Structure of BPSC Mains exam
The BPSC Main Examination consists of the following papers:
- General Hindi (Compulsory)
- General Studies Paper – I
- General Studies Paper – II
- Optional Subject (Qualifying)
- Essay
1. General Hindi (Compulsory Paper)
Candidates must qualify this paper, but performance in Hindi does not affect rank.
- Total Marks: 100
- Nature: Qualifying
- Minimum Qualifying Marks: 30%
- Merit Count: Marks are not counted in final merit list
- Level of Paper: BSEB Secondary Examination (Class 10) level.
Distribution of Marks (Hindi)
| Component | Marks |
| Essay | 30 |
| Grammar | 30 |
| Sentence Formation | 25 |
| Precis Writing | 15 |
| Total | 100 |
2. General Studies Paper – I: Areas of Knowledge Covered
- Modern History of India and Indian Culture
- Current Events of National and International Importance
- Statistical Analysis, Graphs and Diagrams
Detailed BPSC Mains Exam Syllabus GS Paper – I
Modern History of India & Indian Culture
- Broad history of India from the middle of the 19th century with Special reference to Bihar
- Introduction and expansion of Western education, Including technical education
- Bihar’s role in the Indian freedom struggle
- Santhal Uprising
- 1857 Revolt in Bihar
- Birsa Movement
- Champaran Satyagraha
- Quit India Movement, 1942
- Chief features of: Mauryan Art, Pal Art, Patna Qulam Painting Personalities: Gandhi, Tagore, Nehru
Current Events of National and International Importance
In BPSC Mains, current affairs focus on issues affecting India and Bihar, linked with governance, economy, social justice, science, environment, and international relations. Questions test analytical ability, opinion-based writing, and the skill to connect current events with the Constitution, policies, and developmental challenges.
Statistical Analysis, Graphs & Diagrams
- Interpretation of data presented in: Statistical form, Graphical form, Diagrammatical form
- Testing the ability to: Draw common-sense conclusions, identify deficiencies, Point out limitations or inconsistencies
3. General Studies Paper – II: Areas of Knowledge Covered
- Indian Polity
- Indian Economy and Geography of India
- Role and Impact of Science and Technology in the Development of India
Detailed BPSC Mains Exam Syllabus: GS Paper – II
Indian Polity
- Political system of India
- Political system of Bihar
Indian Economy & Geography of India
- Planning in India
- Geography of: India, Bihar, Including: Physical geography, Economic geography, Social geography
Science and Technology: Emphasis on applied aspects of science and technology.
- Role and impact of Science and Technology in: India, Bihar
4. Optional Subjects (Qualifying Paper)
- Nature: Qualifying
- Total Questions: 100 MCQs
- Merit Count: Marks are not counted in final merit list
- Qualifying Marks: Decided by the State Government from time to time
- Qualifying Marks is 40 % for General Category
- Subject Choice: Candidates must choose one optional subject from the list prescribed by BPSC
5. Essay
The Essay paper in Bihar Public Service Commission Mains is of 300 marks and plays a crucial role in final ranking. The paper consists of four sections, each containing three essay topics. Candidates are required to write one essay from each section, making a total of four essays. Each essay carries 75 marks, and the total time allotted is three hours. Topics generally cover social and cultural issues, political and economic matters, national concerns, and international issues. The paper tests clarity of thought, balanced opinion, structure, and relevance to current affairs, with special scope for Bihar-related examples.
Important Note
- General Hindi and Optional Subject papers are qualifying only
- Only General Studies Paper I and II marks are counted for final merit
- Bihar-focused preparation is essential in both GS papers