Karnataka PSI Syllabus 2025 – Exam Pattern, Topics, PDF & Preparation Tips
Get the complete Karnataka PSI Syllabus 2025 with exam pattern, marks distribution, and subject-wise topics for Paper I & II. Download PDF, check recommended books, and follow expert preparation strategies to crack the Karnataka Police SI exam.
The Karnataka Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) exam is a highly competitive recruitment test conducted by the Karnataka State Police (KSP) for the selection of capable candidates into the police force. The role of a Sub-Inspector involves law enforcement, public safety, and maintaining order. In 2025, the syllabus remains comprehensive, testing candidates in both language skills and analytical abilities, as well as knowledge of current affairs and general studies.
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This guide provides the complete Karnataka PSI Syllabus 2025, exam pattern, subject-wise topics, marks distribution, recommended books, and preparation strategies. All syllabus details are presented in a clear table format, divided into two separate papers for easy reference.
2. Exam Overview
The PSI selection process is conducted in multiple stages. Candidates first need to pass the Physical Standard Test (PST) and Endurance Test (ET). Those who qualify are eligible to appear for the written examination, which has two papers.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Stages | 1. Physical Standard Test (PST) & Endurance Test (ET) 2. Written Examination |
| Papers | Paper I (Descriptive) – 50 marks Paper II (Objective) – 150 marks |
| Duration | 90 minutes per paper |
| Negative Marking | Paper II: –0.25 marks per wrong answer |
| Medium | English & Kannada |
| Total Marks | 200 marks |
3. Karnataka PSI Syllabus 2025
Paper I – Descriptive
Paper I is designed to test a candidate’s proficiency in written communication, clarity of thought, grammar, and language skills in both English and Kannada. It is especially important for candidates to demonstrate their ability to articulate ideas effectively, which is a crucial skill for police officers while preparing reports and communicating in the field.
Table 1 – Overview
| Paper | Type | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Descriptive | 90 minutes | 50 |
Table 2 – Sections & Detailed Topics
| Sections | Detailed Topics |
|---|---|
| Essay Writing (20 marks) | Topics related to social issues, law and order, administration, current events, and Karnataka’s socio-economic development. Essays typically require 600+ words. |
| Summary / Precis Writing (10 marks) | Summarizing or condensing a given passage into its key points while retaining clarity and meaning. |
| Translation – English ↔ Kannada (20 marks) | Bidirectional translation exercises maintaining correct grammar, tone, and meaning in both languages. |
Paper II – Objective
Paper II is an objective multiple-choice question (MCQ) paper aimed at evaluating the candidate’s analytical reasoning, numerical ability, and awareness of current affairs and general knowledge. This paper carries more weight in the written examination, so candidates must prepare each section thoroughly to maximize their score.
Table 1 – Overview
| Paper | Type | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper II | Objective (MCQ) | 90 minutes | 150 |
Table 2 – Sections & Detailed Topics
| Sections | Detailed Topics |
|---|---|
| Part A – Mental Ability | Number System, Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, HCF & LCM, Averages, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Problems on Trains, Pipes & Cisterns, Mixtures & Allegations, Boats & Streams, Data Interpretation, Clocks & Calendars. |
| Part B – Current Affairs & General Studies | Indian History & National Movement, Indian Constitution & Polity, Indian Economy, Geography (India & Karnataka), Science & Technology, Inventions & Discoveries, Environment, Sports, Awards & Honours, Important Days, Books & Authors, Budget & Five-Year Plans, International & National Organisations, Abbreviations, Karnataka-specific GK (culture, history, governance). |
4. Syllabus PDF Download
Candidates can download the official Karnataka PSI syllabus PDF from trusted sources:
5. Recommended Books
Referring to the right books is crucial for effective preparation. Below is a list of suggested resources for each section of the syllabus.
| Purpose | Books / Resources |
|---|---|
| Mental Ability | Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal, Fast Track Arithmetic – Rajesh Verma |
| Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal |
| General Studies | Lucent’s General Knowledge, Manohar Pandey GK |
| History | India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra |
| Polity | Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth |
| Karnataka GK | Karnataka General Knowledge – Dr. C. S. Mahesh Kumar |
| Language Skills | Previous years’ descriptive papers, translation & essay workbooks |
6. Preparation Strategy
Here is a detailed plan to approach the Karnataka PSI exam efficiently:
- Understand the Exam Structure: Break down your preparation into Paper I and Paper II with equal focus on both.
- Daily Practice: Dedicate at least 30 minutes to descriptive writing and translation exercises.
- Quantitative Skills: Solve 20–30 mental ability problems every day and focus on speed and accuracy.
- Current Affairs: Read The Hindu or Indian Express daily and follow monthly current affairs compilations.
- Mock Tests: Attempt at least one full-length mock test per week to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Physical Training: Do not neglect PST/ET preparation – maintain physical fitness alongside written exam prep.
7. Conclusion
The Karnataka PSI 2025 syllabus is designed to evaluate candidates on multiple fronts – from language and analytical skills to awareness of socio-political issues. Consistent preparation, strategic time management, and regular practice of both descriptive and objective papers will significantly improve your chances of success. Keep track of the latest notifications from the Karnataka State Police and stay disciplined in your study plan.
8. FAQs
Q. What is the total duration of the PSI written exam?
A. 3 hours (90 minutes each for Paper I & Paper II).
Q. Is there negative marking?
A. Yes, –0.25 marks per wrong answer in Paper II.
Q. Which paper has descriptive questions?
A. Paper I – Essay, Summary, and Translation.
Q. Does Karnataka-specific GK matter?
A. Yes, Karnataka-specific GK is very important for scoring well in Paper II.
Q. Can I write Paper I in Kannada?
A. Yes, except the translation section which is bidirectional.
Q. Which is the best book for PSI mental ability?
A. Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal.
