The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) is a constitutional body responsible for conducting various competitive examinations for recruiting candidates to administrative, civil, and engineering positions within the state of Bihar, India. BPSC plays a pivotal role in selecting eligible candidates for prestigious posts, such as the Bihar Administrative Services (BAS), Bihar Police Services (BPS), Assistant Engineers, and Civil Judges.
- BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE)
- Preliminary Examination
- Mains Examination
- BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam
- BPSC Judicial Services Exam
- Tips for Effective BPSC Exam Preparation
- BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam Syllabus
- BPSC Judicial Services Exam Syllabus
- Preliminary Examination Subjects
- Mains Examination Subjects
- Assistant Engineer Exam Sections
- FAQ’s
The syllabus for each BPSC examination differs depending on the specific position and the examination stage. Here, we’ll delve into the detailed syllabus for three prominent BPSC exams: the BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE), the BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam, and the BPSC Judicial Services Exam.
BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE)
The BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) is one of the most esteemed competitive examinations in Bihar, known for selecting candidates for a range of administrative and civil service positions. It comprises three stages: Preliminary Examination, Mains Examination, and Interview/Personality Test. Let’s explore the syllabus for each stage.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the BPSC CCE, candidates must:
- Be a citizen of India.
- Be a graduate from a recognized university.
- Be between the ages of 21 and 35 years (relaxations for reserved category candidates).
Exam Pattern
The BPSC CCE consists of three stages:
- Preliminary Examination: This is an objective type exam with 150 marks. The duration of the exam is 2 hours.
- Main Examination: This is a descriptive type exam with 900 marks. The duration of the exam is 3 hours for each paper.
- Interview: This is an oral interview with 120 marks. The duration of the interview is 30 minutes.
Selection Process
Candidates who qualify the preliminary exam are eligible to appear for the main exam. Candidates who qualify the main exam are eligible to appear for the interview. Final selection is based on the combined marks of the preliminary, main, and interview exams.
Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is the first stage of the BPSC CCE, consisting of two papers:
a. General Studies Paper 1: This paper assesses candidates on various aspects of General Studies, including Indian history, geography, Indian polity, economics, current affairs, and more.
b. General Studies Paper 2: This paper primarily evaluates candidates’ mental ability and reasoning skills.
Mains Examination
The Mains Examination is the second stage of the BPSC CCE, incorporating several papers with varying syllabi based on the specific subject. Common subjects included in the BPSC Mains Examination are:
a. General Hindi: Candidates are expected to possess a good understanding of the Hindi language, including grammar, essay writing, and letter writing.
b. General Studies Paper 1: Similar to Prelims Paper 1, this paper delves into various aspects of General Studies, encompassing Indian history, geography, polity, economics, and current affairs.
c. General Studies Paper 2: This paper scrutinizes candidates’ knowledge of science and technology, environment and ecology, and recent developments.
d. Optional Paper 1 and 2: Candidates can choose two optional subjects from a list of available options. The syllabus for optional papers varies depending on the chosen subject. Some popular optional subjects include History, Geography, Political Science, Public Administration, Sociology, and Literature.
3. Interview/Personality Test:
The final stage of the BPSC CCE is the interview, where candidates are evaluated on their personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for administrative services.
BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam
The BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam aims to recruit candidates for the position of Assistant Engineer in various government departments of Bihar. The syllabus for this examination includes:
General English: This section assesses candidates’ proficiency in English, encompassing comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
General Knowledge: The General Knowledge section focuses on current affairs, Bihar’s history and culture, and general knowledge.
General Engineering Science: This section tests candidates’ knowledge of fundamental engineering principles, mathematics, and physics.
Civil Engineering (or relevant branch) Paper 1 and 2: Candidates must select a specific engineering discipline, such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and more, and study the relevant syllabus for two papers.
BPSC Judicial Services Exam
The BPSC Judicial Services Exam is conducted for recruiting Civil Judges in Bihar. The syllabus for this examination includes:
Preliminary Examination:
a. General Knowledge: This section evaluates candidates’ knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, and other general knowledge topics.
b. Law: Candidates are required to have a strong understanding of the Indian legal system, including various laws, acts, and legal principles.
Mains Examination:
a. General Knowledge: The Mains Examination includes a General Knowledge paper, which is akin to the Preliminary Exam but may delve more profoundly into the topics.
b. Law Paper 1 and 2: These papers encompass various aspects of substantive and procedural law, including the Indian Penal Code, Code of Civil Procedure, Code of Criminal Procedure, and more.
c. English Language: Candidates are assessed on their proficiency in the English language, involving essay writing, translation, and grammar.
d. Vernacular Language: Similar to the English language paper, candidates must also display proficiency in a vernacular language.
e. Optional Paper: Candidates have the option to select one optional paper from a list of available subjects, such as Constitutional Law, Family Law, Contract Law, and more.
f. Interview: The final stage of the BPSC Judicial Services Exam is the interview, where candidates’ personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for the position are evaluated.
Tips for Effective BPSC Exam Preparation
Preparing for BPSC exams can be a challenging endeavor, but with dedication, a well-structured study plan, and the following strategies, candidates can excel:
Comprehensive Syllabus Understanding: The first step in preparing for any BPSC exam is gaining a thorough comprehension of the syllabus. Being aware of the subjects, topics, and the weightage of each section is crucial.
Strategic Study Plan: Devise a well-organized study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus. Allocate sufficient time to each subject and allocate time for revision.
Current Affairs Focus: Stay updated with current affairs, particularly for the General Studies sections. Regularly reading newspapers and following news websites is highly beneficial.
Selection of Study Materials: Select the appropriate books and study materials for each subject. Referring to previous years’ question papers can provide insight into the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.
Practice with Previous Years’ Papers: Solving previous years’ question papers is an excellent strategy to grasp the exam pattern and enhance time management skills.
Optimal Optional Subject Selection: If the exam permits optional subjects, choose a subject in which you are comfortable and have a genuine interest. A strong foundation in your optional subject can provide a significant advantage.
Mock Tests and Test Series: Participate in mock tests and test series to assess your preparation and refine your time management abilities. Numerous coaching institutes and online platforms offer BPSC-specific mock test series.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Sustain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet. A sound body and mind are imperative for effective preparation.
Time Management Skills: Manage your time effectively, allocating more time to areas where you need improvement.
Positive Mindset: Maintain a positive outlook and self-belief. A positive attitude significantly impacts your performance in the exam.
BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam Syllabus
| Subject | Syllabus |
|---|---|
| General Engineering Science | Engineering Mechanics, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Engineering Materials, Surveying and Leveling, Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Engineering |
| Specific Engineering Subjects | Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering |
BPSC Judicial Services Exam Syllabus
The BPSC Judicial Services Exam Syllabus is divided into two parts:
- Part I: Compulsory Papers
- Part II: Optional Papers
Part I: Compulsory Papers
- Law of Evidence and Procedure
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Part II: Optional Papers
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Candidates can choose any three of the above five optional papers.
Detailed Syllabus
Law of Evidence and Procedure
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908
- Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Constitution of India
- Administrative Law
Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Hindu Law
- Muhammadan Law
Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Transfer of Property Act, 1882
- Principles of Equity
- Indian Trusts Act, 1882
- Specific Relief Act, 1963
Law of Contracts and Torts
- Indian Contract Act, 1872
- Law of Torts
Commercial Law
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
- Companies Act, 2013
- Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008
- Sale of Goods Act, 1930
- Partnership Act, 1932
- Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996
- Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
Preliminary Examination Subjects
The subjects for the BPSC Judicial Services Preliminary Examination are:
- General Knowledge and Current Affairs
- Elementary General Science
- General Hindi
- General English
- Law of Evidence and Procedure
The General Knowledge and Current Affairs paper will test the candidate’s knowledge of current events of national and international importance, as well as their understanding of Indian and world history, geography, polity, and economy.
The Elementary General Science paper will test the candidate’s knowledge of basic scientific principles and concepts.
The General Hindi and General English papers will test the candidate’s proficiency in those languages.
The Law of Evidence and Procedure paper will test the candidate’s knowledge of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872; the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908; and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.
Mains Examination Subjects
Compulsory Papers:
- Law of Evidence and Procedure
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Optional Papers:
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Candidates can choose any three of the above five optional papers.
Detailed Syllabus
Compulsory Papers:
- Law of Evidence and Procedure: Indian Evidence Act, 1872; Code of Civil Procedure, 1908; Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India: Constitution of India; Administrative Law.
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law: Hindu Law; Muhammadan Law.
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act: Transfer of Property Act, 1882; Principles of Equity; Indian Trusts Act, 1882; Specific Relief Act, 1963.
- Law of Contracts and Torts: Indian Contract Act, 1872; Law of Torts.
- Commercial Law: Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881; Companies Act, 2013; Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008; Sale of Goods Act, 1930; Partnership Act, 1932; Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996; Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Optional Papers:
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India: Constitution of India; Administrative Law.
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law: Hindu Law; Muhammadan Law.
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act: Transfer of Property Act, 1882; Principles of Equity; Indian Trusts Act, 1882; Specific Relief Act, 1963.
- Law of Contracts and Torts: Indian Contract Act, 1872; Law of Torts.
- Commercial Law: Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881; Companies Act, 2013; Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008; Sale of Goods Act, 1930; Partnership Act, 1932; Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996; Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Assistant Engineer Exam Sections
The BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam is divided into two sections:
- General Engineering Science
- Specific Engineering Subjects
The General Engineering Science section is common to all candidates, regardless of their chosen engineering discipline. It covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Engineering Mechanics
- Strength of Materials
- Fluid Mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Engineering Materials
- Surveying and Leveling
- Construction Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics and Communication Engineering
- Computer Engineering
The Specific Engineering Subjects section covers topics in the candidate’s chosen engineering discipline, such as:
- Civil Engineering: Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water Resources Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering: Engineering Thermodynamics, Heat and Mass Transfer, Engineering Mechanics, Machine Design, Manufacturing Engineering, Production Engineering
- Electrical Engineering: Electrical Circuits, Electrical Machines, Power Systems, Control Systems, Electronics
- Electronics and Communication Engineering: Electronic Devices, Analog Circuits, Digital Circuits, Communication Systems
The BPSC Assistant Engineer Exam is a highly competitive exam, and candidates should be well-prepared in all of the subjects covered in the syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: The BPSC syllabus for the Preliminary Examination consists of the following subjects:
- General Knowledge and Current Affairs
- Elementary General Science
- General Hindi
- General English
- Law of Evidence and Procedure
A: The BPSC syllabus for the Mains Examination consists of the following subjects:
Compulsory Papers:
- Law of Evidence and Procedure
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Optional Papers:
- Constitutional and Administrative Law of India
- Hindu Law and Muhammadan Law
- Law of Transfer of Property, Principles of Equity, Law of Trusts and Specific Relief Act
- Law of Contracts and Torts
- Commercial Law
Candidates can choose any three of the above five optional papers.
A: The detailed BPSC syllabus can be found on the official website of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC).
A: Here are some tips for preparing for the BPSC syllabus:
- Start early and give yourself plenty of time to study all of the subjects covered in the syllabus.
- Create a study plan and stick to it as much as possible.
- Use a variety of study materials, such as textbooks, reference books, and online resources.
- Practice answering questions in the format of the BPSC exam.
- Form a study group with other candidates to discuss the material and help each other prepare.
A: Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for the BPSC syllabus:
- Trying to cram everything in at the last minute.
- Not understanding the concepts and only memorizing facts.
- Not practicing answering questions in the format of the BPSC exam.
- Not getting enough sleep or exercise.
- Feeling stressed or anxious about the exam.
