Selection Process for the UPSC Stenographer Exam 2024
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Stenographer Examination to recruit eligible candidates for the post of Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ in various Ministries/Departments of the Government of India. The exam is held annually, and the selection process involves two stages:
Stage 1: Computer Based Examination (CBE)
The first stage of the exam is a Computer Based Examination (CBE) that assesses the candidate’s proficiency in English language and general knowledge. The syllabus for the CBE is as follows:
Paper 1: General Intelligence and Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning: Analogies, Similarities and Differences, Classification, Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Ranking, Time and Distance, Problems on Ages, etc.
- Numerical Aptitude: Number Systems, Simplification, Percentage, Profit and Loss, Ratio and Proportion, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Simple Interest, Compound Interest, etc.
- Verbal Ability: Comprehension, Synonyms, Antonyms, One-Word Substitution, Idioms and Phrases, Sentence Correction, etc.
- General Awareness: Current Events, History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, etc.
Paper 2: English Language
- Comprehension: Reading Comprehension passages with questions based on the passage.
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, One-Word Substitution, Idioms and Phrases, etc.
- Grammar: Parts of Speech, Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Conjunctions, etc.
- Sentence Correction: Identifying and correcting grammatical errors in sentences.
- Paragraph Writing: Writing a short paragraph on a given topic.
Exam Pattern:
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | General Intelligence and Reasoning | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper 2 | English Language | 200 | 2 hours |
Note: Candidates need to secure a minimum qualifying marks in each paper to be eligible for the next stage.
Stage 2: Skill Test (Stenography)
Candidates who qualify in the CBE are eligible to appear for the Skill Test (Stenography). This stage assesses the candidate’s speed and accuracy in shorthand and typing. The Skill Test is conducted in two parts:
Part 1: Shorthand Test
- Candidates are required to take dictation in shorthand at a specified speed (80 words per minute for Grade ‘C’ and 100 words per minute for Grade ‘D’).
- The dictation is based on a passage in English.
- Candidates are given time to transcribe the shorthand notes into legible English.
Part 2: Typing Test
- Candidates are required to type the transcribed matter on a computer at a specified speed (30 words per minute for Grade ‘C’ and 40 words per minute for Grade ‘D’).
- The typing test is conducted on a standard computer keyboard.
Exam Pattern:
| Part | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Shorthand Test | 50 | 10 minutes (dictation) + 50 minutes (transcription) |
| Part 2 | Typing Test | 50 | 15 minutes |
Note: Candidates need to secure a minimum qualifying marks in both parts of the Skill Test to be considered for final selection.
Final Selection
The final selection of candidates is based on the combined score of the CBE and the Skill Test. The candidates are shortlisted based on their merit rank in the combined score. The merit list is prepared in order of the combined score, and the candidates are selected for the post of Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ based on their rank in the merit list.
Important Points to Remember
- The syllabus for the Stenographer Exam is vast, and candidates need to start their preparation early.
- Candidates should focus on developing their English language skills, especially their vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.
- Candidates should practice shorthand and typing regularly to improve their speed and accuracy.
- Candidates should refer to previous years’ question papers and mock tests to get an idea of the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Candidates should stay updated on the latest exam notifications and syllabus updates.
Tips for Preparation
- Start early: The syllabus for the Stenographer Exam is vast, and candidates need to start their preparation early.
- Focus on basics: Candidates should focus on strengthening their foundation in English language, general knowledge, shorthand, and typing.
- Practice regularly: Regular practice is key to improving speed and accuracy in shorthand and typing.
- Refer to previous years’ question papers: Analyzing previous years’ question papers can help candidates understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Take mock tests: Mock tests are a great way to assess your preparation level and identify areas that need improvement.
- Stay updated: Candidates should stay updated on the latest exam notifications and syllabus updates.
Resources for Preparation
- UPSC Official Website: The UPSC website provides the official syllabus, exam pattern, and other important information related to the Stenographer Exam.
- Books and Study Materials: There are several books and study materials available in the market that can help candidates prepare for the exam.
- Online Courses: Several online platforms offer courses and mock tests for the Stenographer Exam.
- Coaching Institutes: Coaching institutes can provide structured guidance and support to candidates preparing for the exam.
Conclusion
The UPSC Stenographer Exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can crack the exam and secure a prestigious job in the Government of India.
Table 1: Minimum Qualifying Marks for the Stenographer Exam
| Category | CBE (Each Paper) | Skill Test (Each Part) |
|---|---|---|
| General | 33% | 33% |
| OBC | 33% | 33% |
| SC | 33% | 33% |
| ST | 33% | 33% |
Table 2: Age Limit for the Stenographer Exam
| Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| General | 18-30 years |
| OBC | 18-33 years |
| SC/ST | 18-35 years |
Note: Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per the government rules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the exam?
- You must be a graduate from a recognized university.
- You must have a minimum typing speed of 30 words per minute (WPM) for Grade ‘C’ and 40 WPM for Grade ‘D’.
- You must be proficient in shorthand.
2. What is the exam pattern?
- The exam is conducted in two stages: Computer Based Examination (CBE) and Skill Test (Stenography).
- The CBE consists of two papers: General Intelligence and Reasoning, and English Language.
- The Skill Test assesses your shorthand and typing skills.
3. What is the syllabus for the exam?
- The syllabus covers topics like General Intelligence and Reasoning, Numerical Aptitude, Verbal Ability, General Awareness, and English Language.
- You can find the detailed syllabus on the official UPSC website.
4. How can I prepare for the exam?
- Start your preparation early.
- Focus on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Practice regularly.
- Refer to previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
- Join a coaching institute or online course.
5. What are the important dates for the exam?
- The important dates for the exam are announced by the UPSC on its official website.
- You can check the notification for the exam to know the important dates.
6. How many attempts are allowed for the exam?
- There is no limit on the number of attempts for the exam.
7. What is the selection process?
- The final selection is based on the combined score of the CBE and Skill Test.
- Candidates are shortlisted based on their merit rank in the combined score.
8. What is the salary for the post?
- The salary for the post of Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ is as per the government pay scales.
9. What are the career prospects after clearing the exam?
- The post of Stenographer offers a stable and secure career in the Government of India.
- You can get promotions to higher positions in the hierarchy.
10. Where can I find more information about the exam?
- You can find more information about the exam on the official UPSC website.
- You can also contact the UPSC helpline for any queries.