As with most government job exams, the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) aspirants have an inherent doubt about whether mathematics forms a part or should they concentrate on it. In some examinations, math is an integral part, but in BPSC examinations, the case is a bit different which makes the question intriguing to the candidates. In this blog, we shall discuss the importance of mathematics in BPSC with special reference to its usefulness, priority in the preparation schedule and relevance.
How is the BPSC relevant and the examination structure?
The BPSC exam has three different stages: the Preliminary exam and the main exam followed by an Interview. The structure of the exam doesn’t change that much, according to the BPSC Previous Year Question Paper, as there preliminary examinations do include a set of general studies examinations. Here, it must be noted that although Mathematics is not mentioned as a standalone section, it is covered in the General Studies section in the form of basic math and numerical reasoning questions. Such questions test the basic cognitive abilities of the aspirants, instead of the more complicated levels of mathematics.
The Respectable Domain of Mathematics in BPSC
Mathematics is not a primary highlight in BPSC examinations as compared with examinations such as SSC or banking examinations. However, the maths questions that exist in the Preliminary and the Mains examinations are mostly based on class 10 level, which includes functional skills like arithmetic, percentages, ratios, and elementary geometry. Understanding the BPSC Previous Year Question Paper will enable you to see the kinds of questions often posed and the depth of mathematical knowledge needed for such questions.
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As math is not a big area of focus for the examination, people who come from a non-math background need not worry about the in-depth mathematical concepts that are known. Still, the importance of possessing a general level of mathematics should not be overlooked as that can prepare you for a variety of logical and analytical question styles. This skill would come in handy in the examination especially when dealing with questions on data analysis, or pictorial representation of statistical information, which however are not frequently included in the examination.
Is Math Necessary in BPSC Exam?
Math is a subject that should be considered in your preparation for the BPSC exam; however, its weightage would not be as great as that of General Studies, current affairs, or topics relevant to the state of Bihar. If you consistently engage in math as one of the fundamentals while focusing on these key areas, it is reasonable to expect a reasonably balanced approach. There are a lot of BPSC books available in the market which deal with the basic level of quantitative aptitude and students who are weak in mathematics are a good source of such BPSC books as it will not take much time.
One of the simplest ways to understand what level of preparation would be sufficient for math is the experience of attempting the BPSC Previous Year Question Paper. This way, you can have an idea of which papers to go through, concentrate on math topics that are more likely to appear, and save yourself the gruelling task of attempting hard questions that you are sure will not come.
