About the Kerala Administrative Services (KAS) Preliminary examination

The preliminary examination consists of two objective papers for a time duration of 90 minutes each. The split of the same is as follows – 

Topic	Maximum Marks	Number of Questions
Paper I: General Studies	100	100
Paper-II: Part I General Studies	50	50
Paper-II: Part II Language Proficiency in Malayalam/Tamil/Kannada	30	30
Paper-II: Part II Language Proficiency in English	20	20

The Kerala PSC KAS Prelims Syllabus must be understood before starting the preparation – 

Paper	Subject
Paper 1	Modern HistoryMedieval HistoryAncient History World History Kerala HistoryCultural Heritage of KeralaIndian Polity Reasoning, Mental Ability & Simple Arithmetic Geography
Paper 2	Indian Economy Science and TechnologyCurrent AffairsLanguage Proficiency in English, Malayalam, Tamil and Kannada

Strategy for KAS Preliminary Exam

1. Understand the exam pattern 

The prelims examination has a multiple choice questions pattern and the questions are analytical in nature. One must not just know a specific fact, but must be able to associate it and apply it with respect to a particular statement given. 

2. Read the right material and books

Select the right material and books and read them multiple times to recollect all the relevant information. Read newspapers and magazines to get a good grasp of current affairs and national and international news of importance.

3. Timetable

One must make a time table, distribute time equally to all the sections and make sure to cover at least 2-3 months before the exam date. One must stick to the time table in order to get maximum results.

4. Mock tests are a must 

One has to develop his or her problem solving skills through a number of mock tests. The technique of elimination must be mastered if results are to work in favour of the candidate. While solving the mock tests indulge in self-assessment, to increase your accuracy, rectify your mistakes and improve your question-solving ability.

5. Revision, revision, revision 

The syllabus is vast and one has to revise a topic multiple times in order to get a good grip over relevant information and topics. A good set of short notes will go a long way in helping the candidate revise a lot of information in a short span of time. 

6. Seek help and guidance

Seek the help of tutors of coaching institutes, people who have attempted the exam, civil servants in various government departments and even online tutors to get a better understanding of the exam and the preparation involved. Do not hesitate to clarify small doubts.

What not to do during the preparation?

1. Do not study continuously for many hours – take breaks in between to increase your efficiency.
2. Do not sit in one position for too long as it can adversely affect one’s posture and cause back and neck strains.
3. Do not skip meals and do not cut short on sleep. Take care of your health at all times.