Verified 2026 guide

UPSC Prelims Exam Pattern 2026

UPSC Prelims paper structure, sections, mode, duration and marking. Verified against Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) sources on 23 September 2026.

Last checked 23 September 2026UPSC examination notices

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Paper structure and marking

One-third of a mark lost per wrong answer sounds mild, but across 30 loose guesses it is a full 20 marks — routinely the difference between clearing and missing the cut-off.

Section	Question type	Marks	Notes
General Studies	Objective MCQs	+2 / −0.66	Static plus applied questions
Current Affairs	Objective MCQs	+2 / −0.66	Frequently linked back to static concepts
Indian Polity	Objective MCQs	+2 / −0.66	Highest-return static area
Geography	Objective MCQs	+2 / −0.66	Check the current bulletin
History	Objective MCQs	+2 / −0.66	Modern India carries the most weight

Mode: Objective, OMR-based in the actual exam; MockPrep practice is online and timed
Practice duration: MockPrep test: 25 questions, exam-paced timer
Marking: +2 for a correct answer, −0.66 for an incorrect answer, 0 if left unattempted

Source and interpretation note

Vacancies, dates, age reckoning and relaxations must be verified in the current UPSC notice.

Official authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Last verified: 23 September 2026.

Turn the guide into practice

Use a timed UPSC Prelims test, then review the section and topic breakdown.