Table of Contents
In this article, we are discussing the TNPSC CTS Syllabus and Exam Pattern to help candidates understand the exam structure, important topics, and marking scheme. Candidates preparing for the TNPSC CTS exam must have a clear understanding of the syllabus and exam pattern, focus on relevant topics, make a strategic study plan, and improve overall performance in the examination.
TNPSC CTS Syllabus 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Technical Service Examination |
| Post | Assistant Engineer (Civil/Mechanical/Electrical), Environmental Scientist, Project Officer, and others |
| Mode of Exam | Offline (OMR-based) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Number of Papers |
|
| Duration |
|
| Negative Marking | 1/3 Mark |
TNPSC CTS Exam Pattern 2026
The TNPSC CTS Exam 2026 will include 2 papers, Paper 1 & Paper 2. Which is described in the table below:
Exam Pattern for All Posts other than Translator:
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I |
Tamil Eligibility Test | 100 | 100 |
| General Studies | 75 | 75 | |
| Aptitude & Mental Ability | 25 | 25 | |
| Total | 200 | 200 | |
| Paper II | Subject Paper | 300 | 300 |
NOTE:
Paper 1 carries 200 marks, while Paper 2 carries 300 marks.
Both Papers exam duration of both papers is 3 Hours.
Exam Pattern for Translator Posts
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Part A – Tamil Eligibility Test | 100 | 150 |
| Part B – General Studies | 75 | 150 | |
| Part C – Aptitude & Mental Ability | 25 | ||
| Paper II | Translation | — | 100 |
Note:
Paper 1 carries 300 marks, while Paper 2 carries 100 marks.
Paper 1 exam duration is 3 hours, while Paper 2 exam duration is 2.5 Hours.
TNPSC CTS Syllabus 2026
The TNPSC CTS Syllabus 2026 has been released on the official website for Assistant Engineer (Civil/Mechanical/Electrical), Environmental Scientist, Project Officer, and other posts. Candidates applying for these posts must understand the important subjects and topics, which consist of General Studies, Aptitude & Mental Ability, & trade relative subjects, which are given below.
TNPSC CTS Official Syllabus PDF – Click Here
General Studies Syllabus For TNPSC CTS
| General Studies Syllabus |
||
| Ancient India | Medieval India | Modern India |
| Physical Geography | Indian Geography | World Geography |
| Indian Constitution | Political System in India | State Government |
| Basics of the Indian Economy | Economic Planning | Physics |
| Chemistry | Biology | Current Affairs |
| Sports and Culture | Indian Awards and Honors | Famous Personalities |
| Important Days and Dates | Major Economic Schemes and Policies | |
Aptitude & Mental Ability Syllabus For TNPSC CTS
- Analogies
- Series Completion
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Mirror Images
- Embedded Figures
- Paper Folding and Cutting
- Pattern Completion
- Logical Deduction
- Logical Sequences
- Seating Arrangement
- Data Interpretation
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogism
- Number Series
- Speed, Time, and Distance
- Profit and Loss
- Time and Work
- Ratio and Proportion
TNPSC CTS Exam Preparation Tips
To successfully pass the TNPSC CTS Exam 2026, candidates need a good strategy, commitment, & the right mindset. Follow these helpful tips to improve your preparation:
- Understand the exam structure and note down all high-weightage topics so you can make a study plan accordingly.
- Allocate fixed hours daily to both study and practice and avoid distractions.
- First, focus on the core concept, while making short notes of key formulas and definitions for last-minute revision.
- Practice on previous years’ papers to understand the question format and frequently asked topics in the exam.
- Candidates should practice mock tests regularly to analyze their performance & progress, while working on their weak areas.
- Be positive, motivated, and believe in your preparation for exam day.









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