What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)?

The UPSC CSE is India’s most prestigious exam conducted to recruit IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Group A & B officers. It has three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview.

Who is eligible to apply for UPSC CSE?

Any graduate between 21–32 years of age (with relaxation for reserved categories) can apply. Both final-year students and professionals are eligible.

How many attempts are allowed in UPSC?

General: 6 attempts (till 32 years); OBC(NCL): 9 attempts (till 35 years); SC/ST: Unlimited attempts (till 37 years).

What is the exam pattern of UPSC?

Prelims: Objective (GS & CSAT); Mains: 9 Descriptive Papers (Essay, 4 GS, 2 Optional, 2 Qualifying Language Papers); Interview/Personality Test: Final stage.

How should a beginner start UPSC preparation?

For self-learners: Start with NCERTs (Class 6–12), followed by standard reference books, daily newspaper reading, and consistent answer writing practice. Students associated with 'UnderStand UPSC': Follow the guidance provided by the team of mentors led by Satyam Jain Sir.

Which books are best for UPSC preparation?

Polity: Laxmikanth; History: Spectrum + NCERTs; Geography: NCERT + GC Leong; Economy: Ramesh Singh + Current Affairs; Environment: Majid Husain.

Is coaching necessary for UPSC?

Not compulsory. With the right strategy, self-discipline, and resources, many toppers have cleared UPSC without coaching. Coaching, however, can provide structured guidance.

How important is Current Affairs in UPSC?

Extremely important. Questions in Prelims, Mains, and Interviews are linked to current issues. Reading newspapers like The Hindu/Indian Express or using monthly compilations is essential.

How much time is required to prepare for UPSC?

On average, 1.5 to 2 years of focused preparation with 8–10 hours daily study is ideal. Consistency matters more than duration.

What is the role of NCERTs in UPSC preparation?

NCERTs build strong conceptual clarity in subjects like History, Geography, Polity, and Economy. They are the foundation of UPSC preparation.

How can I manage UPSC preparation with a job?

Follow a time-blocking strategy, prioritize weekends for deep study, and focus on smart notes & revision. Many working professionals have successfully cleared UPSC.

Does UPSC preparation require English medium only?

No. UPSC allows candidates to write Mains in any of the 22 scheduled languages. Many toppers have cleared UPSC in Hindi and regional languages.

What is the cut-off for UPSC Prelims (General Category)?

The cut-off changes every year but usually ranges between 75–98 marks depending on difficulty, vacancies, and number of applicants.

How should I prepare for UPSC answer writing?

Practice daily or weekly answer writing, focus on structure (Intro–Body–Conclusion), and include facts, examples, and current affairs.

Where can I get free UPSC resources?

You can download NCERTs, UPSC Previous Year Papers, Daily Current Affairs PDFs, and Notes for free from the Understand UPSC Free Resources section.

Is CSAT qualifying in UPSC Prelims?

Yes. Candidates need to score at least 33% (66 marks) in CSAT to qualify.

What is the exam pattern of UPSC Prelims?

Two papers: General Studies (200 marks) and CSAT (200 marks, qualifying). Both are objective type.

What is UnderStand UPSC and how is it different from other coaching institutes?

UnderStand UPSC is a mentorship-driven EdTech platform for UPSC aspirants focusing on personalized guidance, affordability, and credibility — unlike traditional coaching setups.

What courses do you offer for UPSC preparation?

We offer Conquer Program (Mains Mentorship), UpSurge Mains Test Series, Transform (Foundation), CSAT by Saransh Gupta Sir, Prelims MAD Execute, Prelims Test Series, Answer Writing Programs, and Optional Subject Mentorship.

How does the mentorship program work?

Each group on Telegram is assigned a mentor who reviews test copies, provides feedback, tracks progress, and conducts sessions via Zoom or Google Meet.

Do you provide online or offline classes?

Yes, both modes are available. Offline has limited seats; online ensures access across India with live mentorship and test feedback.

How can I enroll in a course?

You can register via our website (www.understandupsc.com), mobile app, or contact team. Enrolled students receive LMS access with all resources.

Do you provide free resources?

Yes. Free resources include NCERT PDFs, UPSC Academic Calendar, Syllabus, PYQs, and Daily Current Affairs — available in the Free Resources Section.

How do your test series work?

Our test series mirror UPSC standards, are evaluated by mentors, and come with personalized feedback to ensure continuous improvement.

What is the fee structure for your programs?

Fees vary by program but are designed to remain affordable while maintaining quality. Check the latest pricing on the Courses Page.

Can working professionals also join your programs?

Yes. Our mentorship is flexible and personalized, helping working aspirants balance jobs with preparation.

Do you provide guidance for the UPSC Interview/Personality Test?

Yes. We conduct mock interviews, DAF-based guidance, and personality development under the ANTIM-PAG program.

Do you provide study material and notes?

Yes. Students receive curated notes, strategic value additions, and daily/weekly study targets complementing NCERTs and standard books.

How can I contact the team for queries?

You can contact us via email at support@understandupsc.com or call our helpline at +91 8377072252.

Does UnderStand UPSC provide online classes?

Yes, we offer live online sessions, recorded lectures, and continuous mentorship support.

Are test series available separately?

Yes. We provide separate Prelims and Mains test series with detailed evaluation and feedback, aligned with our classroom programs.

UPSC Prelims 2020 Quiz – GS1

UPSC Prelims 2020 Quiz – GS

1 / 96

Question

A) Corbett

B) Ranthambore

C) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam

D) Sunderbans

2 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1 and 3 only

3 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1 and 3 only

4 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 1 and 4 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 2 and 4 only

5 / 96

Question

A) East of Aksai Chin

B) East of Leh

C) North of Gilgit

D) North of Nubra Valley

6 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

7 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

8 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Вoth 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

9 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 4 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

10 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3 only

B) 1, 2 and 4 only

C) 1, 3 and 4 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

11 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3 only

B) 3 only

C) 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

12 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 only

C) 1 and 4 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

13 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

14 / 96

Question

A) Cotton

B) Jute

C) Sugarcane

D) Tea

15 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

16 / 96

Question

A) long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.

B) requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels.

C) efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live in a new place.

D) contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.

17 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2, 5 and 6 only

B) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only

C) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

D) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

18 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1,2 and 3

19 / 96

Question

A) ports handling foreign trade

B) capitals of powerful kingdoms

C) places of exquisite stone art and architecture

D) important Buddhist pilgrimage centres

20 / 96

Question

A) A licence is required to cultivate that plant.

B) Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.

C) It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.

D) Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.

21 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

22 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

23 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3 only

B) 2, 3 and 4 only

C) 4 and 5 only

D) 1 and 5 only

24 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 and 4 only

D) 1 and 4 only

25 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

26 / 96

Question

A) Kanha National Park

B) Manas National Park

C) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

D) Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary

27 / 96

Question

A) Birds

B) Primates

C) Reptiles

D) Amphibians

28 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 and 4 only

C) 1, 3 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

29 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 4 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 3 and 4 only

30 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 1 and 3 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

31 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 4 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

32 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

33 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 only

C) 3 and 4 only

D) 1, 2 and 4 only

34 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

35 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

36 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 4 only

B) 1,3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

37 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

38 / 96

Question

A) 1,2 and 5 only

B) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

C) 2, 3 and 6 only

D) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

39 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 4 only

B) 1, 3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

40 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

41 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 and 4 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 4 only

42 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

43 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

44 / 96

Question

A) Some use uranium and others use thorium

B) Some use imported uranium and others use domestic suppliesSome use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies

C) Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises

D) Some are State-owned and others are privately-owned

45 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

46 / 96

Question

A) Crude oil

B) Bullion

C) Rare earth elements

D) Uranium

47 / 96

Question

A) It is the investment through capital instruments essentially in a listed company.

B) It is a largely non-debt creating capital flow.

C) It is the investment which involves debt-servicing.

D) It is the investment made by foreign institutional investors in the Government securities.

48 / 96

Question

A) to reduce it by 1,00,000

B) to increase it by 1,00,000

C) to increase it by more than 1,00,000

D) to leave it unchanged

49 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

50 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3 only

B) 1, 2 and 3 only

C) 1,3 and 4 only

D) 1,2, 3, 4 and 5

51 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

52 / 96

Question

A) Digital security infrastructure

B) Food security infrastructure

C) Health care and education infrastructure

D) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

53 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

54 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1,2 and 3

55 / 96

Question

A) Voyager-2

B) New Horizons

C) LISA Pathfinder

D) Evolved LISA

56 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

57 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2,3 and 4 only

C) 1,3 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

58 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 only

D) 1 and 3 only

59 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3 only

B) 1, 2 and 4 only

C) 1, 3 and 4 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

60 / 96

Question

A) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

B) 1, 3 and 4 only

C) 2, 4 and 5 only

D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

61 / 96

Question

A) fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm

B) genetic modification of sperm producing cells

C) development of stem cells into functional embryos

D) prevention of mitochondrial diseases in offspring

62 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

63 / 96

Question

A) The Revolt of 1857

B) The Mappila Rebellion of 1921

C) The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60

D) Birsa Munda's Revolt of 1899-1900

64 / 96

Question

A) he was asked by the Board of Directors at London to do so

B) he wanted to revive interest in oriental learning in India

C) he wanted to provide William Carey and his associates with employment

D) he wanted to train British civilians for administrative purpose in India

65 / 96

Question

A) peasant resistance to the oppressive conduct of planters

B) its unprofitability in the world market because of new inventions

C) national leaders' opposition to the cultivation of indigo

D) Government control over the planters

66 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

67 / 96

Question

A) The earliest Dharmashastra texts written in aphoristic (sutra) style

B) Philosophical schools that did not accept the authority of Vedas

C) Perfections whose attainment led to the Bodhisattva path

D) Powerful merchant guilds of early medieval South India

68 / 96

Question

A) Ashoka

B) Samudragupta

C) Harshavardhana

D) Krishnadeva Raya

69 / 96

Question

A) measurement of land

B) coins of different monetary value

C) classification of urban land

D) religious rituals

70 / 96

Question

A) Gopal Baba Walangkar

B) Jyotiba Phule

C) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

D) Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

71 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

72 / 96

Question

A) An advisory issued by the king to his subordinates

B) A diary to be maintained for daily accounts

C) A bill of exchange

D) An order from the feudal lord to his subordinates

73 / 96

Question

A) 2-1-4-3

B) 3-1-4-2

C) 2-4-1-3

D) 3-4-1-2

74 / 96

Question

A) Indian handicrafts were ruined.

B) Machines were introduced in the Indian textile industry in large numbers.

C) Railway lines were laid in many parts of the country.

D) Heavy duties were imposed on the imports of British manufactures.

75 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

76 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

77 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 2 and 3 only

78 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

79 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 2 and 3 only

80 / 96

Question

A) a loan system of the World Bank

B) one of the operations of a Central Bank

C) a credit system granted by WTO to its members

D) a credit system granted by IMF to its members

81 / 96

Question

A) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect

B) not a part of the Constitution and has rfo legal effect either

C) a part of the Constitution and has the same legal effect as any other part

D) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect independently of other parts

82 / 96

Question

A) An agency for widening the scope of parliamentary democracy

B) An agency for strengthening the structure of federalism

C) An agency for facilitating political stability and economic growth

D) An agency for the implementation of public policy

83 / 96

Question

A) the final goal of a stateless society

B) class struggle

C) abolition of private property

D) economic determinism

84 / 96

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Вoth 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

85 / 96

Question

A) Directive Principles of State Policy

B) Fundamental Rights

C) Preamble

D) Seventh Schedule

86 / 96

Question

A) all political parties in the Parliament are represented in the Government

B) the Government is responsible to the Parliament and can be removed by it

C) the Government is elected by the people and can be removed by them

D) the Government is chosen by the Parliament but cannot be removed by it before completion of a fixed term

87 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 4 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 2, 3 and 4 only

88 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1 and 4 only

89 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

90 / 96

Question

A) government by legislature

B) popular government

C) multi-party government

D) limited government

91 / 96

Question

A) Long standing parliamentary convention

B) Article 112 and Article 110(1) of the Constitution of India

C) Article 113 of the Constitution of India

D) Provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003

92 / 96

Question

A) the Preamble of the Constitution

B) a Directive Principle of State Policy

C) the Seventh Schedule

D) the conventional practice

93 / 96

Question

A) Right against Exploitation

B) Right to Freedom

C) Right to Constitutional Remedies

D) Right to Equality

94 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 and 4 only

C) 1, 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 4 only

95 / 96

Question

A) the matter of creating new All India Services

B) amending the Constitution

C) the removal of the government

D) making cut motions

96 / 96

Question

A) 1 and 4 only

B) 2 and 4 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3 only

Your score is

The average score is 52%

UPSC Prelims 2020 Quiz – GS1

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