Study Notes of upsc capf Exam 2024

Study Notes for UPSC CAPF Exam 2024

Understanding the Exam

The UPSC CAPF Exam is a challenging and competitive examination for recruitment to the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) namely:

  • Assam Rifles (AR)
  • Border Security Force (BSF)
  • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
  • Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
  • Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
  • Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

The exam is conducted in two stages:

  1. Written Examination: This stage consists of two papers:
    • Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence (200 marks)
    • Paper 2: General Studies, Essay and Comprehension (200 marks)
  2. Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST): Candidates who qualify in the written examination are eligible to appear for the PST and MST.

Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence

This paper tests the candidate’s reasoning ability, analytical skills, and problem-solving skills. The syllabus includes:

  • Reasoning and Analytical Abilities:
    • Verbal Reasoning
    • Non-Verbal Reasoning
    • Logical Reasoning
    • Analytical Reasoning
    • Decision Making
  • Quantitative Aptitude:
    • Number Systems
    • Arithmetic
    • Algebra
    • Geometry
    • Mensuration
    • Data Interpretation
  • General Awareness:
    • Current Affairs
    • History
    • Geography
    • Science
    • Polity
    • Economy
    • Environment

Paper 2: General Studies, Essay and Comprehension

This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge of general studies, essay writing, and comprehension skills. The syllabus includes:

  • General Studies:
    • History
    • Geography
    • Polity
    • Economy
    • Science and Technology
    • Environment and Ecology
    • Current Affairs
  • Essay:
    • Candidates are required to write an essay on a given topic.
  • Comprehension:
    • Candidates are required to read a passage and answer questions based on it.

Preparation Strategy

1. Understand the Syllabus:

  • Thoroughly understand the syllabus for both papers.
  • Identify the key topics and sub-topics.
  • Prioritize your study plan based on the weightage of each topic.

2. Gather Study Material:

  • Refer to standard textbooks and study materials for each subject.
  • Utilize online resources like websites, blogs, and YouTube channels.
  • Join online study groups and forums for discussion and peer learning.

3. Create a Study Plan:

  • Allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic.
  • Set realistic goals and targets for each study session.
  • Stick to your study plan and avoid procrastination.

4. Practice Regularly:

  • Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
  • Take mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify areas of improvement.
  • Analyze your performance in mock tests and work on your weaknesses.

5. Stay Updated with Current Affairs:

  • Read newspapers, magazines, and online news portals regularly.
  • Make notes on important events and developments.
  • Refer to current affairs compilations and yearbooks.

6. Develop Essay Writing Skills:

  • Practice writing essays on various topics.
  • Get feedback from mentors or peers on your essays.
  • Focus on clarity, coherence, and structure in your writing.

7. Improve Comprehension Skills:

  • Read newspapers, magazines, and books regularly.
  • Practice reading comprehension passages and answering questions.
  • Focus on identifying the main idea, supporting details, and author’s tone.

8. Physical Fitness:

  • Start preparing for the Physical Standards Test (PST) early on.
  • Engage in regular exercise and physical activities.
  • Improve your stamina, strength, and agility.

9. Stay Motivated:

  • Set realistic goals and celebrate your achievements.
  • Stay positive and focused throughout your preparation.
  • Seek support from family, friends, and mentors.

Important Resources

1. Textbooks:

Subject Textbook Author
History India’s Struggle for Independence Bipin Chandra
Geography NCERT Geography Textbooks NCERT
Polity Indian Polity for Civil Services Examination M. Laxmikanth
Economy Indian Economy Ramesh Singh
Science and Technology NCERT Science Textbooks NCERT
Environment and Ecology Environment and Ecology Shankar IAS Academy
Current Affairs The Hindu, Indian Express, Yojana, Kurukshetra Various

2. Online Resources:

  • Websites:
    • UPSC Official Website
    • Insights IAS
    • IASbaba
    • Mrunal.org
    • Vision IAS
  • YouTube Channels:
    • Unacademy
    • Study IQ
    • Khan Academy
    • Byju’s
  • Blogs:
    • The Hindu
    • Indian Express
    • Livemint
    • Economic Times

3. Mock Tests:

  • Online Platforms:
    • Testbook
    • Gradeup
    • Oliveboard
    • Adda247
  • Coaching Institutes:
    • Shankar IAS Academy
    • Vajiram & Ravi
    • Rau’s IAS Study Circle
    • ALS IAS

Time Management

  • Allocate Time Wisely: Divide your study time effectively among different subjects and topics.
  • Prioritize Subjects: Focus on subjects that carry more weightage in the exam.
  • Avoid Procrastination: Stick to your study plan and avoid delaying tasks.
  • Take Breaks: Regular breaks are essential for maintaining focus and concentration.
  • Review Regularly: Revise what you have learned to reinforce your understanding.

Syllabus Breakdown

Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence

Topic Weightage
Reasoning and Analytical Abilities 50%
Quantitative Aptitude 30%
General Awareness 20%

Paper 2: General Studies, Essay and Comprehension

Topic Weightage
General Studies 60%
Essay 20%
Comprehension 20%

Tips for Success

  • Focus on Fundamentals: Build a strong foundation in all subjects.
  • Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
  • Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about current affairs.
  • Develop Time Management Skills: Learn to allocate time effectively during the exam.
  • Maintain a Positive Attitude: Stay motivated and confident throughout your preparation.

Conclusion

The UPSC CAPF Exam is a challenging but rewarding journey. With dedication, hard work, and a well-structured preparation strategy, you can achieve success in this exam. Remember to stay focused, stay motivated, and believe in yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:

General:

  • Q: What is the eligibility criteria for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: Candidates must be a graduate from a recognized university and must be between 20-25 years of age (age relaxation for reserved categories).
  • Q: What is the exam pattern for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: The exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 (General Ability and Intelligence) and Paper 2 (General Studies, Essay and Comprehension).
  • Q: What is the syllabus for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: The syllabus covers a wide range of topics including General Studies, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Current Affairs.
  • Q: How many attempts are allowed for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: The number of attempts varies for different categories. General category candidates have a maximum of 6 attempts, while reserved category candidates have more attempts.
  • Q: What is the selection process for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: The selection process involves a written exam, Physical Standards Test (PST), and Medical Standards Test (MST).

Preparation:

  • Q: What are the best books for preparing for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: Refer to standard textbooks and study materials for each subject. NCERT books are highly recommended for General Studies.
  • Q: How can I prepare for the General Studies paper?
    • A: Focus on understanding the concepts and developing a strong foundation in History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science & Technology, Environment & Ecology, and Current Affairs.
  • Q: How can I improve my reasoning and analytical abilities?
    • A: Practice solving reasoning and analytical questions from various sources.
  • Q: How can I prepare for the essay and comprehension sections?
    • A: Practice writing essays on different topics and read newspapers, magazines, and books regularly to improve comprehension skills.
  • Q: How can I stay updated with current affairs?
    • A: Read newspapers, magazines, and online news portals regularly. Make notes on important events and developments.

Physical Standards Test (PST):

  • Q: What are the physical standards required for the UPSC CAPF Exam?
    • A: The physical standards vary for different CAPFs. Candidates must clear the physical tests like running, high jump, long jump, and other fitness tests.
  • Q: How can I prepare for the PST?
    • A: Start preparing for the PST early on. Engage in regular exercise and physical activities to improve your stamina, strength, and agility.

Other:

  • Q: What is the salary and benefits for CAPF officers?
    • A: CAPF officers receive a competitive salary and benefits, including allowances, medical facilities, and other perks.
  • Q: What are the career prospects for CAPF officers?
    • A: CAPF officers have a challenging and rewarding career with opportunities for promotion and specialization.
  • Q: What are the challenges of serving in the CAPFs?
    • A: CAPF officers face various challenges, including long working hours, deployment in remote areas, and exposure to difficult situations.

Note: These are just a few examples of frequently asked questions. The specific questions and answers may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and interests.