Topic Genetics
Asked 12 times across 4 UPSC exams over 39 years (1984–2023), peaking in 1994.
Key insights
- Most tested in CDS — 5 of 12 PYQs
- Most asked in 1994
- Recurs across 8 years (1984–2023)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CSE 1984 → CDS 2015 → EPFO 2020 → CAPF 2020
How the concept evolved
Long-running — most appearances (6 of 12) predate 2016, and it still returns.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2023
Chromosomes are composed of DNA and :
- A lipids
- B vitamins
- C proteins ✓
- D carbohydrates
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Science & Technology › Biology & Health
EPFO2023
Consider the following statements about DNA
- DNA refers to Deoxyribonucleic Acid
- It is located in the ribosomes
- It is composed of Ribonucleic Acid
- It can make a copy of itself
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A 1 and 4 ✓
- B 1 and 3
- C 4 only
- D 2 and 3
✓ Correct answer: (A)
Science & Technology › Biology & Health
CDS2022
Mutation in a virus is caused due to a change in its :
- A cell size.
- B genetic material. ✓
- C shape.
- D colour.
✓ Correct answer: (B)
Science & Technology › Biology & Health
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