Himachal Public Service Commission has introduced a new system for conducting Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HPAS) Combined Competitive (Preliminary) Examination-2010. The exam will have two papers for HPAS (Preliminary) Examination. This will include a general aptitude test along with a general studies paper of 200 marks each. The new system will adapt the syllabus as per the UPSC pattern and will also include questions on HP.

There will 100 multiple choice objective type questions in each paper for which the candidates will be given two hours. The examination will have negative marking in the objective type question paper. One third of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for every wrong answer marked out of the four alternatives of a question. The aptitude test will have 100 objective type questions comprising comprehension, interpersonal skills – including communication skills, logical reasoning and analytical ability.