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UPSC Prelims 2026: Unconventional Exam Format Challenges Aspirants
UPSC Prelims 2026 Analysis: Unconventional GS Paper Leaves Aspirants Stunned, and Lengthy CSAT Expected to Lower Cutoff
Jagran Josh
Image: Jagran Josh
The UPSC Prelims 2026, held on May 24, featured an unconventional General Studies Paper and a lengthy Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), leaving aspirants stunned. The exam emphasized analytical skills and deep conceptual understanding, leading to expectations of lower cutoff marks due to its challenging nature.
- 01The General Studies Paper 1 included unexpected questions on administrative decision-making and ethics, shifting away from traditional rote learning.
- 02The CSAT was notably lengthy and complex, prioritizing logical reasoning and calculation speed over memorized shortcuts.
- 03Subject-wise trends showed a significant decrease in Polity questions, while Economy questions focused on digital and sustainable concepts.
- 04Experts predict a potential drop in the cutoff for the General Category, possibly matching the lowest cutoff of 71.41 from 2023.
- 05Candidates who demonstrated composure and analytical skills are expected to perform better in this year's examination.
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The UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2026, conducted on May 24, introduced a challenging format that left 5.49 lakh aspirants across India taken aback. The General Studies Paper 1 featured analytical and ethics-based questions, moving away from conventional preparation methods. The lengthy Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) added to the challenge, focusing on logical reasoning and calculation speed. This year's exam emphasized deep conceptual understanding over rote memorization, particularly in subjects like Economy, where questions reflected current digital trends. The number of questions from Polity decreased significantly, while History and Culture saw a shift towards complex themes. Experts anticipate a decline in the qualifying cutoff, potentially aligning with the last recorded low of 71.41 in 2023. Overall, candidates who maintained composure and analytical skills are likely to succeed in this unpredictable examination.
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The unconventional format of the UPSC Prelims 2026 is expected to affect the preparation strategies of future candidates.
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