BCS Written Preparation — Master the 900-Mark Examination
Build the depth the BCS Written demands with paper-wise coverage, answer-writing strategy, model answers and a structured study plan across every subject.
- Total marks
- 900 Total marks
- Papers
- 9 Papers
- Pass mark / paper
- 50% Pass mark / paper
Understanding the BCS Written
The Written examination is the heart of the BCS. Carrying 900 marks for general cadres (1100 for both general and technical), it is where your final merit position is largely decided.
1 What is the Written exam?
A set of descriptive papers testing depth of knowledge, analytical ability and expression across Bangla, English, Bangladesh & International Affairs, Mathematical & Mental Skills, and General Science & Technology.
2 Who sits the Written?
Only candidates who clear the Preliminary. Because the Written carries real merit weight, this is where sustained, high-quality preparation pays off the most.
3 Why answer-writing matters
Unlike the MCQ Preliminary, the Written rewards structure, relevant examples, diagrams and time management. You must pass each paper (50%) and maximise marks that count toward merit.
4 How NextBCS helps
Get the full Written syllabus, model answers, subject notes, current-affairs updates and topic drills — plus an AI tutor to clarify concepts and structure your answers in Bangla or English.
BCS Written Papers & Marks
General cadre candidates sit for 900 marks; those applying for both general and technical cadres sit for 1100 marks.
Compulsory papers
All candidates
- Bangla
- 200
- English
- 200
- Bangladesh Affairs
- 200
- International Affairs
- 100
Language and affairs papers form the bulk of the merit.
Reasoning & science
All candidates
- Mathematical Reasoning
- 100
- Mental Ability
- included
- General Science & Technology
- 100
- General total
- 900
Scoring papers if you practise structured, accurate answers.
Passing rules
Merit qualification
- Pass per paper
- 50%
- Counts toward merit
- 30%+
- Technical cadre extra
- 200 marks
- Viva (next stage)
- 200
Score below the paper minimum and marks are not counted.
BCS Written Syllabus Overview
Paper-wise focus areas for the descriptive examination.
বাংলা (২০০)
200- ব্যাকরণ ও ভাষা
- ভাব-সম্প্রসারণ ও রচনা
- সারমর্ম ও সারাংশ
- বাংলা সাহিত্য বিশ্লেষণ
English (200)
200- Grammar & Usage
- Composition & Précis
- Comprehension
- Free Writing & Essay
Bangladesh Affairs (200)
200- History & Constitution
- Economy & Development
- Governance & Policy
- Society & Culture
International Affairs (100)
100- International Relations
- Global Institutions
- Current World Events
- Diplomacy & Security
Mathematical & Mental Skills (100)
100- Arithmetic & Algebra
- Geometry & Trigonometry
- Data Interpretation
- Logical Reasoning
General Science & Technology (100)
100- Physical & Life Science
- Modern Technology & ICT
- Environment & Health
- Scientific Applications
4-Month BCS Written Plan
A depth-first plan focused on knowledge, answer structure and practice.
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Month 1
Bangla & English papers
Build language depth, grammar and composition; practise essays, précis and free writing weekly.
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Month 2
Bangladesh & International Affairs
Study history, constitution, economy and current affairs; write structured 200-mark answers.
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Month 3
Maths, Mental Skills & Science
Practise mathematical reasoning and revise science with applied, exam-style questions.
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Month 4
Answer-writing & revision
Write full-length timed papers, review against model answers, and revise all subjects before the exam.
BCS Written preparation toolkit
Resources built for the descriptive stage.
Previous Year Questions
Written question papers with model approaches.
OpenStudy Materials
Subject notes and model answers in Bangla and English.
OpenAnswer Writing
Structure, examples and time-management guidance.
OpenAI Tutor
Clarify tough concepts and get feedback on your answers.
OpenProgress Tracking
Monitor coverage across every Written paper.
OpenFrequently asked questions
How many marks is the BCS Written examination?
The BCS Written carries 900 marks for general cadres. Candidates applying for both general and technical cadres sit for an additional 200-mark paper, totalling 1100 marks.
What is the passing mark in each Written paper?
You must score at least 50% in each paper to pass, and typically only 30% or above is counted toward your merit. Failing to reach the minimum in a paper means those marks are not counted.
When should I start Written preparation?
Begin serious Written preparation as soon as your Preliminary is over — ideally alongside it. The Written decides your merit, so 3–4 months of focused study makes a real difference.
How important is answer-writing practice?
Very important. The examiner rewards structured, relevant and well-presented answers with examples and, where useful, diagrams. Regular timed writing practice is essential.
Does NextBCS help with the descriptive Written stage?
Yes. NextBCS provides the Written syllabus, subject notes, model answers, current affairs and an AI tutor to help you understand concepts and structure strong answers.
How do I manage current affairs for the Written?
Follow national and international current affairs daily and keep short revision notes. NextBCS pushes regular current-affairs updates you can revise on the go.
Continue your BCS preparation
Score higher in the BCS Written
Depth, model answers and an AI tutor — all inside NextBCS.