General Knowledge (GK) is one of the most commonly tested subjects in competitive exams across India and internationally. Whether you are preparing for a government job, entrance test, or scholarship exam, strong GK can give you an edge over the competition.
In this post, we explore which exams include GK, what types of questions are asked, and how you can prepare effectively.
🎯 Why Is GK Important in Exams?
General Knowledge is used to test:
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Awareness of current affairs
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Understanding of Indian and world history
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Knowledge of politics, economy, geography, and science
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Ability to think logically and quickly
GK sections are often used to filter high-performing candidates early in the selection process.
📝 Major Competitive Exams That Include GK
🇮🇳 1. UPSC Civil Services Exam (IAS, IPS, IFS)
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GK Type: Static GK + Current Affairs
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Includes questions on polity, history, geography, economics, science, and international relations.
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One of the toughest exams in India, requiring in-depth GK knowledge.
👮 2. SSC Exams (CGL, CHSL, MTS, GD Constable)
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GK Type: Static GK + General Awareness
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Common topics: Indian Constitution, science, environment, current events, important dates.
🏦 3. Banking Exams (IBPS, SBI, RBI)
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GK Type: General Awareness + Current Affairs
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Focuses on financial news, government schemes, RBI policies, static GK, and economy.
📚 4. Defence Exams (NDA, CDS, AFCAT, CAPF)
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GK Type: History, geography, politics, and science
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Current affairs and national/international defense events are important.
🏛️ 5. State Public Service Commission Exams (MPPSC, RPSC, BPSC, etc.)
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GK Type: State-specific GK + National topics
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Includes history, culture, famous personalities, and politics of the respective state.
👨🎓 6. Teaching Exams (CTET, TET, KVS, DSSSB)
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GK Type: Educational policies, static GK, and current events related to education.
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KVS and DSSSB include General Awareness sections.
🧠 7. Railways (RRB NTPC, Group D, JE)
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GK Type: Static + Science + Current Affairs
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Regular questions on India’s geography, inventions, politics, and personalities.
🌍 8. International Exams
Some global exams also include GK/General Awareness:
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SAT Subject Tests (World History, Geography)
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IELTS Life Skills (indirect GK through speaking topics)
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Australian Citizenship Test – tests knowledge of Australian history and government
🔍 Types of GK Questions Commonly Asked
| Topic | Example Question |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs | Who is the current President of India? |
| History | When did India gain independence? |
| Geography | What is the capital of Australia? |
| Economy | What is GDP? |
| Polity | Who appoints the Chief Minister? |
| Science & Tech | What is the SI unit of force? |
| Awards & Honours | Who won the Bharat Ratna in 2024? |
📈 How to Prepare for GK
✅ 1. Read Newspapers & Online News Apps
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The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, BBC News
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Use apps like Inshorts or GKToday
✅ 2. Monthly GK Capsules
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Use PDF GK capsules from websites like AffairsCloud, Adda247, and Gradeup
✅ 3. Static GK Books
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Lucent’s GK is the most recommended for Indian exams
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Arihant and Disha publications also provide good summaries
✅ 4. Practice MCQs Daily
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Try online quizzes on apps like Testbook, Oliveboard, and BYJU'S Exam Prep
✅ 5. Watch YouTube Channels
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StudyIQ, Wifistudy, Unacademy GK classes
🧾 Conclusion
If you're aiming for any government job, bank position, or entrance exam, GK is a vital section you can’t ignore. With daily preparation, even 15–30 minutes, you can master both static and current GK over time.
🧠 Bonus Tip:
Make short notes or flashcards from the news. Revise them weekly for long-term memory retention.
