📝 Notes
English Medium
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Data-driven analysis of UPSC Prelims question distribution and a structured preparation approach for all sections.
UPSC Prelims Strategy — Smart Preparation Guide
Subject-wise Weightage (last 5 years average)
- History + Art & Culture: 18–22 questions
- Geography: 12–15 questions
- Polity & Governance: 12–15 questions
- Economy: 10–14 questions
- Environment & Ecology: 12–16 questions
- Science & Technology: 8–12 questions
- Current Affairs: 15–20 questions
Priority Books for Prelims
- History: NCERT Class 6–12 + Spectrum Modern History
- Geography: NCERT Class 6–12 + GC Leong (Physical Geography)
- Polity: Laxmikant (complete)
- Economy: NCERT Class 9–12 + Ramesh Singh (selective chapters)
- Environment: Shankar IAS Environment book
- Current Affairs: The Hindu / Indian Express (daily), Vision IAS monthly magazine
Cut-off Strategy
UPSC Prelims cut-off for General category typically ranges between 90–110 marks out of 200. To be safe, target 115–125 marks. With negative marking (1/3 deducted), only attempt questions you are 70%+ confident about.