Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) – Strategy

• 18 Feb 2025

What is the Need for Strategy? 

To achieve success in the Chhattisgarh State Service Examination, it is essential to develop a well-structured and dynamic strategy tailored to its specific nature. This strategic planning acts as the foundation, ensuring that half the battle is won at the very beginning. 

The examination typically comprises three distinct stages: 

• Preliminary Examination  
• Main Examination  
• Interview 

Progressing to each successive stage requires clearing the preceding one. Since the nature of these three stages varies significantly, it is crucial to devise a separate strategy for each stage to ensure success. 

Preliminary Exam Strategy 

To ensure success in the Preliminary Examination, it is crucial to thoroughly study its syllabus and carefully consider all its aspects. Based on this understanding, candidates should determine their order of preference for topics, aligning it with their convenience and interest.

A detailed analysis of the questions asked over the past 5 to 10 years is essential. Focus particularly on recurring points and topics where questions have been frequently asked.

The syllabus for the first paper, General Studies, is divided into two main parts: 

• Traditional General Studies and Current Events: This section includes questions related to general knowledge and contemporary issues. 
• General Knowledge and Current Events of Chhattisgarh: This section focuses specifically on the state’s knowledge base and recent developments.

A careful examination of the syllabus and previous years’ questions indicates the importance of having deep conceptual and factual knowledge of certain sections. For instance: 

• Who was the first Tirthankara of Jainism? 
• Which hormone is found in the gaseous state? 
• What is the state animal of Chhattisgarh? 

The most effective way to tackle such factual questions is to create concise notes and review them regularly. For example, a question like Which is the major gypsum-producing state of India? can be easily addressed by preparing a list of major mineral-producing states in India.

Suggested Resources and Techniques 

• NCERT Books: For traditional General Studies topics, NCERT books are highly beneficial. 
• Online Resources: Utilize relevant material available on the internet and platforms like the Drishti website. 
• Books by Drishti Publications: The Quick Book on General Science and Technology by Drishti PCS can be helpful for tackling science and computer-related questions.

Current Events and State-Specific Questions

The examination often features a high frequency of questions from census data, current events, and state-specific topics. To excel in these areas: 

• Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express. 
• Study current affairs updates available on the Drishti PCS website. 
• Refer to standard monthly magazines like Drishti Current Affairs Today. 
  For state-specific questions, study books such as Chhattisgarh State Special or other standard resources published by the Government of Chhattisgarh. 

Test of Aptitude (CSAT) – Paper II 

The second paper, Test of Aptitude (CSAT), comprises 100 questions with a total of 200 marks. 

• Categorize previous years' CSAT questions into different sections for focused practice. 
• Remember that all questions carry equal marks, and there is a provision for negative marking (1/3 of the marks assigned for a correct answer will be deducted for each wrong answer). 

Time Management and Practice 

• It is advisable to solve practice papers and past questions within the allotted two-hour time limit. Start this exercise 15-20 days before the exam date. Practicing these questions not only improves subject comprehension but also increases the ability to answer repetitive questions effectively. 
• By following this systematic approach and utilizing the recommended resources, candidates can significantly enhance their chances of clearing the Preliminary Examination. 

Mains Exam Strategy 

The preparation strategy for the CGPSC Mains Examination differs significantly from that of the Preliminary Examination due to its descriptive and analytical nature. While the Preliminary Examination is only qualifying, the marks obtained in the Mains Examination are directly added to the final merit list. This makes the Mains stage crucial for overall success.

Mains Examination Overview 

• Language 
• Essay 
• General Studies Papers (Five) 
  • History, Constitution, and Public Administration 
  • Science, Technology, Aptitude, Reasoning, Intelligence, and Environment 
  • Economy and Geography 
  • Philosophy and Sociology 
  • Welfare, Development Programs, Laws, Sports, Events, Organizations, Educational Institutions, and Human Development

Language Paper (Paper I)

• The first paper focuses on General Hindi, General English, and Chhattisgarhi language.  
• Candidates need to prepare thoroughly for grammar-related questions, which form a significant part of this section. Regular practice using standard grammar books available in the market is recommended. 

Essay Paper (Paper II) 

• The Essay paper is divided into two parts: 
  • National-Level Problems 
  • Chhattisgarh-Specific Problems 
• Each part will present four topics, from which candidates must select two topics from each and write essays on a total of four topics. These essays should include reasons, current situations supported by data, and suggested solutions. 
• To make essays engaging, incorporate quotes, sayings and relevant verses. Developing a strong writing style and practicing essay writing regularly will help achieve better scores. 

General Studies Papers

Paper III: History, Constitution, and Public Administration 

• This paper includes questions on: 
  • History of India 
  • Freedom Movement of India 
  • History of Chhattisgarh and its role in the Indian Freedom Movement 
  • Indian Constitution and Public Administration 
• Candidates should study standard books and create concise, point-wise notes tailored to the descriptive nature of the examination. In-depth observation of past papers and regular practice of answer writing will enhance performance.

Paper IV: Science, Technology, Aptitude, Reasoning, and Environment 

• This paper covers: 
  • Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) 
  • Practical Applications of Technology 
  • Environment (Marine Pollution, Biodiversity) 
  • Mathematics and Reasoning 
• To excel in this paper, focus on conceptual understanding and practice section-wise questions from past papers. Utilize standard books for statistics and mathematics, and emphasize problem-solving techniques.

Paper V: Economy and Geography 

• This paper includes: 
  • Indian Economy and Planning 
  • Geography and Economy of Chhattisgarh 
  • Agriculture, Forest, Industry, and Natural Resources in Chhattisgarh 
• Candidates should focus on Indian Economy and Geography while contextualizing their knowledge of Chhattisgarh. This integrated approach will help address the specific demands of the paper.

Paper VI: Philosophy and Sociology 

• This paper covers: 
  • Indian Philosophy and Yoga 
  • Sociology 
  • Tribes, Art, and Culture of Chhattisgarh 
• Study Indian philosophy and yoga alongside Chhattisgarh-specific sociology and cultural topics. Creating point-wise notes will help in quick revisions and better organization during the exam.

Paper VII: Welfare, Developmental Programs, and Laws 

• This paper introduces questions on: 
  • Welfare and Development Programs 
  • Social and Important Legislations 
  • International and National Sports, Events, and Organizations 
  • National Educational Institutions and Human Development 
  • Acts and Schemes in Chhattisgarh 
• Candidates should focus on understanding various laws and schemes and their implementation in Chhattisgarh. Studying two standard books and preparing topic-specific notes will aid in thorough preparation.

Interview Strategy 

• Know Your DAF: Thoroughly understand every detail in your Detailed Application Form (DAF). Be ready to answer questions about your education, hobbies, work experience, and home district. 
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current national and international issues, especially those related to Chhattisgarh's economy, policies, culture, and governance. 
• State-Specific Knowledge: Prepare topics like Chhattisgarh's history, geography, tribes, industries, government schemes, and challenges like Naxalism. 
• Mock Interviews: Attend mock interviews to build confidence and improve communication skills. Focus on articulation, body language, and clarity of thought. 
• Polish Soft Skills: Maintain a calm demeanor, smile confidently, and avoid being argumentative. 
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare answers for standard questions like "Why do you want to join civil services?" or "How can you contribute to Chhattisgarh's development?"