The full form of CSAT is the Civil Services Aptitude Test. It was introduced in the year 2011 as a part
of the UPSC Civil Services Exam (Preliminary) to test the analytical skills, reasoning ability and
aptitude of IAS aspirants.
While the controversy over the introduction of CSAT, officially known as the General Studies PaperII, in UPSC exam still continues, as per the UPSC notification released , the Civil Services Aptitude
Test will continue to be a part of the UPSC Prelims.
The syllabus for the Preliminary Exams for Paper-I:
Current events of national and international importance.
History of India and Indian National Movement.
Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the
World.
Indian Polity and Governance - Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public
Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
Economic and Social Development - Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion,
Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
General issues on Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change
General Science
The syllabus for the Preliminary Exams for Paper-II:
Comprehension
Interpersonal skills including communication skills;
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problemsolving
General mental ability
