OPSC PRELIMS : It is only going to get Tough !!!
If you do a comparative study at OPSC Prelims of past 3 yrs (2021, 2022 and 2023), You will understand that OPSC Prelims has significantly increased the difficulty level over the years.
Majority of “well prepared aspirants” and “with decent knowledge and hold over subjects” could not clear PRELIMs last time.
🛑 What worked in 2022 or earlier may no longer be enough.
OPSC 2023 served as a wake-up call — a clear shift in pattern, depth, and analytical demand.
Let’s break it down, section by section, and understand what this means for your upcoming PRELIMS.
1. For Current Affairs:
In earlier years, OPSC predominantly asked straightforward, single-statement questions. But in Prelims 2023, there was a clear departure from this trend — most Current Affairs questions were multi-statement, analytical, and packed with data.
📊 The focus is now on depth, clarity, and precision.
You can no longer rely on superficial reading — you need conceptual clarity and factual accuracy.
📝 Sample questions reflecting this shift:
2. For Polity:
Previously, OPSC tended to ask relatively easier, single-statement questions in the Polity section. However, in Prelims 2023, this pattern changed — Polity questions became more complex, multi-statement based, and conceptually demanding.
📌 Here are a few sample questions that reflect this shift:
3. For Geography:
A similar trend was observed in the Geography section as well — questions became more demanding compared to previous years.
📌 Here are a few sample questions that highlight this shift:
4. For History:
The Modern India questions were relatively straightforward, offering some scoring opportunities. However, OPSC also included a few trap questions, particularly from other areas of History, designed to test depth and attention to detail.
5. For Environment:
OPSC significantly increased the number of Environment-related questions this year compared to the previous year.
This is not a one-off — the trend is expected to strengthen in upcoming exams.
6. For Science & Tech:
In Prelims 2023, OPSC markedly changed its approach to Science & Technology. Unlike previous years, the questions were conceptual, relevant, and well-framed, reflecting a deeper focus on this section.
🚀 This shift is not temporary — it’s a trend that is likely to continue.
7. For Economy:
So far, OPSC has not adopted the UPSC-style of asking Economy questions — which are often conceptual and application-based. However, this may change soon. The trend suggests a gradual shift toward deeper, concept-driven questions, similar to UPSC.
📈 Be prepared — strengthen your fundamentals and stay updated with budgetary and economic developments.
Takeaways from Last Year’s Paper:
🔹 Polity:
Last year’s paper had a heavy focus on Polity, but the questions were conceptually challenging. Superficial preparation won’t work. Thoroughly revise both static and current aspects of Polity.
🔹 Geography:
Questions ranged from moderate to tricky. Strengthen core concepts—especially physical geography and map-based topics. Don’t neglect this.
🔹 Environment:
A significant number of questions came from Environment. With increasing weightage every year, build strong foundational clarity and stay updated with current affairs (e.g., conventions, species, reports).
🔹 Science & Technology:
Though fewer in number, S&T questions were analytical—a shift from previous years. This trend is likely to continue, so don’t skip this section.
🔹 Economy:
Revise all key economic concepts, especially budget terms, monetary policies, and contemporary developments. Focus on application-based questions.
🔹 Miscellaneous Current Affairs:
This section was data-heavy and factual. Unless you’ve revised thoroughly, it’s hard to guess. Prepare it well and revise RATTAFY magazine multiple times and attempt the CA based tests.
Final Advice:
🚨 Dedicate at least 2 full months exclusively for Prelims. Do not take it for granted.
With over 85,000 applicants and shrinking job avenues and the rise of AI, the competition is fiercer than ever.
If you’ve decided to appear for OPSC, prepare with the mindset that this is your final attempt—break the cycle once and for all.
Make it count. Best of Luck