UPSC Mains Exam Date 2024 Out: 20th to 29th September, Check Subject-wise Time Table
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially announced the UPSC Mains Exam Date 2024, scheduled from 20th to 29th September 2024. This crucial stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) will determine the eligibility of candidates for various prestigious positions in All India Services and Central Civil Services. Here's a detailed analysis of the UPSC Mains 2024 schedule, exam pattern, and essential preparation tips.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to UPSC Mains Exam 2024
- UPSC Mains Exam Date 2024: Overview
- Detailed UPSC Mains Exam Time Table 2024
- UPSC Mains Exam Pattern 2024
- How to Prepare for UPSC Mains 2024
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Introduction to UPSC Mains Exam 2024
The UPSC Civil Services Exam is an annual national-level exam that recruits eligible candidates for various prestigious positions across India. It consists of three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The Mains examination is the second and most crucial stage, conducted for candidates who have successfully qualified in the Preliminary exam. This descriptive exam assesses a candidate's in-depth understanding of various subjects, analytical ability, and writing skills.
For the 2024 session, 14,627 candidates have cleared the UPSC Prelims and are eligible to appear in the Mains exam. The total marks from the Mains and the subsequent interview will determine the final merit list.
2. UPSC Mains Exam Date 2024: Overview
The UPSC Mains Exam 2024 is scheduled over five days: 20th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, and 29th September 2024. Each day will have two shifts: the morning session from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and the afternoon session from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The detailed schedule for the exam is as follows:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UPSC Mains Admit Card | 2nd week of September 2024 |
| UPSC Mains Exam Date | 20th, 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th September 2024 |
3. Detailed UPSC Mains Exam Time Table 2024
Here is the subject-wise timetable for the UPSC Mains Exam 2024:
| Date/Day | Morning Session (9:00 am to 12:00 noon) | Afternoon Session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm) |
|---|---|---|
| 20th September 2024 (Friday) | Paper-I: Essay | - |
| 21st September 2024 (Saturday) | Paper-II: General Studies-I | Paper-III: General Studies-II |
| 22nd September 2024 (Sunday) | Paper-IV: General Studies-III | Paper-V: General Studies-IV |
| 28th September 2024 (Saturday) | Paper-A: Indian Language | Paper-B: English |
| 29th September 2024 (Sunday) | Paper-VI: Optional Subject-Paper 1 | Paper-VII: Optional Subject-Paper 2 |
4. UPSC Mains Exam Pattern 2024
The UPSC Mains Exam 2024 consists of nine papers, each lasting three hours. The exam is descriptive and covers various subjects, including General Studies, Essay, Indian Language, English, and optional subjects chosen by the candidates. Here’s a breakdown of the exam pattern:
| Papers | Subjects | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Any Indian language (Compulsory – Qualifying) | 300 | 3 hours |
| Paper B | English (Qualifying) | 300 | 3 hours |
| Paper I | Essay | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper II | General Studies I (Indian and World History, Culture, Geography) | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper III | General Studies II (Polity, Governance, International Relations) | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper IV | General Studies III (Economic Development, Technology, Environment) | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper V | General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude) | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper VI | Optional Subject: Paper 1 | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper VII | Optional Subject: Paper 2 | 250 | 3 hours |
The optional subjects range from Humanities to Science and Engineering disciplines, allowing candidates to choose a subject that best suits their academic background and strengths.
5. How to Prepare for UPSC Mains 2024
Preparing for the UPSC Mains Exam requires a strategic approach, rigorous practice, and consistency. Here are some key preparation tips:
Revise the Syllabus Thoroughly: Focus on understanding the core concepts of each subject rather than rote memorization. Keep revising to retain information effectively.
Practice Answer Writing: The Mains exam tests not only your knowledge but also your ability to articulate it clearly within a limited time. Regular answer writing practice will improve your speed, accuracy, and presentation skills.
Focus on Optional Subjects: Choose an optional subject you are comfortable with and can score well. Delve deep into the syllabus and practice writing answers specific to this subject.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and trusted online sources to stay updated on national and international events. Relate current events to the topics in the General Studies papers.
Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers: Regular mock tests help you assess your preparation level, identify weak areas, and improve time management. Review previous years' papers to understand the type of questions asked.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the UPSC Mains Exam Date 2024?
The UPSC Mains Exam 2024 is scheduled from 20th to 29th September 2024.
Q2. In how many shifts will the UPSC CSE Mains Exam 2024 be conducted?
The exam will be conducted in two shifts: the morning session (9:00 am to 12:00 noon) and the afternoon session (2:30 pm to 5:30 pm).
Q3. How many papers are there in the UPSC Mains Exam?
There are nine papers in the UPSC Mains Exam, including one essay, four general studies, two optional subject papers, and two qualifying language papers.
Q4. Who will conduct the UPSC Mains Exam 2024?
The UPSC Mains Exam 2024 is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the official body responsible for recruiting candidates for All India Services and Central Civil Services.
Conclusion
With the UPSC Mains Exam 2024 approaching, it is imperative for aspirants to revise strategically and focus on areas that can maximize their scores. Utilize this time efficiently, practice writing, and keep updated with current affairs to excel in this prestigious examination. Good luck!