UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2026: Complete Paper 2 Topic List
The official UPSC CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) syllabus for Paper II covers 6 major sections testing aptitude, reasoning, and comprehension skills. This page provides the complete topic-wise breakdown with weightage analysis from PYQs and preparation tips for each section.
CSAT Paper 2: Exam Pattern 2026
| Paper Name | CSAT (General Studies Paper II) |
| Total Questions | 80 |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Marks per Question | 2.5 marks |
| Negative Marking | 0.833 marks (1/3rd of 2.5) |
| Duration | 2 hours (120 minutes) |
| Nature | Qualifying (33% = 66 marks needed) |
| Medium | Hindi and English |
| Mode | Offline (OMR-based) |
Important: CSAT is a qualifying paper. Marks scored in Paper II are NOT added to the merit list. You only need to cross the 33% threshold (66/200 marks).
CSAT Syllabus: Section-wise Breakdown
1. Reading Comprehension
Comprehension of English language passages
Topics
- Inference from passages
- Main idea and title identification
- Author's tone and attitude
- Vocabulary in context
- Fact vs inference distinction
- Passage summary
2. Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
Analytical ability, reasoning, problem solving
Topics
- Statements and assumptions
- Statements and conclusions
- Cause and effect
- Syllogisms (Venn diagrams)
- Series completion (number, letter, figure)
- Coding-decoding
- Blood relations
- Direction sense
- Seating arrangements
- Input-output machines
3. Quantitative Aptitude & Basic Numeracy
Class X level arithmetic and quantitative skills
Topics
- Number system (LCM, HCF, factors)
- Percentage and profit/loss
- Ratio and proportion
- Average, mixture and alligation
- Simple and compound interest
- Time-speed-distance
- Time and work
- Algebra basics (linear equations)
- Geometry (area, perimeter, volume)
4. Data Interpretation
Interpretation and analysis of data in graphs, charts, tables
Topics
- Bar charts (single and grouped)
- Pie charts
- Line graphs
- Tables and matrix data
- Combination charts
- Data sufficiency
5. Decision Making & Problem Solving
Situational judgment and decision making
Topics
- Administrative dilemmas
- Ethical decision making
- Priority setting in crisis situations
- Interpersonal conflict resolution
6. General Mental Ability
Mental ability and problem solving
Topics
- Analogies
- Number analogies
- Odd one out
- Pattern recognition
- Figure-based reasoning
CSAT Syllabus: Frequently Asked Questions
Is CSAT difficult for non-engineering students?
Not at all. CSAT is Class X level mathematics with focus on Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension. Arts and Humanities students often perform better on RC and Decision Making sections, which together constitute 35-45% of the paper. The key is consistent timed practice rather than advanced mathematical preparation.
Has the CSAT syllabus changed recently?
The official UPSC CSAT syllabus has remained consistent since 2013. Minor difficulty variations occur year to year, but the topic structure, exam pattern, and 33% qualifying cutoff have not changed.
Which books are best for CSAT preparation?
The most recommended books are: TMH CSAT Manual, Arihant CSAT, and RS Aggarwal for Quantitative Aptitude. However, previous year papers (PYQs) are more important than any book; they show you exactly what UPSC expects.
How much time should I allocate to CSAT preparation?
Most aspirants with average mathematical background need 30-45 days of dedicated preparation, practicing 2-3 hours daily. If you are strong in English and logical reasoning, you may clear the cutoff with 15-20 days of focused PYQ practice.