CSAT stands for Civil Services Aptitude Test, which is Paper II of the UPSC Prelims examination. Introduced in 2011, CSAT tests candidates' aptitude, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities rather than factual knowledge. Understanding CSAT is crucial as it's a qualifying paper that many candidates struggle with.
This comprehensive guide explains everything about CSAT for UPSC 2026, including syllabus, preparation strategy, and how to clear it comfortably.
What is CSAT?
Full Form: Civil Services Aptitude Test
Paper: Prelims Paper II
Marks: 200 marks
Duration: 2 hours
Questions: 80 questions (2.5 marks each)
Nature: Qualifying paper (not counted for merit)
Qualifying Marks: 33% (66 marks out of 200)
Negative Marking: 1/3rd (0.83 marks) for each wrong answer
Important: Only Paper I marks count for Prelims merit. CSAT is just qualifying.
CSAT Syllabus
1. Comprehension (30-35 questions):
- Reading passages
- Understanding main ideas
- Drawing inferences
- Vocabulary in context
2. Logical Reasoning (15-20 questions):
- Syllogisms
- Statements and conclusions
- Coding-decoding
- Blood relations
- Seating arrangements
3. Analytical Ability (10-15 questions):
- Data sufficiency
- Data interpretation
- Tables, graphs, charts
4. Decision Making (5-10 questions):
- Problem-solving scenarios
- Best course of action
5. Basic Numeracy (15-20 questions):
- Arithmetic (percentages, ratios, averages)
- Simple algebra
- Basic geometry
- Class 10 level mathematics
6. Mental Ability (5-10 questions):
- Pattern recognition
- Series completion
- Analogies
CSAT Preparation Strategy
For Comprehension:
- Read English newspapers daily
- Practice comprehension passages
- Improve reading speed
- Focus on understanding, not memorizing
For Logical Reasoning:
- Learn basic concepts
- Practice different question types
- Solve puzzles regularly
- Time yourself
For Basic Numeracy:
- Revise Class 10 NCERT Maths
- Practice arithmetic daily
- Learn shortcuts and tricks
- Focus on accuracy over speed
For Data Interpretation:
- Practice reading tables and graphs
- Calculate quickly
- Approximate when needed
- Don't waste time on complex calculations
Preparation Time:
- 1-2 months dedicated preparation
- 30-45 minutes daily practice
- Weekly full-length mock tests
- Focus on accuracy
How to Clear CSAT Easily
Target Strategy:
- Need only 33% (66 marks)
- Attempt 60-65 questions
- Aim for 40-45 correct answers
- This gives comfortable qualifying marks
Question Selection:
- Start with comprehension (easiest)
- Then logical reasoning
- Skip difficult math questions
- Don't attempt all questions
Time Management:
- Comprehension: 60 minutes
- Logical reasoning: 30 minutes
- Numeracy: 20 minutes
- Review: 10 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Attempting all questions (not required)
- Spending too much time on one question
- Ignoring comprehension (easiest marks)
- Not practicing enough
- Panicking during exam
CSAT vs Paper I
Paper I (GS):
- Tests factual knowledge
- Counted for merit
- Determines Prelims qualification
- More important for rank
Paper II (CSAT):
- Tests aptitude and reasoning
- Only qualifying (33% needed)
- Not counted for merit
- Just need to clear
Strategy:
- Focus 80% on Paper I
- Focus 20% on CSAT
- Don't neglect CSAT completely
- Ensure you clear qualifying marks
Conclusion
CSAT is the qualifying Paper II of UPSC Prelims, testing aptitude and reasoning rather than knowledge. You need only 33% marks (66 out of 200) to qualify. Focus on comprehension and logical reasoning, practice regularly for 1-2 months, and you can easily clear CSAT.
Don't let CSAT anxiety affect your Paper I preparation. With basic practice and smart strategy, CSAT is very manageable. Use UPSC.AI's CSAT practice modules with daily questions and mock tests to ensure you clear CSAT comfortably in UPSC 2026!