BPSC Prelims Exam Syllabus – Complete & Updated Guide
The BPSC Preliminary Examination is the first and most important stage of the BPSC Civil Services Examination, conducted by the Bihar Public Service Commission. A clear understanding of the BPSC Prelims syllabus is essential because this stage decides whether a candidate qualifies for the Mains examination. This page provides a detailed, topic-wise syllabus of BPSC Prelims for quick and effective preparation.
Nature of BPSC Preliminary Examination
The BPSC Prelims is a screening test, and its marks are not added to the final merit list. However, it plays a crucial role in shortlisting candidates for the Mains.
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Type | Objective (MCQ) |
| Paper | General Studies (Single Paper) |
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Total Marks | 150 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Negative Marking | Yes |
| Medium | Hindi / English |
BPSC Prelims Exam Syllabus – Subject-Wise Details
The syllabus of BPSC Prelims is broad and focuses on general awareness with special emphasis on Bihar.
Best Book List for BPSC Preparation (Prelims & Mains)
General Science
This section tests basic understanding of science concepts commonly applied in daily life.
Important Topics
- Physics (motion, light, heat – basic level)
- Chemistry (elements, compounds, everyday chemistry)
- Biology (human body, plants, environment)
- Scientific developments and applications
History of India and Bihar
History questions are asked from ancient to modern times, with special emphasis on Bihar.
Important Areas
- Ancient Indian History
- Medieval Indian History
- Modern Indian History
- Freedom struggle
- Bihar’s role in national movements
- Important historical sites of Bihar
Geography of India & Bihar
Geography questions are mainly analytical and map-based in nature.
Important Topics
- Geography of India
- Rivers, mountains, climate
- Natural resources
- Agriculture and industries
- Geography of Bihar (rivers, soil, climate, irrigation)
- Physical Geography
- World Geography
Indian Polity & Governance
This is a high-scoring and important section in BPSC Prelims.
Important Topics
- Indian Constitution
- Fundamental Rights & Duties
- Directive Principles
- Union and State Government
- Panchayati Raj system
- Bihar state governance structure
- Constitutional bodies.
- Statutory bodies.
Indian Economy & Bihar Economy
Questions focus on basic economic concepts and Bihar’s economic structure.
Important Topics
- Basic concepts of economy
- Planning in India
- Budget and taxation
- Agriculture and industrial development
- Bihar economy, schemes, and development programs
- Current India and Bihar budget and economic survey
Current Affairs (National & Bihar)
Current affairs play a significant role in BPSC Prelims. At least last 1–1.5 years of current affairs should be covered.
Coverage Areas
- National events
- Bihar-specific news
- Government schemes
- Awards, sports, appointments
- International events of importance
Bihar-Specific General Knowledge
BPSC gives special importance to Bihar-related topics.
Important Topics
- History and culture of Bihar
- Geography of Bihar
- Art, architecture, and literature
- Festivals and traditions
- Important personalities from Bihar
- Social and economic issues of Bihar
Bihar special preparation for BPSC Pre exam (History, Geography, Current Affairs and Economy-Budget)
Weightage Trend in BPSC Prelims (Indicative)
| Subject | Approximate Weightage |
| History | Very High (30-35) |
| Geography | Medium (15 to 20) |
| Current Affairs | Very High (30-35) |
| Bihar GK | High (20-25) |
| Science & Economy | Very High (30) |
| Polity | Medium (10) |
| Economy & Budget | Medium (12-17) |
| General Mental Ability | Low (10) |
(Actual weightage may vary each year.)
Preparation Strategy for BPSC Prelims
A smart preparation strategy includes:
- Strong focus on Bihar GK
- Regular revision of static subjects
- Daily current affairs practice
- Continuous mock test practice
- Analysis of previous year questions
Importance of Mock Tests for BPSC Prelims
Mock tests help aspirants:
- Understand real exam difficulty
- Improve speed and accuracy
- Identify weak areas
- Practice time management
NCERT textbooks form the foundation of BPSC Prelims preparation. To help aspirants practice NCERT-based questions, we provide free NCERT mock tests (Class 6–7) with detailed explanations. 
Start Free NCERT Mock Tests for BPSC Prelims
Final Words
The BPSC Prelims syllabus may appear vast, but with a focused and Bihar-centric approach, it becomes manageable. Consistent study, regular revision, and quality mock tests are the keys to clearing the BPSC Preliminary Examination.
This page is designed as a ready reference guide for aspirants preparing for the BPSC Prelims.