Want to score full marks in General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability in the CSIR SO/ASO exam 2024? The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) conducts an online examination for the recruitment of Section Officer (SO) and Assistant Section Officer (ASO) posts in various departments and ministries of the central government. The exam consists of three papers: Paper I (General Awareness and English Language and Comprehension), Paper II (General Intelligence and Mental Ability), and Paper III (English/Hindi Descriptive Paper). The candidates who qualify the online exam are further called for an interview (for SO) or a computer proficiency test (for ASO).
Among the three papers, Paper II is considered to be the most challenging and scoring one. It tests the candidates’ cognitive abilities, logical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and numerical aptitude. The paper comprises 200 objective-type questions, each carrying one mark, with a negative marking of 0.33 marks for each wrong answer. The duration of the paper is 150 minutes. To score full marks in Paper II, the candidates need to have a thorough understanding of the syllabus, a clear strategy, and a regular practice.
In this blog, we will provide 10 tips to cover all the topics that make up the syllabus for General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability in CSIR SO/ASO 2024 exam. We will also suggest a free mock test that can help the candidates to assess their preparation level and improve their performance.
Also read: CSIR SO/ASO 2024: Strategies for Achieving a Full Score in Paper 1
Let’s have a look at the CSIR Sectional Officer (SO) Exam Pattern. This exam will be scheduled to take place in February 2024.
| Stage | Paper | Subject | Total Ques | Marks | Time |
| 1 | I | General Awareness | 100 | 100 | 120 minutes |
| 1 | I | English Language and Comprehension | 50 | 50 | same as above |
| 1 | II | General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability | 200 | 200 | 150 minutes |
| 2 | III | English/Hindi – Descriptive Paper | 3 | 150 | 120 minutes |
| 3 | – | Interview Exams | – | 100 | – |
Check CSIR ASO Exam Pattern in the table format given below:
| Stage | Paper | Subject | Ques | Marks | Time |
| 1 | I | General Awareness | 100 | 100 | 120 minutes |
| 1 | I | English Language and Comprehension | 50 | 50 | 120 minutes |
| 1 | II | General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability | 200 | 200 | 150 minutes |
| 2 | III | English/Hindi – Descriptive Paper | 3 | 150 | 120 minutes |
| 3 | – | Computer Proficiency Test | – | 100 | – |
General Intelligence and Reasoning: Analogies, similarities and differences, space visualization, problem-solving, analysis, judgement, decision-making, visual memory, discriminating observation, relationship concepts, arithmetical reasoning, verbal and figure classification, arithmetical number series, non-verbal series etc.
General Mental Ability: Analogy, Classification, Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood relations, Direction Sense Test, Logical Venn Diagrams, Alphabet Test, Sitting Arrangements, Mathematical Operations, Arithmetical Reasoning, Inserting the Missing Character, Number, Ranking and Time Sequence Test, Eligibility Test.
Simplification, Decimals, Data Interpretation, Fractions, L.C.M., H.C.F., Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Average, Profit & Loss, Discount, Simple & Compound Interest, Mensuration, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Tables & Graphs etc.
Physics: Mechanics, heat, magnetism, Electricity, Light, sound, ,modern physics
Chemistry: Nature and composition of substances, atomic structure, radioactivity, isotopic isotope isotronic, chemical bond, Oxidation & Equipment, acid, ash and salt, Valency and Atomic Weight, General properties of gases, Merger, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, inducement, fuel, periodic classification of elements, Latin names and chemical symbols of elements, metallurgical treatment, metals and their compounds, non-metals and their compounds, organic chemistry, Various such as alloy, fertilizer, cement etc.
Biology: plant diseases, plant tissue, plant genetics, cell Biology, ecology, Pollution, health and nutrition, human physiology, classification of animal kingdom, branch of zoology, chief biologist.
Computer/IT: Basic knowledge and fundamentals about Computer, Word Processing, Spread sheet, generation of Slides, Email etc.
Economic growth and development: Basic concept and definition of economy and economics, uses and transfer of resources, distributive effects, macro and micro economic policy, micro-macro balance, distributive impact of economic policies, development versus growth, determinant of growth and development, concepts such as HPI/MPI, HDI, PQLI, GEM, GDI/GII, TAI, Green index, sustainable development, India’s ranking in the various indices.
Terms like climate change, ecosystem, sustainable development, natural disaster, etc. are regularly featured in the news.
Environment topics can be interlinked with core concepts of other subjects like geography, biology, botany, zoology and also the economy.
Environment can also overlap with policy and governance since many government schemes are linked towards preserving the natural resources and environment, conservation of flora and fauna, and reducing pollution, etc.
Essence, determinants and consequences of Ethics in-human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics – in private and public relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family society and educational institutions in inculcating values.
Identify the problem, Identify the possible solutions, Select the best solution, Eliminate other solutions and Make the decision.
Principles of management (Planning, organizing, Directing & Control etc.), Job analysis, Job description Job specification, Job design, Job change, Recruitment, Communication, Leadership, Motivation, Negotiations, Financial Management, Delegation, Working & Networking, Project Appraisal, Career Advancement, Procurement, Stores, Inventory Management, Facilities & Infrastructure Management
Basics of India, Physical features, River systems, Climate, Minerals and Industries, Agriculture, Natural vegetation and fauna, Economic infrastructure, Human Geography.
The first step to prepare for any exam is to know the syllabus and the exam pattern. The syllabus for Paper II covers a wide range of topics, such as analogy, classification, word formation, ranking, blood relation, distance and direction, series, mathematical problems, arrangement of words, Venn diagram, symbols and notations, trends, cubes and dices, coding-decoding, problem-solving, statement and conclusion, syllogism, etc. The candidates should familiarize themselves with the syllabus and the weightage of each topic. They should also know the exam pattern, the number of questions, the marking scheme, and the time limit.
The second tip is to focus on the basics and concepts of each topic. The questions in Paper II are designed to test the candidates’ conceptual clarity and logical thinking. Therefore, the candidates should not rely on rote learning or shortcuts, but rather understand the underlying principles and logic behind each topic. They should refer to reliable and standard books, such as NCERT books or equivalent books, for clarity. They should also revise the basic formulas, rules, and methods of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, etc.
The third tip is to practice with previous year papers and mock tests. Practicing with previous year papers helps the candidates to get familiar with the type and level of questions asked in the exam. It also helps them to identify their strengths and weaknesses, and work on them accordingly. Mock tests are also useful to check the preparation level, speed, accuracy, and time management skills of the candidates. They also help to boost the confidence and reduce the exam anxiety of the candidates. The candidates should practice with at least one mock test per week and analyze their performance and mistakes.
The fourth tip is to improve your mental ability and reasoning skills. Mental ability and reasoning skills are the key to score well in Paper II. The candidates should develop their mental agility and analytical prowess by involving in new things, giving a dare to themselves, thinking innovatively, opting for tougher ways, and connecting with the world[^1^][5]. They should also practice puzzles, syllogisms, coding-decoding, and logical reasoning exercises regularly. They should try to solve the questions mentally, without using pen and paper, as much as possible. They should also avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions, and instead use a systematic and logical approach to solve the questions.
The fifth tip is to enhance your numerical aptitude and data interpretation skills. Numerical aptitude and data interpretation are also important aspects of Paper II. The candidates should improve their calculation speed and accuracy by practicing mental math, using approximation techniques, and learning tables, squares, cubes, and fractions. They should also practice quantitative problems based on topics like percentage, ratio and proportion, average, profit and loss, simple and compound interest, time and work, time and distance, etc. They should also be able to interpret and analyze data presented in the form of tables, graphs, charts, etc.
The sixth tip is to manage your time and attempt wisely. Time management is crucial for Paper II, as the candidates have to solve 200 questions in 150 minutes. The candidates should allocate a fixed time for each question and section, and stick to it. They should not spend too much time on any question, and skip the difficult or lengthy ones for later. They should also attempt the questions in a sequence that suits them, and not follow the order given in the paper. They should also be careful about the negative marking, and avoid guessing or marking the answers randomly.
The seventh tip is to revise and revise. Revision is essential for any exam preparation, as it helps to consolidate the learning and recall the information. The candidates should revise the topics and concepts regularly, and make notes or flashcards for quick revision. They should also revise the formulas, rules, and methods of mathematics, and the tricks and shortcuts of reasoning. They should also revise the previous year papers and mock tests, and rectify their errors and doubts.
The eighth tip is to read and comprehend. Reading and comprehension are also important skills for Paper II, as the candidates have to read and understand the questions, the data, and the options given. The candidates should improve their reading speed and comprehension skills by reading newspapers, magazines, books, etc. They should also practice reading comprehension passages and answering questions based on them. They should also pay attention to the keywords, phrases, and directions given in the questions, and avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
The ninth tip is to stay updated and aware. General awareness is also a part of Paper II, as some questions may be based on current affairs, general knowledge, or scientific facts. The candidates should stay updated and aware of the latest happenings and developments in the national and international arena, especially related to science and technology. They should read newspapers, magazines, journals, etc. and watch news channels, documentaries, etc. They should also cover the fundamental scientific concepts from physics, chemistry, and biology, and refer to NCERT books or equivalent books for clarity.
The tenth and final tip is to relax and be confident. Relaxation and confidence are also essential for Paper II, as they help to reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance performance and efficiency. The candidates should relax and be confident before and during the exam, and avoid any negative thoughts or emotions. They should also take care of their health and well-being, and follow a balanced diet, exercise, and sleep routine. They should also meditate, listen to music, or do any other activity that helps them to calm down and relax.
As a takeaway, we would like to suggest a free mock test that can help the candidates to prepare for Paper II of CSIR SO/ASO 2024 exam. The mock test is available Here. Experts design the mock test and follows the latest syllabus and exam pattern of CSIR SO/ASO exam. The mock test consists of 200 questions, covering all the topics of General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability. The mock test also provides detailed solutions, explanations, and analysis of the performance and score. The mock test is free of cost and can be attempted anytime and anywhere.
We hope that this essay has helped you to understand the tips and strategies to score full marks in General Intelligence, Reasoning, and Mental Ability in CSIR SO/ASO 2024 exam.
We wish you all the best for your exam preparation and success.
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