Changes in CSE prelims

Some of the important change in trends by UPSC in CS (prelims) 2021 :

1. Science and Technology - Almost all questions on basic physics, chemistry and biology (more virus bacteria type questions) (with special emphasis on biotechnology). No questions from other technology areas

2. International Current Affairs - (The examiner has utilised syllabus term "Current events of national and international importance", so expect more questions on sports, awards, events etc.) - First time since the pattern is introduced in 2011, Sports related questions asked (International level) - No questions on routine government or institutions related questions

3. Geography - Two river based questions, One lake based, Typical forest vegetation, soil type based questions 

4. Environment - Typical Plant Species related questions with use,  Biodiversity questions have more linked to Ecology (primary producers, detrivores, symbiotic relationship etc.), Also more questions from Ecology part, UN Environment and Forest related initiatives, climate change related terms again asked, pollution and pollutants theme continues

5. Polity and Governance - Basic political theory theme based questions continue, Administrative reforms committee (special mention), Most of the questions have links to Rights Issues mentioned in syllabus (almost 8 out of 19 questions)

6. Economy - No agri specific boom this time, Banking related questions are predominant (almost 5-6/15), as usual Labour, FDI, Inflation related, Micro Finance, Micro economics related questions found place

7. Govt schemes & Social development - Not a single question related to Govt scheme, Health and Education etc. 

8. History and Culture - Modern India related political history questions appear for the first time, Travellers account related question continues, History Qs  have diverse areas covered