🔬 UPSC Science & Tech Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Science & Technology in the Prelims is increasingly current-affairs-driven — missions, vaccines, chips and defence systems in the news. Previous year questions show that the examiner pairs each development with a basic scientific concept. Practise authentic UPSC Science & Tech PYQs below with clear explanations.
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Start Science & Tech Practice →High-yield Science & Tech topics in UPSC PYQs
Across past papers, the same Science & Tech themes resurface repeatedly. These are the areas to prioritise when you practise previous year questions:
1. Biotechnology & health
Genetics, vaccines, diseases, and applications like CRISPR and recombinant DNA are recurring favourites.
2. Space technology
ISRO missions, satellites, launch vehicles and space concepts feature almost every year.
3. Defence technology
Missiles, indigenous platforms and defence developments in the news are regularly tested.
4. IT, computing & emerging tech
AI, blockchain, semiconductors, 5G and quantum themes increasingly appear with a current hook.
5. Basic & applied science
Physics, chemistry and biology fundamentals underpin many news-linked questions.
For Sci-Tech, learn the concept behind each news item — the examiner tests why a technology matters, not just that it happened.
How to use Science & Tech PYQs effectively
- Solve theme-wise, not just year-wise. Group questions by topic to see the repetition that PYQs reveal.
- Read every explanation. The reasoning behind a wrong option is often the next year's question.
- Revisit, don't just attempt. Re-solve Science & Tech PYQs in timed sets to lock in accuracy and speed.
- Link to the syllabus. Use PYQs as a map of what to study deeply versus what to skim.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare Science & Technology for Prelims?
Track science in the news and attach a basic concept to each item. PYQs show this concept-plus-current pattern clearly.
How many Sci-Tech questions appear in Prelims?
Science & Technology generally contributes 10–15 questions, with a strong current-affairs flavour.
Do I need a science background for these PYQs?
No. The questions test general scientific awareness, not specialist depth — PYQ practice is enough to calibrate the level.