TNPSC Group 1 2026 Exam Pattern: Questions, Marks, Duration & Negative Marking
TNPSC Group 1 2026 exam pattern — number of questions, marks per question, duration, negative marking scheme, section-wise split, and tips to maximise your score within the time limit.
Reviewed by: StudyRoadmap Editorial · Last verified: 2026-04-24
TNPSC Group 1 2026 exam pattern
The TNPSC Group 1 Preliminary examination consists of a single paper General Studies (200 questions, 300 marks) to be completed in 3 hours. This paper covers current events, history and geography of India and Tamil Nadu, Indian polity, Indian economy, general science, and mental ability tests. The Main examination has three papers: Paper I (General Studies - 300 marks, 3 hours) covering similar topics as Prelims but in depth; Paper II (General Studies - 300 marks, 3 hours) with more specialized topics; and Paper III (a paper chosen by the candidate from a list of optional subjects - 500 marks, 3 hours). The Interview/Personality Test carries 100 marks. Only those who qualify in Prelims appear for Mains, and final selection is based on Mains + Interview marks.
Subjects in this exam
- History: 10 topics
- Geography: 10 topics
- Science: 10 topics
- Politics: 8 topics
- Economics: 10 topics