Combined SO/Steno LDCE
Complete preparation guide with syllabus, study materials, previous year papers & comprehensive topic-wise trend analysis for all 11 categories
Examination Pattern
The examination shall be conducted according to the following plan
Written examination carrying maximum of 500 marks in the subjects as shown below.
For Steno Categories (IV, V, VI, VII, IX): A qualifying Shorthand test in Hindi or English at 100 w.p.m.
Evaluation of record of service carrying a maximum of 100 marks of candidates who obtain minimum qualifying marks in written examination.
Note: Minimum 40% marks required in evaluation of record of service for ranking.
| Paper | Subject | Type | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | General Studies & General Knowledge of Constitution of India and Machinery of Government, Practice and Procedures in Parliament and Knowledge of RTI Act, 2005. | Objective | 150 | 2 Hrs |
| 2 | Procedure and Practice in the Govt. of India Secretariat and attached offices and General Financial and Service Rules duly taking into account the requirement of relevant categories of services. | Objective | 150 | 2 Hrs |
| 3 | Noting and Drafting, Precis writing | Subjective | 200 | 3 Hrs |
| Evaluation of Record of Service | 100 | |||
| Total Marks | 600 |
Important Notes
- Negative Marking: 1/3 marks deducted for each wrong answer in objective papers
- Multiple Answers: If more than one answer is given, it will be treated as wrong even if one is correct
- APARs: Once evaluated by Assessment Boards, no reassessment will be entertained
- Minimum Marks: 40% required in evaluation of record of service for ranking
- Handwriting: Up to 5% deduction for illegible handwriting in Paper III
Select Your Category to View Detailed Syllabus
Paper I - General Studies
Constitution, Parliamentary Procedure, RTI, AOBR/TOBR, Development Schemes, Current Affairs & Economy
Common for all 11 categories
Important Links
Paper II - Service Rules & Procedures
Select your category group above to see relevant study materials
Select Your Category Group
Paper II syllabus differs by category group. Please select your group from the options above to view relevant study materials.
Category Groups:
- CSS Group: Categories I, IV, VIII, IX, XI
- IFS Group: Categories II, V
- Railway Group: Categories III, VII
- AFHQ Group: Categories VI, X
Paper III - Descriptive Paper
Precis Writing, Letter/Report Drafting, Comprehension, Essay, Note/Office Order
Common for all 11 categories
Paper I - General Studies
Constitution, Parliamentary Procedure, RTI, AOBR/TOBR, Schemes, Current Affairs, Economy
Same paper for all 11 categories
| Batch Year | Question Paper | Answer Key |
|---|
Exam Highlights
Preparation Strategy
| Topic | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2021-22 | 2019-20 | 2018 | 2016-17 | 2015 | 2014 | 2012-13 | 2009-11 | Total | Avg % |
|---|
Year-wise Topic Distribution
Overall Topic Weightage
Paper II - Service Rules & Procedures
Select your category group above to see relevant papers
Select Your Category Group
Paper II question papers differ by category group. Please select your group from the options above.
Paper III - Descriptive Paper
Precis Writing, Letter/Report Drafting, Comprehension, Essay, Note/Office Order
Same paper for all 11 categories
| Batch Year | Question Paper |
|---|
Exam Highlights
| Topic/Type | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2021-22 | 2019-20 | 2018 | 2016-17 | 2015 | 2014 | 2012-13 | 2009-11 | Total | Avg % |
|---|