Are you a graduate dreaming of a government job? But feel confused about the path that gets you to that secure dream job? Then this blog is curated exactly for people like you. If you have around 5–10 minutes to spend, we will help you clarify your doubts.
What is Kerala PSC Degree Prelims?
The Degree Prelims is the preliminary examination conducted by the Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC) to recruit candidates for certain government posts that require a degree as the minimum educational qualification. This means it is not a separate exam that every graduate must take. It is a common preliminary examination used for specified Kerala PSC recruitments that make you eligible for Kerala government jobs only if you are a degree holder.
How Does It Work?
- Degree Level Preliminary Exam: Candidates attend a common preliminary examination for the posts covered by the relevant notification.
- Further Selection Stage: Candidates who qualify for the next stage may attend the Main Examination, a post-specific test or another selection procedure, depending on the recruitment notification.
- Rank List and Appointment: The remaining selection process follows the applicable PSC recruitment rules.
Through this blog, we will help you build some basic knowledge about:
- Kerala PSC Degree Prelims Syllabus
- Complete subject-wise syllabus
- Important topics for Degree Prelims
- How to prepare effectively
Kerala PSC Degree Prelims Syllabus 2026
The PSC Degree Prelims Syllabus covers General Knowledge, Simple Arithmetic, Mental Ability and Reasoning, General English, and Regional Languages. Candidates preparing for degree-level government examinations in Kerala should understand the mark distribution and study the topics specified in the official syllabus.
Kerala PSC Degree Prelims Mark Distribution
| Subjects | Marks |
|---|---|
| History | 10 |
| Geography | 5 |
| Economics | 5 |
| Civics | 5 |
| Indian Constitution | 5 |
| Arts, Literature, Culture and Sports | 10 |
| Basics of Computer | 5 |
| Science and Technology | 5 |
| Simple Arithmetic, Mental Ability and Reasoning | 20 |
| General English | 20 |
| Regional Language (Malayalam, Kannada or Tamil) | 10 |
| Total | 100 |
Kerala PSC Degree Prelims Subject-Wise Syllabus
Candidates should refer to the detailed syllabus PDF linked on the official Kerala PSC website for the complete list of subjects, topics, and marks.
For the Degree Level Common Preliminary Examination, use the syllabus specifically titled for that examination rather than a syllabus belonging to another post. Focus on the following aspects:
- Subject-wise topics: The specific areas included in the examination.
- Mark distribution: The marks allocated to the prescribed subjects.
- Detailed subtopics: The concepts and areas candidates are expected to study.
Important Topics to Prioritise for Kerala PSC Degree Prelims
Here is a list of important topics to focus on from each subject.
1. History
History includes Kerala history, Indian history, and major developments associated with the country’s social and political evolution.
Kerala History
- Arrival and contributions of Europeans
- History of Travancore from Marthanda Varma to Sree Chithira Thirunal
- Social and religious reform movements
- National movement in Kerala
- Literary sources of Kerala history
- Aikya Kerala Movement
- Political and social history of Kerala after 1956
Indian History
- Medieval India and its political history
- Administrative reforms and contributions of important rulers
- Establishment of British rule
- First War of Independence
- Formation of the Indian National Congress
- Swadeshi Movement and social reform movements
- Newspapers, literature and art during the freedom struggle
- Indian independence movement and Mahatma Gandhi
- Extremist movements in India
- Post-independence developments and state reorganisation
- Political history after 1951
World History
- English Revolution
- American War of Independence
- French Revolution
- Russian Revolution
- Chinese Revolution
- Political history after the Second World War
- United Nations and other international organisations
2. Geography
It covers the physical features of India and Kerala, along with relevant geographical and environmental concepts.
Important Topics
- Structure of the Earth and atmosphere
- Rocks and landforms
- Pressure belts and winds
- Temperature and seasons
- Global warming and pollution
- Maps, topographical maps and conventional signs
- Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems
- Oceans and their movements
- Continents and countries and their distinctive features
Indian Geography
- Physical features of India
- States and their important features
- Northern Mountain Region
- Rivers and the Northern Great Plain
- Peninsular Plateau and coastal plains
- Climate and natural vegetation
- Agriculture, minerals and industries
- Energy resources
- Road, water, railway and air transport
Kerala Geography
- Physical features and districts of Kerala
- Rivers and climate
- Natural vegetation and wildlife
- Agriculture and research centres
- Minerals and industries
- Energy resources
- Road, water, railway and air transport
3. Economics
This section tests candidates’ understanding of basic economic concepts and India’s economic structure.
Important Topics
- National Income
- Per Capita Income
- Factors of Production
- Economic Sectors of Production
- Indian Economic Planning
- Five Year Plans
- NITI Aayog
- Types and Functions of Economic Institutions
- Reserve Bank and Functions
- Public Revenue
- Tax and Non-Tax Revenue
- Public Expenditure
- Budget
- Fiscal Policy
- Consumer Protection and Rights
4. Civics
It focuses on governance, public administration, and the functioning of democratic institutions.
Important Topics
- Public Administration
- Bureaucracy – Features and Function
- Indian Civil Service
- State Civil Service
- E-Governance
- Information Commission and Right to Information Act
- Lokpal and Lokayukta
- Government – Executive, Judiciary and Legislature
- Election
- Political Parties
- Human Rights
- Human Rights Organizations
- Acts and Rules regarding Consumer Protection
- Watershed Management
- Labour and Employment
- National Rural Employment Policies
- Land Reforms
- Protection of women, children and old-age people
- Social Welfare
- Social Security
- Socio-Economic Statistical Data
5. Indian Constitution
The section is based on India’s constitutional framework and democratic principles.
Important Topics
- Constituent Assembly
- Preamble
- Fundamental Rights
- Directive Principles
- Fundamental Duties
- Citizenship
- Constitutional Amendments
- Panchayath Raj
- Constitutional Institutions and their Functions
- Emergency
- Union List
- State List
- Concurrent List
6. Arts, Literature, Culture and Sports
This section includes Indian and Kerala cultural heritage, literary contributions, and sports-related knowledge.
A. Arts (കല)
- കേരളത്തിലെ പ്രധാന ദൃശ്യ ശ്രാവ്യകലകൾ
- ഇവയുടെ ഉദ്ഭവം, വ്യാപനം, പരിശീലനം എന്നിവയുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട പ്രശസ്തമായ സ്ഥലങ്ങൾ
- പ്രശസ്തമായ സ്ഥാപനങ്ങൾ
- പ്രശസ്തരായ വ്യക്തികൾ
- പ്രശസ്തരായ കലാകാരന്മാർ
- പ്രശസ്തരായ എഴുത്തുകാർ
B. Sports (കായികം)
- കായികരംഗത്ത് വ്യക്തിമുദ്ര പതിപ്പിച്ച കേരളത്തിലെയും ഇന്ത്യയിലെയും ലോകത്തിലെയും പ്രധാന കായികതാരങ്ങൾ, അവരുടെ കായിക ഇനങ്ങൾ, നേട്ടങ്ങൾ, ലഭിച്ചിട്ടുള്ള ബഹുമതികൾ.
- പ്രധാന അവാർഡുകൾ, അവാർഡ് ജേതാക്കൾ, ഓരോ അവാർഡും ഏത് മേഖലയിലെ പ്രകടനത്തിനാണ് നൽകുന്നത് എന്ന അറിവ്.
- പ്രധാന ട്രോഫികൾ, ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട മത്സരങ്ങൾ, കായിക ഇനങ്ങൾ.
- പ്രധാന കായിക ഇനങ്ങൾ, പങ്കെടുക്കുന്ന കളിക്കാരുടെ എണ്ണം.
- കളികളുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട പ്രധാന പദങ്ങൾ (Terms).
Olympics
- അടിസ്ഥാന വിവരങ്ങൾ
- പ്രധാന വേദികൾ / രാജ്യങ്ങൾ
- പ്രശസ്തമായ വിജയങ്ങൾ / കായിക താരങ്ങൾ
- ഒളിമ്പിക്സിൽ ഇന്ത്യയുടെ ശ്രദ്ധേയമായ പ്രകടനങ്ങൾ
- വിന്റർ ഒളിമ്പിക്
- പാര ഒളിമ്പിക്
Asian Games, Afro-Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and SAF Games
- വേദികൾ
- രാജ്യങ്ങൾ
- ഇന്ത്യയുടെ ശ്രദ്ധേയമായ പ്രകടനം
- ഇതര വസ്തുതകൾ
- ദേശീയ ഗെയിംസ് (National Games)
- ഗെയിംസ് ഇനങ്ങൾ – മത്സരങ്ങൾ
- താരങ്ങൾ, നേട്ടങ്ങൾ
- ഓരോ രാജ്യത്തിന്റെയും ദേശീയ കായിക ഇനങ്ങൾ / വിനോദങ്ങൾ
C. Literature (സാഹിത്യം)
- മലയാളത്തിലെ പ്രധാന സാഹിത്യ പ്രസ്ഥാനങ്ങൾ – ആദ്യകൃതികൾ, കർത്താക്കൾ.
- ഓരോ പ്രസ്ഥാനത്തിലെയും പ്രധാന കൃതികൾ, അവയുടെ കർത്താക്കൾ.
- എഴുത്തുകാർ, തൂലികാനാമങ്ങൾ, അപരനാമങ്ങൾ.
- കഥാപാത്രങ്ങൾ, കൃതികൾ.
- പ്രശസ്തമായ വരികൾ, കൃതികൾ, എഴുത്തുകാർ.
- മലയാള പത്രപ്രവർത്തനത്തിന്റെ ആരംഭം, തുടക്കം കുറിച്ചവർ, ആനുകാലികങ്ങൾ.
- പ്രധാനപ്പെട്ട അവാർഡുകൾ / ബഹുമതികൾ.
- അവാർഡിനർഹരായ എഴുത്തുകാർ.
- കൃതികൾ.
- ജ്ഞാനപീഠം നേടിയ മലയാളികൾ – അനുബന്ധ വസ്തുതകൾ.
- മലയാള സിനിമയുടെ ഉദ്ഭവം, വളർച്ച, നാഴികക്കല്ലുകൾ, പ്രധാന സംഭാവന നൽകിയവർ, മലയാള സിനിമയും ദേശീയ അവാർഡും.
D. Culture (സംസ്കാരം)
- കേരളത്തിലെ പ്രധാന ആഘോഷങ്ങൾ, ആഘോഷങ്ങളുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട സ്ഥലങ്ങൾ, പ്രശസ്തമായ ഉത്സവങ്ങൾ.
- കേരളത്തിലെ സാംസ്കാരിക കേന്ദ്രങ്ങൾ, ആരാധനാലയങ്ങൾ, സാംസ്കാരിക നായകർ, അവരുടെ സംഭാവനകൾ.
7. Basics of Computer
Focusing on computer-related questions enhances familiarity with fundamental computing concepts and everyday digital technology.
Hardware
- Input Devices (Names and uses)
- Output Devices (Names and uses/features)
- Memory devices: Primary and Secondary (Examples, Features)
Software
- Classification: System software and Application software
- Operating System: Functions and examples
- Popular Application software packages – Word processors, Spreadsheets, Database packages, Presentation, Image editors (Uses, features, and fundamental concepts of each)
- Basics of programming: Types of instructions (Input, Output, Store, Control transfer). Languages need not be considered.
Computer Networks
- Types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN (Features and application area)
- Network Devices: Media, Switch, Hub, Router, Bridge, Gateway (Uses of each)
Internet
- Services: WWW, E-mail, Search engines (Examples and purposes)
- Social Media (Examples and features)
- Web Designing: Browser, HTML (Basics only)
Cyber Crimes and Cyber Laws
- Types of crimes (Awareness level)
- IT Act and Other laws (Awareness level)
8. Science and Technology
This section covers fundamental scientific knowledge and important developments in science and technology.
General Science and Technology
- Nature and scope of Science and Technology
- Relevance of S&T
- National policy on S&T and innovations
- Basics of everyday science
- Human body
- Public Health and Community Medicine
- Food and Nutrition
- Health Care
- Institutes and organizations in India promoting integration of S&T and Innovation, their activities and contributions
- Contribution of Prominent Indian Scientists
Technology in Space and Defence
- Evolution of Indian Space Programme
- ISRO – its activities and achievements
- Various Satellite Programmes
- DRDO – vision, mission and activities
Energy Requirement and Efficiency
- India’s existing energy needs and deficit
- India’s energy resources and dependence
- Renewable and Non-renewable energy resources
- Energy Policy of India – Government Policies and Programmes
- Energy Security and Nuclear Policy of India
Environmental Science
- Issues and concerns related to the environment
- Its legal aspects, policies and treaties for the protection of the environment at the National and international level
- Environmental protection for sustainable development
- Biodiversity – its importance and concerns
- Climate change
- International initiatives (Policies, Protocols) and India’s commitment
- Western Ghats – Features, Characteristics and issues
- Forest and wildlife – Legal framework for Forest and Wildlife Conservation in India
- Environmental Hazards
- Pollution
- Carbon Emission
- Global Warming
- Developments in Biotechnology, Green Technology and Nanotechnology
9. Simple Arithmetic, Mental Ability and Reasoning
Arithmetic and reasoning form an important part of the PSC Degree Level Prelims syllabus. Regular problem-solving practice can improve both accuracy and speed.
Simple Arithmetic Topics
- സംഖ്യകളും അടിസ്ഥാന ക്രിയകളും (Numbers and Basic Operations)
- ഭിന്നസംഖ്യകളും ദശാംശ സംഖ്യകളും (Fraction and Decimal Numbers)
- ശതമാനം (Percentage)
- ലാഭവും നഷ്ടവും (Profit and Loss)
- സാധാരണ പലിശയും കൂട്ടുപലിശയും (Simple and Compound Interest)
- അംശബന്ധവും അനുപാതവും (Ratio and Proportion)
- സമയവും ദൂരവും (Time and Distance)
- സമയവും പ്രവൃത്തിയും (Time and Work)
- ശരാശരി (Average)
- കൃത്യാങ്കങ്ങൾ (Laws of Exponents)
- ജ്യാമിതീയ രൂപങ്ങളുടെ ചുറ്റളവ്, വിസ്തീർണം, വ്യാപ്തം തുടങ്ങിയവ (Mensuration)
- പ്രോഗ്രഷനുകൾ (Progressions)
Mental Ability and Reasoning
- ശ്രേണികൾ – സംഖ്യാ ശ്രേണികൾ, അക്ഷര ശ്രേണികൾ (Series)
- ഗണിത ചിഹ്നങ്ങൾ ഉപയോഗിച്ചുള്ള പ്രശ്നങ്ങൾ (Problems on Mathematics Signs)
- സ്ഥാന നിർണയ പരിശോധന
- സമാന ബന്ധങ്ങൾ (Analogy – Word Analogy, Alphabet Analogy, Number Analogy)
- ഒറ്റയാനെ കണ്ടെത്തുക (Odd man out)
- സംഖ്യാവലോകന പ്രശ്നങ്ങൾ
- കോഡിംഗും ഡീകോഡിംഗും (Coding and Decoding)
- കുടുംബ ബന്ധങ്ങൾ (Family Relations)
- ദിശാബോധം (Sense of Direction)
- ക്ലോക്കിലെ സമയവും കോണളവും (Time and Angles)
- ക്ലോക്കിലെ സമയവും പ്രതിബിംബവും (Time in a clock and its reflection)
- കലണ്ടറും തീയതിയും (Date and Calendar)
- ക്ലറിക്കൽ ശേഷി പരിശോധിക്കുന്നതിനുള്ള ചോദ്യങ്ങൾ (Clerical Ability)
10. General English
General English assesses grammar, vocabulary, and the ability to understand and use English correctly.
A. Grammar
- Types of Sentences and Interchange of Sentences
- Different Parts of Speech
- Agreement of Subject and Verb
- Articles: Definite and Indefinite Articles
- Uses of Primary and Modal Auxiliary Verbs
- Question Tags
- Infinitive and Gerunds
- Tenses
- Tenses in Conditional Sentences
- Prepositions
- The Use of Correlatives
- Direct and Indirect Speech
- Active and Passive Voice
- Correction of Sentences
- Degrees of Comparison
B. Vocabulary (10 Marks)
- Singular and Plural, Change of Gender, Collective Nouns
- Word formation from other words and use of prefixes or suffixes
- Compound words
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- Phrasal Verbs
- Foreign Words and Phrases
- One Word Substitutes
- Words often confused
- Spelling Test
- Idioms and their Meanings
- Expansion and meaning of Common Abbreviations
11. Regional Language
The regional language includes Malayalam, Kannada, or Tamil, depending on the applicable examination and the candidate’s language choice.
Malayalam
- പദശുദ്ധി
- വാക്യശുദ്ധി
- പരിഭാഷ
- ഒറ്റപ്പദം
- പര്യായം
- വിപരീത പദം
- ശൈലികൾ, പഴഞ്ചൊല്ലുകൾ
- സമാനപദം
- ചേർത്തെഴുതുക
- സ്ത്രീലിംഗം, പുല്ലിംഗം
- വചനം
- പിരിച്ചെഴുതൽ
- ഘടക പദം (വാക്യം ചേർത്തെഴുതുക)
Kannada
- Word Purity / Correct Word
- Correct Sentence
- Translation
- One Word / Single Word / One Word Substitution
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- Idioms and Proverbs
- Equivalent Word
- Join the Word
- Feminine Gender, Masculine Gender
- Number
- Sort and Write
Tamil
- Correct Word
- Correct Structure of Sentence
- Translation
- Single Word
- Synonyms
- Antonyms / Opposites
- Phrases and Proverbs
- Equal Word
- Join the Word
- Gender Classification – Feminine, Masculine
- Singular, Plural
- Separate
- Adding Phrases
How to Prepare Effectively for Kerala PSC Degree Prelims?
Start by dividing the syllabus into manageable study units. Set aside regular time for General Knowledge, language preparation, and numerical practice. Follow revision and attempt mock tests to build time management.
After each test, review incorrect answers and spend more time on tough subjects. This helps you improve accuracy and recognise recurring gaps in your knowledge.
Current affairs should also be part of your routine. Revise important events related to Kerala, India, science, technology, sports, awards, and public administration.
Prepare for Kerala PSC Degree Prelims with Xylem
At Xylem, our team of experienced faculty members is dedicated to your success. We offer personalised attention and strategic guidance to help you crack your exams. Our curriculum includes well-prepared PSC study materials, books, notes, and other resources for your study plan.
Before it is too late, join us at Xylem PSC.
FAQ's
The Kerala PSC Degree Prelims Syllabus covers the subjects prescribed for the Degree Level Common Preliminary Examination. Candidates should refer to the official Kerala PSC syllabus and the relevant recruitment notification to confirm the applicable subjects and topics.
You can download the Kerala PSC Degree Level Prelims Syllabus PDF from the official Kerala PSC website
The published Degree Level Common Preliminary Examination syllabus includes History, Geography, Economics, Civics, Indian Constitution, Arts, Literature, Culture and Sports, Basics of Computer, Science and Technology, Simple Arithmetic, Mental Ability and Reasoning, General English and a regional language.
No. The common preliminary examination syllabus applies to the posts covered by the relevant recruitment notification. Other degree qualified posts may have separate syllabuses or examination patterns. Always check the official notification for your chosen post.
No. The common preliminary examination syllabus applies to the posts covered by the relevant recruitment notification. Other degree qualified posts may have separate syllabuses or examination patterns. Always check the official notification for your chosen post.
Candidates can prioritise Kerala and Indian history, geography, the Indian Constitution, basic economics, science and technology, computer fundamentals, arithmetic, reasoning, English grammar, and regional language skills. Practise current affairs regularly and use the official syllabus as your preparation checklist.
Analyse your mistakes to identify topics that need further revision, learn concepts, and practice time management.
Xylem offers the best PSC coaching with proper guidance and support that helps you clear the exam at its best.