Archive · 20 Jan 2026
UPSC Prelims 2026: Early CSAT Preparation Advised
The UPSC Prelims exam has a part called CSAT, which is a qualifying test.
Even though it's not the main part of the exam, it's important to start preparing for it early.
CSAT has questions about reading, math, and logical thinking.
Experts say that CSAT is no longer easy and requires good preparation.
Starting early helps in understanding the concepts better and practicing more.
It's also important to manage time well during the exam.
Aspirants should not wait for the official notification but start preparing now to do well in CSAT.
CSAT is a qualifying paper in UPSC Prelims with a minimum of 33% required to pass.
CSAT has evolved to include more challenging questions, requiring deeper preparation.
Early preparation is advised to build conceptual clarity and practice past year questions.
CSAT includes sections on comprehension, logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and data interpretation.
Aspirants should start preparing for CSAT now, even before the official notification, to avoid last-minute rush.
- Who
- UPSC aspirants
- What
- Importance of early preparation for CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test)
- When
- Before the official notification for UPSC Prelims 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- CSAT has become more challenging and is crucial for clearing the UPSC Prelims
- CSAT Minimum Qualifying Marks
- 33% (66.67 marks)
- CSAT Total Marks
- 200
- CSAT Sections
- Comprehension, Interpersonal Skills, Logical Reasoning, Decision-Making, General Mental Ability, Basic Numeracy, Data Interpretation
- Recommended Preparation Time
- 4-5 months before exam
- CSAT Question Type
- Multiple-choice, Objective