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How many paper in UPSC mains? UPSC Mains exam consists of 8 descriptive papers. This includes 4 General Studies (GS) papers, 1 Essay paper, 2 Language papers, and 1 optional subject paper. The total marks for the Mains exam are 1750. Each paper is designed to test different skills, such as knowledge, analytical ability, and writing skills. Read this blog to learn know how many paper in UPSC Mains and UPSC Mains exam pattern. Also, you will explore each of the nine papers in detail.
Table of Contents
How Many Papers are there in UPSC Mains?
How many paper in UPSC mains? UPSC Mains examination consists of a total of nine papers which includes 4 General Studies (GS) papers, 1 Essay paper, 2 Language papers, and 1 paper on an optional subject.
Here is a table listing the total number of papers in the UPSC Mains exam, including both qualifying and merit-based papers:
Qualifying Papers
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Paper Name | Description | Marks |
| Paper 1 | One of the Indian Languages | Tests the ability to write essays and basic language skills (selected from Eighth Schedule). | 300 |
| Paper 2 | English | Evaluates comprehension, précis writing, and communication skills in English. | 300 |
Merit-Based Papers
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Paper Name | Description | Marks |
| Paper 3 | Essay | Candidates write two essays, assessing coherence and expressiveness. | 250 |
| Paper 4 | General Studies Paper I | Covers Indian Heritage, Culture, History, Geography, Governance, Constitution, and International Relations. | 250 |
| Paper 5 | General Studies Paper II | Focuses on Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations. | 250 |
| Paper 6 | General Studies Paper III | Covers Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management. | 250 |
| Paper 7 | General Studies Paper IV | Tests Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude, assessing moral dimensions and aptitude for civil services. | 250 |
| Paper 8 | Optional Subject Paper I | Assesses in-depth knowledge of the chosen optional subject. | 250 |
| Paper 9 | Optional Subject Paper II | Focuses on deeper understanding and analysis of the chosen optional subject. | 250 |
Language Papers
Language papers in UPSC test the candidate’s ability to write essays, comprehend passages, write précis, and showcase grammar skills. They are qualifying in nature and focus on language proficiency.
Refer to the table to understand the structure of language papers in detail:
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Paper Name | Description | Marks | Qualifying Marks |
| Paper A | Indian Language | Tests the ability to write essays and understand the selected Indian language. | 300 | 75 (25%) |
| Paper B | English | Evaluates comprehension, précis writing, and communication skills in English. | 300 | 75 (25%) |
Essay Paper
The Essay paper (250 marks) tests the candidate’s ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and coherently. Candidates are usually given a choice of topics covering various themes.
Refer to the table to understand the structure of essay paper in detail :
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Details |
| Essay Paper Structure | – Total of 250 marks (125 marks each for two essays) – 1,000 to 1,200 words per essay- Three-hour duration for the paper |
| Writing Approach | – Focus on diversity of content – Clarity, depth, and simple language – Address counter-arguments and provide evidence |
| Essay Format | – Introduction: Outline the main argument – Body: Structured paragraphs for specific points- Conclusion: Summarise and provide a closing thought |
General Studies Papers
The four General Studies papers form the core of the Mains examination, each carrying 250 marks.Each paper tries to touch different aspects of general knowledge .Refer to this table to understand the pattern of general studies paper in detail:
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Title | Key Topics |
| Paper 2 | General Studies 1 | Indian Heritage and Culture, History, Geography of the World, Society |
| Paper 3 | General Studies 2 | Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, International Relations |
| Paper 4 | General Studies 3 | Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, Disaster Management |
| Paper 5 | General Studies 4 | Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude |
These papers require a comprehensive understanding of various subjects and current affairs.
How Many Paper in UPSC Mains?: Optional Subject Papers
The last two papers are on the optional subject chosen by the candidate:
- Paper 6: Optional Subject Paper 1 (250 marks)
- Paper 7: Optional Subject Paper 2(250 marks)
Candidates can choose from a list of 48 subjects, ranging from traditional academic disciplines to professional subjects.
Here is a table highlighting important points regarding UPSC Optional Subjects:
| Aspect | Details |
| Total Optional Subjects | 48 (25 core subjects + 22 literature optional) |
| Popular Optional Subjects | – History – Geography – Public Administration – Political Science and IR |
| Importance | Allows candidates to showcase expertise, aligns with academic strengths, and enhances confidence. |
| Success Rates | – Geography: 5.5% – Sociology: 10% – Public Administration: 8.2% – Political Science: 8.2% – History: 6.8% – Other subjects vary significantly. |
| Preparation Tips | 1. Familiarise with the syllabus. 2. Use standard study materials. 3. Practice answer writing. 4. Integrate current affairs. 5. Analyse previous papers. 6. Seek expert guidance. |
Latest UPSC Mains Exam Pattern
How many paper in UPSC mains? All nine papers of the UPSC Mains exam are descriptive in nature. Each paper, including the language papers, has a duration of 3 hours. Each paper plays an important role in assessing different aspects of a candidate’s knowledge and skills. With thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the exam pattern, aspirants can approach the UPSC Mains with confidence and increase their chances of success. The total marks for the Mains examination add up to 1750. Here in this table, we have explained the entire UPSC Mains exam pattern:
| How Many Paper in UPSC Mains? | Details | Marks |
| Paper I | Essay Paper | 250 |
| Paper II | General Studies I | 250 |
| Paper III | General Studies II | 250 |
| Paper IV | General Studies III | 250 |
| Paper V | General Studies IV | 250 |
| Paper VI | Optional Subject I | 250 |
| Paper VII | Optional Subject II | 250 |
| Written Examination | Total | 1750 |
Preparation Tips for UPSC Mains Exam
While the number of papers may seem daunting, a systematic approach to studying and regular practice in answer writing can help you pass this exam with flying colours. Here are some topper-suggested tips and tricks to help you clear this exam in one go:
- Understand the UPSC Mains syllabus thoroughly. This will help you prioritise topics and avoid missing important areas.
- Integrate current affairs into your answers. Demonstrate your awareness of contemporary issues to make your responses more relevant and insightful.
- Practice writing essays and answers regularly. This will improve your speed, clarity, and articulation, as well as help you structure your responses effectively.
- Take full-length UPSC mock tests. These tests will help you build stamina, improve time management, and identify areas where you need to improve.
- Revise key concepts, current affairs, and optional subjects regularly. This will keep the information fresh in your mind and make it easier to recall during the exam.
FAQs
The UPSC exam consists of the following 9 papers:
– Essay
– General Studies 1
– General Studies 2
– General Studies 3
– General Studies 4
– Optional Subject Paper 1
– Optional Subject Paper 2
– Language Paper (Qualifying)
– English Paper (Qualifying)
Paper 3 in UPSC Mains is General Studies 3, focusing on Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management, assessing candidates’ understanding of these crucial areas.
Paper 1 is General Studies 1, covering Indian Heritage and Culture, History, Geography of the World, and Society. Paper 2 is General Studies 2, focused on Governance, Constitution, Polity, and Social Justice.
There are 8 papers in UPSC Mains.
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