how to start essay writing practice for upsc

Insights IAS Brochure |
OUR CENTERS Bangalore Delhi Lucknow Mysuru --> Srinagar Dharwad Hyderabad

Call us @ 08069405205

Search Here

An Introduction to the CSE Exam
Personality Test
Annual Calendar by UPSC-2025
Common Myths about the Exam
About Insights IAS
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Director's Desk
Meet Our Team
Our Branches
Careers at Insights IAS
Daily Current Affairs+PIB Summary
Insights into Editorials
Insta Revision Modules for Prelims
Current Affairs Quiz
Static Quiz
Current Affairs RTM
Insta-DART(CSAT)
Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Prelims 2024
Secure (Mains Answer writing)
Secure Synopsis
Ethics Case Studies
Insta Ethics
Weekly Essay Challenge
Insta Revision Modules-Mains
Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Mains
Secure (Archive)
Anthropology
Law Optional
Kannada Literature
Public Administration
English Literature
Medical Science
Mathematics
Commerce & Accountancy
Monthly Magazine: CURRENT AFFAIRS 30
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
InstaMaps: Important Places in News
Weekly CA Magazine
The PRIME Magazine
Insta Revision Modules-Prelims
Insta-DART(CSAT) Quiz
Insta 75 days Revision Tests for Prelims 2022
Insights SECURE(Mains Answer Writing)
Interview Transcripts
Previous Years' Question Papers-Prelims
Answer Keys for Prelims PYQs
Solve Prelims PYQs
Previous Years' Question Papers-Mains
UPSC CSE Syllabus
Toppers from Insights IAS
Testimonials
Felicitation
UPSC Results
Indian Heritage & Culture
Ancient Indian History
Medieval Indian History
Modern Indian History
World History
World Geography
Indian Geography
Indian Society
Social Justice
International Relations
Agriculture
Environment & Ecology
Disaster Management
Science & Technology
Security Issues
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude
Insights IAS Brochure

Indian Heritage & Culture
Enivornment & Ecology

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE

Following are the topics on which our followers have written (and writing essays) every Sunday to hone their essay writing skills. The topics are chosen based on UPSC previous year topics. Writing one essay on each Sunday will help you get better marks in this paper.

ESSAY STRATEGY by Topper – Rank 1 CSE 2017

ESSAY STRATEGY by Topper – Rank 25 CSE 2015

ESSAY STRATEGY by Topper – Rank 40 CSE 2015

[VIDEO] How to Improve Marks in Essay and Ethics Papers?
[VIDEO] How to Write Philosophical Essays

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2024

18 August, 2024 : A Budget Tells Us What We Cannot Afford, But It Doesn’t Keep Us from buying it
11 August, 2024 : The world is not magic and that is the most magical thing about it.
4 August, 2024 : Art is I; Science is We.
28 July, 2024 : History, in general, only informs us what bad government is
21 July, 2024 : Sarcasam : the last refuge of the chaste-souled individuals when their privacy is coarsely invaded.
14 July, 2024 : Wound is the place where light enters you
7 July, 2024 : What is Religion to One is Superstition To Another
June 30, 2024 : Gender Is Spectrum
June 23, 2024 : Those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music.
June 16, 2024 : Saint Has A Past. Sinner Has A Future
June 9, 2024 : The worst disease in the world today is corruption and the cure for it is transparency.
June 2, 2024 : Escape Competition Through Authenticity.
May 26, 2024 : Creativity Is Allowing Yourself to Make Mistakes. Art Is Knowing Which Ones to Keep.
May 19 2024 : In No Man’s Land, the only way to survive is to adapt.
May 12, 2024 : Economics is concerned with what emerges, not what anyone intended.
May 5, 2024 : A right is not what someone gives you; it’s what no one can take from you.
April 28, 2024 : We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility.
April 21, 2024 : Well done is better than well said.
April 14, 2024 : Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.
April 07, 2024 : Came from plant, use it; made in plant, don’t.
March 30, 2024 : A Business That Makes Nothing More Than Money Is Poor Business
March 24, 2024 : If Voting Really Made Difference, They Would Not Let Us Do It
March 17, 2024 : Cinema Is Not A Slice Of Life, But A Piece Of Cake.
March 10, 2024 : Education Can give skill, but a liberal education can give dignity
March 3, 2024 : Sometimes when you lose your way you find yourself
February 25, 2024 : Who Looks Inside Awakes, Who Looks Outside Dream
February 18, 2024 : Never Let School Interfere With Your Education
February 11, 2024 : Whoever Controls the Media Controls the Mind
February 04, 2024 : A certain darkness is needed to see the stars
January 28, 2024 : Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it
January 21, 2024 : Subtle Is powerful
January 14, 2024 : The power of community to create health is far greater than any physician, clinic or hospital.
January 07, 2024 : Give them Quality. That’s The Best Kind of Advertising

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2023

December 31, 2023 : The only antidote to mental suffering is physical pain
December 24, 2023 : All Great Changes Are Preceded By Chaos
December 17, 2023 : We are drowning in information, but starved for Knowledge
December 10, 2023 : Violence Is the last resort of the incompetent
December 03, 2023 : Be a Voice, Not an Echo
November 26, 2023 : A Society that has more justice is the society that needs less charity
November 19, 2023 : Sell Your Cleverness and Buy Bewilderment
November 12, 2023 : love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within
November 5, 2023 : Clothes Make The Man
October 29, 2023 : Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
October 22, 2023 : Mathematics is the music of reason
October 15, 2023 : Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines
October 08, 2023 : Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
October 01, 2023 : Not All Who Wander Are Lost
September 24, 2023 : Visionary Decision-Making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic
September 17, 2023 : Thinking Is Like A game. It does not begin unless there is an opposition team.
September 10, 2023 : Unless we have well-educated people, we are vulnerable on National Security
September 03, 2023 : Harsh Laws are, at times, better than No laws
August 27, 2023 : Nations Do Not Die From Invasion. They Die From Internal Rottenness
August 20, 2023 : In Individuals, insanity is rare; In groups, parties and nations, it is the rule.
August 13, 2023 : Economics Is Too Important To Leave To The Economists.
August 06, 2023 : A self without a book-shelf is naked.
July 30, 2023 : Wrong Choices Lead To Right Places
July 23, 2023 : Credit where credit is due.
July 16, 2023 : A right is not what someone gives you; it’s what no one can take away from you.
July 9, 2023 : The measure of intelligence is the ability to change
July 2, 2023 : Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.
June 25, 2023 : In the long run , the sword will always be conquered by the spirit
June 18, 2023 : The company you keep determines your Success
June 11, 2023 : A disciplined mind brings happiness.
June 4, 2023 : Our moral responsibility is not to stop the future but to shape it
May 28, 2023 : Action breeds confidence and courage
May 21, 2023 : A library is a hospital for the mind
May 14, 2023 : Self-Education is Life-Long Curiosity
May 7, 2023 : Silence is Spurious Golden
April 30, 2023 : The price of greatness is responsibility
April 23, 2023 : Progress is impossible without change
April 16, 2023 : The Impact of Artificial Intelligence.
April 9, 2023 : People would rather believe than know.
April 2, 2023 : Prioritizing education technology for global growth
March 26, 2023 : Technology is a weapon against poverty
March 19, 2023 : Every choice you make makes you
March 12, 2023 : Patience is a virture ; virtue is a grace
March 5, 2023 : Before any fight, it is the fight of mind
February 26, 2023 : The Measure of a man is what he does with Power.
February 19, 2023 : When you kill time, you kill life.
February 12, 2023 : Delayed success mostly stays forever.
February 05, 2023 : The wound is the place where the Light enters you.
January 29, 2023 : Doubt is an uncomfortable condition, but certainty is a ridiculous one.
January 22, 2023 : I am what I am, so take me as I am
January 15, 2023 : Real learning comes about when the competitive spirit has ceased
January 08, 2023 : Time hurts but it also heals. It punishes but it rewards too- it is the greatest teacher ever for a human.
January 01, 2023 : The Beginning is the End and the End is The Beginning.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2022

December 25, 2022 : To tolerate is purely an act of mind
December 18, 2022 : The arc of moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice
December 11, 2022 : Religion is a culture of faith; Science is a culture of doubt.
December 04, 2022 : My best friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read
November 27, 2022 : Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits
November 20, 2022 : We are always blind as we want to be
November 13, 2022 : By your stumbling, the world is perfected.
November 6, 2022 : You cannot step twice in the same river
October 30, 2022 : Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.
October 23, 2022 : A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities
October 16, 2022 : The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
October 9, 2022 : A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for
October 2, 2022 : History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man
September 25, 2022 : Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world
September 18, 2022 : Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence
September 11, 2022 : Culture changes with economic development.
September 4 2022 : We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.
August 28 2022 : The obstacle is the path.
August 21 2022 : What is to give light must endure burning.
August 14 2022 : “He who has never learned to obey cannot be a good commander.” Aristotle.
August 7 2022 : Any fool can know. The point is to understand.” Albert Einstein
July 31, 2022 : A bad conscience is easier to cope with than a bad reputation. Friedrich Nietzsche.
July 24, 2022 : Time is all we have and don’t
July 17, 2022 : Life fritters away when distractions become your lifestyle
July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn
July 3, 2022 : Mind – a beautiful servant? Or a dangerous master?
June 26, 2022 : Education Breeds Peace
June 19, 2022 : A great leader is never angry
June 12, 2022 : That which hurts, instructs; That which instructs, creates; Creates Wonders!
June 05, 2022 : Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do
May 29, 2022 : The journey is a reward as well as destination
May 22, 2022 : Imagination creates reality
May 15, 2022 : The curious paradox is, only if we accept things as they are, things can change
May 08, 2022: The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are so certain of themselves, while wiser people are so full of doubts
May 01, 2022: Loyalty To Country Always. Loyalty To Government Only When It Deserves
April 24, 2022: Successful Investing Is Anticipating The Anticipations of Others
April 17, 2022: Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear
April 10, 2022 : Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn
April 03, 2022 : Forgiveness is the final form of love
March 27, 2022 : The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless
March 20, 2022 : Reason has always existed, but not always in a reasonable form.
March 13, 2022 : Everything we hear is an opinion; not a fact
March 5, 2022 : There are better practices to “best practices”
February 27, 2022 : History repeats itself first as a tragedy second as a farce.
February 20, 2022 : What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
February 13, 2022 : Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world
February 6, 2022 : The real is rational and the rational is real.
January 30, 2022 : Philosophy of Wantlessness Is Utopian, while the philosophy of materialism is chimera.
January 23, 2022 : Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
January 16, 2022 : The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
January 09, 2022 : Knowing oneself is the beginning of all wisdom
January 02, 2022 : Biased Media Is A Real Threat To Indian Democracy

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2021

December 26, 2021 : What Gets Measured Gets Managed
December 19, 2021 : The enemy of stability is complacency
December 12, 2021 : A clear conscience fears no accusation
December 05, 2021 : Power of vested interests is vastly exaggerated compared with the gradual encroachment of ideas
November 28, 2021 : The whole is more than a sum of its parts
November 21, 2021 : Scientific and technological progress cannot be equated with the progress of humanity
November 14, 2021 : The price of our vitality is the sum of all our fears
November 7, 2021 : Lawlessness is the result of failure to cultivate a sense of self-evaluation
October 30, 2021 : What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make
October 24, 2021 : Science for the economic freedom of humanity
October 17, 2021 : An interdependent world cannot be an inequitable world
October 03, 2021 : Strength comes from an indomitable Will
SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 : Ethnocracy and concentration of power can derail even an affluent nation
SEPTEMBER 19, 2021 : Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 : Culture of entitlement comes with unreasonable expectations and insecurities
SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 : Literacy is a vital skill that enhances dignity, improves health outcomes, empowers people to access their rights and bolsters opportunities
AUGUST 29, 2021 : A parliamentary system of government rests on a functioning opposition as ‘no democracy can do without it’.
AUGUST 22, 2021 : Development must lead to dismantle all kinds of human unfreedom
AUGUST 15, 2021 : Sport is a reflection of larger social phenomena
AUGUST 8, 2021 : Every social stratum has its own Common Sense and its own good sense
AUGUST 1, 2021 : Capitalism without competition is not Capitalism. It is Exploitation.
JULY 25, 2021 : We don’t have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment
JULY 18,2021 : We Need not a social conscience, but a social consciousness.
JULY 11, 2021 : The cure for evils of democracy is more democracy.
JULY 04, 2021 : No Constitution by itself achieves perfect justice
JUNE 27, 2021 : Our world has achieved brilliance without conscience.
JUNE 20, 2021 : Our common humanity demands that we make the impossible possible.
JUNE 13, 2021 : Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.
JUNE 06, 2021 : The political problem of mankind is to combine three things: economic efficiency, social justice and individual liberty.
MAY 30, 2021 : Economics without ethics is a caricature & ethics without economics is a fairy tale.
MAY 23 , 2021 : Indecisiveness is the rival of Progression
MAY 16 , 2021 : Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change.
May 09, 2021 : The possession of arbitrary power has always, the world over, tended irresistibly to destroy humane sensibility, magnanimity, and truth
May 02, 2021 : The truth of character is expressed through choice of act ions
April 25, 2021 : It is not our differences that divide us; It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences.
April 18, 2021 : Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
April 11, 2021 : Solutions emerge if situations are not forced
April 04, 2021 : Morality is subservient to materialistic values in present times
March 28, 2021 : Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible
March 21, 2021 : Our major social problems are not the cause of our decadence but are a reflection of it
March 14, 2021 : The Future of Multilateralism : Towards a responsible Globalization
March 07, 2021 : Subtlety may deceive you; Integrity never will
February 28, 2021 :Technology as the silent factor in international relations
February 21, 2021 :Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality
February 14, 2021:There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless
February 07, 2021: Culture is what we are civilization is what we have
January 31, 2021: Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication
January 24, 2021: Ships do not sink because of water around them , ships sink because of water that gets into them
January 17, 2021: Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
January 10, 2021: Life is long journey between human being and being humane
January 03, 2021: The Covid pandemic has revealed the urgent need for effective governance everywhere”
December 27, 2020: Challenges of 21st Century – insurmountable?
December 20, 2020: Too much Democracy is Detrimental to Development
December 13, 2020: Happiness is not an ideal of reason, but of imagination.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2020

December 06, 2020 : As you Start to walk on the way, the Way appears
November 29, 2020: Need of the Hour is to Maximise Possibilities of Agriculture in India
November 22, 2020: The survival of democracy depends on its ability to lower social uncertainty
November 15, 2020: There is no greatness where there is no simplicity
November 08, 2020: Inequality can be Reduced by the Power of the Market rather than the Government
November 01, 2020: Civil liberties are fundamental to the functioning of modern democracies
October 25, 2020: Artificial Intelligence is Not All Evil – It can Promote Social Good Too
October 18, 2020: Wherever law ends, tyranny begins
October 11, 2020:Hyper-globalism is threat to human prosperity
September 27, 2020: Our World is in a Surplus of Multilateral Challenges and a Deficit of Solutions
September 20, 2020: In India Agriculture and the Farmer are both the Victims of Narrow Political Vision
September 13, 2020: India Needs Aggressive and Pragmatic Neighbourhood Policy
September 6, 2020: “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude .
August 30, 2020: The worst form of inequality is to try to make unequal things equal
August 23, 2020: Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.
August 16, 2020: Life without liberty is like a body without spirit.
August 09, 2020: Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value
August 02, 2020: New Education Policy 2020: A Progressive Policy with Diverse Challenges
July 26, 2020: In a democracy, the individual enjoys not only the ultimate power but carries the ultimate responsibility
July 19, 2020: Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance
July 12, 2020: The human spirit must prevail over technology
July 05, 2020: When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.
June 28, 2020: Today India Needs ‘Harmony in Diversity’, Not Unity in Diversity.
June 21, 2020: A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.
June 14, 2020: Post Independence, the Issue of Land is at the Core of India’s Non-Achievement of Its Development Aspirations
June 7, 2020: Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste
May 31, 2020: Despite Challenges, To be a Healthy and Successful Nation, India must Ensure Universal Health Coverage
May 24, 2020: Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.
May 17, 2020:The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little
May 10, 2020: Urban Exclusion of Migrant Workers in India is a Reality and Needs Urgent Robust Policy Measures
May 03, 2020: Uncertainty should ignite creativity, not depravity
April 26, 2020: The fool doth think he is wise but the wise man knows himself to be a fool
April 19, 2020: Social Harmony, not Social Distancing, is the final solution to all our problems
April 12, 2020: It is our choices, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities
April 05, 2020: Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking
March 29, 2020: “Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them”
March 22, 2020: In order to understand the world one has to turn away from it on occasion
March 15, 2020: Pandemics such as COVID-19, though Catastrophic, are in the end Meant to Reset Humanity and its Priorities
March 08, 2020: Those who have wisdom have all: Fools with all have nothing
March 01, 2020: Indifferentism is the worst kind of disease that can affect people.
[VIDEO] Perspectives on Essay Topic of Feb 23
February 23, 2020: To ease another’s heartache is to forget one’s own.
February 16, 2020 : When civil services does its job, people will not need social service
February 09, 2020 : The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
February 02, 2020: Ability will get you success, Character will keep you successful.
January 26, 2020: Media’s duty is to inform public, not manufacture opinion.
January 19, 2020: Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes
January 12, 2020 : Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition
J anuary 5, 2020 : All war is a symptom of man’s failure as a thinking animal
December 29, 2019 : There cannot be daily democracy without daily citizenship
December 22, 2019: War is the ultimate Price we pay for lasting Peace
December 15, 2019 : Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a peaceful society
December 08, 2019: Justice Loses Character if it becomes Revenge
December 01. 2019: Economic Growth and Development are Shaped by the Societies in which they Operate
November 24, 2019: Social Media is the Fourth Pillar of Democracy
November 17, 2019: Media is No More a Fourth Pillar of Democracy
November 10, 2019: Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling
November 03, 2019:Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy
October 27, 2019: Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness
October 20, 2019: South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities
October 13, 2019: Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success
October 06, 2019: Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society
September 29, 2019: Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be
September 22, 2019: Wisdom finds truth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2019

September 15, 2019: Kashmir Problem – Historical Injustice or Misguided Geopolitics?
September 08, 2019: India’s Space Ambitions – Are they Welfarist?
September 01, 2019: India – $5 Trillion Economy: Dream or Reality?
August 25, 2019 Knowledge will give you power, but character respect.
August 18, 2019 The mind is everything. What you think you become.
August 11, 2019: Virtue is Knowledge
August 04, 2019: Inclusive governance begets Inclusive growth
July 28, 2019: India’s headache: Unemployment or Underemployment?
July 21, 2019: The road to science and spirituality are opposite, but we should tread both
July 14, 2019: India is a leading power, rather than just a balancing power
July 07, 2019: Should the world embrace democratic socialism or progressive capitalism?
June 30, 2019: Impact of Digital Revolution on Human Wellbeing
June 23, 20 19: Contentment is natural wealth, luxury is artificial poverty
June 16, 2019: The definition of happiness is the full use of your powers, along the lines of excellence.
June 09, 2019: Not Corruption, Communalism is the Greatest Threat India is facing Today
May 19, 2019: First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.
May 12, 2019: Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake
May 05, 2019: Happiness equals reality minus expectations
April 28, 2019: Political correctness is tyranny with manners
April 21, 2019: The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
April 07, 2019: Dogma is the sacrifice of wisdom to consistency
March 31, 2019: The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.
March 24, 2019: Terrorism has No Religion
March 17, 2019: Money and Religion – Great Unifiers of Humankind?
March 10, 2019: Tradition becomes our security, and when the mind is secure it is in decay
March 03, 2019: Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower
February 24,2019: Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens
February 17, 2019: Problems worthy of attack prove their worth by fighting back
February 10, 2019: Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
February 03, 2019: You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality
January 27, 2019: Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
January 20, 2019: All that we are is the result of what we have thought.
January 12, 2019: All differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the secret of everything.
January 06, 2019: National security is Irreversibly linked to good economic growth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2018

December 28, 2018: To plan for smart development, governments and business must recognize nature’s role in supporting economic activity
December 23, 2018: Government Surveillance – Good or Bad?
December 16, 2018: Trade Wars – Economic or Geopolitical?
December 02, 2018: Immigration is Not a Threat, but Fundamentally it’s an Economic Issue
November 25, 2018: A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both
November 18, 2018: “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values
November 11, 2018: A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge
November 04, 2018: Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task
October 28, 2018: Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India
October 21, 2018: Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere
October 14, 2018: Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it
October 07, 2018: Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life
September 30, 2018: Commercialization of Space : Importance and the need for regulation
September 23, 2018: E-commerce as a new form of trade and its challenges to India.
September 16, 2018: Ability is nothing without opportunity
September 09, 2018: Death Penalty eliminates Criminals, not Crime.
September 02, 2018: Dissent is the foundation of democracy.
August 26, 2018: Mars Mission and Mob lynchings are two obverse faces of India
August 19, 2018: Strengthening Land Rights Strengthens Development
August 12, 2018: Age of Big Data: Data is the New Oil, History is its oldest bank
August 05, 2018: Strong Institutions and fair procedures, not personalities constitute the fundamentals of good governance
July 29, 2018: Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
July 22, 2018: Section 377, not the carnal acts banned under it is ‘against the order of nature ‘
July 15, 2018: Schooling Is Not Education
July 08, 2018: Sometimes it takes a natural disaster to reveal a social disaster.
July 01, 2018: Normal human activity is worse for nature than the greatest nuclear accident in history
June 24, 2018: Gender Sensitive Indian Society is Prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment
June 17, 2018: Where Should India Invest More – Human Capital or Human Development?
June 10, 2018: Has Democracy Taken Backseat Due to the Rise of Populists and Demagogues?
June 03, 2018: We won’t have a society ,if we destroy the environment
May 27, 2018: Can Development and Environment Protection Go Together?
May 20, 2018: Governor is the Choke Point of Federal Circuit of India
May 13, 2018: Anonymity is the Best and the Worst Feature of Urbanism
May 06, 2018: A man is but the product of his thoughts; what he thinks, he becomes
April 29, 2018: Guaranteeing Right to Vote may Establish a Democracy, But Ensuring it’s Right Use Only Will Bring a True Democracy
April 22, 2018: Stereotyping is an Ideological Force Which Hinders and Endangers Consolidation of India
April 15, 2018: Can Education and legislation Address Violence Against Women and Children in India?
April 8, 2018: Banking Crisis in India – Failure of Governance and Regulation?
April 1, 2018: Privacy is the fountainhead of all other rights
March 25, 2018: Impact of Technology on Human Relations and Human Productivity
March 18, 2018: India’s Focus should be on Ease of Living, not on Easy of Doing Business
March 11, 2018: A friend to everybody is a friend to nobody
March 04, 2018: Capitalism can not Bring Inclusive Growth
February 25, 2018: The unprecedented advance of technologies facilitate individual empowerment but at the cost of Institutions and Democratic societies
February 18, 2018: Threats being Faced by Liberal Democratic Systems are both Dangerous and Permanent
February 11, 2018: For India, Stigmatised Capitalism is Better than Crony Socialism
February 04, 2018: Art, freedom and creativity will change society faster than politics.
January 28, 2018: Politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak
January 21, 2018: Poverty is the parent of revolution and crime
January 14, 2018: Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding
January 07, 2018: The Root Cause of Agrarian Distress in India – Failure of Policies or Failure of Governance?

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2017

December 31, 2017: Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India
December 24, 2017: Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth
December 17, 2017: Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
December 10, 2017: Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India
December 03, 2017: Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms
November 19, 2017: Has the Non- Alignment Movement(NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world
November 12, 2017: Social media is inherently a selfish medium.
November 04, 2017: We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws
October 29, 2017: Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.
October 22, 2017: Harith Diwali, Swasth Diwali : What measures are needed to deal with Festivity and Air Pollution?
October 15, 2017: Biggest Threat to Humanity – Moral Crisis or Climate Change?
October 08, 2017: The monsoon is a defining aspect of India’s nationhood
October 01, 2017: India’s Infrastructure Story – Why is India not able to Build like China?
September 24, 2017: Impact of Digital Technologies on Globalisation
September 17, 2017: Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management in India – Challenges and Opportunities
September 10,2017: Gender Equality and Peace: Are They Connected?
September 03, 2017: Recent Natural Disasters – What do they Reveal about Humanity?
August 27, 2017: Godmen – A Threat to Indian Society and Culture
August 20, 2017: Corruption in India: Neither Systemic Reforms nor Surgical Strikes would End it
August 13,2017: Interrelationship between Gender Equality and Sustainable Development
August 06, 2017: Utility and relevance of Parliament in our polity
July 30, 2017: Caste System – Source of India’s Eternal Inequality?
July 23, 2017: Indian Democracy, Media and Public Opinion – Does Public Opinion Matter in Policymaking?
July 16, 2017: Poverty and Environment – Their Interrelationship is the Key to Sustainable World
July 09, 2017: Soft Power is India’s Strength, not its Weakness
July 02, 2017: Technology and Jobs – Is Technology a Curse?
June 25, 2017: Democracy’s Relevance in the Face of New Global Threats
June 18, 2017: Federalism in India – Competitive or Cooperative?
June 11, 2017: Peace, Environment and Development: Are these Interrelated?
June 04, 2017: Role of Technology in Development – Is Technology Helping or Hindering Development?
May 28, 2017: Poverty is a State of Mind
May 21, 2017: Does India Need Superpower Status?
May 14, 2017: India’s Achilles Heel – Lack of Ambition or Lack of Leadership in Achieving Greatness?
May 07, 2017: Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.
April 29, 2017: The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the foundation of morals and legislation
April 23, 2017: To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom
April 16, 2017: One-Party-Dominant System – Is it Good for India?
April 09, 2017: Should Youth in India Consider Politics as Career?
April 02, 2017: Can World Save Succeeding Generations from the Scourge of War?
March 26, 2017: Low, stagnating female labour-force participation in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms?
March 19, 2017: When a man is denied the right to live the life he believes in, he has no choice but to become an outlaw
March 12, 2017: The marks humans leave are too often scars
March 05, 2017: Environmental Challenges and Geopolitics: How to save our Environment?
February 27, 2017: Radical Solutions are Needed to Address Today’s Radical Problems
February 19, 2017: India’s Importance in the Post-truth World
February 12, 2017: The Role of Politics in Development
February 05, 2017: Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored
January 29, 2017: Building Walls and Banning Refugees – Does this Help Humanity?
January 22, 2017: Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality
January 15, 2017: Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run
January 08, 2017: Water disputes between states in federal India
January 01, 2017: Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2016

(December 25, 2016) – Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality
(December 18, 2016) – Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare
(December 11, 2016) – Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms
(December 04, 2016) – If development is not engendered, it is endangered
(November 27, 2016) – Social media is better at breaking things than at making things
(November 20, 2016) – Deglobalization is good for the world
(November 12, 2016) – Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others
(November 06, 2016) – It is not inequality which is the real misfortune, it is dependence
(October 30, 2016) – Reducing Poverty while also Conserving Nature is an Impossible Task
(October 23, 2016) – Poverty can be eliminated by putting science at the heart of development
(October 16, 2016) – People shouldn’t be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people
(October 09, 2016) – Better Access is Key to Inclusive Cities
(October 02, 2016) – The weaker sections of Indian society – Are their Rights and Access to Justice Getting Better?
(September 25, 2016) – Imagination is more important than intelligence
(September 18, 2016) – Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life
(September 11, 2016) – Not what we have But what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance
(September 04, 2016) – It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it
(August 28, 2016) – If one can Address Moral Crisis, many of World’s Problems can be Solved
(August 21, 2016) – Overdependence on Technology will Advance Human Development
(August 14, 2016) – Geography may remain the same ; history need not
(August 07, 2016) – Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom
(July 31, 2016) – To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all
(July 24, 2016) – True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing
(July 17, 2016) – We Can Not Fight Terrorism – We have to Live With it
(July 10, 2016) – A house divided against itself cannot stand
(July 02, 2016) – When the going gets tough, the tough get going
(June 26, 2016) – India a Reluctant Participant in the New Global Order?
(June 19, 2016) – Inclusiveness in India – Still a Dream?
(June 12, 2016) – No one can make you feel inferior without your consent
(June 05, 2016) – Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted
(May 29, 2016) – It is hard to free fools from the chains they revere
(May 22, 2016) – Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress
(May 15, 2016) – Fire is a good servant but a bad master
(May 08, 2016) – The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence
(May 01, 2016) – Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Development
(April 24, 2016) – It takes a whole village to raise a child
(April 17, 2016) – Trust take years to Build, Seconds to Break
(April 10, 2016) – Cleanliness is next to Godliness
(April 03, 2016) – Honesty is the Best Policy
(March 27, 2016) – Before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes
(March 20, 2016) – Caste System – India’s Enduring Curse
(March 13, 2016) – Fortune favors the bold
(March 06, 2016) – Quick but steady wins the race
(February 28, 2016) – Dreams which should not let India sleep
(February 21, 2016) – Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole
(February 14, 2016) – Technology cannot replace manpower
(February 7, 2016) – Character of an institution is reflected in its leader
(January 31, 2016) – Can Capitalism bring Inclusive Growth?
(January 24, 2016) – Crisis Faced in India – Moral or Economic?
(January 17, 2016) – Too many cooks spoil the broth
(January 10, 2016) – The Best Things in Life are Free
(January 3, 2016) – Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

WEEKLY ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2015

27 December 2015
20 December 2015
13 December 2015
06 December 2015
28 November 2015
21 November 2015
15 November 2015
08 November 2015
01 November 2015
25 October 2015
18 October 2015
11 October 2015
04 October 2015
27 September 2015
20 September 2015
13 September 2015
06 September 2015
31 August 2015
30 August 2015
23 August 2015
16 August 2015
09 August 2015
01 August 2015
26 July 2015
19 July 2015
12 July 2015
05 July 2015
28 June 2015
21 June 2015
14 June 2015
07 June 2015
31 May 2015
24 May 2015
17 May 2015
10 May 2015
03 May 2015
26 April 2015
19 April 2015
12 April 2015
05 April 2015
29 March 2015
22 March 2015
15 March 2015
01 March 2015
22 February 2015
15 February 2015
08 February 2015
01 February 2015
25 January 2015
18 January 2015
11 January 2015
04 January 2015

Our Mission, Vision & Values
Director’s Desk
Commerce & Accountancy
Previous Years’ Question Papers-Prelims
Previous Years’ Question Papers-Mains
Environment & Ecology
Science & Technology

Writing a good Essay in UPSC Mains, Explained by Anudeep Durishetty

ForumIAS announcing GS Foundation Program for UPSC CSE 2025-26 from 10th August. Click Here for more information.

Novelist Stephen King put it beautifully when he said, “I write to find out what I think.”

Writing is a window to your thought process. What you write on paper will tell the reader how you think, how you argue and the way you substantiate your viewpoint. This is why for most competitive examinations and academic entrance tests, essay is mandatory.

In the Civil Services Exam too, we have a paper worth 250 marks, equivalent to a General Studies paper. Despite its importance, essay paper often does not get the attention it deserves from aspirants. First timers think they will write an excellent essay in the final exam itself, whereas experienced aspirants believe that since they had already studied a ton for GS, it will alone be enough to write a good essay. This is a fatal miscalculation.

I was one of those who made these errors in the past, and it is not a coincidence that I scored only 100 in CSE 2015. But in 2017, I devoted adequate time to this paper. I collected useful quotes, prepared notes and even made rough essay drafts for frequently asked topics. All this effort in essay paper helped me score 155.

What follows is an elaborate post on how you should tackle the Essay paper. I’ve organised the content as follows:

What UPSC says about the essay paper

How and from where to prepare?

Improving language and expression

On subheadings and rough drafts
What you must avoid
How to write a powerful introduction?
Developing the content of an Essay

Substantiating your arguments

How to conclude an Essay
My notes, quote collection and sample essays

“Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay, to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion, and to write concisely . Credit will be given for effective and exact expression .”

Essay distinguishes itself from GS in the sense that in GS, marks will be awarded purely for content. But in essay, examiners will pay special attention to not just the content, but also the language, coherence and the way you organise your write-up.

So you must take adequate care to arrange your ideas properly and not commit any fundamental spelling or grammatical errors.

Most of the content you write in Essay will come from your GS preparation. Apart from this, the following sources will help:

Reading non-fiction helps you develop a matured thought process. Apart from imparting knowledge, they will also let you come across good figures of speech, art of argumentation, powerful rhetoric and unique content etc. For example, in an essay on Artificial Intelligence, I took arguments from Yuval Harari’s Homo Deus to argue that AI is an imminent threat to humanity. Or if you read Why Nations Fail, a book replete with examples, you will understand the importance of innovation, political and economic freedoms in propelling a nation forward. So my suggestion is, apart from UPSC related material, develop the hobby of reading non-fiction books. I do not mean to suggest that you should start reading one non-fiction book per topic to get good scores in Essay, but reading them occasionally in your free time will benefit you in the long run.
Referring to specific magazines: For certain topics, you can refer to specific issues of Yojana/EPW/Economic Survey etc. Example: for an essay on tribal issues or public health, you can go through specific issues of these magazines for getting the latest statistics (IMR, MMR, malnutrition levels etc) and also about the positives and criticisms of govt schemes in that sector.
Collecting good stories/anecdotes and quotes: Anecdotes, quotes and real life stories you see in newspapers and books which can be used in essay should be noted down. In most of my essays, I used to start with a relevant story or an anecdote that has the essay topic as its underlying theme. Apart from these, I also used a couple of quotes of eminent persons.

List of quotes, anecdotes I collected are available in the link at the end of this article.

Language in essay must be simple and clear with as little jargon as possible. If you want to use complex definitional terms such as, say, ‘Constitutionalism’ or ‘Sanskritisation’ please define it in sentence just before you use it. Examiner will also understand clearly what you want to convey. Clear writing is clear thinking. And that is what any reader looks for.

Keep your sentences short and powerful. Long, winding sentences makes it difficult to read and understand. If you tack on one clause after another through conjunctions, what you get is a bad sentence sprawl.

Example of a bad sentence sprawl:

At the end of World War 2, on the one hand, while capitalism was successfully championed by the nations in North America and Europe, on the other hand, it was USSR that put Communism at the forefront due to which there was an ideological clash between the the two superpowers which had led to proxy wars in various parts of the globe, a nuclear arms race and a rapid deterioration of the security of the world.

(By the time readers finish reading it, they will lose their breath and the point of the sentence)

So I had a simple rule: If you run out of your breath while reading a sentence, then probably you will have to break it into two.

Rewriting the aforementioned example after breaking it into two (which makes it much easier to read and comprehend):

After World War 2, while the North American and European nations championed capitalism, USSR put communism at the forefront. This ideological clash between the superpowers led to several proxy wars, a nuclear arms race and a rapid deterioration of world security.

There is no need to memorise complex words for writing a good essay. But an occasional use of a powerful word, or a good phrase definitely gives your write-up an edge.

Also, I believe that learning numerous words by rote will not make them stick in your brain for long. The best way to build your vocabulary is by reading non-fiction and English newspapers. While reading these, if you come across a good turn of phrase, or a word that you don’t recognise, please note it down in a book, find its meaning and understand the context in which the word was used. This helps in long term memory. Having a dictionary app on your phone also helps.

Building vocabulary is a slow process, but with consistency, anyone can become better at using an expansive set of words.

Subheadings & Rough Drafts

We can be a little innovative in our subheadings. Instead of bland subheadings such as ‘ Benefits of Nuclear Energy’ we can use “ Nuclear Energy: Promise or Peril?’ Similarly, for the essay on Social Media, instead of writing ‘ Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media ’, I wrote “Social Media: A Double Edged Sword”

You can find my collection of a few such subheadings in the link to my notes, given at the end of the article.

I also prepared a rough draft for a few essay topics (link given at the end). You may need to modify the structure as per the demand of the question.

What you must avoid in Essay

Do not focus excessively only on one point, or one dimension (such as the historical or political aspect) Your essay needs to be expansive and multi-dimensional.
During preparation, we read a lot and it’s understandable that we feel strongly about certain topics. And since essay offers freedom to write, it’s very easy to get carried away with such a topic. But make sure that you write what is asked, not what you know or feel like. No mann ki baat . Always stick to the subject of the topic. It helps to read the question in the midst of your essay to ensure that you are not steering away from the topic.
If you are not comfortable writing about abstract philosophical topics (I am terrible at writing them), avoid such questions. Your choice of topic has no bearing on the marks and that is why, selecting an unpopular topic just for the sake of it is unwise. Also, if there’s a technical term in the question, be doubly sure that you understand it correctly. For instance, in 2014, there was a question on ‘standard tests’, which is a technical term. I misunderstood it and wrote a generic essay. I got 112.
When you take a final stand on an issue, it’s best to avoid extreme or highly unpopular opinions. We are free to have any opinion in the privacy of our minds, but in UPSC essay why take that risk? For instance, in an essay on Capital Punishment, in the main body content, you should present a case for both abolition and retention. But when you take a stance, it’s best to be an abolitionist.
No ranting. You might be a great fan of Karl Marx, but if there’s a question on Capitalism, do not rant or rail against it ? You must present both the positives and negatives of Capitalism and end the essay on a balanced note.
Do not dedicate disproportionate amount of time for the first essay and scamper through the second. Both carry equal marks, so please invest equal time.

How to transition smoothly from one para to the next

This can be done in three ways.

Through a link sentence at the end of a para:

Here, at the end of a para, you write a sentence that signals to the examiner what’s coming next. For example, let’s say you have just written a para about the threat posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to jobs. At the end of that para you can write a link sentence— “Further, we must be mindful of the fact that Artificial Intelligence poses a major challenge not just economically, but also ethically.” And in the next para, you can write about the ethical issues concerning AI.

Through a question:

Instead of a link sentence, you can also add a question at the end of a para so that examiner’s attention is helplessly carried to the next. To take the similar example as above, the question can be something like— “Thus we have examined the threat posed by AI to our economy, but what about the challenges brought by AI to our ethics and morals?” And in the next para, you can write about the ethical issues concerning AI.

Signalling the shift at the start of next paragraph:

Here you can simply add a word or two at the beginning of a para that signals a shift in your subtopic. For example in an essay on Globalisation , let’s say you have just written a para about its historical evolution and impact. You can start the next para with something like— “Politically too, globalisation has had a tremendous impact……” This way examiner immediately knows what to expect.

These steps will ensure that the transition between paragraphs is not abrupt.

How to write a good Introduction to your Essay?

Essay introduction can be:

a fictitious incident or story (where you introduce a character); a real life anecdote; a quote; or a simple definition of the words in the question (not recommended in Essay)

In GS, definitional approach is a great way to introduce your answers. But in essay, they are rather stale, lacking in any human element. I always believe that a good way to start your essay is to have that touch of humanity and warmth in your introduction.

In my Mains exam, this was my introduction to the essay ‘Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classroom’

“The year was 1945. Towards the end of a gruesome world war, the world powers decided to carve up the Korean peninsula along the 38th parallel.

“Before partition, North and South Korea might have been homogeneous in every respect, but after the division, they steered onto different paths. While schools in the North chose to ‘educate’ their children in the worship of a cult leader, ideological indoctrination and servility, its southern counterpart focused on liberal education, innovation and economic growth.

“Today, almost seven decades later, the difference in the fates of these people and the trajectories of both these nations cannot be more stark. One is known for gross violation of human rights, while the other a champion of liberal democracy. One is known for gut-wrenching poverty, while the other unbridled prosperity.

“This only proves the age old adage that the destiny of a nation is indeed shaped in its classrooms.”

Similarly, for the Social Media essay, my introduction sought to bring to the fore the paradox of Social Media. I wrote on how social media was leveraged to crowdsource help and rescue during Chennai floods in 2015. At the same time, I mentioned how it was used nefariously in 2012 to cause mass exodus of northeast people from Bangalore. And taking cue from this introduction, in the main body, I discussed about the inherent selfishness and altruism associated with social media.

These real life stories, anecdotes and incidents are everywhere in our books and newspapers. So when you come across them, note down and ponder as to how you can use them in your essay.

Developing the Main Content from the Topic

This is like spinning the web from a thread. Depending on the topic, you can choose among the following options that fits best.

Temporal: Past, present and future
Sectoral: Media, Science & Tech, Business, Sports, Religion, Politics, Administration etc
Walks of Life : Individual, Family, Professional workplace, Society, Community, National, Global
Problem & Solution: Concept (historical evolution+status), benefits, problems, solutions
Standard : Social, Political, Economical, Administrative, International, Environmental, Historical, Scientific, Security/Defence, Legal

Example: for a topic like “Has Globalisation delivered on its promise?” I find the problem & solution method an apt way to develop your narrative. So choose as per the question.

In the main body of the essay, each para must have an argument or an idea and a reasoning to back that argument. You can substantiate it through a real life example, a statistic, an authentic committee or organisational report etc.

For example, if you are arguing that Capital punishment is an expensive form of justice, you should be able to given an example or a statistic or Law Commission’s opinion as to how the subjects of death penalty are overwhelmingly from poor communities.

Statistics, examples, expert opinions and constitutional provisions are crucial and they make your arguments authoritative.

Concluding an Essay

Conclusion needs to be on a futuristic, optimistic note. You need to summarise the complete essay in 3-4 sentences, after which you can write your vision for future.

You can source some useful terms from the speeches of PM Modi. Phrases like Sabka saath sabka vikas , Reform-Perform-Transform, Building A New India etc can come handy. Rhetoric, lofty expressions, constitutional ideals, sanskrit slokas and quotes are a good way to conclude your essay.

But suppose in your introduction, if you had written about a fictitious character, then it’s always advisable to end your write-up with a reference to that character. It gives a sense of completeness to the essay.

Readers should keep in mind that these notes are written rather haphazardly (I mean who makes notes thinking that in future, they might have to upload them publicly :D)

They are fragmented in certain pages, so you may not be able to comprehend them completely, but nevertheless I hope you take home something useful.

Link to handwritten notes:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1jmVMGOzAk2d9B5Y0HQ9XpVF5Mh2IXGku

Quote collection:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1jk71jLao60hHwJoTuGYaIDgJWccxa5Xn

List of Topics one needs to prepare:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1q0W0PeH-80EKt6ucJTFOVPUlmXvCIzd-

Sample Essays:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1jqfUi1FXdG0icBdJpdQvwH1wlAizCMvo

Read More at: https://anudeepdurishetty.in/

Type your email…

Search Articles

Prelims 2024 current affairs.

Art and Culture
Indian Economy
Science and Technology
Environment & Ecology
International Relations
Polity & Nation
Important Bills and Acts
International Organizations
Index, Reports and Summits
Government Schemes and Programs
Miscellaneous
Species in news

All India Open Test(Simulator X)

[email protected]

Our Centers Delhi Bhubaneswar Lucknow

Essay Writing

Free Downloads
Answer writing

How to Write a Perfect and Balanced Essay

“It is my ambition to say in ten sentences what others say in a whole book.” -- Friedrich Neitzsche

Essay writing is among those areas in UPSC IAS Exam that can be your savior and improve your marks significantly if worked efficiently. However lack of practice and rudimentary approach may also reduce your marks and jeopardize your chances of selection in Civil services exam . A well-developed approach and rigorous practice can significantly enhance your score in essay paper in UPSC mains Exam . But before delving into the techniques to write a perfect essay it is very important to understand what is an essay and what are its different organs?

What is an essay?

An Essay Writing is a focused, descriptive and analytical write up on any particular topic. But this is different in format and presentation from any other kind of write up on the same topic.
An essay is a tight write up which has a certain theme at its core and the write up is marked by its simplicity, lucidity, flow and orderliness.
It should generally avoid terse and unwieldy expressions, unnecessary exposition and excessive facts, especially numbers.
An essay is a write up that evolves from childhood to youth and thereafter to maturity.
An essay should generally reflect the perceptions, understanding, and stance/take of the writer, which may be supported by facts, quotes and findings of similar kinds.

Let's have a look on Vikram Grewal's Copy

For full copy click here

What an essay writing should not be....

It should not be a mere compilation of information or facts.
It should not be a long note.
It should not be a brief note.
It should not be a theoretical exposition.
It should not be a conglomeration of great ideas by great people.

What constitutes a good essay?

A good essay should have three distinct parts-

Introduction
Description

A good essay should be close to its subject or theme throughout the write up.

Essay Writing Strategy by Vikram Grewal (AIR 51, CSE 2018), A must watch session for more clarity.

A good essay should reflect...

Understanding of the writer
Thoroughness of the writer
Analytical capacity of the writer
Research and analytical capability of the writer
Reading habits of the writer

For Example:

Vikram Grewal's Copy, all the following things are considered by him:

Click Here for Full Copy

Essay needs a higher level of communication abilities viz..

Articulation
Effective expression
Logic, flow and rhythm
Right grammar

Brief for practicing essay writing – pre exam hall approach.

How to write a good Essay can be viewed sequentially, as if going through ten sequential steps in an essay writing process.

Research : Begin the essay writing process by researching your topic, making yourself an expert.Assuming you've been given a topic, or have narrowed it sufficiently down, your first task is to research this topic. You will not be able to write intelligently about a topic you know nothing about. To discover worthwhile insights, you'll have to do some patient reading and information gathering. Though IAS aspirants are hard pressed of time but don’t forget it is of 250 marks and highly neglected. It can be done through integration of your daily newspaper reading and through preparation of GS also. But you need some different strategy to do so.
Analysis : Now that you have a good knowledge base, start analyzing the arguments of the essays/articles you're reading. Clearly define the claims, write out the reasons, the evidence, etc. Look for weaknesses of logic, and also strengths. Learning how to write an essay begins by learning how to analyze essays written by others.

In case of analysis Vikram Grewal shows it perfectly: Here is a look

For Full Copy Click Here

3 .Brainstorming : Your essay will require insight of your own. Ask yourself a dozen questions and answer them. Meditate with a pen in your hand. Think and think until you come up with original insights to write about.

Thesis: Pick your best idea and pin it down in a clear assertion that you can write your entire essay around. Your thesis is your main point, summed up in a concise sentence that lets the reader know where you're going, and why. It's practically impossible to write a good essay without a clear thesis.
Outline: Sketch out your essay before straight away writing it out. Use one-line sentences to describe paragraphs, and bullet points to describe what each paragraph will contain. Play with the essay's order. Map out the structure of your argument, and make sure each paragraph is unified.
Introduction: Now sit down and write the essay. The introduction should grab the reader's attention, set up the issue, and lead in to your thesis. Your intro is merely a buildup of the issue, a stage of bringing your reader into the essay's argument.(Note: The title and first paragraph are probably the most important elements in your essay. This is an essay-writing point that doesn't always sink in within the context of the classroom. In the first paragraph you either hook the reader's interest or lose it.)
Paragraphs: Each individual paragraph should be focused on a single idea that supports your thesis. Begin paragraphs with topic sentences, support assertions with evidence, and expound your ideas in the clearest, most sensible way you can. Speak to your reader as if he or she were sitting in front of you. In other words, instead of writing the essay, try talking the essay.
Conclusion: Gracefully exit your essay by making a quick wrap-up sentence, and then end on some memorable thought, perhaps a quotation, or an interesting twist of logic, or some call to action. Is there something you want the reader to walk away and do? Let him or her know exactly that.
Style: Format your essay according to the correct guidelines for citation. All borrowed ideas and quotations should be correctly cited in the body of your text, followed up with a Works Cited (references) page listing the details of your sources.
Language: You're not done writing your essay until you've polished your language by correcting the grammar, making sentences flow, incorporating rhythm, emphasis, adjusting the formality, giving it a level-headed tone, and making other intuitive edits. Proof read until it reads just how you want it to sound. Writing an essay can be tedious, but you don't want to bungle the hours of conceptual work you've put into writing your essay by leaving a few slippy misspellings and poorly worded phrases.

Steps to be followed during examination:

We must keep in mind that an essay writting in the examination hall is developed on the spot within a given time period, is something different from an essay written leisurely and with mature deliberation for a publication or for a prize competition.

A Candidate writing an essay for Civil Service Examination should keep in mind that he has to satisfy the examiner with regard to 3 things:

He has good ideas on given subject / chosen field.
He can arrange his ideas systematically.
He can express, and analyze his opinion correctly using good language.

Required Steps to create a rough sketch before actual writing :

Selection of suitable topic
Make an outline of your ideas
Write introduction points
Write main points of the body
Brief sketch about view, history, facts, illustrations, examples etc
Idea about critical discussions, pro and opposite views
Drawing a conclusion that clearly expresses your opinion and always end with a futuristic note

Selection of topic is the key for scoring in essay writing . Around 15 to 20 minutes can be spent on choosing best topic. we also needs to be sure about the flow of thought, rich facts and figures, history, analytical expression and all to be collectively rated high in the selected topic. It impacts your marks. Out of six topics consider each one independently in-depth your knowledge and presentation skills not in bird-eye-view manner.

Patience and perseverance must be maintained while selecting a topic and make it sure about excellence to present cogently.

Next step is outlining the selected topic by putting ideas in a separate page, in organized form by writing sub topics and important points to be covered in the essay. For this one can make use flow chart model or line chart or tabulation. Grouping of thoughts must in a way to categories the sub headings while writing the detailed essay. We can use 15 to 20 minutes for this task.

Then start with the introduction which can be a dialogue, quotation or anecdotes produces complete idea to the reader about the essay. A dialogue could be simply the pertinent fact that explicitly illustrates the point you are planning to make. An anecdote is stories that illustrate the point. Be sure your anecdote is short, precise and relevant to the topic.

Three problems that candidates face while writing an essay. They are:

Coherent arrangement
Expression Ideas

Essay Copy: Vikram Grewal(AIR 51, CSE 2018)

About the subject is nothing but knowledge that needs to be looked in different perspective, whether social, economical, political, religious, cultural, literary, national, and environmental. Candidate should think on different questions

What are definition / scope / history of the topic?
What can be said on particular subject from various perspectives?
What are positives / negatives?
Answers for different questions/dimensions
your thought for critical appraisal

Arrangement :

Arrangement of an essay means the contents with a definite structure to be framed. The structure must be exposed indirectly through the flow of writing with interlinking of sub topics and paragraphs explaining the scope meaning, description and discussion.

Illustration and quotations known can be presented lively aptly to increase the richness of the content. It is like the flavor added to the dishes to attract the reader to be perfectly relevant to the topic/ argument. If the Quotations exceed unnecessarily, it will disturb the quality of presentation. Interlinking of thoughts, comparison and contrasting viewpoints can be expressed only with the special reference to the application of thoughts.

Opinions and arguments with strong self explanatory sentences will reflect the candidates’ solid and clear understanding of the subjects.

Now you need to give the powerful and logical conclusion which is the consequence of everything discussed earlier. Conclusion brings the reader closure or summing up of points and also gives final perspective. It should not be rhetoric outburst. It must be balanced and free from prejudice. Mind it, give proper space to the conclusion. Don’t sump in haste.

Do s and Don’ts for that ‘killer’ 3 Hrs:

Read the title, understand the meaning and scope.
Think and comprehensive planning before start.
Effective, brief and strong words consist of good thoughts makes your essay best.
Avoid vague generalization, slang’s and colloquialism
Don’t try to present whatever you know on the subject.
In controversial topic discuss pros and cons dispassionately and give effective conclusion.
Length of essay is not fixed. But don’t be exhaustive. This time you may to write multiple essay
Never forget to read and revise the essay written before submission to examiner.

Verifying, please be patient.

Our Centers

DELHI (Karol Bagh)

GS SCORE, 1B, Second Floor, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi - 110005 (Beside Karol Bagh Metro Station Gate No. 8)

Get directions on Google Maps

BHUBANESWAR (Jaydev Vihar)

GS SCORE, Plot No.2298, Jaydev Vihar Square, Near HCG Day Care, BBSR - 751013

LUCKNOW (Aliganj)

GS SCORE, 2nd Floor, B-33, Sangam Chauraha, Sector H, Aliganj, Lucknow, UP - 226024

Delhi (Karol Bagh) Centre

GS SCORE, Second Floor, Metro Tower, 1B, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi - 110005 (Beside Karol Bagh Metro Station Gate No. 8)

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +91 8448496262

Classroom / online / Live programs

Mains Classes
Mains Advance Classes
Ethics & Essay Classes
IAS Foundation
Aadhar:NCERT Foundation
Target PT:Prelims Classes
Current Affairs Mentorship Program
Optional Classes
Optional Q&A (TEST SERIES & Mentorship)
Mains Previous Year Questions

TEST SERIES/ MENTORSHIP

ITS:Integrated Test Series & Mentorship
GS Mains Q&A (Mentorship & Test Series)
GS Test Series
Ethics & Essay Test Series
Samarth - Mains Answer Writing

STUDY MATERIAL

Prelims Study Material
Mains Study Material
Mains Answer Writing Workbook
Meet the Mentor
Terms & Conditions
© 2024 - IAS SCORE

Welcome to our secure login portal. Access your account with ease.

Using Password

Not registered yet? register here!

Welcome to our secure register portal. For a brighter future, register now and unlock endless learning opportunities.

User Register

Already have an account? Login

Oops, forgot your password? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Reset it here

Lost your login details? No problem! forgot your password in just a few clicks

Forgot Password

Verify your mobile number, you have successfully logged in.

Join Us on WhatsApp

Call Us Now

+91 9606900005 / 04

For Enquiry

[email protected]

Home » Mains Practice Questions » Essay

This exam necessitates a lot of serious study and devotion. Every applicant who understands the UPSC’s trends and expectations and works diligently toward achieving a rank under suitable supervision has a chance to succeed.

This year’s Mains – 2021 questions in GS, Essay, and even Optional papers need in-depth examination of trending topics as well as certain key static topics that may or may not be in the news.

Analytical skills can only be enhanced by regularly thinking and writing. Regular writing, in particular, is essential for improving your analytical abilities. Writing answers after reading other people’s answers or reading a synopsis will get you nowhere.

You must adhere to the standards outlined in the preceding article. You can get knowledge but not wisdom by consulting a summary.

Legacy IAS team will frame as many questions as feasible on each and every component of the GS syllabi as part of this initiative. This will allow you to take continuous notes and write answers until your UPSC Mains Exam 2022-2023.

All GS Paper

Legacy IAS Academy (LIA) is a well-known name for IAS Preparation in Bangalore. LIA is a group of experienced faculties, which included retired IAS/IPS/IRS officers, Academics, and extraordinary tutors from trusted Institutes in India.

Stay updated with our latest analysis on Daily Current affairs from the Hindu, Indian Express and other leading newspapers along with our PIB and Editorial Summaries. Register now and be a part of the clan to not miss even a single update on getting one step closer to your dreams!

Legacy IAS Academy – Drive Location

Address : #1535, 39th Cross Rd, Kottapalya, 4th T Block East, Jayanagara 9th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560041

Phone : +91 9606900005 /04

Email : [email protected]

[email protected]

How can I help you?

11 Tips: How To Start Answer Writing Practice For UPSC

Are you wondering how to start answer writing practice for UPSC ?

If you’re an aspiring civil servant in India, then you’re probably aware that cracking the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is no easy feat. With a vast syllabus and fierce competition, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin.

That’s where answer writing practice comes in. Answer writing is an essential part of UPSC preparation, as it helps you develop the skills necessary to articulate your thoughts effectively and concisely.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some tips on how to start answer writing practice for UPSC, including choosing the right resources, selecting relevant topics, and structuring your answers effectively.

So, let’s dive in and get you started on your journey towards acing the UPSC exam!

UPSC Mains Exam Pattern

Here is the pattern for qualifying and optional papers for upsc mains:, why do you need answer writing practice for upsc mains, fruitful benefits of answer writing practice in upsc, learning or practicing: which one works in upsc, how to start answer writing practice for upsc civil services main tests, master your writing skills in answer writing art for upsc mains, techniques for writing upsc mains exam, 1. read before you write, 2. maintaining a proper outline is important, 3. avoid shakespearean language and unnecessary jargon, 4. being original is the key, 5. avoid too many quotations, 7. beware of generalizations, 8. regular answer writing practice keeps you active, 9. extra marks for error-free writing, 10. manage time effectively, 11. use relevant examples and data, frequently asked questions, how to start answer writing practice for upsc mains, how do i manage my time effectively during the upsc main exam, how do i structure my answers in the upsc main exam, what are some common mistakes to avoid when writing answers for the upsc mains exam, how do i develop a clear and concise thesis statement for my answers, what are some effective techniques for using relevant examples and data in my answers, how can i improve my answer writing skills for the upsc mains exam, what are some tips for managing stress during the upsc main exam, how can i make my answers stand out in the upsc main exam, what should i do if i get stuck while writing an answer in the upsc mains exam.


Written Exam	Paper A: Indian Language (Qualifying)	3 hours	300
Written Exam	Paper B: English (Qualifying)	3 hours	300
Written Exam	Paper I: Essay	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper II: General Studies I	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper III: General Studies II	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper IV: General Studies III	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper V: General Studies IV	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper VI: Optional Subject Paper 1	3 hours	250
Written Exam	Paper VII: Optional Subject Paper 2	3 hours	250
Personality Test/Interview	–	–	275

Note: The Indian language and English papers are qualifying in nature and the marks obtained in these papers are not considered in the final merit list.

The qualifying papers are of matriculation level and the marks obtained in these papers are not added to the final merit list. The personality test or interview carries a weightage of 275 marks out of the total 2025 marks.

Article 70 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 65 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 213 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 254 Of The Indian Constitution

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

UPSC Coaching, Study Materials, and Mock Exams

Enroll in ClearIAS UPSC Coaching Join Now Log In

Call us: +91-9605741000

How to Improve Writing Skills for UPSC CSE Mains Exam?

Last updated on April 16, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

How to Improve Writing Skills for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam

In this article below we have provided important tips regarding How to Improve Writing Skills for the UPSC CSE Mains Exam.

Writing skills play an important role in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam.

The ability to express thoughts correctly and convincingly is important for success in this prestigious examination.

In this article, we will provide you with some practical tips to improve your writing skills to increase your chances of achieving success in the examination.

Table of Contents

Work on Fundamentals Before Starting Answer Writing Practice

Before starting working on writing skills it is important to make themselves aware of a few fundamental details. Such details will help you understand the requirements of the questions.

Without fundamentals, it is hard to satisfy the needs of the examinations. A few of such fundamentals are:

UPSC CSE 2025: Study Plan ⇓

(1) ⇒ UPSC 2025: Prelims cum Mains

(2) ⇒ UPSC 2025: Prelims Test Series

(3) ⇒ UPSC 2025: CSAT

Note: To know more about ClearIAS Courses (Online/Offline) and the most effective study plan, you can call ClearIAS Mentors at +91-9605741000, +91-9656621000, or +91-9656731000.

Familiarise yourself with the syllabus
Go through the standard books of all the subjects including NCERTs.
Stay updated with the current event and the best source for it is the newspaper.
Keep revising.

Also read: How to Start Practicing Answer Writing for UPSC CSE Mains Exam?

How to Improve Writing Skills for the UPSC CSE Mains Exam?

Any candidate appearing in the UPSC CSE Mains exam or willing to appear in the mains exam in the future must inculcate a few important details in their schedule. Such details are provided below.

Understand the Exam Requirements

It is important to thoroughly familiarize with the exam’s requirements and stick to them while preparing for the examination.

Understand the structure, word limits, and evaluation criteria for each section, such as the essay, general studies papers, or optional subjects.

This knowledge will enable you to structure your writing style and content accordingly.

Analyze Previous Year Questions

It’s important to understand the pattern and style of the previous year’s questions.

Analyzing these questions provides insights into the examiners’ expectations. It helps you structure your answers effectively, ensuring relevance and clarity.

Practice Answer Writing

Regular practice of answer writing is also important for the UPSC CSE and one of the most reliable sources to begin their answer writing practice is the previous year’s paper.

Choose Previous Years’ question papers and practice writing concise answers within the given time frame. Focus on developing a suitable argument, providing relevant examples, and structuring your answers effectively.

Work on Clarity and Precision

Clear and precise writing leaves a lasting impact on the reader and in this case, on the examiner.

Avoid using difficult sentences or fancy words. Go for simplicity and clarity of expression.

Use precise and specific language to convey your ideas effectively, avoiding unnecessary verbosity.

Develop Analytical Skills

The UPSC exam demands analytical thinking and the ability to critically evaluate various perspectives.

Cultivate your analytical skills by analyzing complex situations from multiple angles, always think about their pros and cons. For that, you can use the reference of current events.

Create a Strong Introduction and Conclusion

An impactful introduction sets the tone for your essay or answer, while a well-crafted conclusion leaves a lasting impression.

Use the introduction to provide context and a clear thesis statement. The conclusion should summarize your main points and leave the reader with a thought-provoking idea or a call to action.

Read Model Answers

Refer to model answers of candidates who already have cleared the examination. Analyze their structure, language, and approach to answer writing.

Take note of how they effectively address the question, present arguments, and provide supporting examples. Incorporate these techniques into your own writing style while maintaining originality.

Time Management and Revision

Effective time management is important during this exam. Practice writing within time limits to improve speed without compromising on quality.

Always keep some time aside for revision to identify and rectify errors, improve sentence structure, and ensure overall coherence. A well-revised answer helps improve clarity and readability.

Work on Personality Development

Always keep yourself indulge in important discussions and change your perspective from a common man to a civil servant but do not fall into the trap of irrelevant discussions.

When it comes to the UPSC CSE, it’s not just about having theoretical knowledge of the subjects in the mains. They also seek candidates who can think critically, solve problems, and approach issues from an administrative standpoint.

Developing these skills requires active participation in discussions about important societal problems and national or international topics.

By indulging yourself in these discussions and seeking solutions, you can cultivate a problem-solving mindset and an administrative perspective.

Join a Model Answer Writing Program

Joining a model answer writing program can greatly benefit your preparation for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam.

These programs provide valuable guidance and support in favor of your writing skills.

By participating in such a program, you gain access to expert mentors who offer insights into effective answer writing techniques, proper structuring of answers, and providing relevant examples and evidence.

In case you are looking for a program where you can work on improving your answer writing, get proper evaluation and guidance, you can choose the ClearIAS model answer writing program as it is very friendly to candidates and provides valuable guidance.

Article Written By: Priti Raj

Top 10 Best-Selling ClearIAS Courses

Upsc prelims cum mains (pcm) gs course: unbeatable batch 2025 (online), rs.75000 rs.29000, upsc prelims marks booster + 2025 (online), rs.19999 rs.14999, upsc prelims test series (pts) 2025 (online), rs.9999 rs.4999, csat course 2025 (online), current affairs course 2025 (online), ncert foundation course (online), essay writing course for upsc cse (online), ethics course for upsc cse (online), upsc interview marks booster course (online), rs.9999 rs.4999.

About ClearIAS Team

ClearIAS is one of the most trusted learning platforms in India for UPSC preparation. Around 1 million aspirants learn from the ClearIAS every month.

Our courses and training methods are different from traditional coaching. We give special emphasis on smart work and personal mentorship. Many UPSC toppers thank ClearIAS for our role in their success.

Download the ClearIAS mobile apps now to supplement your self-study efforts with ClearIAS smart-study training.

Reader Interactions

Don’t lose out without playing the right game!

Follow the ClearIAS Prelims cum Mains (PCM) Integrated Approach.

Join ClearIAS PCM Course Now

UPSC Online Preparation

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
Indian Police Service (IPS)
IAS Exam Eligibility
UPSC Free Study Materials
UPSC Exam Guidance
UPSC Prelims Test Series
UPSC Syllabus
UPSC Online
UPSC Prelims
UPSC Interview
UPSC Toppers
UPSC Previous Year Qns
UPSC Age Calculator
UPSC Calendar 2024
About ClearIAS
ClearIAS Programs
ClearIAS Fee Structure
IAS Coaching
UPSC Coaching
UPSC Online Coaching
ClearIAS Blog
Important Updates
Announcements
Book Review
ClearIAS App
Work with us
Advertise with us
Privacy Policy
Terms and Conditions
Talk to Your Mentor

Featured on

and many more...

ClearIAS Programs: Admissions Open

Thank You 🙌

UPSC CSE 2025: Study Plan

Subscribe ClearIAS YouTube Channel

Get free study materials. Don’t miss ClearIAS updates.

Subscribe Now

IAS/IPS/IFS Online Coaching: Target CSE 2025

Cover the entire syllabus of UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains systematically.

IAS Preparation
UPSC Preparation Strategy
Practice Essay Topics UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam

Useful Technique to Practice on Essay Topics for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam

The essay paper was introduced in the year 1992 on the recommendations of the S. Chandra Committee. This paper was included in the UPSC Civil Services Examination to assess the candidates’ skills that would help in their service while drafting policy papers and other government duties.

This article will give details on how to effectively write essays for UPSC Mains Exam

Overview of UPSC Essay Writing

As mentioned in the UPSC Notifications , the syllabus of the Essay and what UPSC expects candidates to have is as given below:

Linguistic skills (basic and understandable, grammatically correct)
Capacity to comprehend ideas
Ability to critically analyse what candidates write about
Integrated thinking
Assimilation of ideas with clarity and proper expression
Lastly, the presentation should be good

Now, you know why the Essay paper was introduced by the Commission and the requisites of skill through Essay writing.

Tips on Essay Writing

Coming to the essay writing practice, it is recommended to candidates that they need not allocate a separate time for this as essay writing can be taken as part of answer writing practice.

It is advised to go through the past 10 years’ Essay Papers and make a note of them and their themes like Character, Disaster Management, Education, Environment, Future, Inclusion, IT development, Poverty/Inequality, Science & Technology, etc.

By doing this, the candidate will get a fair idea of every topic, now start writing on each topic. It should contain some statistics, comparisons, and quotes, and make sure that they have a little information about each topic to fill the single A4 Sheet.

To write an essay on a topic, one should analyse the topic from a different angle. It will be hard to think of a topic from a different angle during the exam. Hence, here is a simple and easy method of essay practice. As said earlier, while practising answer writing for UPSC Mains Exam, make Essay writing practice as part of it.

Here’s an example following which will make a candidate conquer the essay paper.

Let’s take a topic as an example:

“ Character of an institution is reflected in its leader “

Advised to read the topic 10 times before starting to write on the topic, brainstorm on the topic and write down all the points that come to the mind in some corner of the paper; once you are done with it, now pen it down.

Write a simple and straight introduction about the institution and leader; now think how it can be related to the General Studies Mains Syllabus. Here, one can talk about institutions during the Mauryan period and taking Ashoka as a leader. Later, they can explain the character of the institution during this period and how Ashoka preached peace and non-violence through institutions. Then, one can talk about the institution during the Mughal period and how different it was and the character of institutions during the famous Akbar and Aurangzeb rule. Then, write about how institutions played a major role during the freedom movement under various leaders that led to prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and others. Finally, talk about present-day institutions and leaders.

Also, relate how leaders played their part in society, politically, administrative, and geographically and become role models for others that made them the reflection of the institution.

Candidates can include quotes like “Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination, on cooperation, not intimidation.” – William Arthur Wood

And try to take an example of some leader to whom you can relate to the quote and talk about them what changes they brought that made them the reflection of an institution.

Similarly, for topics on Women empowerment , start with a simple and crisp introduction. Define what empowerment is and, later, empowerment opportunities available in various fields, like social, political, economic, cultural etc.

Then write about how women empowerment was during the Vedic period.

Also, write about women’s role in family life, culture, society, and their positions in education, employment, sports and other sectors. Give examples of women who made a difference in society or played a major role in the growth of the nation.

Don’t forget to include quotes and make sure that the quote should be written word-perfect, and in case you don’t remember the quote or the person who wrote it, then it is advised to drop the idea of including a quote.

Since it is the conclusion, don’t take it as a grand finale and complicate it just conclude the essay topic in very simple words by summarising whatever you have written now in the essay.

Make sure the conclusion is optimistic, and try to keep a balanced conclusion.

IAS 2024 - Your dream can come true!

Download the ultimate guide to upsc cse preparation, register with byju's & download free pdfs, register with byju's & watch live videos.

General Studies

All Programmes

Study Material

Essay Course for UPSC

By vajiram & ravi.

Click Here to know about Essay Course

Book an Expert Connect - Video Counselling

Date of Commencement

3rd July 2024

CLASSROOM & LIVE-Online

Rs.12000/ (Incl. GST)

Course Time

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sundays and Wednesdays

The UPSC introduced the Essay paper in 1993, with the objective of testing a candidate’s proficiency in language, knowledge, and expression. The UPSC considers these skills so important that the Essay paper has always commanded the same marks as a GS or optional paper.

Since 2014, the Essay paper has been divided into 2 sections, of 4 topics each, with candidates having to choose one topic from each of the sections. This requires students to have an even wider knowledge base, without repetition or duplication of content.

In recent years, the emphasis has been on more abstract, quote-based essay topics. Candidates usually find these topics difficult to understand and struggle to find relevant content to write.

To do well in the Essay paper, a candidate must develop the skills necessary to interpret the topic correctly, generate diverse content, and write persuasively. These skills require practice and professional direction. Only an experienced and highly qualified educator can assist candidates in mastering the skills needed to write the UPSC Mains Essay Paper effectively.

Utility of the Essay Paper

Common problems that result in a low score in the essay paper, how to ensure a high score in the essay paper, features of upsc essay course.

Essay Script Assessment

The Vajiram & Ravi Essay Course by Brijendra Sir offers aspirants a comprehensive platform to master the intricacies of essay writing , guiding them through the demanding path of UPSC Civil Services Exam preparation .

Our meticulously designed Essay Course aims to:

Enhance aspirants' competency across diverse essential themes.
Strengthen understanding and effectiveness through provided handouts containing all pertinent information essential for crafting quality essays.
Refine aspirants' writing proficiency, including language, grammar, and flow, through two specialized classes.
Evaluate proficiency with a thorough test series.

This UPSC Essay Course assists students in structuring their essay preparation and cultivating a crucial set of skills to enhance their chances of securing high scores. Clear, concise, and well-structured essays are indispensable for aspiring civil servants. Mastery of essential elements of essay writing is paramount.

Through this course, students will:

Clearly organize and articulate ideas.
Analyze primary sources with critical insight.
Apply critical thinking to evaluate information.
Carries 250 marks, the same as a GS or Optional paper.
High-scoring paper, which has frequently yielded scores above 150.
Sets the tone for the Mains, as it is the first paper to be conducted.
Requires systematic, but limited preparation.
Game-changer in the final result – all toppers invariably have a high score in the Essay paper.
Lack of focused preparation – Many candidates suffer the misconception that General Studies and Optional Paper knowledge is adequate to do well in the Essay paper also.
Lack of content – Many candidates lack essay-specific content and repeat the same thoughts throughout their essays.
Lack of writing practice - Inability to understand the difference between writing a GS answer and writing an essay.
Lack of reliable evaluation , without which candidates are unable to understand their weaknesses and improve.
Learn how to Interpret the topic correctly.
Prepare exhaustive and diverse content, to address the demand of various topics that can be asked in the exam.
Develop a writing style for essays, that is not a repetition of a GS answer.
Practice essay writing on exam-worthy topics.
Ensure a reliable evaluation of the essay.

This comprehensive essay writing course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the essay component of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. The features of our Essay Module Course are:

11 classes that comprehensively cover the various themes that have been used for framing essay topics.
Well-curated and concise Handouts on each theme, so that candidates have adequate exam-ready content.
Special emphasis on philosophical, quote-based essays.
Mini-assignments during the class, to help master the fine nuances of essay writing.
6 tests (2 half length and 4 full length), to simulate exam-like writing practice.
Detailed and objective evaluation of essay scripts, to exhaustively explain a candidate’s performance (sample script essay link) .
Hand-held guidance after the tests, so that candidates can clarify their individual doubts.
Classes will be held on Wednesday’s and Sunday’s.

Still unsure about the course? Secure your spot now.

Get a free counselling session from our experts

Name .css-jogj29{color:#E53935;} *

Phone number *.

Classroom Programme
Interview Guidance
Online Programme
Drishti Store
My Bookmarks
My Progress
Change Password
From The Editor's Desk
How To Use The New Website
Help Centre

Achievers Corner

Topper's Interview
About Civil Services
UPSC Prelims Syllabus
GS Prelims Strategy
Prelims Analysis
GS Paper-I (Year Wise)
GS Paper-I (Subject Wise)
CSAT Strategy
Previous Years Papers
Practice Quiz
Weekly Revision MCQs
60 Steps To Prelims
Prelims Refresher Programme 2020

Mains & Interview

Mains GS Syllabus
Mains GS Strategy
Mains Answer Writing Practice
Essay Strategy
Fodder For Essay
Model Essays
Drishti Essay Competition
Ethics Strategy
Ethics Case Studies
Ethics Discussion
Ethics Previous Years Q&As
Papers By Years
Papers By Subject
Be MAINS Ready
Awake Mains Examination 2020
Interview Strategy
Interview Guidance Programme

Current Affairs

Daily News & Editorial
Daily CA MCQs
Sansad TV Discussions
Monthly CA Consolidation
Monthly Editorial Consolidation
Monthly MCQ Consolidation

Drishti Specials

To The Point
Important Institutions
Learning Through Maps
PRS Capsule
Summary Of Reports
Gist Of Economic Survey

Study Material

NCERT Books
NIOS Study Material
IGNOU Study Material
Yojana & Kurukshetra
Chhatisgarh
Uttar Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh

Test Series

UPSC Prelims Test Series
UPSC Mains Test Series
UPPCS Prelims Test Series
UPPCS Mains Test Series
BPSC Prelims Test Series
RAS/RTS Prelims Test Series
Daily Editorial Analysis
YouTube PDF Downloads
Strategy By Toppers
Ethics - Definition & Concepts
Mastering Mains Answer Writing
Places in News
UPSC Mock Interview
PCS Mock Interview
Interview Insights
Prelims 2019
Product Promos
Mains Practice Questions

Mains practice questions is now being continued in Be Mains Ready program with a dedicated syllabus coverage for Mains 2019. To join this program, click here "Be Mains Ready program"

Total Questions : 2246

As the event coordinator for the upcoming Global Sustainable Development Summit in New Delhi, you face a complex challenge. The summit, scheduled to host a large number of world leaders and delegates from countries across the globe, aims to address critical issues of climate change, poverty alleviation, and technological innovation. However, just two weeks before the event, widespread protests have erupted across the city regarding the proposed sub-categorization of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). The protesters, numbering in the thousands, have blocked major roads and are threatening to disrupt the summit, citing it as an opportunity to bring international attention to their cause. Your team has received intelligence reports suggesting that some protest groups may attempt to infiltrate the summit venue or target the delegates' accommodations.

Additionally, there are concerns about the potential involvement of groups with vested interests who may seek to damage the relevant infrastructure. As the person in charge, you must ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees while maintaining the summit's integrity and schedule. The summit's success is vital for India's international reputation and for progressing global sustainable development goals.

1. Who are the key stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What immediate steps will you take to ensure the summit’s security and smooth execution?

3. What contingency plans will you have in place if the protests escalate?

Q. How does the idea of 'moral agency' influence the responsibility of individuals in positions of power? (150 words)

Q. Examine the ethical significance of 'intent' versus 'outcome' in public service. How should civil servants weigh these factors in decision-making? (150 words)

Q. Examine the role of nuclear techniques in the development of science-based global food standards. How do these techniques enhance food safety and contribute to food security? (250 Words)

Q. Discuss the impact of cyber-attacks, particularly Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, on the operational efficiency of online platforms and analyze their broader implications for public discourse and national security. (250 Words)

Q . To what extent have poverty alleviation programs in India been effective in addressing the challenges of poverty? Examine the role of political will in the successful implementation of these programs. (250 words)

Q . Critically examine the significance of India’s energy cooperation with West Asian countries in ensuring its energy security. What are the key challenges and how can India address them?? (250 words)

Q. The concept of secularism in India is flawed as it seeks to negate the importance of our cultural and religious heritage. Critically examine (250 words)

Q. The level of excellence in Gupta numismatic art is not evident in subsequent periods. Comment. (150 words)

Essay Topics

1. When women are safe, nations are strong.

2. Poverty is not just about lack of money; it is about the denial of opportunities and choices.

A recent tragic incident involving the alleged rape and murder of a trainee woman doctor at the State-run College and Hospital has sparked nationwide protests. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency medical services to protest against this incident and the subsequent vandalism at the hospital. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of healthcare workers, particularly women, within medical institutions.

As the newly appointed District Magistrate of the area where the incident occurred, you are faced with a complex situation involving public outrage, law and order, and the provision of essential healthcare services.

1. Identify the ethical dilemmas posed by the IMA’s decision to withdraw non-emergency medical services in response to the incident.

2. Propose a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of healthcare workers while ensuring that patient care is not compromised during such protests.

3. Evaluate the role of leadership in managing the crisis, ensuring accountability, and restoring public trust in the healthcare system.

Q. Analyze the growing threat of cyberterrorism to India's internal security. Discuss the measures taken by the government to combat this menace. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the solid waste management scenario in India. Highlight the challenges and opportunities in achieving a sustainable waste management system. (250 words)

Q . "Climate change diplomacy has emerged as a critical aspect of international relations." Evaluate India's position and contributions in global climate negotiations, highlighting both challenges and opportunities. (250 words)

Q. The Right to Privacy has evolved through judicial interpretation. Trace this evolution and discuss its implications on contemporary issues like data protection and surveillance. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the impact of globalization on traditional Indian values and social institutions. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the contemporary relevance of Ashoka's Dhamma in the context of India's pluralistic society. (150 words)

1. Economic progress cannot come at the cost of democracy and civil liberties.

2. The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.

You are the District Collector of a rural district with a high rate of female illiteracy and child marriage. A new government scheme has been launched to provide financial incentives to families who keep their daughters in school until age 18. However, implementation has been challenging due to deeply entrenched cultural norms.

Recently, you have received reports that some families are falsely claiming the incentives while still marrying off their daughters early. You must carefully analyze the situation, balance competing interests and take adequate steps to resolve this issue.

What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?
What actions will you take regarding effective implementation of the scheme and address other immediate social challenges?
What long-term strategies can be implemented to sustain the impact of the scheme and changing societal attitudes towards female education and child marriage?

Q. Discuss the ethical significance of the 'Golden Mean' How can this concept be applied to achieve balance in public policy decisions? (150 words)

Q. What is the 'ethics of care'? Contrast it with traditional ethical theories and discuss its significance in public administration. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the causes of urban flooding in India. How can sustainable urban planning contribute to flood resilience? (150 words)

Q. Discuss the role of digital payments in financial inclusion and empowerment . Examine the challenges and opportunities in expanding digital financial services to rural India. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the root causes of child labor in India. Also, discuss the effectiveness of government programs in eradicating child labor. (250 words)

Q. Discuss key indicators of good governance and suggest strategies for its effective implementation at the grassroots level in India. (150 words)

Q. Bhakti and Sufi movements are often seen as parallel paths to spiritual realization. Compare and contrast their basic tenets and their impact on society. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the causes of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Himalayas. What measures can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with GLOFs? (250 words)

1. There is a nobility in compassion, a beauty in empathy and a grace in forgiveness.

2. When the winds of change blow, some build walls while others build windmills

You are the Superintendent of Police (SP) in a rapidly urbanizing city facing significant infrastructure challenges. An intense monsoon has overwhelmed the city’s drainage system, leading to widespread waterlogging. While coordinating relief efforts, you receive an urgent distress call about a gym in the basement of a high-rise building in a posh locality.

The heavy rainfall and inadequate water management have caused water to break through the gym's door, flooding the basement and rapidly rising. Reports indicate that several people are trapped inside. The situation is further aggravated by panic among the building's residents and a growing crowd outside. The scenario is critical, necessitating immediate action to carry out rescue operations, prevent further property damage, and ensure public safety. As the SP, you must efficiently coordinate rescue efforts, assess the evolving situation, and implement measures to mitigate the impact of the waterlogging.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What will be your immediate course of action to manage the rescue operations and ensure public safety?

3. What long-term measures can be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future?

Tips for GS 2 Answer Writing in UPSC Mains

Note: This is a free chapter from my book, Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing. I have previously published another excerpt on Introductions to Essay . The book has similar detailed chapters on Essay and answer writing for GS-1,2,3,4, and the Anthropology optional. You can get the book here.

GS-2 is tricky in the sense that it’s easy to find the sources and prepare from them, yet for many aspirants, scoring above 100 feels like an uphill task. In this chapter, we will break down the syllabus, examine each segment in detail, and discuss what changes you can bring in your preparation and answer writing to improve your scores.

Syllabus under GS-2 can be classified into two segments:

Polity, Governance & Social Justice
International Relations.

A mistake many aspirants commit while preparing for this paper is to put too much focus on the current affairs part, at the cost of the equally important static portion. Questions from this topic pertain to Constitution, Government schemes, laws, governance and development sector etc, linking them all to some current affair issue. But, it’s not enough to just know about the issue, you need to also connect it to the theory part of the syllabus.

In the following sections, I lay out some fundamental guidelines for answering GS-2 questions.

POLITY, GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL JUSTICE

BEGIN WITH CONSTITUTIONAL ARTICLES

Example: The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance. Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation.

You can start the answer as follows:

A: 73rd and 74th amendments to the Constitution established local self government in India. Some important articles pertaining to local government are 243A (Gram Sabha), 243B (Panchayats), 243G & 243W(Powers and responsibilities of Panchayats and Municipalities), 243 ZD & ZE (District and Metropolitan Planning Committee).

This is a simple rule of thumb for Polity related questions, but works remarkably well. Whenever you read a question that has some Constitutional relevance, simply start it with the article number. Mentioning the article number will convey to the examiner that you have an idea about the fundamental principles of the Constitution and how it operates. Also, memorising them serves another useful purpose. Sometimes, questions are based on the Constitutional articles themselves without revealing other details. If you can’t figure out what that Article is about, you will be in no position to attempt that question. For instance, consider the following question:

“The Supreme Court’s use of its vast powers under Article 142 may have done tremendous good. However, it’s time to have some checks and balances.” Critically analyse the statement citing recent judgements .

If you don’t know what Article 142 refers to, you’ll be left clueless. Hence, it’s critical that you remember them like the back of your hand. At first, it might seem difficult to memorise so many, but with enough revisions, it isn’t that hard. Knowing Constitutional articles will help you across every stage and paper of the exam— Prelims, Essay, GS and even the interview. The complete list of important articles can be found on my blog anudeepdurishetty.in .

PRESENT BOTH SIDES OF THE ISSUE

In GS 2, questions are usually asked on contentious topics where there is a possibility to take more than one view. In such questions, it helps to mention both sides of the argument even if not explicitly asked in the question and club them under relevant subheadings (arguments for/ arguments against) to mark a clear distinction between both. To illustrate, consider this question: “Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people. Discuss.”

This is a debatable topic and one may agree or disagree with the statement. A common mistake aspirants commit is to take a side in the introduction itself and use rest of the answer to justify it repeatedly. A better approach is to present both sides of the topic with substantiation (data, facts, reasoning) and conclude the answer with what you think is right.

USE SUBHEADINGS

Adding subheadings in the main body of the answer helps in two ways: One, it will help you break down the question into smaller, manageable chunks and two, it will help you stay close to the topic that’s being asked. It will convey to the examiner that you are precisely answering the question. For the question: Explain the salient features of the constitution (One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough ‘to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services’?

Subheadings for this question would be:

Salient Features of the Act
GST and Cascading Of Taxes
GST and Common National Market
Problems in the current Act
Way forward/Suggestions

Observe how the terms in the subheadings closely mimic the terms in the question. They also make your answer easy to comprehend for the examiner.

ADD DATA AND STATISTICS

GS-2 is mostly analysis based paper with questions asking for your opinion. Merely writing arguments without facts and data would make your answers sound shallow. You must be armed with data and facts and mention them wherever apt. They make your arguments credible. If you want to say that India is struggling under the burden of NPAs— mention by how much, and what’s the trend of such NPA figures— is it increasing or decreasing? If you want to argue how India’s public health is in bad shape, back it up with numbers like IMR, high percentage out of pocket expenditure, MMR, scarcity of doctors, WHO standards etc.,

Further, you can also cite authentic reports from reputed international and national organisations to drive home your point. For instance, Transparency International report findings on corruption, ASER on education etc.

MENTION SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENTS

These add incredible value and authority to your arguments. In Mains, it’s always the opinion of the experts that matter. We merely convey those expert opinions. Since Supreme Court is the ultimate interpreter of laws and the Constitution, we must know about the landmark judgments of the Apex court and use them wherever relevant. Below are some of the important judgments in independent India’s history. These are by no means exhaustive. If you think I have missed some important judgements, please add and memorize this list.

NAME OF THE CASE	JUDGEMENT
SR Bommai	Kept a check on the powers under Article 356.
Keshavananda Bharati	Propounded the concept of Basic Structure of the Constitution
Waman Rao, Minerva Mills	Upheld that Judicial review is part of the basic structure
I.R. Coelho	Clarified the limits of Ninth Schedule of the Constitution and upheld importance of basic structure
Navtej Singh Johar	Stuck down Sec 377 of IPC
Maneka Gandhi	Interpreted scope of Art 21 and gave the concept of due process of law
AK Gopalan	Interpreted scope of Art 21 and gave the concept of procedure established by law
Golaknath	Held that Parliament cannot curtail any of the Fundamental rights
Kedar Nath Singh	Clarified the scope of Sedition under Sec 124A
Hussainara Khatoon	Judgement on the plight of undertrials. Genesis of PIL.
Olga Tellis	Adjudicated on the rights of pavement dwellers
Bachan Singh	Gave the ‘rarest of rare’ doctrine for awarding death penalty.
Sheela Bharse	On custodial violence against women. Case was taken up based on a simple letter from a journalist.
Indira Sawhney	Adjudicated on the scope and extent of Art 16 (4) that provided for reservation
Vishakha	Established guidelines to prevent sexual harassment at workplace.
Samatha	Upheld tribal rights
Three Judges Cases	Genesis of Collegium system
Shreya Singhal	Struck down Sec 66A of IT Act, 2000.
Puttaswamy (Privacy case)	Upheld Right to privacy as a fundamental right
Lily Thomas	On disqualification of convicted elected representatives
Shah Bano Begum	Gave precedence to individual rights over personal laws.

RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS

For this paper, every committee that’s in news is important. But apart from these current affairs related ones, there are a few core committees of the past whose observations and recommendations have remained timeless. You can quote them in your answers to substantiate your opinion, especially in the conclusion. The following list is not exhaustive.

Sarkaria Commission
Puncchhi Commission
Law Commission Reports

ILLUSTRATIONS

Illustrations and diagrams should be drawn when it meets two conditions: one, when it helps you express more content concisely and in less time. Two, it adds value and illuminates your answer by way of introducing or explaining a concept simply; conveying geographical spread on a map etc.

So if you find an info-graphic, a map or a graph in the newspaper or the internet, note them down and use them in your answers. In the Mains exam, I drew a diagram for the GST related question as below to show how it overcomes the problems of cascading taxes.

Cascading of Taxes and GST

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Mastering IR is about grasping a few fundamentals and applying them in your answers. Below is a list of such basics that you need to cover while preparing for this section.

HISTORICAL BACKDROP

With respect to every major bilateral relationship, you must know about the history and all the important agreements/treaties we had signed with those countries. For instance, Indo-Nepal treaty of Friendship, Kyoto protocol, Indo-Sri Lanka accord etc. might be dated agreements, but you must have a fair idea about them. List 4-5 core points of each agreement, and understand them. Adding these will add authority to your answers.

FACTUAL DETAILS ABOUT A CURRENT ISSUE

For every current affair issue, have thorough factual knowledge related to it. Example: If International Court of Justice is in news, you must know about ICJ, its structure and mandate, how cases are referred to it etc., It will help you write better answers.

MULTI-DIMENSIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Understand the holistic relation that India shares with important countries such as US, UK, and other neighbouring countries. It can be categorised in the following way.

Technological: Includes all the scientific and tech related relationship. For example, India-US collaborates to address tech initiative.
Economic: Trade and investment aspect of the bilateral relationship
Global fora: How India is cooperating with that particular country in various international groupings. For example, India – Japan relationship you can mention how we are working together in ASEAN, UNSC status, how Japan is helping us at Nuclear Suppliers Group etc.,
Strategic & Defence: In your answers, give specific names when you write about nuclear or defence cooperation. Mention the name of the equipment such as BARAK (Israel), Apache Helicopter (US), S-400 (Russia) etc. or various military exercises (SIMBEX, MILAN, Varun etc).
Educational and Cultura l : Any student exchange, tourism, establishment of universities, people to people contact initiatives etc.,

Also, prepare suggestions to improve the ties/overcome a challenge/way forward for each diplomatic relationship (this will inevitably form the conclusion for most of your answers)

Maps are the most versatile, useful tools for illustration in your answers. Whenever you see a question, think of ways by which you can present better through maps. Every IR question gives you scope to draw a map. You should practise enough so that so that you can draw and label them under a minute.

For example: In India-China border dispute question, you can draw the following map and label the disputed areas.

India-China border dispute

SAMPLE ANSWER

In the context of the newly proposed amendment, discuss the need for establishment of a single, permanent tribunal to subsume existing tribunals with the purpose of speeding up settlement of Inter-State Water disputes.

Article 262 of the constitution deals with the resolution of inter-state water disputes. It envisages that:

Parliament may provide for adjudication of inter-state water disputes
Takes away powers of Supreme Court and other courts to entertain appeals against the tribunal award.

Issues with current system and need for a single tribunal

Membership : Current system doesn’t specify term limits tribunal members.
Award : 8 tribunals have been established so far, but out of them, only 3 gave final awards accepted by States.
Delay in implementation : Many awards are appealed against in courts via PIL.
Non-Publication of awards in gazette leading to festering of disputes
Institutional problems such as no River Board established as per the River Board Act,1953 Eg : Kaveri award was given in 2007, but not implemented because of court litigation

How the new amendment speeds up settlement of water disputes

The proposed new amendment Bill subsume existing tribunals to establish a single, permanent tribunal.
Time limits have been specified for awards (2 years, extendable by 1 year).
Qualification of members, term limits are outlined clearly.
Experts from hydrology, geology etc will provide technical inputs.
Need for Gazelle publication is removed to expedite implementation.
A dispute resolution committee (DRC) will help in setting disputes amicably without going to tribunal (time limit – 1 year)

Way Forward

Government must implement Mihir shah committee recommendations and establish a National water commission, subsuming Central ground water commission. Also, fora like Inter-state council, zonal council, NITI Aayog etc must be harnessed for better coordination and integrated water management.

40 thoughts on “ Tips for GS 2 Answer Writing in UPSC Mains ”

Sir i paid 289 for the book…but i didnt get it..m worried anudeep sir..plz sssist me in this plzzzxx

How many you hours studied in day ? Preparation times.

Guys – any idea what does ‘RG&A’ mean or is it some kind of shortform? If you have gone through Sir’s GS2 notes, this term appears at few places Thanks in advance

When are you book launch sir

Sir could you please tell us how to write a good conclusion.Can our suggestions also be conclusions or not?

sir!!i can’t find your polity notes

Where’s polity notes?

Good afternoon sir Sir please make one blog for beginners As that one of big question ? arises in my mind is “which subject should we start at initial days of preparation!

How to Start Answer Writing Practice for UPSC- Step by Step Guide for Beginners

Answer writing practice for UPSC mains is key to success. The UPSC analyses your quick thought process, analytical skills, understanding of various subjects and grasping power of the questions asked.

Table of Contents

Answer writing practice for the UPSC Mains test often causes confusion and anxiety among candidates for the UPSC, especially those who have begun their preparation. Candidates for the UPSC frequently encounter the following queries on the primary practice of writing answers.

When is the right time to start Answer writing practice?
What should be the frequency of answer writing practice?
Shall I focus on the quality of the answers or the speed of answer writing?
How many questions should I practice each day?

UPSC Answer Writing Practice for Beginners

These are some of the questions regarding answer writing practice that haunt an aspirant who has just started their preparation or aspirants who have limited answer writing practice experience. We are going to demystify various myths associated with the answer writing practice in this article, but first, we will discuss the importance of answer writing in qualifying for the UPSC Civil Services examination.

Answer Writing Practice for UPSC- Importance of Answer Writing Practice

UPSC CSE Mains is the most important phase of the whole UPSC exam for the aspirants. This is because of the following-

UPSC CSE prepares the final cut-off of selected candidates based on how many marks an aspirant got out of the total 2025 marks.
The maximum total of 2025 marks consists of 1750 marks for the UPSC CSE Mains exam and 275 marks for the Interview exam.
This marking pattern shows the importance of the mains examination in the final selection and getting a good rank in the final list of the selected candidates.
To learn more about the marking pattern of the UPSC CSE Examination, Click here .
In the mains exam, the art of answer writing becomes very important to fetch good marks.
To illustrate the importance of answer writing, suppose in each question you get 0.5 marks extra due to your good answer writing techniques.
Through this, you will fetch 40 more marks in GS Papers alone (10 marks on each paper). Mastering the art of answer writing will positively affect your marks in essay papers as well.
This is why an aspirant appearing in the UPSC mains exam either this year or next year must extensively master the art of answer writing.

Answer Writing Practice for UPSC- Guide for Beginners

There numerous points are writing to provide step by step-by-step guides for answer writing practice for the UPSC examination. Interested persons must the below steps to improve their writing skills, this skill will help in every type of exam.

Don’t Start Too Early: Aspirants often make the mistake of starting their answer writing practice at the start of their preparation. The problem with this approach is that aspirants at this stage of their preparation lack adequate foundational knowledge about the topic in question. This often results in a waste of time and demotivation on the part of aspirants.
Build Basic Knowledge First: To avoid the above mistake, aspirants must read and learn basic books to build basic knowledge about various parts of the syllabus. Continuous reading of newspapers and linking them with the static as well as other parts of the syllabus gives an aspirant multi-dimensional perspective about the topics. Only with such understanding, aspirants can write quality answers as per the demand of the UPSC Mains Exam.
Understanding the Demand of the Question and Structuring Your Answer: Understanding the question is the next step. The question is frequently misinterpreted by candidates, who therefore write what they know rather than what is asked. This leaves the examiner with a negative impression. Therefore, candidates need to fully comprehend the question’s requirements before drafting their response. Having well-structured responses can help you score higher since it conveys to the examiner that you comprehend the material and also ensures that the information flows naturally.
Focus on Quality First instead of Speed: Initially, aspirants must focus on writing a good answer, covering multiple dimensions, instead of writing fast and filling pages of the answer booklet. Once, you know how to write a good answer, you will automatically pick up the speed at a later stage of your preparation.
Write Regularly: Last but not the list, you should be regular in your mains answer writing practice to get maximum benefits. Regular here does not mean every day, rather it is your discretion to fix the answer writing practice routine/frequency as per the available time. Once you have decided on the frequency, you must be consistent in your answer writing practice for the UPSC Mains exam. This will immensely benefit you both in the Mains (in terms of answer writing and knowledge) and Prelims (in terms of knowledge) examination.

All the Best !!!

Sharing is caring!

Q. Which website is best for UPSC answer writing?

Candidates can check the Adda247 website for comprehensive understanding of syllabus and coverage of entire UPSC portion under proper guidance and evaluation.

What is the 753 rule in UPSC preparation?

SEVEN – Candidates' should aim to answer questions within 7 minutes per question. FIVE – write 5 points in their answers related to the keyword. It would be better to break down the answer into bulleted points. THREE– Elaborate each point in 3 dimensions as per the requirements listed in the question.

How should a beginner start UPSC preparation?

Beginners should ideally get at least 10 – 12 months before the UPSC prelims exam for preparation. You can comprehensively cover the syllabus and have enough test practice only then. You should start with the common GS papers before moving on to the optional papers.

Trending Events

UPSC Mains Exam 2024
BPSC 70th Notification 2024
JPSC Mains Exam Date 2024
UKPSC Exam 2024
UPPSC Exam 2024
MPSC Exam Date 2024

UPSC Study Notes

Polity Notes for UPSC
History Notes for UPSC
Geography Notes for UPSC

UPSC EPFO/APFC

UPSC EPFO Syllabus
UPSC EPFO Admit Card
UPSC APFC Notification
UPSC APFC Syllabus
UPPSC PCS 2024
MPPSC PCS 2024
RPSC PCS 2024
UKPSC PCS 2024

Our Other Websites

Teachers Adda
Adda School
Defence Adda
Engineers Adda

UPSC CSE Exam (Popularly called UPSC IAS Exam) is one of the toughest exam in this country. Needless to say, a dedicated and right approach is required to clear this IAS Exam.

Download Adda247 App

Follow us on

Responsible Disclosure Program
Cancellation & Refunds
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy

Explore Our Affordable Courses

UPSC Online
UPSC offline and Hybrid
UPSC Optional Coaching
UPPCS Online
BPSC Online
MPSC Online
MPPSC Online
WBPSC Online
OPSC Online
UPPCS Offline Coaching
BPSC Offline Coaching
UPSC Test Series
State PSC Test Series
DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS
SUBJECT WISE CURRENT AFFAIRS
DAILY EDITORIAL ANALYSIS
DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ
Daily Prelims(MCQs) Practice
Daily Mains Answer Writing
Free Resources

Offline Centres
NCERT Notes
UDAAN Notes
UPSC Syllabus
UPSC Prelims PYQs
UPSC Mains PYQs

One Year Plan for UPSC 2025: How PW OnlyIAS Can Elevate Your Preparation

Prepare for UPSC 2025 with a strategic 1-year plan and comprehensive support from PW OnlyIAS. Get guidance, resources, and tools to ace every stage of the exam.

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most challenging and prestigious exams in India. Clearing it requires not only dedication but also a strategic approach, especially if your target year is 2025. With the right plan and resources, aspirants can navigate the extensive syllabus and the intense competition. One such resource is the comprehensive foundation courses offered by PW OnlyIAS, which are designed to provide holistic support throughout the preparation journey. This blog outlines a One year preparation plan for UPSC 2025 and highlights how PW OnlyIAS can be a game-changer for your preparation.

One Year Plan for UPSC 2025 Preparation

Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam in a year requires a well-structured strategy, dedication, and consistency. This plan is designed to guide you through each phase of preparation, ensuring that you cover the vast syllabus while also developing the necessary skills to excel in all three stages of the exam. By following this plan, you can optimize your study time and enhance your chances of success in UPSC 2025.

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern (Month 1)

Before diving into the preparation, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the UPSC syllabus and exam pattern. The exam consists of three stages: Prelims, Mains, and the Interview. The syllabus is vast, covering subjects from history, geography, and polity to current affairs and ethics.

Download and print the UPSC syllabus for both Prelims and Mains.
Study the previous years’ question papers to understand the pattern and type of questions asked.
Identify your strengths and weaknesses in the subjects.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

2. Build a Strong Foundation (Months 2-4)

The first few months should focus on building a solid foundation in all General Studies (G.S.) subjects. This includes understanding basic concepts and interlinking them with current events.

Start with NCERTs and standard reference books for each subject.
Enroll in the Titan 2025 course by PW OnlyIAS if you are comfortable with English, or Prahar 2025 if you prefer Hinglish. Both courses offer a structured approach with two G.S. lectures daily.
Attend CSAT classes included in these courses to prepare for the increasingly challenging G.S. Paper II.

3. Integrate Current Affairs (Ongoing)

Current affairs are an integral part of UPSC preparation. Begin reading newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily, and make notes of important events.

Follow the Weekly Current Affairs Lectures provided by PW OnlyIAS, which are designed to keep you updated with all significant happenings.
Use resources like the Current Wallah monthly magazine from PW OnlyIAS for a consolidated view of monthly current affairs.

4. Practice Answer Writing and MCQs (Months 5-7)

Answer writing is crucial for Mains, while practicing multiple-choice questions (MCQs) is essential for Prelims. Developing these skills early on will help you manage time better during the actual exam.

Start practicing answer writing regularly with the guidance of Answer Writing Classes offered by PW OnlyIAS.
Daily MCQs and Mains questions, provided by PW OnlyIAS, help in consistent practice and understanding of the exam pattern.

5. Focus on Optional Subject (Months 8-9)

Your optional subject plays a significant role in your Mains score. Choose your optional wisely based on interest, availability of resources, and previous performance trends.

Dedicate time to cover the entire syllabus of your optional subject, ensuring a deep understanding of all topics.
Attend any available specialized classes or resources provided by PW OnlyIAS for optional subjects.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

6. Revision and Mock Tests (Months 10-11)

Revision is key to retaining what you’ve learned. Alongside revision, take mock tests to assess your preparation level and get accustomed to the exam environment.

Use the Udaan series for static quick revision and the Udaan 500+ compilations for current affairs revision, both provided by PW OnlyIAS.
Enroll in mock test series to simulate the exam scenario and identify areas of improvement.
Focus on revising through daily class notes and e-books offered by PW OnlyIAS.

7. Prelims and Mains Strategy (Month 12)

In the final month before the Prelims, focus entirely on Prelims preparation. After Prelims, shift focus to Mains preparation, particularly on answer writing, ethics, and essay.

In the last month before Prelims, take at least one mock test daily and revise both static and current topics.
After Prelims, begin intensive Mains preparation. Use Prahar Mains Wallah for quick revision booklets and prepare for the Interview stage with MIRP (Mains & Interview Residential Program) by PW OnlyIAS if you clear Prelims.

How PW OnlyIAS Helps Aspirants

PW OnlyIAS offers a range of foundation courses designed to cater to the diverse needs of UPSC aspirants. Here’s how these courses can be instrumental in your one year UPSC 2025 preparation plan:

Comprehensive Coverage with LIVE Classes

The foundation courses, such as Titan 2025 , Prahar 2025 , and others, offer live classes covering every aspect of the UPSC syllabus. With two G.S. lectures daily, aspirants can ensure comprehensive coverage of all subjects. The courses are available in various languages, catering to different linguistic preferences.

Access to Recorded Lectures

For those who may miss a live session or want to revisit a concept, recorded lectures are available. This flexibility allows aspirants to learn at their own pace without missing out on any content.

Integrated CSAT and Current Affairs Preparation

CSAT has become more challenging in recent years, and PW OnlyIAS includes CSAT classes in all its foundation courses. Additionally, weekly current affairs lectures keep aspirants updated with all relevant events, ensuring they are well-prepared for both Prelims and Mains.

Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store

Daily Practice and Revision Tools

Daily MCQs, Mains questions with model answers, and class notes provided by PW OnlyIAS ensure continuous practice and regular revision. This approach helps aspirants to retain information and apply it effectively in the exam.

Doubt Resolution and Personalized Support

PW OnlyIAS offers regular doubt sessions with faculty and a 24X7 Doubt Engine, ensuring that no query goes unresolved. This constant support system helps aspirants to stay focused and clear any conceptual or technical doubts immediately.

Specialized Resources for Prelims and Mains

The UPSC Wallah set of 24 comprehensive G.S. books, along with specialized resources like Udaan and Prahar Mains Wallah booklets, provide aspirants with all the study material needed for effective revision and preparation.

Mains & Interview Residential Program (MIRP)

Under the Titan 2025 Batch, aspirants who clear the 2025 Prelims will be offered the Mains & Interview Residential Program (MIRP) by PW OnlyIAS. Through this program, students are invited to their offline center for further preparation, including free residential facilities. This program provides a significant advantage, especially during the crucial Mains and Interview stages.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Preparing for UPSC 2025 within a year is undoubtedly challenging, but with a well-structured plan and the right guidance, it is achievable. PW OnlyIAS offers a robust foundation for aspirants, providing not just content but also the tools and support needed to succeed. Whether it’s through daily live classes, comprehensive study materials, or personalized doubt resolution, PW OnlyIAS equips aspirants with everything they need to crack the exam. With dedication, discipline, and the right resources, your dream of becoming a civil servant can be within reach.

We hope you found this post about the difference between UPSC prelims and mains beneficial. If you are preparing for UPSC, enroll in the PW’s best Online UPSC courses today!

FAQs On One Year Plan for UPSC 2025

Can i prepare for upsc 2025 in one year, what makes pw onlyias different from other coaching platforms, is there any offline support provided by pw onlyias, can i switch between the english and hinglish medium in pw onlyias courses, are there any resources provided for quick revision before the exam.

UPDATED :

Recommended For You

UPSC CDS 2 Exam Date 2024, Schedule, & Timing

UPSC NDA Exam Date 2024, Check NDA 1 & 2 Schedule

UPSC CDS 2 Admit Card 2024 Released & Steps to Download

UPSC NDA Admit Card 2024 Released & Steps to Download

UPSC 2025 Vacancy, Expected Numbers, & Notification

UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025 Date & Steps to Download

Latest comments.

Need help preparing for UPSC or State PSCs?

Connect with our experts to get free counselling & start preparing

THE MOST LEARNING PLATFORM

Learn From India's Best Faculty

Our Courses

Our initiatives, beginner’s roadmap, quick links.

PW-Only IAS came together specifically to carry their individual visions in a mission mode. Infusing affordability with quality and building a team where maximum members represent their experiences of Mains and Interview Stage and hence, their reliability to better understand and solve student issues.

Subscribe our Newsletter

Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.

Contact Details

G-Floor,4-B Pusha Road, New Delhi, 110060

+91 9920613613
[email protected]

Download Our App

Biginner's roadmap, suscribe now form, fill the required details to get early access of quality content..

Join Us Now

(Promise! We Will Not Spam You.)

CURRENT AF.

Select centre Online Mode Hybrid Mode PWonlyIAS Delhi (ORN) PWonlyIAS Delhi (MN) PWonlyIAS Lucknow PWonlyIAS Patna Other

Select course UPSC Online PSC ONline UPSC + PSC ONLINE UPSC Offline PSC Offline UPSC+PSC Offline UPSC Hybrid PSC Hybrid UPSC+PSC Hybrid Other

</div>

COMMENTS

ESSAY STRATEGY By Anudeep Durishetty, UPSC Civil Services Exam Topper
Anudeep Durishetty - UPSC IAS Rank - 1 write in detail his essay strategy with examples and illustrations. Follow this strategy to boost essay marks.
Essay Writing for Civil Services Examination
Beginning Essay Writing Practice makes perfect. For scoring good marks in the essay, one needs practice. But, before we get to the practising part, we should do some basic homework first. We would start by looking at what a well structured essay is, how it can be planned, what elements can be added to make the essay more scoring, and most importantly, how to do it all within the prescribed ...
WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE
UPSC IAS Essay writing practice for Mains essay paper is crucial in getting good marks in essay paper. Insights posts new essay topic every sunday.
Essay Writing for UPSC
Learn how to write essay in the UPSC Mains exam. Practice the art of essay writing for UPSC by solving the weekly essay topics shared by Vajiram and Ravi experts.
UPSC Civil Service Mains
UPSC Civil Service Mains - Preparation Strategy for Essay Paper While preparing for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam, aspirants spend a lot of time in handling the general studies and optional subjects as well. But they should also focus equally on Essay paper. You need to write two essays, for each one you get four topics to choose from.
How To Write A Good Essay In Civil Service Mains Exam?
Practice is the key! Subscribe to the ClearIAS YouTube Channel for more informative videos on UPSC preparation, tips, and strategies. Stay updated with our latest content and enhance your exam readiness. Practice, not talent, is the key to success. Make reading good essays a habit. And more importantly, start writing essays from today.
6 Easy Steps On Essay Writing For UPSC Mains Exam 2024
How to Write an Essay in UPSC? - Many times during IAS exam preparation, aspirants ignore the essay writing part with the confidence that they are well prepared for the UPSC Essay paper through their General Studies preparation. But to crack the mains exam you must know how to write essay in UPSC Exam.
How To Write An Essay For UPSC
Writing a strong essay is a crucial part of the UPSC exam. This guide provides valuable tips and strategies for crafting a winning essay, including how to choose a topic, structure your essay, and effectively communicate your ideas. Discover the common pitfalls to avoid, and learn how to use language and evidence effectively to make your arguments more compelling. Whether you're a beginner or ...
UPSC CSE 2021: AIR 17 Sarthak Agrawal's step-by-step strategy for essay
The key to putting together a strong response is to make an innovative and strong argument, suggests Sarthak (Graphic credits: Angshuman Maity) My key advice for the essay paper is to be argumentative and imaginative. An academic essay is a formal piece of writing with a clear structure.
Essay Course for UPSC CSE
How to write outstanding essays? Join ClearIAS Essay Course for UPSC CSE. Master the art of essay writing. Score extremely high in the exam.
Writing a good Essay in UPSC Mains, Explained by Anudeep Durishetty
But in essay, they are rather stale, lacking in any human element. I always believe that a good way to start your essay is to have that touch of humanity and warmth in your introduction. In my Mains exam, this was my introduction to the essay 'Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classroom'. "The year was 1945.
UPSC Essay Writing: How to Write a Perfect and Balanced Essay
A well-developed approach and practice can enhance your score in essay paper in UPSC IAS mains Essay writing. Vikram Grewal is best for essay writing. But it is very important to understand how to write a perfect & Balanced essay.
Daily UPSC Mains Essay Writing
Attempt Daily UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Questions and improve your answer writing skills for UPSC Mains Exam! Visit IAS Legacy IAS.
7 Easy Steps on Essay Writing for UPSC Mains Exam
7 Easy Steps on Essay Writing for UPSC Mains Exam The UPSC Mains Exam has a total of 9 papers which includes an essay paper as well. The Essay Paper in the IAS Mains Exam consists of two sections A and B with four topics each of 125 marks and a total of 250 (125×2) marks.
11 Tips: How To Start Answer Writing Practice For UPSC
The best way to start answer writing practice for UPSC mains is to first read and understand the question, develop a clear thesis statement, and then use a structured approach to organize your answer.
Essay Writing for UPSC: Books, Syllabus, How to Write Essay?
Essay Writing for UPSC: Candidates preparing for the 2023 Civil Services exam must be well versed in Essay Writing for UPSC as it is an important paper in the Mains exam. In the UPSC essay paper, 2 essays have to be written in 3 hours of time. Each essay carries 125 marks in total, which makes this paper worth 250 marks.
How to Improve Writing Skills for UPSC CSE Mains Exam?
Practice Answer Writing Regular practice of answer writing is also important for the UPSC CSE and one of the most reliable sources to begin their answer writing practice is the previous year's paper. Choose Previous Years' question papers and practice writing concise answers within the given time frame. Focus on developing a suitable argument, providing relevant examples, and structuring ...
How to Write Essay in UPSC Exam
How to Write Essay in UPSC Exam The Essay Paper is one of the nine papers in the UPSC civil services mains exam. In this paper, you will have to write two essays, each with a word count of 1000-1200. One topic can be selected from a choice of four topics. The Essay Paper is for a total of 250 marks, with one essay for 125 marks.
Useful Technique to Practice on Essay Topics for UPSC Civil Services
Useful Technique to Practice on Essay Topics for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam The essay paper was introduced in the year 1992 on the recommendations of the S. Chandra Committee. This paper was included in the UPSC Civil Services Examination to assess the candidates' skills that would help in their service while drafting policy papers and other government duties.
Essay Course for UPSC
Essay Course for UPSC. The Vajiram & Ravi Essay Course by Brijendra Sir offers aspirants a comprehensive platform to master the intricacies of essay writing, guiding them through the demanding path of UPSC Civil Services Exam preparation. Our meticulously designed Essay Course aims to: Enhance aspirants' competency across diverse essential themes.
Main Answer Writing Practice
1. Economic progress cannot come at the cost of democracy and civil liberties. 2. The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven. 10 Aug, 2024 Essay Essay. Case Study. You are the District Collector of a rural district with a high rate of female illiteracy and child marriage.
Tips for GS 2 Answer Writing in UPSC Mains
This is a sample chapter on GS-2 Answer Writing from my book, Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing. You will find complete strategy for GS 2.
How to Start Answer Writing Practice for UPSC- Step by Step ...
How to Start Answer Writing Practice for UPSC is an important question on every aspirant's mind. We in this article provide a Step by Step Guide for Beginners to start their answer writing practice for UPSC.
One Year Plan For UPSC 2025: How PW OnlyIAS Can Elevate Your
Start practicing answer writing regularly with the guidance of Answer Writing Classes offered by PW OnlyIAS. Daily MCQs and Mains questions, provided by PW OnlyIAS, help in consistent practice and understanding of the exam pattern. 5. Focus on Optional Subject (Months 8-9) Your optional subject plays a significant role in your Mains score.
Daily Answer Writing for UPSC CSE 2024/25
Link to join the Telegram Group: https://forms.gle/cnqAkwEBGF2Gupar5Focus : Daily Answer Writing for UPSC CSE 2024/25 | Day 50 | UPSC CSE 2024/25PRAYAS: Mast...
Answer Writing
Answer Writing | How to Start Mains Answer Writing for UPSC, UPPCS, MPPCS, BPSC, RAS | Adda247 IASIn this session, How to Start Mains Answer Writing for UPS...

Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
					3	4
						11
					17	18
						25
26	27	28	29	30	31

Search Here

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2024

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2023

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2022

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2021

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2020

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2019

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2018

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2017

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2016

WEEKLY ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2015

Writing a good Essay in UPSC Mains, Explained by Anudeep Durishetty

Search Articles

All India Open Test(Simulator X)

Essay Writing

How to Write a Perfect and Balanced Essay

What is an essay?

For full copy click here

What constitutes a good essay?

Essay Writing Strategy by Vikram Grewal (AIR 51, CSE 2018), A must watch session for more clarity.

A good essay should reflect...

Vikram Grewal's Copy, all the following things are considered by him:

Click Here for Full Copy

Brief for practicing essay writing – pre exam hall approach.

For Full Copy Click Here

Steps to be followed during examination:

Essay Copy: Vikram Grewal(AIR 51, CSE 2018)

Our Centers

User Register

Forgot Password

Call Us Now

For Enquiry

11 Tips: How To Start Answer Writing Practice For UPSC

UPSC Mains Exam Pattern

Related Posts

Article 70 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 65 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 213 Of The Indian Constitution

Article 254 Of The Indian Constitution

How to Improve Writing Skills for UPSC CSE Mains Exam?

Work on Fundamentals Before Starting Answer Writing Practice

How to Improve Writing Skills for the UPSC CSE Mains Exam?

Understand the Exam Requirements

Analyze Previous Year Questions

Practice Answer Writing

Work on Clarity and Precision

Develop Analytical Skills

Create a Strong Introduction and Conclusion

Read Model Answers

Time Management and Revision

Work on Personality Development

Join a Model Answer Writing Program

Top 10 Best-Selling ClearIAS Courses

About ClearIAS Team

Reader Interactions

Don’t lose out without playing the right game!

UPSC Online Preparation

Subscribe ClearIAS YouTube Channel

Get free study materials. Don’t miss ClearIAS updates.

IAS/IPS/IFS Online Coaching: Target CSE 2025

Cover the entire syllabus of UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains systematically.

Useful Technique to Practice on Essay Topics for UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam

Overview of UPSC Essay Writing

Tips on Essay Writing

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

IAS 2024 - Your dream can come true!

Essay Course for UPSC

Date of Commencement

Course Time

Utility of the Essay Paper

Name .css-jogj29{color:#E53935;} *

Achievers Corner

Mains & Interview

Current Affairs

Drishti Specials

Study Material

Test Series

Total Questions : 2246

Essay Topics