There are two papers of General Studies in KAS Mains Examination carrying 300 marks each.

Paper‐I and Paper‐II will cover the following areas of knowledge:
- Modern History of India and Indian Culture.
- Current events of national and international importance.
- Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams.
- Indian Polity;
- Indian Economy
- Geography of India;
- The role and impact of Science and technology in the development of India.

In Paper I, Modern History of India and Indian Culture will cover the broad history of the country from about the middle of the nineteenth century and would also include questions on Gandhi,Tagore and Nehru.

The part relating to statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams will include exercises to test the candidate's ability to draw common sense conclusions from information presented in statistical, graphical or diagrammatical form and to point out deficiencies, limitations or inconsistencies therein.

In Paper II, the part relating to Indian Polity, will include questions on the political system in India.

In the part pertaining to the Indian Economy and Geography of India, questions will be put on planning in India and the physical, economic and social geography of India.

In the third part relating to the role and impact of science and technology in the development of India, questions will be asked to test the candidate's awareness of the role and impact of science and technology in India; emphasis will be on applied aspects.