Basic Science

“The subject of General Science and Technology is an important topic for the UPSC civil services exam, with around 10 to 15 questions being asked annually in the IAS preliminary tests.

Those with a science or engineering background may find this section easier, but others may find it more challenging.

However, with the right approach, this does not have to be the case. This section will provide guidance on how to prepare for the General Science exam, which can be divided into four categories: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and current events related to science and technology.

Some of the specific topics that may be covered include the formation and structure of the solar system, nuclear power, cell organelles and tissues, human anatomy and physiology, genetics and inheritance, plant and animal classification, plant and animal reproduction, biotechnology, atomic theory, and energy-efficient lighting.

Tips to remember when studying for the IAS preliminary test in general science:

• Review NCERT textbooks and properly revise them.
• Stick to the fundamentals exclusively. Preparation with NCERTs is sufficient for the essential topics. There is no need to examine scientific topics in depth.
• The goal is to cover as much of the material as possible; a science degree is not required.
• Acquaint yourself with the most recent scientific advancements occurring in India and elsewhere.
• Know the year’s Nobel Prize recipients and their respective fields of study.
• Follow websites and news from ISRO, DRDO, and the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• If any topic in the NCERTs is unclear or you don’t comprehend it well enough, use the Internet.
• Examine and practise IAS questions from prior years.
• If there is a scientific event in India, always review the basic science involved in that field.