The Provincial Civil Services – Judiciary (PCS J) exam is a prestigious judicial services examination conducted by various Indian states to recruit Civil Judges (Junior Division). Aspiring candidates must have a law degree (LLB) and meet other eligibility criteria to apply for this competitive exam.
One of the most important aspects of PCS J preparation is understanding the subject list and exam pattern. This topic provides a detailed subject list, syllabus breakdown, and preparation tips to help you succeed in the PCS J exam.
1. PCS J Exam Structure and Stages
The PCS J exam consists of three main stages:
✔ Preliminary Examination
This is an objective-type test designed to filter candidates for the main examination.
✔ Mains Examination
The mains exam is descriptive (written) and covers various legal subjects.
✔ Interview (Viva-Voce)
The final stage is a personal interview to assess the candidate’s legal knowledge, personality, and decision-making skills.
Each state may have slight variations in the PCS J syllabus, but the core subjects remain the same.
2. PCS J Subject List – Preliminary Exam
The Preliminary Examination generally includes two papers:
Paper 1: General Knowledge & Current Affairs
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Indian History & Culture
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Geography
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Indian Polity & Constitution
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Economy & Budget
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Science & Technology
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Environmental Issues
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Current Affairs (National & International)
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Legal Awareness & Recent Judgments
Paper 2: Law
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Indian Contract Act
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Constitution of India
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Indian Penal Code (IPC)
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Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC)
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Code of Civil Procedure (CPC)
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Indian Evidence Act
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Specific Relief Act
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Transfer of Property Act
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Hindu & Muslim Law
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Jurisprudence & Legal Principles
The Prelims exam is usually qualifying in nature, and candidates need to score the required cutoff marks to proceed to the Mains Exam.
3. PCS J Subject List – Mains Examination
The Mains Exam is more comprehensive and includes several law and non-law subjects. It is descriptive in nature and requires candidates to write detailed answers.
Paper 1: General Knowledge
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Indian History
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International Affairs
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Important Legal Developments
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Indian Economy
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Current Events & Government Schemes
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General Science
Paper 2: English Language
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Essay Writing
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Precis Writing
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Grammar & Vocabulary
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Legal Phrases & Translations
Paper 3: Law 1 – Substantive Law
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Law of Contracts
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Law of Torts
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Hindu Law
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Muslim Law
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Constitutional Law
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Law of Property
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Partnership Act
Paper 4: Law 2 – Procedural Law
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Civil Procedure Code (CPC)
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Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
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Law of Evidence
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Limitation Act
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Arbitration & Conciliation Act
Paper 5: Law 3 – Penal & Revenue Law
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Indian Penal Code (IPC)
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Indian Evidence Act
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Revenue Law
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Local Laws (Varies by State)
Each paper is evaluated separately, and candidates must score above the required marks to qualify for the Interview Round.
4. PCS J Subject List – Interview (Viva-Voce)
The interview or viva-voce round assesses the candidate’s:
✔ Legal Knowledge
✔ Analytical & Logical Thinking
✔ Judgment & Decision-Making Ability
✔ Communication Skills
✔ Ethical and Moral Values
The final merit list is prepared based on Mains Exam scores + Interview performance.
5. How to Prepare for the PCS J Exam?
✔ Understand the Exam Pattern
Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and subject list. Focus on law subjects while also improving your general knowledge and writing skills.
✔ Make a Study Plan
Divide your study hours effectively:
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Law subjects (60%)
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General knowledge (20%)
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Essay & Language skills (20%)
✔ Use Standard Books
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Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth
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Constitutional Law – V.N. Shukla
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Indian Evidence Act – Ratanlal & Dhirajlal
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IPC & CrPC – K.D. Gaur
✔ Practice Previous Year Papers
Solve previous year PCS J question papers to understand exam trends and improve your answer writing skills.
✔ Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Regularly read newspapers, legal websites, and government reports to stay informed about recent legal developments and judgments.
✔ Revise and Take Mock Tests
Regular revision and mock tests will help improve speed, accuracy, and confidence.
6. State-Wise Differences in PCS J Subjects
Each Indian state conducts its own PCS J exam, and there might be minor variations in the syllabus. Here are some examples:
| State | Additional Subjects |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Local Revenue Laws, Land Reforms |
| Madhya Pradesh | MP Accommodation Control Act |
| Bihar | Bihar Excise Act |
| Rajasthan | Rajasthan Rent Control Act |
| Haryana | Local Civil & Criminal Laws |
Candidates should check the official PCS J notification of their respective state for exact details.
7. Benefits of Clearing the PCS J Exam
Clearing the PCS J Exam opens doors to a prestigious career in the judiciary. Some benefits include:
✔ Permanent Government Job with high job security
✔ Respectable Social Status as a judge
✔ Attractive Salary and Perks
✔ Opportunities for Promotions (Higher Judicial Services)
✔ Chance to Serve Justice and Society
The PCS J Exam is a highly competitive but rewarding career path for law graduates. Understanding the PCS J subject list and syllabus is essential for effective preparation. By following a structured study plan, practicing regularly, and staying updated, candidates can improve their chances of success.
If you aspire to become a Civil Judge, start your PCS J preparation today with dedication and confidence!