CSAT Comprehension & Reasoning - Without Coaching Studyplan

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[Studyplan] CSAT Aptitude Paper 2: Comprehension & Reasoning, analysis,
previous papers, free studymaterial, cuto s (part 1 of 3)
Aptitude (http://mrunal.org/category/aptitude) / 3 years Ago /
252 Comments (http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-comprehension-reasoning-an
1. Chart: Analysis of all CSAT papers so far
2. [Section I] Comprehension for CSAT
1. Step1: Finish theory
2. How to prepare high level reasoning?
3. Step#2: Move hands while reading passage
4. Step#3: Maximum practice
5. Comprehension: Why read Non-GS columns?
6. What about the English passages?
3. [Section II] Reasoning for CSAT
1. [Block 1] High level (HL) reasoning in CSAT
1. Sample questions: Logical Connectives
2. Sample questions: Syllogism
2. [Block2] Arrangement
1. A1: Blood relation
2. A2: Grouping: People vs clothing/city/occupation/relation
3. A3: Line Sequence / Comparison problems
4. A4: Arrangement: table Circular / Rectangular
5. A5: Conditional Team selection
6. A6: Scheduling lectures, events, journey
7. A7: Direction sense test
3. [Block 3] Reasoning: Non Verbal
4. [Block 4] Reasoning: Misc. Topics / Low priority
1. M1: Missing number pattern
2. M2: Sequence Series
3. M3: Coding decoding
4. M4: Logical Venn Diagrams
5. M5: Calendar
6. M6: Data Su ciency (DS)
5. [Block 5] Reasoning: Totally Ignore these topics
4. Study schedule for the remaining days
5. Why people cant nish paper?
1. P1: Start with English passages
2. P2: Dont keep counting black circles in OMR sheet
3. P3: Dont come back for sets
4. P4: Keep sitter Questions for the end
6. Become data processor NOT data collector
7. Booklist for CSAT exam Paper II?
1. Backup#1: Banking, insurance etc.
2. Backup#2: no competitive exam
3. Backup#3: higher di culty exams
8. Book related doubts
9. Appendix1a: Sacred cuto s of CSAT prelim exams
10. Appendix1b: Minimum Passing marks in CSAT prelims
11. Appendix2: Download links
Prologue to a mile long article
Yes, Just like YOYO Honey Singh, Im also alive.

(http://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/chandigarh/yo-yo-honey-singh-refutes-rumours-of-
death/article1-1225302.aspx) and [Current] series will be resumed soon but rst, How to prepare for
CSAT paper II (aptitude) in a systematic and time-bound manner that too via selfstudy?
1. Comprehension and Reasoning (http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-

comprehension-reasoning-analysis-previous-papers-free-studymaterial-cuto s-part-1-2.html)
Youre here
2. Mathematics & Data Interpretation: high priority topics (http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-
aptitude-paper-2-maths-data-interpretation-high-priority-topics-sample-questions-free-
studymaterial-part-2-3.html)
3. Decision Making + Mathematics: Medium & low priority topics
(http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-decision-making-maths-medium-low-
priority-topics-sample-questions-free-studymaterial-part-3-3.html)
Structure of CSAT paper II (Aptitude)
Total Questions: 80
Total Marks: 200
Marks for correct answer: 2.5
Negative marking: Yes MINUS 0.83 marks. i.e. -33% of correct answer.
Sectional cuto s: No. They combine marks for both paper I and paper II to select candidates for
next stage the Mains exam.
Four Sections of CSAT Paper II (Aptitude)
1. Comprehension (i) to test your understanding (ii) to test English

2. Reasoning
3. Mathematics
4. Decision making (without negative marking)
Chart: Analysis of all CSAT papers so far

From above charts, it is evident that in all three years, maximum number of questions have come
from Comprehension. So, lets start with that.
[Section I] Comprehension for CSAT

HL: HIGH LEVEL REASONING (FIND ASSUMPTION, INFERENCE, CENTRAL THEME IN THE PASSAGE)
Reading Comprehension 2011 2012 2013
Comprehension passages (printed in both Hindi and English) 28 32 24
Passages to test your English knowledge (printed only in English) 9 8 8
Total 37 40 32
UPSC comprehension passages are tougher than banking, insurance, sta selection and State PSCs
because:
1. CSAT comprehension dont ask straightforward who, when or where type of MCQs.
2. Even when they ask what and why, you cant nd answer directly from a single sentence of
the passage. They test your understanding of the entire passage.
3. In CSAT 2011 and 2012, one passage would contain set of 5-6 MCQs. But in 2013, one passage
contains barely 2-3 questions. Hence youve to read more number of passages to get same
amount of MCQs. Similar trend in sitting arrangement and data interpretation sets. [Same trend in
CAT- upto mid-2000s, one passage 5 MCQs, nowadays 1 passage contains barely two MCQs.]
4. They even ask High level reasoning questions within the passages. (Find assumptions / inferences)
Step1: Finish theory
Youll encounter the High level reasoning topic within Comprehension segment, for example:
Assumptions
1. Which of the following assumptions are valid? then 2-3-4 statements given
2. With reference to the passage, which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
Interferences
3. What does the author imply?

4. What does the passage imply?
5. Which one of the following statements conveys the inference of the passage?
6. Which of the following inferences can be made from the passage?
Central theme*
7. Which of the following statements constitute central passage of the theme?

8. What is the essential message being conveyed?
9. Which of the following best describes the thoughts of the author?
10. Which one of the following statements constitutes the central theme of this passage?
These are examples of HIGH LEVEL REASONING.

*as such central theme is not high level reasoning question, but to confuse you, they provide
assumptions and inferences as wrong options.
Passages Questions 2011 2012 2013
High level reasoning (HL) Find assumption, inference,

10 8 8
central theme
Comprehension
other MCQs e.g. nding meaning of a phrase, cause-
passages 14 24 20
e ect etc.
A. Subtotal: Comprehension 28 32 24
i.e. those easy passage given before Decision Making

B. English
segment, and only printed in English. No Hindi 9 8 8
passages
translation give.
Total MCQs A+B 37 40 32

Many candidates dont need to practice comprehension at home. And in the exam, they make silly
mistakes by mixing up facts, assumptions, and inferences with the central theme. You need a strong
grip over high level reasoning theory to tick correct option in this section.
How to prepare high level reasoning?

Recommended Book: Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey (BSC Publication)
(http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)
RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) also covers these topics
but MK Pandeys explanations and examples are much more re ned and lucid, particularly for
comprehension angle.
CSAT Manuals by TMH, Pearson, Arihant etc. also cover, but not in a thorough manner.
As such MK Pandey is written for Bank exams, hence not all chapters are important for UPSC. Do
selective study in following sequence
Chapter Title Topics to focus
1 basic of logic How to identify conclusion? he has given list of keywords on page 6.
Logical connective theory explained on page 19 and 20. He did not use
the word Logical Connective. He calls them hypothetical
reasoning. But either way its important for both CSAT and CAT. After
that read following article:
some
2 information [Reasoning] Logical Connectives (if, unless, either or) for CSAT, CAT
tips shortcuts formulas approach explained
(http://mrunal.org/2013/04/reasoning-logical-connectives-if-
unless-either-or-for-csat-cat-shortcuts-formulas-approach-
explained.html)
Page 29. When assumption is invalid?
Page 30. When assumption cannot be out rightly rejected?
page33. Di erence between implications and assumption.
All the practice exercises + read the full explanation given in the
3 Assumptions
answers- why he classi ed something as Assumption? Otherwise
in the comprehension youll always endup in 50:50 doubt.
Page 53: Exercise 3C, particularly the end part questions dealing
with assumption in passages.
Page 119-122: how to avoid confusion while deriving inference?

Evaluating
5 Page 127 onwards: all the question passages. Also read full
inference
explanation given in the answers.
Page 287 onwards: di erentiating between immediate cause vs

10 Cause E ect principle cause. Itll help particularly in the passages related to science,
environment or economy.
This will also help indirectly in the Decision Making Questions:
evaluating Page 168: how to determine whether a suggestion action reduces

the given or solves the problem?
6
course of
Page 171: how to determine if suggestion solution is practical or
action
not?
Page 172: are you solving the problem or creating a new one?
After above Core theory is done, go through following:
Ch.4 Forcefulness of the arguments.

Ch.9 Strengthening and weakening the arguments
Ch.8 Punch line.
So far, UPSC hasnt asked GMAT like questions about strengthen/weaken arguments in the given
passage. But nonetheless, above theory will help you digest the passages better.
Step#2: Move hands while reading passage
ManhattanGMATTM is a prominent coaching class in USA(!) Their comprehension tips are worth
implementing for CSAT. While reading the passage, do two things:
1. Note down the assumption & premises on the margin, in a short-hand note.
2. Highlight the important phrases. (GMAT/CAT done online, their software has this facility. You can
do the same even on paper question paper via pen / highlighter)
This helps quickly eliminating options without having to re-read the whole passage again and again,
thus saving precious time during the exam. To see practical demo, go to following links. Their
instructor Stacey Koprince showed her own notes and thought process while reading the passage:
1. Passage: Language of the leader

(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2012/01/03/what-to-read-and-what-not-to-read-
on-rc-passages/)
2. Passage: Meteor showers part I
(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2013/04/22/how-to-read-tough-science-
passages/#more-5351); Part II
(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2013/04/29/inferring-from-the-meteor-stream-
passage/#more-5390)
3. Passage: Multinational corporations
(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2012/11/28/the-reasoning-is-in-the-details/)
Additional tips from the same instructor:
3. How not to read the passage? 90% focus vs 20% focus

(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2013/02/12/what-not-to-read-on-reading-
comprehension-passages/)
4. How to nd the central theme / central point?
(http://www.manhattangmat.com/blog/index.php/2011/07/22/how-to- nd-the-point-in-an-rc-
passage/)
Once this is over, time for maximum practice. How?
Step#3: Maximum practice for Comprehension?
As such every publication house has released a separate book on comprehension. But Im not
impressed with their content vs MRP.
Most of their tips are just bolbachhan without telling speci cally do this or do that.
Then they give 20-30 practice passages and charge 200-300 rupees. But the quality of their
passages doesnt even justify 50 rupees for the book.
If you can get such books from library then do borrow and practice. Otherwise dont waste money
buying such special comprehension books for CSAT.
For practice you can use following resources:
1. Last three years CSAT papers- to get a taste of the di culty level of UPSC. (download links given in
appendix of this article)
2. 500 passages gathered from pagalguy.coms old threads related to CAT preparation for year 2011
and 2012. (download links given in appendix of this article)
3. Pagalguy thread for CAT RC discussion 2013 (http://pagalguy.com/forums/verbal/rc-discussion-cat-
2013-t-92255/)
4. this website got another 250 passages:codecoax.com/grerc/ (http://www.codecoax.com/grerc/)
You can nd many more resources by just a google search. e.g. just type 1000 comprehension
passages But keep in mind just ~3 months left. Dont get xated over RC. Youve to prepare & practice
other topics as well.
Comprehension: Why read Non-GS columns?

UPSC examiner doesnt write new passage himself. He merely cut-pastes the passages from
prominent English newspapers and academic books. From his side, he only designs the MCQs, and
gives Hindi translations.
Therefore, irrespective of your medium in mains exam, you have to read English newspapers and
magazines.
Just because you nished college in English medium, doesnt automatically make you master of
English. Avoid such overcon dence.
The English textbooks youve read for engineering, medicine, pharma or commerce theyre
*NOT* the same English that UPSC passages will contain. Therefore, youve to get yourself familiar
with the sentence ow and vocabulary of such academic / column type passages.
Otherwise, in the exam, youll take 15 minutes just to read one passage, while other players nish
the same within 3 minutes. In past exams, many candidates failed to nish entire paper, only
because of this reason.
To get a taste of comprehension passages, the best place is the Book review segment within
Hindu, Indian express, Frontline and EPW. Because they rst talk about the book, then about the
contemporary issue dealt in the book e.g. arts, economics, science, environment, philosophy etc.
Links:
1. indianexpress.com/tag/book-review/ (http://indianexpress.com/tag/book-review/)
2. thehindu.com/books/ (http://www.thehindu.com/books/)
3. epw.in/book-reviews (http://www.epw.in/book-reviews)
4. frontline.in/books/ (http://www.frontline.in/books/) (requires free registration)
of course it doesnt mean youve to read all four each day. Just keep an eye as and when you get time.
Most candidates avoid such articles/columns in newspaper, thinking this is not important for
General studies syllabus. But Keep in mind-Comprehension is a perishable skill that must be
polished with regular reading of such non-GS English columns.
By the way,
What about the English passages?
Yes, what to do with those easy passages given before decision making questions? (i.e. printed only
in English and not in Hindi)
As such no separate preparation necessary. Because MK Pandey
(http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) is entirely in English. So once youre done with that
theory, youve automatically gained knowledge of such easy English passages.
But still for practice of such passages, you may go through papersets of Bank and SSC exams (only
if youve time left!)
Anyways, enough of comprehension, lets move to the next segment of CSAT paper II:
[Section II] Reasoning for CSAT
Type Reasoning Topics 2011 2012 2013
Syllogism 3 5 0
Logical connectives 0 2 0
High Level
assumption / inference / conclusion 0 5 0
Subtotal: High level Reasoning 3 12 0
Arrangement 1 case vs. many questions 0 5 11
1 case 1 question 1 7 5
blood relation 3 1 0
Direction sense test 1 0 0
Sub Total: Sitting Arrangement 5 13 16
re ection from mirror 1 0 0
min. colors required to paint 1 0 0
Non-Verbal which gure next 0 2 3
Cube gure 0 2 1
Subtotal: Non-Verbal 2 4 4
Venn Diagrams 1 1 1
Misc Missing number pattern 1 0 3
Subtotal: Misc 2 1 4
Final Total Reasoning 12 30 24

Total
% weightage in Paper II 15 37.5 30
[Block 1] High level (HL) reasoning in CSAT
UPSC asked no syllogism / logical connectives in 2013, but they lled up the quota of high level
reasoning by asking 8 such MCQ ( nd assumption, inference etc) within 32 comprehension MCQs.
High level reasoning (HLR) 2011 2012 2013
Standalone MCQs within reasoning section 3 12 0

HLR-MCQs within comprehension section 10 8 8
total HL reasoning 13 20 8
% weightage in CSAT Paper II (out of 80) 16% 25% 10%
Weve already prepared the high level reasoning for comprehension i.e. logical connectives, assertion,
reasoning, central theme from MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-
3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)s book. Only one important topic
left = Syllogism.
Syllogism
For this, refer to MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-

3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)s Chapter 11 page 301
onwards.
Start with mastering two statements. e.g. all cats are dogs, all dogs are pigs then which of the
following conclusion is valid? then move to three statement and four statement syllogism.
MK Pandey has explained two methods to solve syllogism: AEIO method vs Venn diagram. I prefer
AEIO, some prefer Venn diagram, and you can pick whichever you nd more comfortable. Either
way, do all the exercises and read the answer explanations in his book.
If you prefer AEIO method, then:
Mug up the tables given on 306, 307, 311, 321 (short form of table6) and read following
articles(theyre based on AEIO method)
[Reasoning] Syllogism (All Cats are Dogs): Method, approach, techniques, shortcuts explained for
IBPS, SSC, CSAT and CAT (http://mrunal.org/2013/01/reasoning-syllogism-all-cats-dogs-approach-
shortcut-technique-explained-ibps-ssc-csat-cat.html)
[Reasoning] Three-Statement Syllogism: technique, method, shortcuts for IBPS, SSC, CSAT, CAT,
CMAT (http://mrunal.org/2013/01/reasoning-statement-syllogism-technique-method-shortcuts-for-
ibps-ssc-csat-cat-cmat-gmat.html)
[Reasoning Q] 3-Statement Syllogism doubt Question: Apples, Mangoes, Vegetarians
(http://mrunal.org/2013/01/reasoning-q-3-statement-syllogism-doubt-question-apples-mangoes-
vegetarians.html)
[Reasoning] 4-Statement Syllogism: Approach, Techniques, explained for SBI PO (High level
reasoning) and UPSC CSAT paper 2 (http://mrunal.org/2013/03/reasoning-4-statement-syllogism-
approach-techniques-explained-for-sbi-po-high-level-reasoning-and-upsc-csat-paper-2.html)
If you still have time and mood, you can get additional practice from RS Aggarwal
(http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?
pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)s book. But thatd be an overkill because only ~3 months left.
Sample questions: Logical Connectives
(Prelim 1995) Which of the following can be inferred from the statement that Either John is
stupid or John is lazy?
a. John is lazy/therefore, John is not stupid

b. John is not lazy/therefore, John is stupid
c. John is not stupid/therefore, John is lazy
d. John is stupid/therefore, John is not lazy
(CSAT 2012)
Examine the following statements:
1. I watch TV only if I am bored

2. I am never bored when I have my brothers company.
3. Whenever I go to the theatre I take my brother along.
Which one of the following conclusions is valid in the context of the above statements?
A. If I am bored I watch TV
B. If I am bored, I seek my brothers company.
C. If I am not with my brother, than ill watch TV.
D. If I am not bored I do not watch TV.
(CSAT 2012) Consider the following statements:
1. Either A & B are of same age or A is older than B

2. Either C & D are of same age or D is older than C
3. B is older than C
Which of the following conclusions can be drawn from the above statements?
a. A is older than B
b. B and D are of the same age
c. D is older than C
d. A is older than C
Sample questions: Syllogism
(Prelim 1998) consider following statements:
1. all members of Mohans family are honest

2. some members of mohans family are not employed
3. some employed persons are not honest
4. some honest persons are not employed.
Which of the following inferences can be drawn from above statements?
a. all members of Mohans family are employed.

b. all employed members of Mohans family are honest
c. the honest members of Mohans family are not employed
d. the employed members of Mohans family are not honest.
(CSAT 2011). Examine the following statements:
1. All animals are carnivorous.

2. Some animals are not carnivorous.
3. Animals are not carnivorous.
4. Some animals are carnivorous.
Codes:
a. 1 and 3
b. 1 and 2
c. 2 and 3
d. 3 and 4
(CSAT 2011) Examine the following statements:
1. All trains are run by diesel engine.

2. Some trains are run by diesel engine.
3. No train is run by diesel engine.
4. Some trains are not run by diesel engine.
Codes:
A. 1 and 2
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 3
D. 1 and 4
1. All artists are whimsical.

2. Some artists are drug addicts.
3. Frustrated people are prone to become drug addicts.
From the above three statements it may be concluded that:
a. Artists are frustrated

b. Some drug addicts are whimsical
c. All frustrated people are drug addicts.
d. Whimsical people are generally frustrated
1. Only those who have a pair of binoculars can become the member of the birdwatchers club.
2. Some members of the birdwatchers club have cameras.
3. Those members who have cameras can take part in photo-contests.
Which of the following conclusions can be drawn from the above statements?
a. All those who have a pair of binoculars are members of the birdwatchers club.
b. All members of the birdwatchers club have a pair of binoculars.
c. All those who take part in photo-contests are members of the birdwatchers club.
d. No conclusion can be drawn.
[Block2] Arrangement
Within arrangement, I also include blood relation and direction sense test because in all such
sums, youve to drag a chart/diagram in the rough sheets to get the answer.
MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) has covered them under Chapter 20 Problem solving.
For additional practice you can use RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-
verbal-non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)s
chapter 5, 6 and 8.
A1: Blood relation
(1998) A to F are members of a family consisting 4 adults and 3 children. A and D are brothers, A is
doctor. E is an engineer married to one of the brothers and has two children B is married to D and
G is their child. Who is C?
(2009) There is a family of 6 persons A, B, C, D, E and F. There are two married couples in the
family. The family members are lawyer, teacher, salesman, engineer, accountant and doctor. D, the
salesman is married to the lady teacher. The doctor is married to the lawyer. F, the accountant is
the son of B and brother of E. C, the lawyer is the daughter-in-law pf A. E is the unmarried
engineer. A is the grandmother of F. How is E related to F?
(CSAT 2011) A is the brother of B, C is the father of A, D is brother of E, E is the daughter of B Then,
the uncle of D is?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) Chapter 20 from Page 612 onwards. Understand the
concept of backtracking and how to draw family tree- especially for complex problems like A is
wife of B who is not an engineer etc.
then do all exercises in 20A (page 628 onwards). but it is only for warmup. The real UPSC level
sets begin from Exercise 20B and 20C. First solve them on your own, then understand the full
explanation and technique shown by MK Pandey.
combined problem of blood

Page Questions Explanation
relation plus __.
633 12-19 intelligence comparison 670
635 27-31 Weight comparison. 673
Sitting arrangement + age 680 (but he did not explain this one, just
638 51-55
comparison. gave answer)
643 79-83 Trait comparison. 687-688
653 50-54 occupation 705
653 55-59 occupation 705
655 70-73 nothing 706
660 111-115 nothing try yourself
662 132-135 surnames 709
For additional practice, you may refer RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-

non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Ch. 5 Blood
relations (page 261 onwards) .
To complicate the question, often the examiner doesnt ask straightforward blood relation but
embeds it in the problem related to grouping- people vs. relation vs occupation vs car color and so on.
Hence our next preparation should focus on:
A2: Grouping: People vs clothing/city/occupation/relation
(Prelims 2010) Gopal, Harsh, Inder, Jai and Krishnan have Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Cuttack, Delhi and
Ernakulam as their hometowns (Not necessarily in that order). They are studying in Engineering,
Medical, Commerce, Economics and History Colleges (Not necessarily in that order). None of the ve
boys is studying in his hometown, but each of them studies in one of the cities given above.Further, it
is given that:
i. Gopals hometown is Ernakulam.

ii. Harsh is not studying in Ahmedabad or Bhopal.
iii. Economic college is in Bhopal.
iv. Inders hometown is cuttack.
v. Krishnan is studying in Delhi.
vi. Jai is studying in Ernakulam and the History College4 is in his hometown Ahmedabad.
vii. Engineering College is situated in Ernakulam.
**then youve to solve four MCQs about who belongs to which city and college.
(CSAT 2012) Three persons A, B & C wear shirts of Black, Blue and Orange colours (not necessarily
in the order). No person wore shirt and pant of the same colour. Further, it is given that, A did not
wear shirt of black colour. B did not wear shirt of blue colour. C did not wear shirt of orange colour.
A did not wear the pants of green colour. B wore pants of orange colour. What were the colours of
the pants and shirts worn by C respectively?
(CSAT 2013) In ve ats, one above the other, live ve professionals. The professor has to go up to
meet his IAS o cer friend. The doctor is equally friendly to all, and has to go up as frequently as go
down. The engineer has to go up to meet his MLA friend above whose at lives the professors
friend. From the ground oor to the top oor, in what order do the ve professionals live?
How to prepare? In MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-

3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) Chapter 20:
Page Questions understand his technique explained in page __
599 ex1 602
632 1-5 667
638-39 51-55 680 although has no explanation
657 88-92 707
658 98-102 707
663 140-144 710
664 145-149 710
A3: Line Sequence / Comparison problems

Youre given information about people standing in a line / cars parked / marks or height or wealth of
people in a sequence, then youve to solve the MCQs. observe samples:
(Prelims 2010) P, Q, R and S are four men. P oldest but not poorest. R richest but not oldest. Q
older than S but not than P or R. P richer than Q but not S. Arrange these men in descending order
of their age and richness.
(CSAT 2011) In a queue, Mr. X is fourteenth from the front and Mr. Y is seventeenth from the end,
while Mr. Z is exactly in between Mr. X and Mr. Y. If Mr. X is ahead Mr. Y and there are 48 persons
in the queue, how many persons are then between Mr. X and Mr. Z?
(CSAT 2012) Rama scored more than Rani. Rani scored less than Ratna. Ratna scored more than
Rama. Padma scored more than Rama but less than Ratna. Who scored the highest?

608-09 Point (3), Ex.7 609-10
633 12-19 670
635 27-31 673
644-45 91-95 689
645-46 96-100 690
649-51 25-36 699-700
654 65-69 706
660 116-121 708
661 122-126 708-709
Additional practice: RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-

revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) ch.6 on puzzle tests.
A4: Arrangement: table Circular / Rectangular
(2000) A to F are sitting on a circular table. A is between D and F. C opposite of D. D and E are not on
neighboring chairs. Which of the following must be true? (then various possibilities given
(CSAT 2013) Five people A, B, C, D and E are, seated about a round table, every chair is spaced
equidistant from adjacent chairs. C is seated next to A. A is seated two seats from D. B is not seated
next to A. Which of the following must be true?
I. D is seated next to B.
II. E is seated next to A.
III. Both 1 and 2
IV. Neither 1 nor 2

606-608. pay attention to de nite information vs comparative information vs

604-
Ex5, Ex6 negative information and how he utilizes all three of them to make the
05
arrangement.
677-678 observe how he prepares diagram to accommodate complex info-

637 39-43
gender vs marital status vs position on a circular table
681-684. again observe how he prepared diagram to accommodate complex

640 62-71
info of gender vs profession vs intelligence vs position on a rectangular table.
654 60-64 This is for self-exercise.
655 74-77 this is for self-exercise
659 108-110 708
661 122-126 708-709
Then RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-

revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Ch 6
A5: Conditional Team selection
(CSAT 2013) A tennis coach is trying to put together a team of four players for the forthcoming
tournament. For this 7 players are available: males A, Band C; and females W, X, Y and Z. All players
have equal capability and at least 2 males will be there in the team. For a team of four, all players
must be able to play with each other. But, B cannot play with W, C cannot play with Z and W cannot
play with Y. Then 3 MCQ given
(CSAT 2013) The music director of a lm wants to select four persons to work on di erent aspects
of the composition of a piece of music. Seven persons are available for this work; they are Rohit,
Tanya, Shobha, Kaushal, Kunal, Mukesh and J aswant. Rohit and Tanya will not work together.
Kunal and Shobha will not work together. Mukesh and Kunal want to work together. the only MCQ
given.
How to prepare? MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-

621-623. Obverse his shortcut method, he focuses on the options that are
621 Ex14 blatantly violating the selection rules, thus he eliminates wrong options
quickly.
636 32-38 674 to 676
643 84-90 688- important dont misread the last condition!
652 44-49 703 to 705
658 93-97 this is for self-exercise
Then RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-

revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Ch.6 Type 5: from page 356
onwards.
A6: Scheduling lectures, events, journey
Observe the pattern of MCQs asked in previous CSAT exams:
(CSAT 2012) Guest lectures on ve subjects viz., Economics, History, Statistics, English and
Mathematics have to be arranged in a week from Monday to Friday. Only one lecture can be
arranged on each day. Economics cannot be scheduled on Tuesday. Guest faculty for History is
available only on Tuesday. Mathematics lecture has to be schedules immediately after the day of
Economics lecture. English lecture has to be scheduled immediately before the day of Economics
lecture. ***then MCQs start**

634 20-26 671-673
638 44-50 678-679
641 72-78 684-687
651 37-43 702
656 78-82 706
659 103-107 708
662 127-131 709
For additional practice, RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-

reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Ch6 Puzzle test
(page 288)
A7: Direction sense test
Sample questions from previous prelims

(2009) A person travels 12 km due North, then 15 km due East, after that 15 km due West and then 18
km due South. How far is he from the starting point?
1. 6 km
2. 12 km
3. 33 km
4. 60 km
(2010)In a meeting, the map of a village was placed in such a manner that south-east becomes north,
north-east becomes west and so on. What will south become?
1. North
2. North-east
3. North-west
4. West
(2011) The houses of A and B face each other on a road going north-south, As being on the western
side. A comes out of his house, turns left, travels 5 km, turns right, travels 5 km to the front of Ds
house. B does exactly the same and reaches the front of Cs house. In this context, which one of the
following statements is correct?
a. C and D live on the same street.

b. Cs house faces south.
c. The houses of C than 20 km apart.
d. None of the above
How to prepare?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) doesnt deal with Direction sense test topic. For this consult
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Chapter 8.
[Block 3] Reasoning: Non Verbal
Non-Verbal 2011 2012 2013
re ection from mirror 1 0 0
Min. colors required to paint the given gure. 1 0 0
which gure next (similar to those SSC/Bank question) 0 2 3
Cube gure which side will have what color / number / alphabet. 0 2 1
Subtotal: Non-Verbal 2 4 4
MK Pandey doesnt cover non-verbal reasoning

Preparation source: A modern Approach to verbal and non-verbal reasoning, RS Aggarwal
(S.Chand Publication) (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)
solve all the chapters given under in the non-verbal reasoning section of that book-Even chapters
related to paper cutting and paper folding type MCQs.
Reason: UPSC is full of uncertainty. Similarly nothing prevents them from asking paper cutting /
paper folding type questions. So practice a few sum from each variety.
Reserve the practice quota of non-verbal, for the last month before exam. Because even if you
begin right now (June), your skill/dexterity will perish by August end. Besides you cannot really
makes revision notes for this topic. (Except a few points in cube theory- number of faces, how
many smaller cubes if x number of cuts are made etc.)
Just like nd missing number MCQs, these should also be done at last during the exam.
Sometimes particularly in the cube questions, candidates cannot crack the pattern and
unnecessarily waste 10-15 minutes for a one MCQ. Avoid doing that. Save these non-verbal
reasoning questions for the end.
[Block 4] Reasoning: Misc. Topics / Low priority

Odd ball topics = Not regularly asked in large amount. You cannot see a pattern over the years- unlike
sitting arrangement or assumption-inference.
Reasoning Misc. 2011 2012 2013
Missing number pattern 1 0 3
Venn Diagrams 1 1 1
total 2 1 4
M1: Missing number pattern
(Prelim 2006) nd the missing number X in following series
g1 g2 g3
16 64 64
9 18 25 25 18 1 9 18 1
36 16 X
Answer choice: 4 / 16 / 25 / 36.

(CSAT 2013) nd the missing number X in following series
gure 1 gure 2 gure3
84 81 88
14 12 18 9 ? 11
The missing number (?) in gure 3 is? Answer choice: 7/16/21/28
Preparation source: RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-

reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm) Ch16: Inserting
the missing character Page 628 and practice the sums
Tip: in the exam, solve these sums in the end. Because sometimes it may take 10 seconds, and
sometimes even after 10 minutes of trial-error you may not see the pattern. So dont waste too
much time.
M2: Sequence Series
(1995) consider the series given below. 4/12/95, 1/1/96, 26/2/96, The next term of the series is
a. 24/3/96
b. 25/3/96
c. 26/3/96
d. 27/3/96
(1998) .Which one of the following satis es relationship Dda:aDD:Rrb: ?
a. DDA
b. RRR
c. bRR
d. BBr
In the missing number questions we saw UPSC asked it twice- 2006 and 2013. So far UPSC hasnt
asked sequence/series- but nothing prevents them from asking, especially under the aegis of
Chairman DP Agarwal, to break the backs of coaching classes and senior players. Therefore, you
should prepare such chillar topics as well.
Dont live under overcon dence that just because xyz topic was not asked in last three exams, so
UPSC will never ask it in future exams.
Preparation Source: RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-

revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm),
Chapter 2 number analogy, following types
Type 8: number analogy

Type 9: Alphabet Analogy
Chapter 3: Classi cation, following types
Type 4: choosing odd numerical (indirectly helpful in missing number)

Type 5: choosing the odd letter group
M3: Coding decoding
(1999) In a code language, SOLID is, written as WPSLPIMFHA. What does the code ATEXXXQIBVO
refer to?
a. EAGER
b. WAFER
c. WAGER
d. WATER
(2000) In a certain code, MARCH is written as OCTEJ, how is RETURN written in that code?
A. TFUVSM
B. QGSTQM
C. TGVWTP
D. TGRVSO
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm), Chapter 4.
Optional: MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) Chapter 17 and 19 on coded relationships and inequalities
M4: Logical Venn Diagrams
There are two type of Venn diagram questions
1. Mathematical: in a society 30% people drink co ee and 50%.well see about this in next article
under Maths strategy.
2. Logical: youre given a complex Venn diagram, without any quantity or percentages. It contains
overlapping of squares, rectangles, circles and triangles, then you have to identify which of them
are both singer and painters etc.
In last three exams, UPSC asked both type of Venn diagrams. They also asked such MCQs in 1996,
1998 and 2001. Hence should be prepared.
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm), Chapter 9 Logical Venn
diagrams.
What to do with mathematical Venn diagrams? well see in next article under Maths strategy.
M5: Calendar
Sample questions from previous prelims

(2008) March 1, 2008 was Saturday. Which day was it on March 1, 2002?
a. Thursday
b. Friday
c. Saturday
d. Sunday
Preparation source: My article under Aptitude series- click me (http://mrunal.org/2013/08/reasoning-

calendar-questions- nding-day-or-date-concepts-shortcuts-explained.html)
By the way, I consider Permutation, combination, probability, clock angles and mathematical Venn
diagrams as part of mathematics. Well see them in next part.
M6: Data Su ciency (DS)

Not seen in recent times, but has been asked in pre-CSAT era, as part of age / sitting arrangement /
blood relation type problems. Observe
(2006) P, Q, R, S and T live in a ve storied building (ground+4), and each of them resides on a
separate oor. Further,
1. T doesnt reside on topmost oor

2. Q doesnt reside on ground oor
3. S resides on one story above P, and one below R.
To know which person resides on ground oor, which of the above statements are su cient?
a. only 1 and 3 su cient

b. only 2 and 3 su cient
c. 1, 2 and 3 are su cient
d. 1, 2 and 3 are insu cient.
(2006) they gave four dice gures. and asked which of them are su cient to nd out the
numbers opposite to each other.
How to prepare DATA SUFFICIENCY?
Prepare data su ciency ONLY after learning all the theories in reasoning and mathematics-
particularly age problems and number system.
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) Chapter 7, Page 203 onwards
(optional) RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)s chapter 17 on data
su ciency. Although thatll be overkill, because MK Pandeys chapter is far better and thorough
than RS Aggarwal.
[Block 5] Reasoning: Totally Ignore these topics

You may Ignore because these topics are not seen in UPSC exams so far. Theyre mainly reserved for
Bank exams. Again I use the word may because DP Aggarwal may ask It for breaking the backs. but
sometimes youve to take calculated risk hahaha
RS Aggarwal
MK Pandey
(http://www. ipkart.com/modern-
What does (http://www
Topic approach-verbal-non-reasoning-
it contain? reasoning-3r
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?
pid=9788190
pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)
In a big
paragraph,
rst youre
given
recruitment
conditions.
Then 4-5
Cases
where
youve to
1. Analytical
take
decision
appropriate
making or 18 Ch.12
action e.g.
2. Eligibility
select
Tests
candidate,
refer to
manager
etc.
This type of
questions
not seen in
UPSC,
hence
ignore.
First youre
given an
example:
input, step
3. Input-
I, II, III, IV, V
Output or
then
4. Sequential 7 Ch. 13, 14, 15 an
output.
Output
Then youre
Tracing
required to
do similar
for given 4-
5 MCQs.
Study schedule for the remaining days

Random preparation based on mood swings = road to #EPICFAIL.
Proceed in following manner.
Month What To Prepare Why?
Comprehension practice & mock tests will only cause

high level reasoning +
frustration IF you dont nish high level reasoning theory
comprehension
rst.
June
upto Mid maths: with emphasis on
Because it has so many topics, youve to start early. Besides,
July recording all the
concepts related to HCF, LCM, Time-speed-distance etc will
calculation errors and
remain for longer duration in memory -Compared to
shortcuts in your diary
dexterity over non-verbal reasoning or data interpretation.
of mistakes.
Data interpretation
(DI)
sitting arrangement
Mid July Nonverbal reasoning Hardly contain any theory. Even if you nish entire DI today
to itself, your skill/ dexterity will get rusted by August. Hence
misc. topics under
August 9 reserve the quota for Mid-July to Mid-august.
maths & reasoning
Comprehension
practice
August 10 to 23rd (14 days) should be spent in revision.
Practice aptitude after dinner. That way your hands keep moving and brain doesnt feel sleepy.
Allot your fresh hours in daytime to general studies preparation.
For comprehension, make a resolve to solve at least 3-5 passages on daily basis. Download zip le
from bottom.
Why people cant nish paper?

In past exams, many candidates have failed to nish entire aptitude paper within two hours duration.
Why?
1. They dont read columns in Hindu, IE, frontline, EPW etc. Hence they take 10-15 minutes to read a
passage, which a CAT/GMAT-master can nish in barely 3-5 minutes.
2. At home, they dont study high level reasoning theory. So for every assumption /inference type
question theyre 50:50 doubtful. YET they dont skip it, they just keep pondering over it for another
10-15 minutes.
3. At home, they dont study maths out of fear, and study reasoning in a casual manner. So to cross
the imaginary cuto s they come back again and again on same comprehension passages, even
when theyre unable to solve it, and repeat point #2.
4. They take too much time solving non-verbal reasoning and sitting arrangement questions. Even
after creating the diagram for sitting arrangement / blood relation- their diagram doesnt match
with any of the answer choice, so they spend another 10-15 minutes in xing It, re-reading the
entire caselet.
5. At home they only read the sums from books and mugup formulas. But in real life exam, they
make silly mistakes in every multiplication, addition, subtraction and division. So theyve to redo
the same question multiple times.
To avoid such re ghting and epicfails:
1. Be thoroughly prepared for Maths, reasoning and English.

2. Keep a wrist watch in the exam hall.
3. Observe following principles:
P1: Start with English passages
Donot start with rst page of the question paper. But, immediately open 4th or 5th last pageitll
contain those English testing passages (= those passages without Hindi translations). Solve them rst
because its the easiest section in the entire paper. Lets assume cut o is xx. Then youvealready lled
up your tank by 8 correct questions.
Now your brain and hands are warmed up, open rst page and start with 1, 2, 3, 4
For the rst ~65 questions, UPSC doesnt have sections. Youll come across comprehension, reasoning
and maths questions at random intervals.
Some people rst mark the page number / Question numbers of comprehension passages on the
rough-page. Then begin solving all passages one by one. I dont recommend this method because:
1. Youll end up wasting precious moments in just ipping through pages.

2. You might accidentally miss a single maths /reasoning question hiding between two
comprehension sets.
So, just move with the ow Q no. 1, 2, 3, 4so whatever maths, reasoning or comprehension question
you face in that sequence, either solve or skip or put on mark-n-review.
P2: Dont keep counting black circles in OMR sheet
Ideally you should count the black circles in OMR sheet only once, in those last 5-7 minutes before
exam ends.
But most candidates keep counting their black circles, after every 20-30 MCQs or every 30-45 minutes-
how many did I attempt? (imaginary) cuto cross hogaa ki nahi?
This is a bad habit because:
1. You are wasting precious time in a non-productive activity.

2. Creates stress on your subconscious brain, prompts you to tick answers based on gut-feeling,
even where youre 50:50 doubtful.
3. You try to Fit wrong formula/ logic in to solve tough MCQs in maths/ reasoning.
4. You keep coming back to the sets again and again.
P3: Dont come back for sets
Scenario: a passage contains 3 questions. You solved 2 MCQs con dently, but in one MCQ youre
50:50 undecided. You mark its number on the last page of question paper, hoping Ill come back at the
end of the exam.
This is a bad idea for two reasons
1. When you come back, the understanding of that passage would have evaporated from your short
term memory just like Amir Khan in Ghajni. Youll have to spend another 3-5-7 minutes re-reading
the passage.
2. In the last few minutes before exam ends, person is usually under fear-factor of Cuto s so, even
if he is 50:50, he ticks answer on Gut feeling just to overcome that imaginary cuto . In UPSC,
usually Gut-feeling answers are wrong answers. So dont dig your grave in negative marking.
Same applies to blood relation, sitting arrangement, Data interpretation type sets. Solve the entire
set in one go. Avoid coming back for a single unsolved MCQ from such set.
P4: Keep sitter Questions for the end
Whenever you come across nd missing number, nd coding-decoding, nd analogy; OR

Non-verbal questions like nd next gure in the diagram, what will be the number / color on xyz
face of dice.
For all such questions, note their page number on the rough space. Only when youre nished with
other questions, begin solving these questions. (this is one type of marks and review in online
exams)
Reason: sometimes it may take 1 minute, sometimes 10 minutes to crack the pattern in such
MCQs. You dont want to break mental-rhythm during middle of the paper with such bumpy-road
MCQs, reserve them for the last lap.
Same advice for any unconventional maths/reasoning questions. Donot break rhythm to solve
something that youve never encountered before at home. or youll end up throwing good money
after bad money.
Remember: Youre not required to tick 80/80 MCQs to qualify for Mains. UPSC will give you only 2.5
marks whether you solve a given question in 1 minute or in 10 minutes. So learn to prioritize and
make best use of time.
*youre welcome to add more principals in the comments below*
Become data processor NOT data collector
1. UPSC introduced aptitude paper in 2011. At that time, people spent countless hours on net,
gathering tonnes on PDFS and webpages related to other higher level aptitude exams (CAT, GMAT
etc.) hoping that UPSC will ask tough questions from it.
2. But now three years have gone, the paper analysis so far reveals that yes UPSC asks tough
aptitude questions, but theyre not that tough. You can solve most of them through traditional
aptitude books. You dont have to download terabytes of material, pdfs, movies, softwares meant
for CAT/GMAT etc. You dont have to be on 24/7 internet gathering material for aptitude. So stop
that material collection activity and get start practicing from the traditional books.
Booklist for CSAT exam?
Aptitude Book choice depends on career backup (in case you fail UPSC). Dont waste on money
separate set of books for every exam. CSAT Aptitude is a curious combination of both higher and
lower level exams than UPSC. So, books meant for both type of exams, work just ne with slight
jugaads.
Backup#1: Banking, insurance etc.
Jobs: IBPS, SBI, Sta Selection (SSC), CAPF (Assistant Commandant), AFCAT, LIC, NICL-AAO, ACIO, FCI,
State PSC lower level, & other central government or PSU jobs.
In that case, use following book combination for the CSAT paper II
Maths: Fast track to Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma (http://www. ipkart.com/fast-track-

objective-arithmetic-3rd/p/itmd68vjuzdcmrs7?pid=9789351760146&a d=mrunalrugm)
Reasoning: RS Aggarwal OR BS Sijwali
if youre buying second hand then RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-
verbal-non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)
because contains more practice Qs than Sijwali.
if youre buying brand new then BS Sijwali (http://www. ipkart.com/new-approach-reasoning-
verbal-non-verbal-1st/p/itmdyuqqzarkzrrc?pid=9788183482745&a d=mrunalrugm) because
~Rs.200 cheaper than RS Aggarwal and yet covers all topics with good number of practice
questions.
Comprehension: MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-
3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)s Analytical Reasoning (for
assumption inference and high level reasoning) then maximum practice using online resources.
English grammar: Objective General English by SP Bakshi (http://www. ipkart.com/objective-
general-english-2012/p/itmdyuqqgafhtehp?pid=9788183480000&a d=mrunalrugm) (Mind it: this
is not asked in CSAT Paper II but sentence correction / grammar important for non-UPSC aptitude
exams.)
Backup#2: no competitive exam
Plan: If I cannot clear UPSC then Ill simply go back to private sector job/ business.
In that case use any CSAT Manual by Tata Macgraw Hill (TMH) (http://www. ipkart.com/general-
studies-civil-services-preliminary-examination-paper-ii-2014-1st/p/itmdzbznrq2gzqr2?
pid=9781259064388&a d=mrunalrugm), Arihant (http://www. ipkart.com/cracking-csat-paper-2-civil-
services-aptitude-test-4th/p/itmdzy59psxmjytf?pid=9789351411109&a d=mrunalrugm) or Pearson
(http://www. ipkart.com/pearson-general-studies-paper-ii-civil-services-preliminary-examinations-
2014-1st/p/itmdzd9zzfhenbkw?pid=9789332519923&a d=mrunalrugm) etc. (Whichever you can nd
cheaper second hand.)
As such I dont have good opinion about such aptitude manuals because theyre hardly useful for non-
UPSC exams:
1. They dont contain detailed trigonometry, quadratic equation= useless for SSC, CDS, SCRA, CAT etc.
2. No logarithms, no coordinate geometry, no geometry beyond area-volume-perimeter = useless for
CAT, CDS and SCRA.
3. Their Data interpretation sets dont have lengthy calculations and peculiar problems seen in
banking exams = useless for IBPS and SBI exams. Then youll have to buy another paperset or DI
book.
4. They usually avoid input-output, eligibility test topic asked in banking exam. = useless for IBPS, SBI
and LIC/NICL exam, youll have to buy another book or paperset at that time.
5. Very few questions on non-verbal reasoning = not su cient practice for SSC, insurance and
Banking.
Therefore, if youre planning to give non-UPSC exams as career backup, then avoid purchasing
Aptitude manuals. At max, these manuals will help in CAPF (Assistant commandant) but not much
outside that.
Backup#3: higher di culty exams
CDS, CAT, CMAT, SNAP, XAT & other higher level exams.
1. Maths: Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Kumar (http://www. ipkart.com/quantitative-aptitude-quantum-

cat-common-admission-test-into-iims-7th/p/itmdwqbnmqzd36h5?
pid=9789351416401&a d=mrunalrugm) (OR Arun Sharma (http://www. ipkart.com/prepare-
quantitative-aptitude-cat-6th/p/itmdwqyjag42b5py?pid=9789339205126&a d=mrunalrugm))
a. IF youre already good at maths then Arun Sharma
b. If youre weak at maths then Sarvesh Kumar.
2. Reasoning: depends
a. In CDS they dont ask reasoning. So, for CSAT use the reasoning books mentioned under
backup#1 (because CSAT asks reasoning questions!)
b. For CAT you may use Gajendra Kumar (Disha publication) (http://www. ipkart.com/koncepts-
logical-reasoning-cat/p/itmdnsgptbzqgfyg?pid=9789383379385&a d=mrunalrugm). And then
maximum practice from pagalguy.com threads for reasoning.
3. Comprehension: depends
a. CDS: Passages easier than CSAT. But they ll-up the di culty quota by giving tough sets on
sentence arrangement and sentence correction. (Mind it CSAT doesnt ask verbal ability
/grammar). Hence use the sources given in backup#1.
b. Arun Sharma (http://www. ipkart.com/prepare-verbal-ability-reading-comprehension-cat-
5th/p/itmczynppna8zhxf?pid=9789339205133&a d=mrunalrugm) OR Ajay Singh
(http://www. ipkart.com/cat-common-admission-test-mastering-verbal-ability-
1st/p/itmdyuqrwhuzedfe?pid=9788183484749&a d=mrunalrugm) then maximum practice
from pagalguy.com threads for comprehension and verbal ability. (Mind it CSAT doesnt ask
verbal ability like those sentence correction or sentence arrangement).
Book related doubts

Q. I already have purchased CSAT paper II Manual by xyz publication, do I need to refer those
separate books on maths and reasoning?
Ans. No need. If you already have bought such manual, just study the topics listed in this article, from
respective chapters.
You can also try desi-Jugaad: nd a friend in your city with RS Aggarwal
(http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?
pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm), exchange books for 10-15 days. That way he can practice
new stu from your book while you get to practice the important sections from his.
Q. I already have RS Aggarwal, do I need MK Pandey?

pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)s high level reasoning concepts are far better than
others. Particularly useful for comprehension section of UPSC for those assumption / inference
type of questions.
revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm)s chapters on logic-
assumption-inference are just practice workbook, hardly explaining the theory/ concepts in
detail.
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm)s puzzle test/ sitting arrangement chapter contains good
number of UPSC level question sets, along with useful explanations and tips.
+ highly useful for SBI and IBPS exams.
Q. I already have MK Pandey, do I need RS Aggarwal?

Yes because MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-3rd/p/itmdyv7d6fhkgp8s?
pid=9788190458917&a d=mrunalrugm) doesnt cover many of the low- level reasoning topics
such as analogy, non-verbal reasoning, and direction sense test.
Anyways, you dont need a brand new RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-
verbal-non-reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm), try
to nd second hand used copy. Aggarwal is in the market since 90s, you shouldnt have much
trouble nding its second hand copy even in tier II cities.
Q. I already have CAT books OR CAT coaching material for reasoning. DO I need others books?
Ans. CAT material will work just ne. But with conditions-
1. CAT material usually doesnt cover non-verbal reasoning beyond those cube color, dice face
questions. But UPSC is asking which gure next? so for that much practice, download SSC/ bank
papers or borrow someones RS Aggarwal (http://www. ipkart.com/modern-approach-verbal-non-
reasoning-revised/p/itmdytg8ghhmrq75?pid=9788121905510&a d=mrunalrugm).
2. You may Ignore / low-prioritize following topics from CAT reasoning material, because theyre not
seen in UPSC so far:
i. games and tournaments
ii. pipe-network
iii. Data su ciency (asked but low priority)
Q. Ive CSAT books from xyz jholachhap publication house exclusively in Hindi medium. Can I
rely on them?
No. Hindi maadhyam aptitude books are bogus waste of time and money because
1. They complicate even easy concepts by using too much shuddha Hindi terminology
2. Theyre full of printing mistakes in answers. it ruins the mood and tempo while practicing sums at
home.
Therefore, when it comes to aptitude books, better go for English books of reputed publication
houses.
Appendix1: Sacred cuto s of CSAT prelim exams

Only for the informative purpose. DONOT enter the examhall with cuto mindset. Each UPSC paper is
unique, each years demography is unique. If some baba or Sir has adviced that you must tick
minimum 55 MCQs in aptitude, ignore them. If you cant solve an MCQ then you CANNOT solve that
MCQ, dont dig your grave with guess work or gut feeling just to cross 55.
Exam CS (Prelim)* CS (Main)# CS(Final)
General 241 564 775
OBC 222 534 742
SC 207 518 719
ST 200 510 707
PH-1 Ortho 199 510 725
PH-2 Visual 184 502 718
PH-3 Hearing 163 410 613
Total 400 1750 2025
Minimum passing marks: Prelims
From the above * and # , now we know UPSCs o cial system of minimum passing marks (this
was never disclosed in RTIs so far).
it implies that if you failed to reach minimum passing marks in any one paper then they wont
select you for next stage, even if you get best marks in other papers.
BUT overall merit list prepared by combing scores of both GS + Aptitue paper.
Minimum Must get

MAX marks passing atleast __ MCQs
marks correct*
CSAT (GS) 200 30 12
CSAT (Aptitude) 200 70 28
total 400
*1 MCQ worth 2.5 marks. And assume no MCQs is wrongly attempted.

PS: unlike Bank exams there is no sectional cuto s within an individual paper. (This is con rmed via
RTI many times)
Sectional cuto : no.

Paperwise cuto : no. They combine marks of GS+aptitude: total out of 400
Preliminary (CSAT) marks counted only for shortlisting candidates to next stage (i.e. Mains
examination).
Final selection depends on the combined score of mains + interview.
Appendix2: Download links
#1: UPSC CSAT: Aptitude papers of 2011, 2012, 2013
Link: https:// les.secureserver.net/0s4I32bAjTl3bm (https:// les.secureserver.net/0s4I32bAjTl3bm)

UPSC uploaded these papers on its o cial site but PDF quality very bad. Hard to read the passages,
and size too big especially 2013 paper pdf alone is 22 MB. Hence Ive collected better quality PDFs
from testkafunda.com + included o cial answerkey from UPSC. 2013s answer key will come only after
nal result, because again Lord Curzon stonewalled my RTI.
IF you want topicwise sorted question papers, refer CSAT Topicwise solve papers (1995-2013) by Disha
Publication. (http://www. ipkart.com/csat-topic-wise-solved-papers-19-years-general-studies-1995-
2013/p/itmdhhccqt4sr3hz?pid=9789382961789&a d=mrunalrugm)
#2: 500 Reading comprehension (RC) from Pagalguy.com
Link: les.secureserver.net/0sSHBgG2lnFPwx (https:// les.secureserver.net/0sSHBgG2lnFPwx)

In the next article, well see the studyplan for mathematics and decision making.
For more on aptitude, visit Mrunal.org/Aptitude (http://Mrunal.org/Aptitude).
Mrunal recommends
Books for UPSC IAS/IPS
SBI/IBPS Bank Exams
SSC CGL: Sta selection

CDS: Defense Services
CAT/IIM MBA Entrance
ACIO Intel O cer
More from this category

[Studyplan] CSAT Aptitude Paper 2: Maths & Data Interpretation-High priority
topics, Sample Questions, free studymaterial (part 2 of 3)
(http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-maths-data-
interpretation-high-priority-topics-sample-questions-free-studymaterial-part-2-
3.html)
[Studyplan] CSAT Aptitude Paper 2: Decision Making + Maths Medium & Low priority
topics, Sample Questions, free studymaterial (part 3 of 3)
(http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-decision-making-
maths-medium-low-priority-topics-sample-questions-free-studymaterial-part-3-
3.html)
[Reasoning] Calendar Questions: Finding day or date, concepts, shortcuts explained

(http://mrunal.org/2013/08/reasoning-calendar-questions- nding-day-or-date-
concepts-shortcuts-explained.html)
[Trigonometry] Finding Minimum Maximum Values for SSC CGL Made Easy without
di erentiation (http://mrunal.org/2013/07/trigonometry- nding-minimum-
maximum-values-for-ssc-cgl-made-easy-without-di erentiation.html)
[Reasoning] Logical Connectives (if, unless, either or) for CSAT, CAT shortcuts
formulas approach explained (http://mrunal.org/2013/04/reasoning-logical-
connectives-if-unless-either-or-for-csat-cat-shortcuts-formulas-approach-
explained.html)
Print | PDF (need Chrome) (http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-

paper-2-comprehension-reasoning-analysis-previous-papers-free-studymaterial-
cuto s-part-1-2.html/print/)
Get noti ed whenever I post new article!

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So far 252 Comments posted
REPLY (HTTP://MRUNAL.ORG/2014/06/STUDYPLAN-CSAT-APTITUDE-PAPER-2-COMPREHENSION-
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REPLYTOCOM=306135#RESPOND)
ABHINAV JAIN
frnds plz tell me any good prctice book/ material for reading comprehension
in HINDI.
manoj
there is NO book for comprehension in Hindi better u read THE HINDU
news paper and see the doughts in hindi dictoionary
Praveen_R
Hi Mrunal,
Can you plz update this section with stats from 2014 paper, when you get
time. Thanks.
brijesh
boss pls guide about new pattern of reading com. 2014 . with type e.g. -hlr..
puja more
Please tell me how can I improve my English so I can write easy in english and
talk also
pratik
sir please update it for 2015 candidates
Rajendra khandekar
Comprehension section confused why or how study soln
Ahmad Mehmood
Sir, the analysis is greatly helpful but with regard to the change in the pattern
of paper 2 in csat2014 there are issues which need to be addressed
particularly in the reading Comprehension questions. The questions were
quite sygni cantly di erent from GRE, GMAT, CAT etc because it required
implicit decision making i.e knocking out 4 intertwined statements for one
question. There is a dearth of such practice questions. Please help out. I
downloaded your material and pagalguys RCs; they are great but
conventional. I cant nd 1 &2, 2&3, 1 2 & 3 correct type questions ANYWHERE.
(PS: I am indebted to you for economics lectures)
sonia
Kindly tell me csat hindi book for math resoning and comprehensionit is my
last chance.suggest me some tips to clear the exam.thankswaiting for ur
rply.
Arif
Hi Sir I was just wondering if is there any books( maths as well reasoning) for
the CSAT so that i could understand easily? m extremely weak in maths as well
in reasoning. kindly help me out. i would be extremely help ful to you. (there is
no time for coaching n all )
pls revert me back as quickly as possible.
praveen_r
Mrunal bhai, Can you pls update this article with the 2014 CSAT paper
analysis.
pppp
nally change in CSAT paper was announced by govt..qualifying paper with
33 % marks
Civil Services Examination
ctrl C and ctrl V from PIB
The Government has approved the following in respect of Civil Services

Examination:
An Expert Committee would be constituted to comprehensively examine

various issues raised from time to time namely, eligibility, syllabus, scheme
and pattern of Civil Services Examination.
Till such time the Government takes decision on the recommendation of the
above Committee, the General Studies Paper-II(CSAT) in the Civil
Services(Preliminary) Examination will remain a qualifying paper with a
minimum qualifying marks xed at 33%.
The English Language comprehension skill portion from General Studies

Paper-II of Civil Services(Preliminary) Examination will continue to remain
excluded.
The above decisions are incorporated in the CSE Rules-2015.
*****
KSD/PK/sk
(Release ID :121654)
Puran
I m new in this eld so please suggest me about its study material and
syllabus please if any one have idea about that plzz suggest him..
Thanks
Rabi
Sir I m poor in English. can you suggest me, how can I improved my English
knowledge ?
Manmeet Singh
Rabi dont worry English matters but have faith on yourself
ashish dubey
hello sir,
i have lucants general english book, please advise me is that usefull, which
way should i start reading, i mean is there any optinal in that..
ashish dubey
please advise
Bhaswati
Sir,
please suggest me books/online study materials on Population, Development

& Globalization, Social Security for APFC exam.
Thanks & Regards
Nitin
Sir,
I m in 3rd year B.tech( mechanical).
I am poor in english, i understand things in english but whenever anyone told
me elobrate any topic in english then i cant .
I cant write and describe the stu brie y in english.
So i have decide ill give UPSC exam in Hindi medium.
will i face any di culty in hindi? i want to give papers in hindi
please suggets me sir
which medium i will start preparation.
Thanks & regards
Amit
Sir i am confused to prepare CSAT that which book i purchase or not please
tell me.
Neha
Sir ,pls can you help me out with books of maths and reasoning which would
be understandable to me.as i m really weak in maths..so pls guide me
what to do.thanks
SHWETA
Sir i am confused to prepare CSAT that which book i purchase or not please
tell me And i want to know that how to prepairation of csat through the
internet.
padmini pattnaik
Sir I am a fresher in upsc , plz advise me which book I should prefer for CSAT
and paper-1 , sir I really need your advice
padmini pattnaik
I want your advice sir
Padmini Pattnaik
I am confused which book I should purchase for CSAt preparation plz give me
some advice
Shantanu Kshirsagar
Respected Sir,
I am fresher. I have completed my BE. I am in dilemma to choose my further
carrier eld.
But my dream is to become Ias .
Thank you.
ajith
Please tell me how to prepare for upsc prelims csat paper coz Im very week at
maths Im very much con dent in paper 1 but paper 2 is my big big headache
even getting 33 per also troubling me a loot here which book to study r sud I
go to any coaching for csat ??? Pls help me tanku
Prabodh
Please inform me about new post and materials.
yadav rohan suresh

sir\mam i am doing BA third year and i also prepare pare for csc exam but
now just three month left for exam and i still not start to practice for gs paper
two so i am so afraid o that and i dont understand how to prepare it
loveleen
please let me know about the strategy of rbi grade b 2017 and relevant books
also if any types of notes are available for the same
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CSAT Comprehension & Reasoning - Without Coaching Studyplan

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Prologue to a mile long article

Yes, Just like YOYO Honey Singh, Im also alive.

1. Comprehension and Reasoning (http://mrunal.org/2014/06/studyplan-csat-aptitude-paper-2-

Four Sections of CSAT Paper II (Aptitude)

1. Comprehension (i) to test your understanding (ii) to test English

Chart: Analysis of all CSAT papers so far

[Section I] Comprehension for CSAT

Reading Comprehension 2011 2012 2013

Comprehension passages (printed in both Hindi and English) 28 32 24

Passages to test your English knowledge (printed only in English) 9 8 8

3. What does the author imply?

7. Which of the following statements constitute central passage of the theme?

These are examples of HIGH LEVEL REASONING.

Passages Questions 2011 2012 2013

High level reasoning (HL) Find assumption, inference,

i.e. those easy passage given before Decision Making

Total MCQs A+B 37 40 32

How to prepare high level reasoning?

Chapter Title Topics to focus

Page 119-122: how to avoid confusion while deriving inference?

Page 287 onwards: di erentiating between immediate cause vs

This will also help indirectly in the Decision Making Questions:

evaluating Page 168: how to determine whether a suggestion action reduces

After above Core theory is done, go through following:

Ch.4 Forcefulness of the arguments.

Step#2: Move hands while reading passage

1. Passage: Language of the leader

Additional tips from the same instructor:

3. How not to read the passage? 90% focus vs 20% focus

Once this is over, time for maximum practice. How?

Step#3: Maximum practice for Comprehension?

For practice you can use following resources:

Comprehension: Why read Non-GS columns?

What about the English passages?

[Section II] Reasoning for CSAT

Type Reasoning Topics 2011 2012 2013

Subtotal: High level Reasoning 3 12 0

Arrangement 1 case vs. many questions 0 5 11

Sub Total: Sitting Arrangement 5 13 16

re ection from mirror 1 0 0

min. colors required to paint 1 0 0

Non-Verbal which gure next 0 2 3

Misc Missing number pattern 1 0 3

Final Total Reasoning 12 30 24

[Block 1] High level (HL) reasoning in CSAT

High level reasoning (HLR) 2011 2012 2013

Standalone MCQs within reasoning section 3 12 0

% weightage in CSAT Paper II (out of 80) 16% 25% 10%

For this, refer to MK Pandey (http://www. ipkart.com/analytical-reasoning-

If you prefer AEIO method, then:

Sample questions: Logical Connectives

a. John is lazy/therefore, John is not stupid

1. I watch TV only if I am bored

(CSAT 2012) Consider the following statements:

1. Either A & B are of same age or A is older than B

Sample questions: Syllogism

(Prelim 1998) consider following statements:

1. all members of Mohans family are honest

Which of the following inferences can be drawn from above statements?

a. all members of Mohans family are employed.

(CSAT 2011). Examine the following statements:

1. All animals are carnivorous.