Preparation for upsc capf Exam 2024

Preparation for UPSC CAPF Exam 2024

Understanding the Exam

The UPSC CAPF Exam is a national-level competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) 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:

• Stage I: Computer Based Examination (CBE)
• Stage II: Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST)

Stage I: Computer Based Examination (CBE)

The CBE consists of two papers:

Paper I: General Ability and Intelligence

• General Intelligence and Reasoning: This section tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and solve problems. It includes topics like analogies, classification, series, coding-decoding, blood relations, direction sense, etc.
• Quantitative Aptitude: This section tests the candidate’s ability to solve numerical problems. It includes topics like number systems, percentages, profit and loss, time and work, etc.
• General Awareness: This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, economics, polity, and general science.
• English Language: This section tests the candidate’s proficiency in English language. It includes topics like grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, etc.

Paper II: General Studies

• History: Indian National Movement, Ancient, Medieval, and Modern History of India.
• Geography: Physical, Economic, and Social Geography of India.
• Polity: Indian Constitution, Governance, and Political System.
• Economics: Indian Economy, Economic Development, and Planning.
• Current Affairs: National and International Events.
• General Science: Basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environment.

Exam Pattern:

Paper	Subject	Number of Questions	Maximum Marks	Duration
Paper I	General Ability and Intelligence	120	200	2 hours
Paper II	General Studies	120	200	2 hours

Total Marks: 400

Qualifying Marks: The qualifying marks for the CBE are decided by the UPSC.

Stage II: Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST)

Candidates who qualify in the CBE are eligible to appear for the PST and MST.

Physical Standards Test (PST):

The PST is conducted to assess the physical fitness of the candidates. The following tests are conducted:

• Race: 1600 meters (for men) and 800 meters (for women)
• High Jump: 1.2 meters (for men) and 1 meter (for women)
• Long Jump: 4.5 meters (for men) and 3.5 meters (for women)
• Shot Put: 4.5 kg (for men) and 3 kg (for women)

Medical Standards Test (MST):

The MST is conducted to assess the medical fitness of the candidates. The candidates are examined by a panel of medical experts.

Qualifying Marks: The qualifying marks for the PST and MST are decided by the UPSC.

Preparation Strategy

1. Understand the Syllabus:

The first step is to thoroughly understand the syllabus of the CAPF Exam. This will help you identify the topics that need to be covered and the level of depth required.

2. Gather Study Material:

Once you have a clear understanding of the syllabus, you need to gather the necessary study material. This includes books, notes, online resources, and previous year’s question papers.

3. Create a Study Plan:

A well-structured study plan is essential for effective preparation. Allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic.

4. Focus on Basics:

The CAPF Exam tests your understanding of basic concepts. Therefore, it is important to have a strong foundation in all subjects.

5. Practice Regularly:

Regular practice is crucial for success in any competitive exam. Solve previous year’s question papers and mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level.

6. Time Management:

Time management is a key factor in the CAPF Exam. Learn to solve questions quickly and accurately within the allotted time.

7. Stay Updated with Current Affairs:

Current affairs play a significant role in the General Studies paper. Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with national and international events.

8. Improve English Language Skills:

English language proficiency is essential for the CAPF Exam. Practice reading, writing, and comprehension skills.

9. Physical Fitness:

Start preparing for the PST early on. Join a gym or fitness center and work on your stamina, strength, and flexibility.

10. Stay Motivated:

The preparation journey can be challenging. Stay motivated and focused on your goal.

Recommended Books and Resources

General Ability and Intelligence:

• R.S. Aggarwal – Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations
• M.K. Pandey – Lucent’s General Intelligence and Reasoning
• A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

General Studies:

• NCERT Textbooks (Class 6th to 12th)
• Spectrum – Indian Polity by Laxmikanth
• India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra
• The Hindu Newspaper
• Yojana and Kurukshetra Magazines

English Language:

• Wren & Martin – High School English Grammar and Composition
• Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
• Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis

Current Affairs:

• The Hindu Newspaper
• Indian Express Newspaper
• The Economic Times Newspaper
• Pratiyogita Darpan Magazine

Online Resources:

• UPSC Website
• InsightsonIndia
• IASbaba
• Unacademy
• Khan Academy

Tips for Success

• Stay focused and disciplined.
• Set realistic goals and stick to your study plan.
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
• Seek guidance from experienced mentors or coaching institutes.
• Stay positive and confident.

Importance of CAPF Exam

The CAPF Exam is a gateway to a challenging and rewarding career in the Central Armed Police Forces. The CAPFs play a vital role in maintaining internal security, protecting the borders, and assisting in disaster relief operations.

Career Prospects

Successful candidates are appointed as Assistant Commandants (ACs) in the CAPFs. ACs are responsible for leading and managing a company of personnel. They are involved in various tasks, including:

• Maintaining law and order
• Protecting borders
• Combating terrorism and insurgency
• Disaster relief operations
• Providing security to VIPs

Benefits of Joining CAPFs

• Prestigious and challenging career
• Job security and good salary
• Opportunity to serve the nation
• Exposure to diverse cultures and environments
• Opportunities for promotion and growth

Conclusion

The UPSC CAPF Exam is a highly competitive examination that requires dedicated preparation and hard work. By following a well-structured study plan, utilizing the right resources, and staying motivated, you can increase your chances of success. A career in the CAPFs offers a rewarding and fulfilling experience, allowing you to contribute to the safety and security of the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:

1. What is the eligibility criteria for the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• You must be a citizen of India.
• You must have a graduate degree from a recognized university.
• You must be between 20 and 25 years of age (age relaxation is available for reserved categories).

2. What is the exam pattern for the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• The exam is conducted in two stages: Computer Based Examination (CBE) and Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST).
• The CBE consists of two papers: General Ability and Intelligence and General Studies.
• The PST and MST are conducted for candidates who qualify in the CBE.

3. What are the best books and resources for preparing for the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• NCERT textbooks (Class 6th to 12th) for General Studies.
• R.S. Aggarwal’s books for Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning.
• Lucent’s General Intelligence and Reasoning by M.K. Pandey.
• Spectrum – Indian Polity by Laxmikanth.
• The Hindu newspaper for current affairs.

4. How can I prepare for the Physical Standards Test (PST)?

• Start preparing early and focus on improving your stamina, strength, and flexibility.
• Join a gym or fitness center and work on exercises like running, jumping, and throwing.

5. What are the career prospects after clearing the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• You will be appointed as an Assistant Commandant (AC) in one of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
• ACs are responsible for leading and managing a company of personnel.
• They are involved in various tasks, including maintaining law and order, protecting borders, combating terrorism, and disaster relief operations.

6. What are the benefits of joining the CAPFs?

• Prestigious and challenging career.
• Job security and good salary.
• Opportunity to serve the nation.
• Exposure to diverse cultures and environments.
• Opportunities for promotion and growth.

7. How can I stay motivated during the preparation process?

• Set realistic goals and stick to your study plan.
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
• Seek guidance from experienced mentors or coaching institutes.
• Stay positive and confident.

8. What are some tips for success in the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• Understand the syllabus thoroughly.
• Create a well-structured study plan.
• Practice regularly and solve previous year’s question papers.
• Stay updated with current affairs.
• Improve your English language skills.
• Focus on your physical fitness.

9. What is the syllabus for the General Studies paper?

• History: Indian National Movement, Ancient, Medieval, and Modern History of India.
• Geography: Physical, Economic, and Social Geography of India.
• Polity: Indian Constitution, Governance, and Political System.
• Economics: Indian Economy, Economic Development, and Planning.
• Current Affairs: National and International Events.
• General Science: Basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environment.

10. What are some good online resources for preparing for the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• UPSC Website
• InsightsonIndia
• IASbaba
• Unacademy
• Khan Academy

11. What is the duration of the training for Assistant Commandants (ACs)?

• The training for ACs lasts for about one year at the National Academy of Border Security (NABs) in Ghaziabad.

12. What are the different types of postings an AC can get?

• ACs can be posted in various locations across India, depending on the requirements of the CAPF they are assigned to.

13. What are the chances of getting selected for the UPSC CAPF Exam?

• The selection process is highly competitive, and the chances of getting selected depend on various factors, including the number of vacancies, the number of candidates appearing for the exam, and the performance of the candidates.

14. What are the salary and allowances for an AC in the CAPFs?

• The salary and allowances for an AC in the CAPFs are as per the government pay scales.

15. What are the career progression opportunities for an AC in the CAPFs?

• ACs can progress through the ranks to higher positions, such as Deputy Commandant, Commandant, and Inspector General.

16. What are the challenges of working in the CAPFs?

• Working in the CAPFs can be challenging, as it involves long hours, difficult terrain, and exposure to danger.

17. What are the rewards of working in the CAPFs?

• Working in the CAPFs is a rewarding experience, as it allows you to serve the nation and make a difference in the lives of others.

18. What are some tips for managing stress during the preparation process?

• Take regular breaks and engage in activities that you enjoy.
• Exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
• Get enough sleep.
• Talk to friends and family about your feelings.

19. What are some tips for staying focused and motivated during the preparation process?

• Set realistic goals and break down your study plan into smaller, manageable tasks.
• Reward yourself for achieving milestones.
• Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
• Visualize yourself achieving your goal.

20. What are some tips for improving your time management skills?

• Create a schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
• Prioritize tasks and focus on the most important ones first.
• Avoid procrastination and distractions.
• Learn to say no to requests that will take away from your study time.