The UPSC ISS syllabus (Indian Statistical Service) covers a range of statistical topics including probability, statistical inference, linear models, multivariate analysis, stochastic processes, sampling techniques, and design and analysis of experiments. The UPSC ISS exam is a highly competitive exam and candidates need to prepare thoroughly by studying the syllabus.
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Details of UPSC ISS Exam
UPSC ISS Syllabus
The UPSC ISS exam syllabus is divided into two parts: Statistics-I and Statistics-II, each of which carries 200 marks.
The UPSC ISS (Indian Statistical Service) exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit candidates for various statistical positions in the Indian government. The UPSC ISS exam consists of two stages: a written exam and an interview. The UPSC ISS written exam syllabus is divided into two parts: Statistics-I and Statistics-II, each of which carries 200 marks.
Statistics-I covers probability (40 marks), statistical methods (50 marks), statistical inference (80 marks), and linear models (30 marks).
Statistics II covers stochastic processes (50 marks), multivariate analysis (50 marks), sampling techniques (25 marks), and design and analysis of experiments (75 marks).
The total mark for the UPSC ISS exam is 1000, including a personality test of 200 marks.
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ISS Syllabus for written exam
The written exam for UPSC ISS (Indian Statistical Service) consists of two papers: Statistics-I and Statistics-II. The syllabus for each paper is as follows:
Paper-I (Statistics-I)
- Probability: Axiomatic definition, conditional probability, multiplication rule, Bayes theorem, random variables and probability distributions, marginal and conditional distributions, mathematical expectation, moments, and moment generating functions.
- Statistical Methods: Collection, compilation, and presentation of data, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, dispersion, skewness, and kurtosis, correlation and regression, time series analysis, sampling distributions, standard errors, and their estimators.
- Statistical Inference: Point estimation, methods of estimation, hypothesis testing, Neyman-Pearson lemma, likelihood ratio test, t, F, and chi-square tests, confidence intervals.
- Linear Models: Matrix algebra, rank of a matrix, systems of linear equations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, linear transformations, quadratic forms, normal distribution, one-way and two-way ANOVA, linear regression models, estimation and testing for regression parameters, residuals and their analysis, collinearity and its effects.
Paper-II (Statistics-II)
- Stochastic Processes: Poisson, renewal, Markov, and Wiener processes, discrete and continuous-time Markov chains, Poisson and birth-death processes, queueing theory.
- Multivariate Analysis: Multivariate normal distribution, Wishart distribution, inference about a mean vector and covariance matrix, Hotelling’s T^2 and chi-square tests, principal components and factor analysis, canonical correlation analysis, discriminant analysis.
- Sampling Techniques: Simple random sampling, stratified random sampling, systematic sampling, cluster sampling, multistage sampling, ratio and regression methods of estimation, non-sampling errors.
- Design and Analysis of Experiments: Principles of experimentation, completely randomized design, randomized block design, Latin square design, factorial experiments, analysis of variance, multiple comparisons, randomized complete block design, incomplete block design.
Each paper carries 200 marks, and the duration of each paper is 3 hours. The questions are of both subjective and objective type, and candidates are expected to demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical application of statistical methods. The written exam is followed by a personality test, which carries 200 marks, making the total marks for the UPSC ISS exam 600.
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ISS Final Stage (personality test)
The personality test, also known as the interview, is the final stage of the UPSC ISS (Indian Statistical Service) selection process. It carries 200 marks and is conducted by a board of experts appointed by the UPSC. The personality test is designed to assess the candidate’s overall suitability for the job, including their intellectual abilities, social traits, and personality traits.
The personality test generally lasts for around 30 minutes to an hour, and candidates are asked questions about their background, education, work experience, hobbies, interests, and current affairs. The interview panel may also ask questions related to the candidate’s academic and professional qualifications, their understanding of statistical concepts and techniques, and their opinions on various socio-economic issues.
The interview panel evaluates the candidate based on various factors such as their communication skills, confidence, clarity of thought, problem-solving abilities, leadership qualities, and ability to work in a team. Candidates are expected to be articulate, knowledgeable, and demonstrate a positive attitude and a keen interest in statistical analysis and research.
The final merit list is prepared based on the combined score of the written exam and the personality test. Candidates who score high marks in both the written exam and the personality test are selected for appointment as statisticians in various government departments.
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List of Optional Subjects under UPSC ISS syllabus
The UPSC ISS (Indian Statistical Service) exam offers a choice of six optional subjects. Here’s a brief explanation of each of these subjects:
| Mathematics | Mathematics is a subject that deals with numbers, quantities, and shapes. It includes topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and probability. Candidates who have a strong foundation in mathematics can opt for this subject. |
| Statistics | Statistics is the study of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. It includes topics such as probability, statistical inference, regression analysis, time series analysis, and multivariate analysis. Candidates who have a background in statistics can opt for this subject. |
| Economics | Economics is a social science that studies how individuals, firms, and governments make choices when faced with scarcity. It includes topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, and international trade. Candidates who have a strong interest in economics can opt for this subject. |
| Commerce | Commerce is a subject that deals with the exchange of goods and services. It includes topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, and human resource management. Candidates who have a background in commerce can opt for this subject. |
| Physics | Physics is a subject that deals with the study of matter and energy. It includes topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. Candidates who have a background in physics can opt for this subject. |
| Sociology | Sociology is a social science that studies human behavior, society, and social relationships. It includes topics such as social stratification, gender studies, cultural studies, and social change. Candidates who have a strong interest in sociology can opt for this subject. |
It is important to note that candidates should choose an optional subject that they are comfortable with and have a good understanding of, in order to score well in the exam. Candidates should also consider the availability of study material and coaching support for their chosen optional subject.
UPSC ISS Exam Syllabus PDF Download link
FAQs – UPSC ISS Syllabus
what is the best way to cover the UPSC ISS syllabus?
The UPSC ISS (Indian Statistical Service) exam is a highly competitive exam, and candidates need to prepare thoroughly in order to crack it. Here are some tips on the best way to cover the UPSC ISS syllabus:
Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: The first step in preparing for the exam is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. This will help you in planning your preparation strategy and time management.
Create a Study Plan: Once you have a good understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus, create a study plan that suits your learning style and pace. Allocate enough time for each subject, and focus on your weak areas.
Focus on the Fundamentals: Focus on building a strong foundation in the core subjects, such as mathematics and statistics. Understand the basic concepts and theories thoroughly before moving on to advanced topics.
Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year papers will help you in understanding the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. It will also help you in identifying your weak areas and focus on them.
Join a Coaching Institute: Joining a coaching institute will provide you with access to experienced teachers and study materials. It will also help you in staying motivated and on track.
Read Newspapers and Magazines: Read newspapers and magazines to stay updated on current affairs and economic developments. This will help you in answering questions related to economics and statistics.
Take Mock Tests: Taking mock tests will help you in identifying your strengths and weaknesses. It will also help you in improving your speed and accuracy, which is crucial in competitive exams.
Remember that consistent and focused preparation is the key to cracking the UPSC ISS exam.