General English: The paper is designed to test the candidates knowledge of English Grammar and Composition , and generally their power to understand and their ability to write correct English. The paper may include questions on the correct use of words, easy idioms and prepositions, direct and indirect speech etc.

General Knowledge: Some knowledge of the constitution of India, five-year plans, Indian History and culture, General and Economic Geography of India, current events, everyday science and such matters of everyday observation as may be expected to show their intelligence understanding of the questions and not the detailed knowledge of any text-book.

Essay: Candidates are required to write essays in English or in Hindi on two topics. A choice of subjects will be given. They are expected to keep close to the subject of the essay, to arrange their ideas in orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit is given for effective and exact expression.

Scheme of shorthand test: The shorthand test in English will comprise two dictation tests, one of 120 words per minute for seven minutes and another at 100 words per minute for 10 minutes, which the candidates will be required to transcribe in 45 and 50 minutes respectively.
The shorthand test in Hindi comprises two dictation tests one at 120 words per minute for seven minutes and another at 100 words per minute for 10 minutes which the candidates are required to transcribe in 60 and 65 minutes respectively.