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 2019 Quiz – GS1

UP SC Prelims 2019 Quiz – GS

1 / 98

Question

A) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.

B) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.

C) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.

D) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.

2 / 98

Question

A) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing

B) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients

C) A gene that makes plants pestresistant

D) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops

3 / 98

UPSC GS1 Question Paper 2019

A) 1 and 2

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1, 3 and 4

D) 2, 3 and 4

4 / 98

Question

A) Higgs boson particles' were detected.

B) 'Gravitational waves' were detected.

C) Possibility of inter-galactic spacе travel through 'wormhole' was confirmed.

D) It enabled the scientists to understand 'singularity'.

5 / 98

Question

A) 1, 2 and 4

B) 2 and 3

C) 1 and 3

D) 1 and 4 only

6 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

7 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

8 / 98

Question

A) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.

B) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in laboratories.

C) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.

D) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.

9 / 98

Question

A) fossils of a kind of dinosaurs

B) an early human species

C) a cave system found in North-East India

D) a geological period in the history of Indian subcontinent

10 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 and 4

C) 1, 2 and 3

D) 4 only

11 / 98

Question

A) Increase in the cash reserve ratio

B) Increase in the banking habit of the population

C) Increase in the statutory liquidity ratio

D) Increase in the population of the country

12 / 98

Question

A) Japan

B) Russia

C) The United Kingdom

D) The United States of America

13 / 98

Question

A) Australia

B) Canada

C) The European Union

D) The United States of America

14 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

15 / 98

Question

A) Curbing imports of non-essential goods and promoting exports

B) Encouraging Indian borrowers to issue rupee denominated Masala Bonds

C) Easing conditions relating to external commercial borrowing

D) Following an expansionary monetary policy

16 / 98

Question

A) Protection against the tyranny of political rulers

B) Absence of restraint

C) Opportunity to do whatever one likes

D) Opportunity to develop oneself fully

17 / 98

Question

A) Spices

B) Fresh fruits

C) Pulses

D) egetable oils

18 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 2, 3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

19 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

20 / 98

Question

A) The proportion of literates in the population

B) The stock of its buildings, other infrastructure and machines

C) The size of population in the working age group

D) The level of mutual trust and harmony in the society

21 / 98

Question

A) transportation cost only

B) interest cost only

C) procurement incidentals and distribution cost

D) procurement incidentals and charges for godowns

22 / 98

Question

A) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

B) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999

C) The e-Waste (Manage

D) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011

23 / 98

Question

A) Maintenance of law and order

B) Paying taxes

C) Registering property

D) Dealing with construction permits

24 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

25 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

26 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

27 / 98

Question

A) Banks Board Bureau

B) Reserve Bank of India

C) Union Ministry of Finance

D) Management of concerned bank

28 / 98

Question

A) To lessen the Government of India's perennial burden of fiscal deficit and current account deficit

B) To support the infrastructure projects of Central and State Governments

C) To act as independent regulator in case of applications for loans of 50 crore or more

D) To aim at faster resolution of stressed assets of 50 crore or more which are under consortium lending

29 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

30 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

31 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2

B) 1, 3 and 4

C) 3, 4 and 5

D) 2 and 5

32 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

33 / 98

Question

A) Certificate of Deposit

B) Commercial Paper

C) Promissory Note

D) Participatory Note

34 / 98

Question

A) First Administrative Reforms Commission (1966)

B) Rajamannar Committee (1969)

C) Sarkaria Commission (1983)

D) National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000)

35 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

36 / 98

Question

A) Advances

B) Deposits

C) Investments

D) Money at call and short notice

37 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

38 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

39 / 98

Question

A) Integrated Rural Development Programme

B) Lead Bank Scheme

C) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

D) National Skill Development Mission

40 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

41 / 98

Question

A) Waste generator has to segregate waste into five categories.

B) The Rules are applicable to notified urban local bodies, notified towns and all industrial townships only.

C) The Rules provide for exact and elaborate criteria for the identification of sites for landfills and waste processing facilities.

D) It is mandatory on the part of waste generator that the waste generated in one district cannot be moved to another district.

42 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

43 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

44 / 98

Question

A) Article 19

B) Article 21

C) Article 25

D) Article 29

45 / 98

UPSC GS1 Question Paper 2019

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

46 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 2, 3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

47 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

48 / 98

Question

A) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.

B) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.

C) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.

D) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.

49 / 98

Question

A) 1, 2 and 3

B) 2, 3 and 4

C) 1, 2 and 4

D) 1, 3 and 4

50 / 98

Question

A) Third Schedule

B) Fifth Schedule

C) Ninth Schedule

D) Twelfth Schedule

51 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 3 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

52 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

53 / 98

Question

A) Jawaharlal Nehru

B) Lal Bahadur Shastri

C) Indira Gandhi

D) Morarji Desai

54 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2

B) 3 only

C) 3 and 4 only

D) 1, 3 and 4

55 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

56 / 98

Question

A) Clouds absorb the radiation released from the Earth's surface.

B) Clouds reflect back the Earth's radiation.

C) The Earth's surface would have low temperature on cloudy nights.

D) Clouds deflect the blowing wind to ground level.

57 / 98

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

58 / 98

Question

A) Recently discovered uranium deposits

B) Tropical rain forests

C) Underground cave systems

D) Water reservoirs

59 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 3 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 2 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

60 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

61 / 98

Question

A) pesticides in agriculture

B) preservatives in processed foods

C) fruit-ripening agents

D) moisturising agents in cosmetics

62 / 98

Question

A) 1, 2 and 4

B) 1, 3 and 4

C) 2 and 5

D) 3 and 5

63 / 98

Question

A) China

B) India

C) Myanmar

D) Vietnam

64 / 98

Question

A) 1, 2 and 4 only

B) 1, 3 and 4 only

C) 2 and 5 only

D) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

65 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2, 3 and 4 only

C) 1 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

66 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

67 / 98

Question

A) 2-3-1-4

B) 2-3-4-1

C) 3-2-4–1

D) 3-2-1-4

68 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

69 / 98

Question

A) anti-malarial drug

B) biodiesel

C) pulp for paper industry

D) textile fibre

70 / 98

Question

A) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

B) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children.

C) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields.

D) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

71 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

72 / 98

Question

A) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

B) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park

C) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park

D) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

73 / 98

Question

A) Extraction of rare earth elements

B) Natural gas extraction technologies

C) Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles

D) aste-to-energy technologies

74 / 98

Question

A) Creating the artificial rains in some regions

B) Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones

C) Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth

D) Reducing the global warming

75 / 98

Question

A) poverty rates vary from State to State

B) price levels vary from State to State

C) Gross State Product varies from State to State

D) uality of public distribution varies from State to State

76 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

77 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

78 / 98

Question

A) Tobacco, cocoa and rubber

B) Tobacco, cotton and rubber

C) Cotton, coffee and sugarcane

D) Rubber, coffee and wheat

79 / 98

Question

A) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle

B) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle

C) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator

D) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn

80 / 98

Question

A) Department of Science and Technology

B) Ministry of Employment

C) NITI Aayog

D) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

81 / 98

Question

A) Manas National Park

B) Namdapha National Park

C) Neora Valley National Park

D) Valley of Flowers National Park

82 / 98

Question

A) Humayun

B) Akbar

C) Jahangir

D) Shah Jahan

83 / 98

Question

A) Tansen was the title given to him by Emperor Akbar.

B) Tansen composed Dhrupads on Hindu gods and goddesses.

C) Tansen composed songs on his patrons.

D) Tansen invented many Ragas.

84 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

85 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 1 and 3 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

86 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

87 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

88 / 98

Question

A) Chalukya

B) Chandela

C) Rashtrakuta

D) Vijayanagara

89 / 98

Question

A) It was considered a source of income for the State, a sort of taх paid by the people.

B) It was totally absent in the Madhya Pradesh and Kathiawar regions of the Gupta Empire.

C) The forced labourer was entitled to weekly wages.

D) The eldest son of the labourer was sent as the forced labourer.

90 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

91 / 98

Question

A) Kanganahalli

B) Sanchi

C) Shahbazgarhi

D) Sohgaura

92 / 98

Question

A) Chanhudaro

B) Kot Diji

C) Sohgaura

D) Desalpur

93 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

94 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

95 / 98

Question

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

96 / 98

Question

A) International Monetary Fund

B) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

C) World Economic Forum

D) World Bank

97 / 98

Question

A) The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.

B) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.

C) It resulted in cultivation of cash (b) 2 and 3 only crops as a predominant form of cultivation.

D) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.

98 / 98

Question

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Your score is

The average score is 44%

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About the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE)

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most competitive and esteemed examinations in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others. The exam comprises three stages — Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test (Interview) — designed to test a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, decision-making, and leadership skills.

How to Prepare Effectively for UPSC CSE

Cracking the UPSC CSE requires a deep understanding of the syllabus, consistent revision, structured answer writing, and smart test-taking strategies. The Prelims test analytical and conceptual clarity, the Mains focuses on critical thinking, articulation, and subject mastery, while the Interview assesses presence of mind, ethical judgment, and personality traits relevant to public service.

At UnderStand UPSC, we empower aspirants with a personalized and focused approach to each stage of the exam.

Why Choose UnderStand UPSC?

UnderStand UPSC is a mentorship-driven platform offering a clear, clutter-free strategy to tackle the Civil Services Examination. Our programs like Transform (for beginners and intermediate learners) and Conquer (for advanced mains preparation) provide structured study plans, syllabus-wise video content, interactive live sessions, and answer writing support.

We emphasize:

Concept clarity through topic-wise lectures
Test series designed around real UPSC standards
Personalized mentorship in small groups
Regular performance tracking and peer benchmarking
Doubt-clearing sessions, current affairs analysis, and monthly magazines

Join the UnderStand UPSC Learning Community

Our mission is to make UPSC preparation less overwhelming and more strategic. We combine mentorship, discipline, and academic rigor to help you clear CSE with confidence. Whether you’re preparing from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or a remote village — our online-first model ensures quality guidance reaches every corner of India.

Join the thousands of aspirants who trust UnderStand UPSC to guide their journey toward becoming civil servants.

Stay connected with us through our Telegram, YouTube, and Instagram channels for daily tips, strategies, and updates.

UPSC Prelims 2019 Quiz – GS1

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