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Pcs J Subject List

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

  • Indian History & Culture

  • Geography

  • Indian Polity & Constitution

  • Economy & Budget

  • Science & Technology

  • Environmental Issues

  • Current Affairs (National & International)

  • Legal Awareness & Recent Judgments

Paper 2: Law

  • Indian Contract Act

  • Constitution of India

  • Indian Penal Code (IPC)

  • Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC)

  • Code of Civil Procedure (CPC)

  • Indian Evidence Act

  • Specific Relief Act

  • Transfer of Property Act

  • Hindu & Muslim Law

  • 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

  • Indian History

  • International Affairs

  • Important Legal Developments

  • Indian Economy

  • Current Events & Government Schemes

  • General Science

Paper 2: English Language

  • Essay Writing

  • Precis Writing

  • Grammar & Vocabulary

  • Legal Phrases & Translations

Paper 3: Law 1 – Substantive Law

  • Law of Contracts

  • Law of Torts

  • Hindu Law

  • Muslim Law

  • Constitutional Law

  • Law of Property

  • Partnership Act

Paper 4: Law 2 – Procedural Law

  • Civil Procedure Code (CPC)

  • Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)

  • Law of Evidence

  • Limitation Act

  • Arbitration & Conciliation Act

Paper 5: Law 3 – Penal & Revenue Law

  • Indian Penal Code (IPC)

  • Indian Evidence Act

  • Revenue Law

  • 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:

  • Law subjects (60%)

  • General knowledge (20%)

  • Essay & Language skills (20%)

✔ Use Standard Books

  • Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth

  • Constitutional Law – V.N. Shukla

  • Indian Evidence Act – Ratanlal & Dhirajlal

  • 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!