Overview

The preparatory test for the HCS exam consists of two objective-type question papers: General Studies and CSAT. The general studies paper covers subjects including

• General science,
• Current affairs of local, national, and global significance,
• History of India and the Indian National Movement,
• Geography of India and the world,
• Indian culture, Indian politics, and Indian economy.
• Comprehension
• Interpersonal skills,
• Logical thinking,
• Analytical ability,
• Problem-solving
• Decision-making abilities,
• General mental aptitude,
• Basic numeracy, and
• Data interpretation
  are all included in the CSAT paper.
• The HCS mains exam has three papers, which include English and English Essay, Hindi and Hindi Essay in Devnagri script, and General Studies. The General Studies paper is divided into two sections, each of which contains questions meant to assess the candidate’s breadth of knowledge on a variety of topics pertinent to a career in the Civil Services. This paper covers the following areas:
• The modern history and culture of India;
• The geography and politics of India;
• Current national issues and topics of social relevance;
• India’s place in the global economy;
• International affairs and institutions;
• Scientific, technological, and communications advances; and
• Statistical analysis, graphs, and diagrams.

Conduct of Examination:

The HCS (Ex. Br.) & other Associated Services Examination consists of three levels, namely A, B, and C.

(A) Preliminary Examination:

The Preliminary Examination is conducted for screening purposes only. It consists of two papers, each carrying a total of 100 marks. The first test is a General Studies test, while the second is an aptitude test for the civil service. Each of the two papers is also two hours long and of the objective variety.
Note 1:
The test will have questions in both English and Hindi.

There will be a quarter-point (0.25) deduction for every incorrect answer.
Paper II, the Civil Services Aptitude Test, will be a qualifying exam with a minimum passing score of 33 percent.
If a candidate has a score of 33% or more on the Civil Services Aptitude Test, then just their performance on Paper – I of the preliminary exam will be considered (Paper – II).
Note 2:
Candidates who have earned at least 33% on the Civil Services Aptitude Test are eligible to take the Preliminary Examination, which is used solely for the purpose of narrowing the pool of applicants down by category. This exam focuses exclusively on General Studies (Paper – I) (Paper – II).
Preliminary Examination scores will not be factored towards the final tally.

Note 3:
A total of twelve (12) times the number of advertised vacancies + bracketed applicants (if any) will be accepted to the Main Examination based on their performance in the Preliminary Examination.
Note 4:
Candidates applying online for the aforementioned positions will be required to provide scanned copies of supporting papers, including birth certificates, proof of eligibility for a protected category (such as “SC,” “BCA,” “EWS,” “DESM,” “DFF,” or “PwBD”), and academic credentials.

Note 5:
The Commission’s website features the Preliminary Exam’s detailed syllabus.

(B) Main Written Examination:

The Main Written Examination consists of four papers, each carrying a total of 600 marks. The first paper includes an essay in English, while the second paper includes an essay in Hindi written in Devnagri script.The third paper is General Studies, and the fourth paper is One Optional Subject.

Note:
After completing the application form, applicants are instructed to choose/select only one optional topic from the aforementioned 29 optional subjects in which they wish to appear in the Main.

(C) Viva-Voice:

Applicants’ chances of being invited to participate in the Viva-Voce will increase according to their scores in the Main Examination.The Viva-Voce will be conducted to test the candidate’s general knowledge, understanding of social issues, and awareness of current affairs.

Note 1:
On the basis of their overall performance in the Main Examination, candidates will be selected to participate in the Viva-Voce Interview in a ratio of 1:3, with three individuals considered for each open position. The combined score from the Main Exam and Viva-Voice will be used to determine the final ranking.

Note 2:
The final selection will be made in order of merit, category-wise, subject to the availability of suitable candidates.

Tentative Schedule

Candidates are encouraged to visit the official website often in case of any schedule changes since it is subject to modification.

The Preliminary Examination is scheduled for May 2023, which means that candidates will have a few months to prepare for the exam. This will likely involve studying the exam syllabus, practising past papers, and reviewing key concepts.

The most likely time frame for the Main Written Test is July/August of 2023.This exam is typically more challenging than the Preliminary Examination and will require even more preparation. Candidates will need to study the exam syllabus in more detail, practice writing essays and answers to essay-type questions, and develop a solid understanding of the key concepts and topics.

The Personality Test/Viva-Voce is the final stage of the exam, and the dates for this stage will be announced later. Candidates who make it to this stage will need to prepare for a face-to-face interview where they will be asked questions about their background, qualifications, and experience. It’s important to prepare thoroughly for this stage as it can be a critical factor in determining the final selection.

Provisions For Candidates With Disabilities

For candidates with benchmark disabilities, the Haryana Civil Services exam provides certain provisions such as extra time and scribes to ensure equal opportunities in the exam. Here are some important points to note regarding these provisions:

• Candidates with blindness, low vision or locomotor disability are eligible for 20 minutes of extra time per hour in each paper. This is contingent upon presenting a Medical Certificate issued by the Medical Board formed by the Chief Medical Officer of the relevant area. More time may be requested from the Commission by the candidate.
• Candidates with PwBD (Blindness and Poor vision) who require the assistance of a scribe to complete their test must submit a separate application to the Commission at least 10 days before the exam is scheduled to begin.The candidate needs to make their own arrangements for a scribe, who should be a student studying up to 12th standard or have recently passed the 12th exam in the same year in which the exam is being conducted. The photo and details of the scribe must be fully confirmed by the school’s principal on official letterhead. The Commission won’t approve any requests for a scribe made through the website.
• Candidates with PwBD (Blindness and Low vision) who wish to use solely compensatory time (without a scribe) must request this from the Commission in plenty of time before the exam.
• Candidates with a permanent and total Locomotor Disability who wish to use compensatory time must first get approval from the Commission. Candidates who can prove they have a significant impairment that prevents them from writing legibly for an extended period of time will be granted extra time for the exam, at the rate of 20 minutes for every hour of testing time.
• Keep in mind that only the Commission has the authority to grant applicants authorization for a scribe or compensatory time in accordance with the aforementioned protocols. The Centre Supervisor will not issue such approval under the aforementioned circumstances.

PwBD candidates can avail of the extra time or scribe provision by following the aforementioned guidelines and ensuring that they apply for permission well in advance. The goal of these rules is to ensure that all qualified applicants, regardless of physical or mental limitations, receive due consideration.

General Instructions
These are important general instructions that all candidates should keep in mind while preparing for the Haryana Civil Services Exam:

• Electronic devices: The use of any electronic device during the exam is strictly prohibited, and any candidate found violating this rule will face disciplinary action, including a ban from future exams. Candidates should not bring any mobile phones, pagers, smartwatches, or any other electronic equipment to the exam venue.
• Valuables: Examinees should not bring anything of significant value to the testing facility, since its security cannot be guaranteed. The Commission disclaims all liability in this regard.
• Signatures: Candidates should ensure that the signatures they append to their application form, attendance list, and other documents are identical. Any variation in the signatures may lead to the cancellation of their candidature by the Commission.
• Admit Card: No one will be allowed to take the test without a Commission-issued certificate of admission or admit card.
• Appointment:Passing the examination does not guarantee employment. The government will make the final decision after conducting an enquiry to ensure that the candidate is suitable for appointment.
• Application form: Careful attention to detail is required while completing the online application form. No communication or appeals will be considered for forms that are either incomplete or incorrect.
• Truthfulness: All applicants should verify the accuracy of the information they submit. Any false information or claim will lead to the rejection of their candidature, and they may also be debarred from any future exams held by the Commission.
• Commission’s decision: Decisions made by the Commission on the exam’s method, eligibility of applicants, selection criteria, and whether or not to accept an application are final and binding. There will be no response to any questions or letters sent on this matter.

Preparation Tips
Here are some preparation tips for the Haryana Civil Services Exam:

• Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus is the first step towards preparation. It will give you a clear idea of the topics you need to cover and the weightage of each topic.
• Make a Study Plan: After you have the course outline, you may create a study routine that works with your timetable.Divide the syllabus into manageable parts and allocate time to each section. Follow the outline and make sure all subjects are covered.
• Refer to Good Study Material: Always use authoritative texts and resources while researching a subject.You can also refer to online study materials, videos, and mock tests.
• Practise Previous Year Question Papers:The best method to prepare for a test is to familiarise yourself with the format by working through questions from prior years’ exams. It’s a great tool for learning where your abilities lie, as well as where they could need improvement.
• Take Mock Tests: An excellent method for gauging your degree of readiness is to take practice tests. You may then use that information to fix your errors. There are a variety of options for taking practice exams.
• Improve Time Management: Time management is crucial in any exam. Practice answering questions in the allotted time.Try to improve your speed without compromising on accuracy.
• Stay Motivated: Maintain your drive and determination. Take short breaks, exercise, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Avoid procrastination and distractions.
• Stay Informed: Read the news every day to keep up with the world. Read newspapers, magazines, and online articles regularly. This will help you in the General Studies section.
• Group Study: Join a study group or discuss topics with your friends. This is a great way to broaden your horizons and expand your knowledge.
• Revision: Revise regularly and make notes of important topics. Essential ideas and equations will stick in your mind more easily. Your chances of passing the Haryana Civil Services Test will improve if you use these strategies to prepare for the test.

Good luck!