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CGPSC Preparation Strategy

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CGPSC Preparation Strategy

CGPSC Exam Pattern and Syllabus

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Preparing for the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) exam requires a well-structured strategy, a disciplined study routine, and comprehensive syllabus coverage.
Here’s a comprehensive preparation strategy that can help you tackle all three stages of this exam effectively.

Preparation strategy

Step 1 : Know the selection process and exam pattern of the CGPSC recruitment CGPSC conducts the exam in three stages- Prelims, Mains and Interview.
Step 2: Understand the syllabus and break it down for both prelims and Mains, focusing on the weightage of each section.
Step 3: Strengthen the basics
Studying the standard books like NCERTs can help cover the basics of General studies subjects.
Step 4: Read and refer to the standard books of each subject selectively or thoroughly to cover the syllabus comprehensively.
Step 5: Practice Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs) -Solving PYQs gives a clear idea of the type of questions asked.
Step 6: Attempt Mock tests- Mock tests are critical for both Prelims and Mains as they help in time management and developing a better understanding of the questions.
Step 7: Read a Good newspaper like ‘The Indian Express' or 'The Hindu”, for daily current affairs- it helps in General awareness of the National and international news, regularly brushing up the minds of candidates.
The above steps are crucial to be included in the broad preparation strategy for the exam. Though all three stages of the exam should be prepared simultaneously, each stage requires a specific approach to get through it.

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CGPSC Prelims Exam Strategy

The CGPSC prelims exam is the 1st stage of the exam and serves as a screening test. The Prelims consist of two papers: General Studies (Paper I) and General Studies (Paper II)

Subject Preparation Tips Sources
Paper I:

Current Affairs

Follow daily updates focusing on Chhattisgarh, national, and international events; cover sports as well. Manorama Yearbook, Vision IAS monthly magazines, Yojana, Kurukshetra, The Hindu, Indian Express
History of India and Chhattisgarh Study ancient, medieval, and modern history; emphasize Chhattisgarh’s contributions to the freedom struggle, tribal history, and festivals. NCERT History Textbooks (Class 6-12), India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra, History of Chhattisgarh by Vishnu Prasad Sharma
Geography of India, Chhattisgarh, and the World Focus on physical, social, and economic geography with special attention to Chhattisgarh's geography; study Chhattisgarh’s archaeological and tourist sites. NCERT Geography Textbooks (Class 6-12), Certificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong, Chhattisgarh Geography and Tourism by Dr. Nirmal Verma
Polity and Governance of Chhattisgarh and India Study the Constitution, administrative structure, local governance, Panchayati Raj, and political issues in Chhattisgarh. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth, Chhattisgarh Government and Political System by Ravi Sahu, NCERT Political Science Books (Class 9-12)
Social Development and Economics Cover sustainable development, poverty, and social initiatives; focus on agriculture, industry, energy, and resources in Chhattisgarh. Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh, NCERT Economics Books (Class 9-12), government reports on Chhattisgarh’s economy
Environmental Science and Ecology Study environmental biodiversity, climate change, and issues specific to Chhattisgarh’s ecology. Environment by Shankar IAS, NCERT Science Textbooks (Class 6-12), Down to Earth magazine
General Science Cover basic concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology relevant to the syllabus. NCERT Science Textbooks (Class 6-10), Lucent’s General Science
Paper II:
Comprehension and Language Skills		 Practice comprehension passages; improve grammar in Hindi and English (up to Class X level). Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, Lucent’s General Hindi
Interpersonal, Communication, and Logical Reasoning Skills Practice logical puzzles and mock tests; work on improving reasoning skills. A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Solve case studies and participate in group discussions to improve decision-making skills. Mock case studies from CGPSC preparation guides
Mental Ability and Numeracy Practice analogy, coding-decoding, blood relations, series, and data interpretation. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
Mock Tests and Revision Attempt regular mock tests; revise current affairs weekly and make concise notes for all subjects. Vision IAS, InsightsIAS, and local CGPSC test series

CGPSC Mains exam preparation strategy

Preparing for the Chattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) Mains exam requires a well-structured approach because it covers a wide range of subjects across nine papers. Here’s a comprehensive strategy for each paper along with recommended sources:

General Strategy:
  1. Understand the Syllabus: Download the official syllabus from the CGPSC website. Categorize each topic in the syllabus.
  2. Daily Timetable: Allocate fixed hours for each subject. Ensure you dedicate time to revision, current affairs, and answer writing practice.
  3. Revision Plan: Revise regularly to ensure retention, as the syllabus is vast.
  4. Previous Year Papers: Analyze the pattern and frequently asked questions.
  5. Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests for time management and understanding of exam pattern.

CGPSC Mains Paper I: Language
  1. Hindi and Chhattisgarhi Grammar
    • Focus Areas: Parts of speech, syntax, idioms, phrases, tenses, sentence correction, and gender/number corrections.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Strengthen grammar fundamentals by practicing exercises on syntax, sentence structure, and transformations.
      • Practice writing short essays or passages in both Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.
  2. Essay Writing in Hindi
    • Focus Areas: Regional, national, and global issues with a focus on social, economic, and cultural topics.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Work on concise and structured essay writing, emphasizing clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.
      • Practice essays on current affairs topics to reflect recent changes.
    Sources:
    • Hindi Vyakaran by Dr. Vasudev Nandan Prasad: For foundational grammar topics.
    • Chhattisgarhi Vyavaharik Vyakaran: Covers essential grammar elements of Chhattisgarhi.
    • Review editorials from Hindi newspapers like Dainik Bhaskar and Hindustan.
  3. Precis Writing & Comprehension
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Regularly practice precis writing, focusing on condensing long paragraphs into key points.
      • For comprehension, practice quick reading to improve accuracy and understanding.
    Sources:
    • Hindi Nibandh Evam Samanya Bhasha by Alok Singh: Provides practice for precis and comprehension in Hindi.

CGPSC Mains Paper II: Essay
  1. Section-wise Preparation:
    • Focus Areas: Essays on issues relating to India and Chhattisgarh.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Keep up-to-date with news on Chhattisgarh-specific and national issues to ensure essay relevance.
      • Structure essays with clear introductions, main arguments, and conclusions.

Sources : CGPSC Mains Essay Book by Disha Publications: Contains essay topics relevant to Chhattisgarh and India, with example essays and ideas.


CGPSC Mains Paper III: General Studies I
  1. History of India and Indian Culture
    • Focus Areas: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, including the history of Chhattisgarh.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Focus on prominent events and figures in Indian and Chhattisgarhi history.
      • Study Indian art, literature, and architecture for cultural aspects.
    Sources:
    • India’s Ancient Past by R.S. Sharma and A History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra: Essential for a comprehensive understanding of ancient and medieval history.
    • A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum: For modern history.
    • History and Culture of Chhattisgarh by S.K. Jain: Specifically covers Chhattisgarhi history and culture.
  2. Geography of India and World
    • Focus Areas: Physical geography, resource distribution, environmental geography.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Emphasize topics like climate change, biodiversity, and Indian river systems.
      • Focus on geographical aspects of Chhattisgarh as well.
    Sources:
    • Certificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong: For physical geography basics.
    • Oxford School Atlas by Oxford University Press: Essential for maps and geographical data.
    • Geography of India by Majid Hussain: For detailed geography of India with a focus on physical and human aspects.
  3. Indian Society
    • Focus Areas: Social reform movements, major social issues, and current challenges.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Study contemporary social issues in the context of Indian society.
      • Cover movements such as Dalit, women, and tribal movements.
    Sources:
    • Social Problems in India by Ram Ahuja: Covers various aspects of social issues in India.
    • NCERT Sociology Books (Class XI-XII): Basics of Indian society and social changes.
    • Indian Society and Culture by Nadeem Hasnain: For understanding social structure and challenges in Indian society.

CGPSC Mains Paper IV: General Studies II
  1. Constitution of India & Indian Polity
    • Focus Areas: Fundamental rights, directive principles, structure of government, and recent amendments.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Focus on landmark cases, current debates on constitutional amendments, and recent legal developments.
      • Study key issues in federalism and center-state relations.
    Sources:
    • Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth: For a detailed understanding of Indian polity, constitution, and governance.
    • Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu: Helpful for clarity on constitutional interpretations and amendments.
    • Chhattisgarh Rajya Ki Rajniti Evam Prashasan by Prof. R.S. Sharma: Focuses on Chhattisgarh’s political structure and governance.
  2. Public Administration
    • Focus Areas: Principles of public administration, bureaucracy, and e-governance.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Review administration theories and case studies of government policies in Chhattisgarh.
    Sources:
    • New Horizons of Public Administration by Mohit Bhattacharya: For in-depth public administration theories.
    • Public Administration by Laxmikanth: Covers Indian administrative structure and governance.
  3. International Relations and Security
    • Focus Areas: India’s foreign policy, global organizations, and contemporary security issues.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Focus on India’s role in international organizations, relations with neighboring countries, and emerging security threats.
    Sources:
    • International Relations by Pavneet Singh: Provides a comprehensive view of India’s foreign policy and current international issues.
    • Current Affairs Magazines: Yojana, The Diplomat, and The Economist (for updates on international relations).

CGPSC Mains Paper V: General Studies III
  1. Economics and Sustainable Development
    • Focus Areas: Indian economic trends, planning, industrial growth, and sustainable development policies.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Focus on current economic reforms, fiscal policy, and sustainability challenges.
    Sources:
    • Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh: For understanding Indian economy fundamentals.
    • Economic Survey of India and Union Budget: For recent data and policy changes.
    • Chhattisgarh Economic Survey: For state-specific economic data.
  2. Science & Technology
    • Focus Areas: Advances in tech, biotech, space, defense, and IT.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Review recent developments in tech and their applications in sectors like healthcare and defense.
    Sources:
    • Science and Technology in India by Spectrum: Focuses on technological advancements relevant to India.
    • Current Science and Tech magazines or supplements like Science Reporte
  3. Environment and Biodiversity
    • Focus Areas: Conservation efforts, impact of climate change, and environmental policies.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Emphasize policies like the Paris Agreement, and cover environmental issues specific to Chhattisgarh.
    Sources:
    • Environment by Shankar IAS: Comprehensive book for understanding environmental science and related issues.
    • India Yearbook: Environment section for updates on biodiversity and conservation efforts.
    • Current Affairs Magazines like Down to Earth.

CGPSC Mains Paper VI: General Studies IV
  1. Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude
    • Focus Areas: Ethics in public administration, moral philosophy, and integrity.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Review case studies to understand the application of ethics in real-life governance.
    Sources:
    • Lexicon for Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude by Niraj Kumar: Core book for ethics and integrity concepts.
    • Ethics in Governance by ARC Report: Covers key ethics issues in public governance.
  2. Human Values and Emotional Intelligence
    • Focus Areas: Concepts of human values, emotional intelligence in governance.
    • Preparation Tips:
      • Study theories of emotional intelligence and its application in the civil services.
    Sources:
    • Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman: Provides insights into emotional intelligence with practical examples.
    • Case studies from Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude papers and previous question papers.

Answer writing tips

Interview/ Personality test strategy

  1. Understand the Interview Pattern
    • Familiarize yourself with the CGPSC interview structure, which usually assesses knowledge, personality, problem-solving ability, and awareness of current affairs.
    • Be prepared for questions on personal background, education, work experience, hobbies, and your motivation for joining civil services.
  2. Self-Introduction and Personal Questions
    • Practice a brief, clear introduction highlighting your strengths, background, and interests.
    • Prepare for questions on your hobbies, achievements, and failures. Be honest and reflective, showing a learning attitude.
  3. Current Affairs Knowledge
    • Keep up-to-date with national, international, and Chhattisgarh-specific news. Focus on important political, social, and economic developments.
    • Study government schemes, major policies, and their implications, especially those that impact Chhattisgarh.
  4. State-Specific Knowledge
    • Deeply understand the geography, history, culture, economy, and administrative structure of Chhattisgarh.
    • Focus on current state issues like tribal welfare, agriculture, development projects, and local governance.
  5. In-depth Knowledge of CGPSC Mains Syllabus
    • Be well-versed with topics from your Mains preparation, as questions may delve into your knowledge of these areas.
    • Focus on topics like Indian polity, economy, environmental issues, and governance, which are often discussed in interviews.
  6. Mock Interviews
    • Participate in mock interviews to get feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement.
    • These simulate real interview conditions and help you improve articulation, confidence, and the ability to handle stress.
  7. Improve Communication Skills
    • Practice speaking clearly, confidently, and concisely. Avoid jargon and focus on expressing your views logically.
    • Work on body language, eye contact, and tone. Non-verbal cues are important in making a positive impression.
  8. Ethics and Situational Questions
    • Prepare for situational questions that test your decision-making and ethical values.
    • Practice framing your responses to show empathy, problem-solving abilities, and integrity.
  9. Optional Subject Knowledge
    • Expect questions on your optional subject(s), particularly if it has relevance to the Chhattisgarh administration.
    • Focus on explaining key concepts and connecting them with practical applications.
  10. Work Experience (if applicable)
    • Prepare to discuss your work experience (if any), focusing on achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
    • Connect relevant experiences to the role of a civil servant to demonstrate readiness for public service.
  11. Practice Balanced Responses for Controversial Topics
    • Be ready for questions on sensitive issues like social justice, caste, or religious matters.
    • Maintain a balanced, factual approach without expressing strong biases. Show respect for diverse viewpoints.
  12. Prepare for Logical and Analytical Questions
    • Practice reasoning and logic-based questions to show clear, structured thought processes.
    • Be concise and methodical in answering, as it reflects clarity of thought and problem-solving skills.
  13. Learn from Previous Candidates
    • Review experiences shared by previous CGPSC interview candidates for insights into commonly asked questions and the panel's approach.
    • Understand the panel’s expectations and tailor your preparation accordingly.

Prelims PYQS Of Chattisgarh

Write an essay on “The role of women in Chhattisgarh's development.”
Discuss the efforts made by lord curzon for the protection of Indian Monuments.
Throw light on the ‘Kakori case’ of the Indian National Movement.
Throw light on the Aims and objective of the “Prathana Samaj”.
Describe the Granary of ‘Harappa Period’.
What was the Maharasiya Period in Chhattisgarh during the British Control Period ?
Give description about Gadiya Pahad. (02 marks)
Give short description of Madku Dweep. (02 marks)
Throw light on the significance of Shivrinarayan. (02 marks)
Where does Dudh River flow? (02 marks)
Provide the characteristics of Keshkal Valley. (04 marks)
Define ‘Kinship’. Explain with examples the relation between Kinship and Descent. (04 marks)
Define Feminism. (02 marks)
Write the characteristics of Association. (02 marks)
What are the main characteristics of Social Group? (02 mark)
Clarify the concept of Dyarchy in the context of Govt of India Act 1919.
Explain the meaning of Dominion Status.
Write the provisions related to the ‘ Reports of the Public service commissions’  described in Article 323(1) of the Indian Constitution.
For what reasons , Public Administration has to adopt managerial techniques of Private Administration continuously? Explain. (10 marks)
What is Public Private Partnership? (02 marks)
Define Social Security. (02 marks)
What is the meaning of Localization in New Public Management? (02 marks)
State the present member countries of the ‘International Monetary fund’ and its main function.
What are the binding tools of the war .
What is ‘BRICS’ ? State the names of its member states, the year of establishment and the main objective.
What are the demographic changes that have occurred in the dependent population of Chhattisgarh as compared to national level during the decade 2001-11? (2 marks)
What are the changes that have occurred in the structure of the economy of Chhattisgarh during the period 2012-13 to 2016-17? (4 marks)
Give the description and types of other working population within occupational structure of population of Chhattisgarh. (8 marks)
Make the list of components of computer system. (02 marks)
Write the names of some popular operating systems. (02 marks)
What are the types of communication in technology? (02 marks)
Hotel primary and secondary memories? (04 marks)
What are the uses of information technology and communication? (08 marks)
What is non-renewable energy? Write it’s any two sources. (2 marks)
What do you mean by fossil fuel? Write its two examples. (4 marks)
2023: Illustrate with an example the importance of integrity in public life.
2022: Explain how emotional intelligence can improve decision-making in public administration.

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Yojana Magazine
Kurukshetra Magazine
Current Affairs Magazine
Prelims Answer Key
Yojana Magazine
Kurukshetra Magazine
Current Affairs Magazine
Prelims Answer Key