Syllabus and Exam Pattern for UPSC Stenographer Exam 2024
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Stenographer Exam 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 in two tiers:
Tier I: Computer-based exam consisting of four papers:
* General Intelligence and Reasoning
* General Awareness
* English Language
* Comprehension and Composition
Tier II: Skill Test (Stenography)
Tier I Exam Pattern and Syllabus
1. General Intelligence and Reasoning:
- This paper tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and solve problems.
- Syllabus:
- Analogies
- Similarities and Differences
- Space Visualization
- Problem Solving
- Analytical Reasoning
- Decision Making
- Visual Memory
- Observation
- Relationship Concepts
- Arithmetic Number Series
- Non-Verbal Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Statement and Conclusion
- Syllogism
- Direction Sense
- Blood Relations
- Clocks and Calendars
- Puzzles
2. General Awareness:
- This paper assesses the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, economics, polity, and general science.
- Syllabus:
- Current Events of National and International Importance
- History of India
- Indian Polity and Governance
- Indian Economy
- Geography of India
- General Science
- Basic Computer Knowledge
3. English Language:
- This paper tests the candidate’s proficiency in the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- Syllabus:
- Comprehension
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Sentence Structure
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Idioms and Phrases
- One-word Substitution
- Error Detection
- Fill in the Blanks
- Cloze Test
- Paragraph Writing
4. Comprehension and Composition:
- This paper assesses the candidate’s ability to understand and interpret written text and to write clear and concise prose.
- Syllabus:
- Comprehension Passages
- Précis Writing
- Letter Writing
- Essay Writing
- Report Writing
Tier II Exam Pattern and Syllabus
1. Skill Test (Stenography):
-
This test is conducted in two parts:
- Dictation: Candidates are required to take dictation in English or Hindi at a specified speed.
- Transcription: Candidates are required to transcribe the dictated passage in English or Hindi using a computer.
-
Syllabus:
- Dictation: The dictation is given at a speed of 80 words per minute (wpm) for Grade ‘C’ and 100 wpm for Grade ‘D’.
- Transcription: Candidates are required to transcribe the dictated passage accurately and efficiently.
Important Points to Remember
- The syllabus for the UPSC Stenographer Exam is vast and requires thorough preparation.
- Candidates are advised to start their preparation early and focus on all aspects of the syllabus.
- Practice mock tests regularly to assess their preparation level and identify areas that need improvement.
- Stay updated with current affairs and general knowledge.
- Develop strong English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- Practice typing and shorthand skills regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
Sample Tables
Table 1: Tier I Exam Pattern
| Paper | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| English Language | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| Comprehension and Composition | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 4 hours |
Table 2: Tier II Exam Pattern
| Part | Language | Speed (wpm) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dictation | English or Hindi | 80 (Grade ‘C’) / 100 (Grade ‘D’) | 10 minutes |
| Transcription | English or Hindi | – | 50 minutes |
Conclusion
The UPSC Stenographer Exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can achieve success and secure a prestigious career in the Indian government.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Age limit varies for different categories.
2. What is the exam pattern for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- The exam is conducted in two tiers: Tier I (Computer-based) and Tier II (Skill Test).
- Tier I consists of four papers: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, English Language, and Comprehension and Composition.
- Tier II is a Skill Test (Stenography) in English or Hindi.
3. What is the syllabus for the General Intelligence and Reasoning paper?
- The syllabus includes topics like analogies, similarities and differences, problem-solving, analytical reasoning, decision making, and more.
4. What is the syllabus for the General Awareness paper?
- The syllabus covers current events, history, geography, economics, polity, and general science.
5. What is the syllabus for the English Language paper?
- The syllabus includes comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, synonyms and antonyms, and more.
6. What is the syllabus for the Comprehension and Composition paper?
- The syllabus includes comprehension passages, précis writing, letter writing, essay writing, and report writing.
7. What is the speed of dictation for the Skill Test (Stenography)?
- The dictation speed is 80 words per minute (wpm) for Grade ‘C’ and 100 wpm for Grade ‘D’.
8. How many attempts are allowed for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- There is no limit on the number of attempts.
9. What is the selection process for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- Candidates are shortlisted based on their performance in Tier I and Tier II.
- Final selection is based on the merit list prepared based on the combined scores of both tiers.
10. What are some good resources for preparing for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- Previous years’ question papers, mock tests, and study materials from reputed coaching institutes are helpful resources.
11. What are some tips for preparing for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- Start your preparation early, focus on all aspects of the syllabus, practice mock tests regularly, and stay updated with current affairs.
12. When is the UPSC Stenographer Exam 2024 likely to be held?
- The exact dates for the exam are usually announced by the UPSC on its official website.
13. How can I apply for the UPSC Stenographer Exam?
- Applications are accepted online through the official UPSC website.
14. What is the salary for a Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’?
- The salary for a Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ varies depending on the pay scale and other allowances.
15. What are the career prospects for a Stenographer in the Indian government?
- Stenographers play a crucial role in providing secretarial and administrative support to government officials. They have good career growth opportunities within the government.