prelims:Strategy for General Studies - Paper I
- Total Questions: 100
- Recommended Attempts: Aim to attempt around 80-85 questions with accuracy depending on the difficulty level.
In the UPSC Prelims Paper 1, it’s important to prioritize accuracy over quantity. Don’t attempt questions you are unsure about, as negative marking can hurt your score. Focus on questions where you are confident, and try to eliminate obvious wrong options.
Strategy for CSAT - Paper II
- Total Questions: 80
- Recommended Attempts: Attempt around 50-55 questions, depending on the difficulty level.
Since Paper 2 is qualifying, candidates who are wondering how many questions to attempt in the UPSC Prelims CSAT only need to score 33% (around 66 marks) to clear it. Ensure you focus on questions you can solve quickly and accurately, especially in areas like reasoning and mathematics.
Section-Wise Questions in UPSC Prelims 2025
Breaking down the number of questions subject-wise helps candidates prioritize their study and revision plan. Below is a table detailing the subject-wise distribution of the number of questions that were asked in UPSC prelims:General Studies Paper I:
In GS Paper 1, a total of 100 questions can be divided into the following subjects:
| Subject | Number of Questions |
| Ancient India | 6 |
| Medieval India | 2 |
| Modern India | 9 |
| Art & Culture | 1 |
| Indian Polity | 14 |
| Indian Economy | 14 |
| Environment | 7 |
| Geography | 13 |
| Science & Technology | 13 |
| Current Affairs & Miscellaneous | 23 |
| Total | 100 |
General Studies Paper II (CSAT):
Here is section-wise distribution of a total of 80 questions asked in the CSAT paper:
| Section | Questions |
| Reasoning Ability | 17 |
| Reading Comprehension | 29 |
| Numerical Ability | 34 |
| Total | 80 |
To sum up, the UPSC Prelims 2025 exam consists of 180 questions: 100 in General Studies Paper I and 80 in CSAT. With a strategic approach and careful selection of questions to attempt, you can significantly increase your chances of clearing both papers. Focus on accuracy, manage your time efficiently, and prioritize subjects based on your strengths to achieve success in the exam.
Candidates can also enroll in Physics Wallah Online UPSC batches that offer a strategic approach to tackling the UPSC Prelims. Hurry up!
How Many Questions in UPSC Prelims FAQs
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