Prelims GS Paper 1 2025, Question Paper, Answer Key, GS Paper PYQs PDF

Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 plays a key role in the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination (Prelims), specifically General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I), is concluded on May 25, 2025. This paper is the first hurdle that aspirants must clear to proceed to the Mains examination. Alongside the General Studies Paper 2 (CSAT), the UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 is designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge across a broad spectrum of subjects. It is crucial for candidates to understand the structure, syllabus, and preparation strategy for Prelims GS Paper 1 to enhance their chances of success.

Interested candidates must read on to get a detailed overview of the Prelims GS Paper 1, including the syllabus, importance, access to the official question papers, and downloadable resources.

Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 Overview

The Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 Overview provides essential insights into the structure, pattern, and subjects covered in the examination. It is conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based) and comprises 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2 marks, making it a total of 200 marks. There is a negative marking of 1/3rd of the marks for every incorrect answer.

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Candidates must note that the marks secured in the Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 will determine whether they qualify for the Mains examination. However, these marks will not be counted in the final merit list.

Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 PDF Out

The Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 was conducted in the first shift from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM on May 25, 2025. Candidates can download the question paper from the link provided below. We have made the unofficial question paper PDF available as a reference for those who appeared for the exam;

Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 Answer Key Out 

The official Prelims Answer Key 2025 will be published by UPSC only after the final results of the Civil Services Examination are declared. However, the examination has been completed now, we have released the provisional Prelims GS Paper 1 2025 Answer Key for reference. Candidates should refer to the official Prelims 2025 Answer Key for an accurate assessment.

Note: It is important to note that only the official answer key is considered final and authoritative. Aspirants are advised to refrain from relying solely on unofficial keys for calculating their probable scores and making conclusions about their performance.

Accessing the Prelims 2024 GS Paper 1 PDF

Practising with actual question papers is one of the most effective preparation strategies. The Prelims GS Paper 1 PDF from UPSC Prelims 2024 is now available for download. These PDFs allow aspirants to analyse the pattern, evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and align their preparation accordingly.

Prelims GS Paper 1 Download PDF links are available set-wise:

Last 5 Years UPSC Prelims GS Paper 1 PDFs

Analysing the previous years’ papers can significantly enhance preparation. We recommend candidates go through at least the last five years of Prelims GS Paper 1 and CSAT papers. This helps in:

• Understanding the evolving pattern and trends
  
• Identifying frequently asked topics
  
• Practising time-bound question-solving

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All these benefits collectively improve both preparation and confidence.

Subjects Covered in Prelims GS Paper 1

The Prelims GS Paper 1 encompasses a diverse range of subjects, testing the candidate’s knowledge and analytical abilities. Below is a detailed categorisation of the topics covered:

1. History

• Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History
• Indian National Movement
• Indian Art & Culture

2. Geography

• Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World
• World Geography and Mapping

3. Polity

• Indian Constitution
• Governance and Political System
• Public Policy and Rights Issues

4. Economy

• Indian Economic Development
• Economic Reforms
• Fiscal and Monetary Policies
• Current Economic Affairs

5. Environment and Ecology

• Climate Change and Biodiversity
• Environmental Policies
• Sustainable Development

6. Science and Technology

• Recent Developments and Innovations
• Applications of Technology in Various Sectors
• Space and Defence Technologies

7. Current Affairs

• National and International Events
• Government Schemes and Policies
• Important Organisations and Reports

Exam Pattern of Prelims GS Paper 1

The Prelims GS Paper 1 follows a structured and objective format, aimed at assessing a candidate’s broad knowledge across diverse subjects. It includes 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying equal weightage. The paper is conducted in offline mode with a strict duration of 2 hours.

Below is a detailed overview of the exam pattern:

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