essay paper upsc 2014

• 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

Official Question Paper – – Essay: 2014 UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam

Please click the link below to access 2014 Mains official question paper of Essay Exam:

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

UPSC Mains (2014) Essay Question Paper

The IAS Main(Written) Exam 2014 commenced from 14 December 2014. The  Essay paper of IAS Main(Written) Exam 2014 is given as follows.  ( ESSAY (Ppaer) Time Allowed: Three Hours

Maximum Marks: 250

Write TWO Essays, choosing ONE from each of the Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:      5×2=250

Q.1)   With greater power comes greater responsibility.

Q.2)  Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?

Q.3)  Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress?

Q.4)  Words are Sharper than the two-edged sword.

Q.1)  Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?

Q.2)  Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?

Q.3)  Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India?

Q.4)  Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India?

Previous Year UPSC Mains Papers

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

• Free Downloads

UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination – 2014: ESSAY Paper

Categories: Optional

UPSC IAS Mains Essay (Compulsory) Paper – 2014

QUESTION PAPER SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS

(Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions)

The ESSAY must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. No marks will be given for answers written in medium other than the authorized one.

Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.

Any page or portion of the page left blank in the Question-cum-Answer Booklet must be clearly struck off.

Write TWO Essays, choosing ONE from each, of the Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

1. With greater power comes greater responsibility.

2. Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?

3. Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress?

4. Words are sharper than the two-edged sword.

1.Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the , growth of our country?

2. Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?

3. Fifty Golds in Olympics : Can this be a reality for India?

4. Tourism : Can this be the next big thing for India?

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

All Rights Reserved.

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

Home > Papers

Papers / 28 Feb 2024

(Download) UPSC IAS, Civil Services (Prelim) 2014 Solved Exam Question Paper "General Studies (GS Paper -1)" English Medium

(Download) UPSC IAS, Civil Services (Prelim) 2014 Solved Exam Question Paper "General Studies (GS Paper -1)" English Medium

Exam Name: UPSC IAS Civil Services Prelims 2014

Subject: General Studies (GS) Paper -1

Medium: English

1. What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'?

1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation. 2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this. 3. There is no application of chemical/ inorganic fertilizers at all in this. 4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. If a wetland of international importance is brought under the 'Montreux Record', what does it imply?

(a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference. (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilo metres from the edge of the wetland (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed (d) It is given the status of 'World Heritage Site'

3. Which one of the following pairs of islands is separated from each other by the 'Ten Degree Channel'?

(a) Andaman and Nicobar (b) Nicobar and Sumatra (c) Maldives and Lakshadweep (d) Sumatra and Java

4. Consider the following pairs :

Which of the above pairs

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None

5. With reference to Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), consider the following statements :

1. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests. 2. It strives to conserve nature through action-based research, education and public awareness. 3. It organizes and conducts nature trails and camps for the general public.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

6. With reference to 'Global Environment Facility', which of the following statements is/are correct?

(a) It serves as financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change' (b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global level (c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aim to protect their environment. (d) Both (a) and (b)

7. With reference to technologies for solar power production, consider the following statements:

1. 'Photovoltaics' is a technology that generates electricity by direct conversion of light into electricity, while 'Solar Thermal' is a technology that utilizes the Sun's rays to generate heat which is further used in electricity generation process. 2. Photovoltaics generates Alternating Current (AC), while Solar Thermal generates Direct Current (DC). 3. India has manufacturing base for Solar Thermal technology, but not for Photovoltaics.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None

8. Consider the following languages :

1. Gujatati 2. Kannada 3. Telugu

Which of the above has/have been declared as 'Classical Language / Languages' by the Government?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

9. Consider the following pairs

1. Dampa Tiger Reserve : Mizoram 2. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary : Sikkim 3. Saramati Peak : Nagaland

Which of the above pairs is /are correctly matched?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

10. With reference to a conservation organization called Wetlands International', which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. It is an intergovernmental organization formed by the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Convention. 2. It works at the field level to develop and mobilize knowledge, and use the practical experience to advocate for better policies.

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

11. With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements:

1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009. 2. South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping.

12. Consider the following diseases

1. Diphtheria 2. Chickenpox 3. Smallpox

Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

13. Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?

1. Continental drift 2. Glacial cycles

14. Other than poaching, what are the possible reasons for the decline in the population of Ganges River Dolphins?

1. Construction of dams and barrages on rivers 2. Increase in the population of crocodiles in rivers 3. Getting trapped in fishing nets accidentally 4. Use of synthetic fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals in crop-fields in the vicinity of rivers

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

15. The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to

(a) solve the problem of minorities in India (b) give effect to the Independence Bill (c) delimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan (d) enquire into the riots in East Bengal

16. Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?

1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.

17. Consider the following :

1. Bats 2. Bears 3. Rodents

The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) Hibernation cannot be observed in any of the above

18. Which one of the following is the largest Committee of the Parliament?

(a) The Committee on Public Accounts (b) The Committee on Estimates (c) The Committee on Public Undertakings (d) The Committee on Petitions.

19. Which of the following adds/add carbon dioxide to the carbon cycle on the planet Earth?

1. Volcanic action 2. Respiration 3. Photosynthesis 4. Decay of organic matter

(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

20. If you walk through countryside, you are likely to see some birds stalking alongside the cattle to seize the insects, disturbed by their movement through grasses. Which of the following is/are such bird/birds?

1. Painted Stork 2. Common Myna 3. Black-necked Crane

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only

21. In medieval India, the designations 'Mahattara' and 'Pattakila' were used for

(a) military officers (b) village headmen (e) specialists in Vedic rituals (d) chiefs of craft guilds

22. Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological suecession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of

(a) algae and bacteria (b) algae and fungi (c) bacteria and fungi (d) fungi and mosses

23. If you travel through the Himalayas, you are likely to see which of the following plants naturally growing there?

1. Oak 2. Rhododendron 3. Sandalwood

Select the correct answer using the code given below

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

24. Which of the following are some important pollutants released by steel industry in India?

1. Oxides of sulphur 2. Oxides of nitrogen 3. Carbon monoxide 4. Carbon dioxide

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 and 3 only (e) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

25. Which of the following Kingdoms were associated With the life of the Buddha?

1. Avanti 2. Gandhara 3. Kosala 4. Magadha

Select the correct nswer using the code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 3 and 4

26. Every year, a month long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/ tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes?

(a) Bhutia and Lepcha (b) Gond and Korku (e) lrula and Toda (d) Sahariya and Agariya

27. The sales tax you pay while purchasing a toothpaste is a

(a) tax imposed by the Central Government (b) tax tmposed by the Central Government but collected by the State Government (c) tax imposed by the State Government but collected by the Central Government (d) tax imposed and collected by the State Government

28. What does venture capital mean?

(a) A short-term capital provided to industries (b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs (c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses (d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries

29. The main objective of the 12th Five-Year Plan is

(a) inclusive growth and poverty reductions (b) inclusive and sustainable growth (c) sustainable and inclusive growth to reduce unemployment (d) faster, sustainable and more inclusive growth.

30. With reference to Balance of Payments, which of the following constitutes/constitute the Current Account?

1. Balance of trade 2. Foreign assets 3. Balance of invisibles 4. Special Drawing Rights

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 4

31. The terms 'Marginal Standing Facility Rate' and 'Net Demand and Time Liabilities', sometimes appearing in news, are used in relation to

(a) banking operations (b) communication networking (e) military strategies (d) supply and demand of agricultural products

32. What is/are the facility/facilities the beneficiaries can get from the services of Business Correspondent (Bank Saathi) in branchless areas?

1. It enables the beneficiaries to draw their subsidies and social security benefits in their villages. 2. It enables the beneficiaries in the rural areas to make deposits and withdrawals.

33. In the context of Indian economy; which of the following is/are the purpose/purposes of 'Statutory Reserve Requirements'?

1. To enable the Central Bank to control the amount of advances the banks can create 2. To make the people's deposits with banks safe and liquid 3. To prevent the commercial banks from making excessive profits 4. To force the banks to have sufficient vault cash to meet their day-to-day requirements

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

34. Recently, a series of uprisings of people referred to as 'Arab Spring' originally started from

(a) Egypt (b) Lebanono (c) Syria (d) Tunisia

35. Consider the following countries :

1. Denmark 2. Japan 3. Russian Federation 4. United Kingdom 5. United States of America

Which of the above are the members of the 'Arctic Council '?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 4 and 5 (d) 1, 3 and 5

36. Consider the following pairs :

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

37. Which reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. It is a surface-to-surface missile. 2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only. 3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away.

38. With reference to two non-conventional energy sources called 'coalbed methane' and 'shale gas', consider the following 'statements:

1. Coalbed methane is the pure methane gas extracted from coal seams, while shale gas is a mixture of propane and butane only that can be extracted from fine-grained sedimentary rocks. 2. In India abundant coalbed methane sources exist, but so far no shale gas sources have been found.

39. With reference to 'Changpa' community of India, consider the following statement :

1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand. 2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool. 3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes.

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

40. In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance. Which one of the following statements is correct in this context?

(a) The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics (b) The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas (c) The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of anti-histamines (d) It is a source of high quality biodiesel

41. Which of the following have coral reefs?

1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands 2. Gulf of Kachchh 3. Gulf of Mannar 4. Sunderbans

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

42. In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?

1. Terrace cultivation 2. Deforestation 3. Tropical climate'

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

43. The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

(a) Equatorial climate (b) Mediterranean climate (c) Monsoon climate (d) All of the above climates

44. With reference to the cultural history of India, the term 'Panchayatan' refers to

(a) an assembly of village elders (b) a religious sect (c) a style of temple construction (d) an administrative functionary

45. Consider the following rivers:

1. Barak 2. Lohit 3. Subansiri

Which of the above flows / flow through Arunachal Pradesh?

46. Consider the following pairs :

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (e) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

47. Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

(a) Mimamsa and Vedanta (b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika (c) Lokayata and Kapalika (d) Sankhya and Yoga

48. Consider the following pairs :

Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 3 and 4 (d) 2 and 4

49. Which one of the following Schedules of the Constitution of India contains provisions regarding anti-defection?

(a) Second Schedule (b) Fifth Schedule (e) Eighth Schedule (d) Tenth Schedule

50. The most important strategy for the conservation of biodiversity together with traditional human life is the establishment of

(a) biosphere reserves (b) botanical gardens (e) national parks (d) wildlife sanctuaries

51. Turkey is located between

(a) Black Sea and Caspian Sea (b) Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea (c) Gulf of Suez and Mediterranean Sea (d) Gulf of Aqaba and Dead Sea

52. What is the correct sequence of occurrence of the following cities in South-East Asia as one proceeds from south to north?

1. Bangkok 2. Hanoi 3. Jakarta 4. Singapore

(a) 4-2-1-3 (b) 3-2-4-1 (c) 3-4-1-2 (d) 4-3-2-1

53. The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 °C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 3 °C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?

1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur. 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear. 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in the world.

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

54. The national motto of India, 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below the Emblem of India is taken from

(a) Katha Upanishad (b) Chandogya Upanishad (c) Aitareya Upanishad (d) Mundaka Upanishad

55. In the Constitution of India, promotion of international peace and security is included in the

(a) Preamble to the Constitution (b) Directive Principles of State Policy (c) Fundamental Duties (d) Ninth Schedule

56. What are the benefits of implementing the 'Integrated Watershed Development Programme'?

1. Prevention of soil runoff 2. Linking the country's perennial rivers with seasonal rivers 3. Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table 4. Regeneration of natural vegetation

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

57. Which of the following are associated with 'Planning' in India?

1. The Finance Commission 2. The National Development Council 3. The Union Ministry of Rural Development 4. The Union Ministry of Urban Development 5. The Parliament

(a) 1, 2 and 5 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

58. Which of the following is / are the function/functions of the Cabinet Secretariat?

1. Preparation of agenda for Cabinet Meetings 2. Secretarial assistance to Cabinet Committees 3. Allocation of financial resources to the Ministries

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

59. Consider the following statements : A Constitutional Government is one which

1. places effective restrictions on individual liberty in the interest of State Authority 2. places effective restrictions on the Authority of the State in the interest of individual liberty

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

60. Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State?

1. Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President's rule 2. Appointing the Ministers 3. Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India 4. Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government

(a) 1 and 2 only. (b) 1 and 3 only. (c) 2, 3 and 4 only. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

61. If the interest rate is decreased in an economy, it will

(a) decrease the consumption expenditure in the economy (b) increase the tax collection of the Government (c) increase the investment expenditure in the economy (d) increase the total savings in the economy

62. Consider the following statements :

1. The President shall make rules for the more convenient transaction of the business of the Government of India, and for the allocation among Ministers of the said business. 2. All executive actions of the Government of India shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the Prime Minister.

63. Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India:

1. There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India. 2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only.

64. With reference to Neem tree, consider the following statements:

1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites. 2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents. 3. Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical industry.

65. Which one of the. following is the process involved in photosynthesis?

(a) Potential energy is released to form free energy (b) Free energy is converted into potential energy and stored (c) Food is oxidized to release carbon dioxide and water (d) Oxygen is taken, and carbon dioxide and water vapour are given out

66. In addition to fingerprint scanning, which of the following can be used in the biometric identification of a person?

1. Iris scanning 2. Retinal scanning 3. Voice recognition

67. Which of the following statements is / are correct regarding vegetative propagation of plants?

1. Vegetative propagation produces clonal population. 2. Vegetative propagation helps in eliminating the virus. 3. Vegetative propagation can be practiced most of the year.

68. Which of the following pair is/are correctly matched?

69. Consider the following pairs :

70. Which of the following is/are the example/examples of chemical change?

1. Crystallization of sodium chloride 2. Melting of ice 3. Souring of milk

71. The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its

(a) advisory jurisdiction (b) appellate jurisdiction. (c) original jurisdiction (d) writ jurisdiction

72. Consider the following techniques/phenomena:

1. Budding and grafting in fruit plants 2. Cytoplasmic male sterility 3. Gene silencing

Which of the above is/are used to create transgenic crops?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) None

73. Consider the following statements :

1. Maize can be used for the production of starch. 2. Oil extracted from maize can be a feedstock for biodiesel. 3. Alcoholic beverages can be produced by using maize.

(a) 1 only. (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

74. Among the following organisms, which one does not belong to the class of other three?

(a) Crab (b) Mite (c) Scorpion (d) Spider

75. The power to increase the number of judges in the Supreme Court of India is vested in

(a) the President of India (b) the Parliament (c) the Chief Justice of India (d) the Law Commission

76. Consider the following towns of India :

1. Bhadrachalam 2. Chanderi 3. Kancheepuram 4. Kamal

Which of the above are famous for the production of traditional sarees / fabric?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 3 and 4

77. Consider the following pairs :

78. Consider the following international agreements:

1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification 3. The World Heritage Convention

Which of the above has / have a bearing on the biodiversity?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only, (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

79. Consider the following statements regarding 'Earth Hour' :

1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO. 2. It is a movement in which the participants switch off the lights for one hour on a certain day every year. 3. It is a movement to raise the awareness about the climate change and the need to save the planet.

80. Which one of the following is the correct sequence of a food chain?

(a) Diatoms-Crustaceans-Herrings (b) Crustaceans-Diatoms-Herrings (c) Diatoms-Herrings-Crustaceans (d) Crustaceans-Herrings-Diatoms

81. The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until

(a) the First World War when Indian troops were needed by the British and the partition was ended. (b) King George V abrogated Curzon's Act at the Royal Darbar in Delhi in 1911 (c) Gandhiji launched his Civil Disobedience Movement (d) the Partition of India, in 1947 when East Bengal became East Pakistan

82. The 1929 Session of Indian, National Congress is of significance in the history of the Freedom Movement because the

(a) attainment of Self-Government was declared as the objective of the Congress (b) attainment of Poorna Swaraj Was adopted as the goal of the Congress (c) Non-Cooperation Movement was launched (d) decision to participate in the Round Table Conference in London was taken

83. With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements :

1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama. 2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam. 3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.

Which of the statements given above is /are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

84. Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to which one of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days?

(a) 22 March (or 21st March) (b) 15th May (or 16th May) (c) 31st March (or 30th March) (d) 21st April (or 20th April

85. With reference to the Indian history of art and culture, consider the following pairs:

Which of the pairs given above is/ are correctly matched?

86. The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a

(a) revolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco. (b) nationalist organization operating from Singapore (c) militant organization with headquarters at Berlin (d) communist movement for India's freedom with head-quarters at Tashkent

87. With reference to India's culture and tradition, what is 'Kalaripayattu'?

(a) It is an ancient Bhakti cult of Shaivism still prevalent in some parts of South India (b) It is an ancient style bronze and brasswork still found in southern part of Coromandel area (c) It is an ancient form of dance-drama and a living tradition in the northern part of Malabar (d) It is an ancient martial art and a living tradition in some parts of South India

88. Consider the following pairs :

1. Garba : Gujarat 2. Mohiniattam : Odisha 3. Yakshagana : Karnataka

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

89. With reference to Buddhist history, tradition and culture in India, consider the following pairs :

90. Consider the following statements:

1. 'Bijak' is a composition of the teachings of Saint Dadu Dayal. 2. The Philosophy of Pushti Marg was propounded by Madhvacharya.

91. A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their

(a) martial arts in North-East India (b) musical tradition in North-West India (c) classical vocal music in South India (d) pietra dura tradition in Central India

92. What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria's Proclamation (1858)?

1. To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States 2. To place the Indian administration under the British Crown 3. To regulate East India Company's trade with India

93. Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri was

(a) the mosque for the use of Royal Family (b) Akbar's private chamber prayer (c) the hall in which Akbar held discussions with scholars of various religions. (d) the room in which the nobles belonging to different religions gathered to discuss religious affairs

94. In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the 'Seed Replacement Rates' of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraint/ constraints in its wider / greater implementation?

1. There is no National Seeds Policy in place. 2. There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops. 3. There is a demand-supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops.

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 (d) None

95. With reference to 'Eco-Sensitive Zones', which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 . 2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities, in those zones except agriculture.

96. Consider the following statements:

1. Animal Welfare Board of India is established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. 2. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body. 3. National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

97. Consider the following pairs :

98. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products. Why?

1. They can accumulate in the environment, and contaminate water and soil. 2. They can enter the food chains. 3. They can trigger the production of free radicals.

99. Which of the following organizations brings out the publication known as 'World Economic Outlook'?

(a) The International Monetary Fund (b) The United Nations Development Programme (c) The World Economic Forum (d) The World Bank

100. With reference to Union Budget, which of the following, is/are covered under Non-Plan Expenditure?

1. Defence expenditure 2. Interest payments 3. Salaries and pensions 4. Subsidiess

(a) 1 only (b) 2 nd 3 only (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (d) None

:: Answer Keys ::

1. (b), 2. (a), 3. (a), 4. (d), 5. (c), 6. (a), 7. (a), 8. (c), 9. (c), 10. (b), 11. (b), 12. (b), 13. (c), 14. (c), 15. (c), 16. (c), 17. (c), 18. (b), 19. (c), 20. (b), 21. (b), 22. (b), 23. (a), 24. (d), 25. (c), 26. (b), 27. (d), 28. (b), 29. (d), 30. (c), 31. (a), 32. (c), 33. (a), 34. (d), 35. (d), 36. (a), 37. (a), 38. (d), 39. (b), 40. (b), 41. (a), 42. (b), 43. (c), 44. (c), 45. (b), 46. (a), 47. (c), 48. (c), 49. (d), 50. (a), 51. (b), 52. (c), 53. (b), 54. (d), 55. (b), 56. (c), 57. (c), 58. (c), 59. (b), 60. (b), 61. (c), 62. (a), 63. (c), 64. (c), 65. (b), 66. (d), 67. (c), 68. (b), 69. (d), 70. (b), 71. (c), 72. (b), 73. (d), 74. (a), 75. (b), 76. (b), 77. (d), 78. (d), 79. (c), 80. (a), 81. (b), 82. (b), 83. (b), 84. (a), 85. (c), 86. (a), 87. (d), 88. (c), 89. (c), 90. (d), 91. (b), 92. (a), 93. (c), 94. (b), 95. (d), 96. (b), 97. (a), 98. (d), 99. (a), 100. (c)

Click Here to Download 2014 Solved Paper GS (Paper -1) in PDF

Click here to download full gs (paper -1) hindi medium in pdf, click here to download full (csat paper - 2) english medium in pdf, click here to download full (csat paper - 2) hindi medium in pdf, << go back to main page, recent article.

Get in Touch

Social links.

Connect with social account.

Test Series

Dhyeya Educational Services Pvt. Ltd.

Plot No. A-12,13, Flat No. 201, 2nd Floor, Ansal Building, Mukherjee Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110009

Dhyeya IAS © 2024 | All rights reserved | Developed & Maintained by WNT / Sitemap.xml

Enquiry Now

Question Papers 2014

Prelims 2014 (Paper-I) To download Click here Prelims 2014 (Paper-II) To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) ESSAY Paper To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) Compulsory English Paper To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) General Studies Paper-I To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) General Studies Paper-II To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) General Studies Paper-III To download Click here UPSC (MAINS 2014) General Studies Paper-IV To download Click here

Subscribe Our Newsletter

Or login with

UPSC Essay Topic wise Question Papers of last 31 years (1993-2023) for Civil Services IAS/IPS Exam Free Download

In the UPSC mains examination, essay paper is worth 250 marks and three hours. Here is the topic wise questions from the earlier years for the benefit of civil service IAS IPS aspirants.

1.1 India Since Independence

1.2 federalism, decentralization, 1.3 administration, 1.4 judiciary, 1.5 poverty, social justice, 1.6 indian society, culture and values, 1.7 media, tv & cinema, literature, 2.1 growth vs development, 2.2 environment vs development, 2.4 sectors of economy, 3.1 values in education, 3.2 scheme implementation, 3.3 higher education, 4.1 character, honesty, ethics, 4.2 knowledge, 4.3 compassion, 4.4 truth and reality, 4.5 youth, discipline, 4.6 towards excellence, 5.1 @national politics, 5.2 @world / quote type, 5.3 empowerment overall, 5.4 compared to men, 6.1 globalization, 6.2 international org./ bilateral, 6.3 security, 6.4 history, 7.1 science and religion, 7.2 science and education, 7.3 computer and internet, 7.4 sci-tech: others, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2023, appendix: linear paper of upsc essay 2022, appendix: model answer pe free lecture & powerpoint, appendix: syllabus of essay paper in upsc, 1 india: democracy, administration, society, culture.

• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? -2013
• In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy -2012
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. -2015
• Why should we be proud of being Indians? -2000
• Whither Indian democracy? -1995
• How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? -2003
• What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. -1997
• What have we gained from our democratic set-up? -2001
• My vision of India in 2001 a.d. -1993
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. -2017
• Water disputes between States in federal India. -2016
• Cooperative federalism : Myth or reality. -2016
• Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication -2011
• Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. -2007
• Water resources should be under the control of the central government. -2004
• The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. -1998
• There are better practices to “best practices”. -2021
• How should a civil servant conduct himself? -2003
• Politics without ethics is a disaster. -1995
• The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy -1996
• Need for transparency in public administration -1996
• The country’s need for a better disaster management system. -2000
• Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. -1994
• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. -2017
• Justice must reach the poor -2005
• Judicial activism and Indian democracy. -2004
• Judicial activism. -1997
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।) – 2023
• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless (बिना आर्थिक समृद्धि के सामाजिक न्याय नहीं हो सकता, किन्तु बिना सामाजिक न्याय के आर्थिक समृद्धि निरर्थक है ) -2020
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness. -2019
• The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. -2009
• Food security for sustainable national development -2005
• Reservation, politics and empowerment. -1999
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have (जो हम है, वह संस्कार; जो हमारे पास है, वह सभ्यता ) -2020
• Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? -2000
• Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. -2000
• The composite culture of India. -1998
• The Indian society at the crossroads. -1994
• From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? -2010
• New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion -1996
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy. -2019
• Responsibility of media in a democracy. -2002
• Role of media in good governance -2008
• Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? -2011
• How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? -2007
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? -2014
• Mass media and cultural invasion. -1999
• The misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. -1998
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world (कवि संसार के अनधिकृत रूप से विधायक होते हैं) – 2022

2 Economy, Development

• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. -2018
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. -2016
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. -2016
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. -2016
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. -2015
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? -2014
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country-2013
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth? -2015
• Resource management in the Indian context. -1999
• Economic growth without distributive justice is bound to breed violence. -1993
• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence (आर्थिक समृद्धि हासिल करने के मामले में वन सर्वोत्तम प्रतिमान होते हैं।) – 2022
• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. -2018
• Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? -2010
• Urbanisation and its hazards -2008
• Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. -2006
• Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. -1997
• Ecological considerations need not hamper development. -1993
• Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. -2006
• Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs -1994
• Special economic zone: boon or bane -2008
• Is the criticism that the ‘Public-Private-Partnership’ (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified ?-2012
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India. -2017
• BPO boom in India. -2007
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? -2014
• Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? -2009

3 Education

• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in – school. (- शिक्षा वह है जो विद्यालय में विधालय में सीखी गई बातों को भूल जाने के बाद भी शेष रह जाती है।)
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. -2017
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil-2015
• Independent thinking should be encouraged right form the childhood. -2007
• Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? -2014
• Irrelevance of the classroom. -2001
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? -2014
• Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. -1996
• Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses ? -2008
• What is real education? -2005
• “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. -2006
• Restructuring of Indian education system. -1995
• Privatization of higher education in India. -2002
• Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges -2011

4 Quote based, Philosophy, Ethics

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities (हर असमंजस के लिए मुस्कराहट ही चुनिन्दा साधन है) – 2022
• Philosophy of wantlessness is a Utopian, while materialism is a chimera. -2021
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me. -2021
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication (सरलता चरम परिष्करण है ) -2020
• Ships don’t sink because of water around them ships sink because of water that gets into them (जहाज अपने चारों तरफ के पानी के वजह से नहीं डूबा करते, जहाज पानी के अंदर समां जाने की वजह से डूबता हैं ) -2020
• Life is a long journey between being human and being humane.  (मनुष्य होने और मानव बनने के बीच का लम्बा सफर ही जीवन है)-2020
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be -2019
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society -2019
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success -2019
• Wisdom finds truth -2019
• A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. -2018
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modem file. -2018
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. -2016
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. -2015
• With greater power comes greater responsibility. -2014
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. -2014
• Attitude makes, habit makes character and character makes a man. -2007
• He would reigns within himself and folds his passions and desires and fears is more than a king. -1993
• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।) – 2023
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।) – 2023
• The real is rational and the rational is real. -2021
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self (विचारपरक संकल्प स्वयं के शांतचित्त रहने का उत्प्रेरक है )-2020
• ‘The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. -2018
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. -2018
• There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. -2003
• Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. -1995
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. -2017
• Compassion is the basic of all morality of the world -1993
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. -2015
• Be the change you want to see in others (Gandhi)-2013
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. -2018
• Truth is lived, not taught -1996
• When money speaks, the truth is silent. -1995
• Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. -2002
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining (छप्पर मरम्मत करने का समय तभी होता है, जब धूप खिली हुई हो) – 2022
• You cannot step twice in the same river (आप उसी नदी में दोबारा नहीं उतर सकते) – 2022
• Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin -2008
• Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret -1994
• If youth knew, if age could. -2002
• Youth culture today. -1999
• Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? -2014
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।) – 2023
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।) – 2023
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है) – 2023
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) – 2022
• Quick but steady wins the race. -2015
• Useless life is an early death. -1994
• Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -1995
• The paths of glory lead but to the grave. -2002
• The pursuit of excellence. -2001

5 Women empowerment

• Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. -1997
• Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. -2006
• The new emerging women power: the ground realities. -1995
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world. -2021
• If women ruled the world -2005
• The hand that rocks the cradle -2005
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality (पितृ-सत्ता की व्यवस्था नजर मैं बहुत काम आने के बावजूद सामाजिक विषमता की सबसे प्रभावी संरचना है) -2020
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. -2017
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered. -2016
• Whither women’s emancipation? -2004
• Empowerment alone cannot help our women. -2001
• Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. -1999
• Woman is god’s best creation. -1998
• Men have failed: let women take over. -1993
• Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal ?-2012

6 International issues, Internal Security, History

• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities. -2019
• Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. -1994
• ‘globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’ -2009
• National identity and patriotism -2008
• Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. -2004
• The masks of new imperialism. -2003
• As civilization advances culture declines. -2003
• The implications of globalization for India. -2000
• My vision of an ideal world order. -2001
• India’s contribution to world wisdom. -1998
• The world of the twenty-first century. -1998
• Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. -2010
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंधों मैं मौन करक के रूप मैं प्रौद्योगिकी) -2020
• Has the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world ? -2017
• Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities -1996
• The global order: political and economic -1993
• India’s role in promoting ASEAN co-operation. -2004
• Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement -2006
• Management of Indian border dispute is a complex task. -2018
• In the Indian context , both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism -2011
• Are we a ‘soft’ state ? -2009
• Good fences make good neighbours -2009
• Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? -2007
• Terrorism and world peace -2005
• True religion cannot be misused. -1997
• History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce. -2021
• Geography may remain the same ; history need not. -2010

7 Science-Technology

• Spirituality and scientific temper. -2003
• Science and Mysticism : Are they compatible ?-2012
• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge! -2021
• Modern technological education and human values. -2002
• Value-based science and education. -1999
• The march of science and the erosion of human values. -2001
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. -2021
• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling. -2019
• ‘Social media’ is inherently a selfish medium. -2017
• Cyberspace and Internet : Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run -2016
• Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. -2006
• The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. -2000
• Computer: the harbinger of silent revolution. -1993
• Technology cannot replace manpower. -2015
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation-2013
• The modern doctor and his patients. -1997
• The lure of space. -2004

Section-A (write any one)

• Thinking is like a game, it does not begin unless there is an opposite team. (- सोच एक खेल की तरह है, यह तब तक शुरू नहीं होता है जब तक कि एक विपरीत टीम/पक्ष न हो।)
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic. (- दूरदर्शी निर्णय तभी लिए जाते है अंतर्ज्ञान और तर्क का परस्पर मेल होता है।)
• Not all who wander are lost. (- भटकने वाले सभी गुम नहीं हो जाते।)
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane (- रचनात्मकता की प्रेरणा अलौकिक ता में चमत्कार ढूंढने के प्रयास से उपजति है)

Section-B (write any one)

• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines. (-लड़कियां बंदिशों के तथा लड़के अपेक्षा के बोझ तले दबे हुए होते हैं दोनों ही समान रूप से हानिकारक व्यवस्थाएं हैं।)
• Mathematics is the music of reason. (- गणित ज्ञान का संगीत है।)
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity. (- जिस समाज में अधिक न्याय होता है उस समाज को दान की कम आवश्यकता होती है।)

Answer one-one essay from each section in 1000-1200 words

• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man (इतिहास वैज्ञानिक मनुष्य के रूमानी मनुष्य पर विजय हासिल करने का एक सिलसिला है।) – 2022
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for (जहाज बन्दरगाह के भीतर सुरक्षित होता है, परन्तु इसके लिए तो वह होता नहीं है) & 2022
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right (केवल इसलिए कि आपके पास विकल्प हैं, इसका यह अर्थ कदापि नहीं है कि उनमें से किसी को भी ठीक होना ही होगा) – 2022

Essay: 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 orderly fashion, and to write concisely. Credit will be given for effective and exact expression.

• Study Notes
• Current Affairs
• Getting Started

NEW!   The Gist (AUG-24)  | E-BOOKS

HOT!   UPSC IAS COMPLETE PDF NOTES  

(Download) Essay Paper of IAS, UPSC Mains 2014 (Marks 250)

(download) upsc mains 2014: essay compulsory, question paper.

Marks : 250 (125x2)

Duration: 3 hours

Write Two Essays, choosing One from each of the Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each.

Section-A (125 marks) - Choose any one Essay

Write any one of the following essay in 1000 to1200 words., with greater power comes greater responsibility., is the growing level of competition good for the youth, are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress, words are sharper than the two-edged sword., section-b (125 marks)- choose any one essay, was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country, is sting operation an invasion on privacy, fifty golds in olympics: can this be a reality for india, tourism: can this be the next big thing for india, dear members: lets discuss paper by adding your answers in the comments section below , our moderators will evaluate your answers and give tips..

Courtesy: UPSC

Click here for Download full Paper PDF

(e-book) upsc mains essay (compulsory) papers ( 2000-2020 ) pdf, download upsc mains gs 10 year papers pdf, download upsc pre gs 10 year papers pdf, download upsc mains gs solved papers pdf, printed study material for ias mains general studies, join online ias coaching for general studies mains.

• root's blog

NEW!   UPSC IAS COMPLETE NOTES

NEW!   UPSC MAINS G.S. 12 Years Solved Papers

NEW! UPSC Exam Complete Study Notes (PDF Available)

• ALERT: UPSC IAS, IPS, IFS 2025-2026 Exam...
• Download UPSC IAS PRELIM (GS+CSAT) Question...
• (Download) UPSC Toppers Study Notes PDF
• UPSC Exam Complete Study Notes 2025-2026 (...
• (Download) UPSC, IAS MAINS Exam Previous...
• Getting Started for UPSC, IAS Exam - FAQ for...
• UPSC Civil Services PRELIM Exam 2024, 2025...
• UPSC आईएएस प्रारंभिक परीक्षा पिछले वर्ष के...
• Download E-Books PDF for UPSC IAS Exams
• (Date Sheet) UPSC IAS EXAM Calendar 2024
• New! THE HINDU, YOJANA, PIB PDF
• New! UPSC PRELIM Papers 2004-2024
• IAS परीक्षा पेपर in Hindi 2004-2024
• UPSC Syllabus PDF Download
• New! IAS MAINS Papers 2010-2023
• PDF Study Notes for UPSC (Hot!)
• E-books PDF Download  
• NCERT Books Download  | NCERT Hindi PDF
• New! UPSC MAINS SOLVED PAPERS PDF
• OLD NCERT PDF  
• UPSC 2024 Exam Calendar

UPSC 2024-25  |  Papers  |  PDF Notes  | Coaching  | E-Books

UPSC Hindi  |  यूपीइससी 2024-25   |  पेपर्स  |  IAS HINDI NOTES  

Disclaimer: IAS EXAM PORTAL (UPSC PORTAL) is not associated with Union Public Service Commission, For UPSC official website visit - www.upsc.gov.in

About Us | Contact Us | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

© 2006-2024 IAS EXAM PORTAL - India's Largest Online Community for IAS, Civil Services Aspirants.

UPSC Mains Essay Question Paper - 2014 | UPSC Previous Year Question Papers and Video Analysis PDF Download

Top Courses for UPSC

FAQs on UPSC Mains Essay Question Paper - 2014 - UPSC Previous Year Question Papers and Video Analysis

shortcuts and tricks

Upsc mains essay question paper - 2014 | upsc previous year question papers and video analysis, viva questions, semester notes, mock tests for examination, extra questions, past year papers, study material, video lectures, sample paper, important questions, practice quizzes, objective type questions, previous year questions with solutions.

UPSC Mains Essay Question Paper - 2014 Free PDF Download

Importance of upsc mains essay question paper - 2014, upsc mains essay question paper - 2014 notes, upsc mains essay question paper - 2014 upsc questions, study upsc mains essay question paper - 2014 on the app.

Welcome Back

Create your account for free.

Forgot Password

Unattempted tests, change country, practice & revise.

• IAS Preparation
• UPSC Question Papers
• UPSC Civil Services Exam Question Paper 2014

Civil Services Exam Question Papers - 2014

UPSC question paper 2014 PDF/UPSC  2014 prelims question paper

2014 UPSC prelims question paper:

Civil Services Preliminary Exam Question Papers – 2014

• General Studies Paper I
• General Studies Paper II
• General Studies Paper II (X Series)

Civil Services Mains Exam Question Papers – 2014

ESSAY GENERAL STUDIES

English Language (Compulsory)

Also check | UPSC Question Papers

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request OTP on Voice Call

Post My Comment

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.

Essay (UPSC Mains) - Previous Year Questions

Looking for comprehensive preparation for the UPSC Mains Essay paper? Explore our collection of previous year questions from 2013 to 2023. Get insights, practice, and boost your chances of success with Past year questions and answers.

• Thinking is like a game; it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.
• Visionary decision-making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.
• Not all who wander are lost.
• Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
• Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands — two equally harmful disciplines.
• Mathematics is the Music of Reason.
• A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.
• Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

Value based / Ethical Issues

• A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities.
• Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.

Philosophical

• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
• You can not step twice in the same river.
• A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for.

Miscellaneous / Mixed

• Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence. (Environment / Economics)
• Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world ( Literature / Socio-political-economic impacts)
• History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man ( History / Values / Philosophy)
• Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
• Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.
• The real is rational and the rational is real.
• Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

History / Culture

• History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

Science and Technology

• What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
• There are better practices to “best practices”. ( Multiple Themes )
• The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced. ( Philosophy / Technology)
• Life is long journey between human being and being humane.
• Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self.
• Ships do not sink because of water around them; ships sink because of water that gets into them.
• Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
• Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.

Social Issues

• There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless.
• Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
• Technology as the silent factor in international relations ( Technology / International Relation ).
• Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be.
• Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success.
• Wisdom finds truth.
• South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities.
• Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society.
• Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness.

Science & Technology

• Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling.
• Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy.
• A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.
• A people that value its privileges above its principles lose both.
• “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values.
• Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life.
• Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it.
• Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere.

Environment

• Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India.

IR & Security

• Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task.
• Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
• Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth.
• Social media is inherently a selfish medium Domain.
• Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multi-polar world Domain.
• Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India Domain. ( Agriculture )
• Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India Domain.
• Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms.

Polity & Governance

• We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws Domain.
• Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed.
• If development is not engendered, it is endangered.
• Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run Domain.
• Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms.
• Water disputes between states in federal India Domain.
• Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality India.
• Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. ( Technology / Economy)
• Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare Domain. ( Technology / Economy / Social Sector)
• Character of an institution is reflected in its leader.
• Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole.
• Quick but steady wins the race.
• Technology cannot replace manpower.
• Can capitalism bring inclusive growth?
• Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. ( Education / Ethics)
• Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. ( Morality / Economics)
• With greater power comes greater responsibility.
• Words are sharper than the two-edged sword.
• Is sting operation an invasion on privacy?
• Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country?
• Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India?
• Is the growing level of competition good for the youth?
• Are the standardized tests, good measure of academic ability or progress?
• Dreams which should not let India sleep. ( Multiple themes )
• Fifty Gold’s in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? ( Sports / Governance )
• Be the change you want to see in others – Gandhiji
• Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation.
• GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.
• Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s Success? ( History / Culture / Growth & Development / Ethics )

Trending now

• 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

Make Your Note

Essay Writing for Civil Services Examination

• 13 Aug 2018
• 20 min read

Understanding Essay Writing

An essay is a short piece of writing that sheds light on any given topic. M.H. Abrams, the American literary critic, notes that the essay is “Any short composition in prose that undertakes to discuss a matter, express a point of view, or persuade us to accept a thesis on any subject.”

Broadly speaking, there are two types of essays - formal and informal. In the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), we are concerned with the formal essay. The formal essay is relatively impersonal, the author writes it as an authority and such essays tend to be less emotional. Formal essays can also have factual elements in it, like quoted statistics from a government report etc. It is never in the form of a conversation, never uses first-person references and seldom gets intimate with the audience. In short, a formal essay has a certain degree of seriousness attached to it.

Essay writing for CSE

• For the CSE essay paper, two essays have to be written under 3 hours in the 1000-1200 word limit. Each essay carries 125 marks for a total of 250.
• The essay paper is divided into two sections - A and B, each carrying a choice of 4 essays each, and the aspirant has to choose only one essay from each section.
• The instructions in the syllabus are clear in what is being expected from the aspirant. Aspirants are ‘expected to keep their thoughts closely to the subject and arrange their ideas accordingly.It furthur tates that, credit will be given for effective and coherent expression’.
• The underlined keywords are important because after content, these are the exact parameters on which the essay will be evaluated. 

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 time limit.

Basic structure of an essay

The most common method of structuring a essay is breaking it up into paragraphs. In this technique, besides the introduction and the conclusion, there will be body-paragraphs. In these body-paragraphs, the aspirant will have to fit in all his content.

• Body-paragraphs can broadly be supportive, critical or narrative. Ideally, one can start any argument in an aptly phrased narrative paragraph which describe the topic in some detail and then move on to a supportive paragraph containing a few positive facts/ideas on the topic. Though critical paragraphs look best when they are placed last, there are no such rules, and for some topics it can be used as the opening paragraph for the topic.
• The most important part of the essay is perhaps the introduction. First impressions are very important, and a well thought out introduction will definitely make a positive impression on the examiner. We will discuss how to write a proper introduction later in this strategy.
• Similarly, the conclusion is where one can score additional marks if done properly. This will also be discussed later.

Keywords of the essay syllabus

• 'closely': Any deviation from the topic will be tolerated only up to a certain point. One must, therefore, as a rule stick as closely as possible to the topic at hand. Any example, quote, anecdote or reference must be on topic or related closely to it.
• 'arrange': The essay must be in an arranged form. The aspirant is supposed to plan ahead and form a structure of the essay before actually writing it down.
• 'orderly': The ideas or arguments put forward in the essay must follow an order. A haphazard essay that does not flow sequentially, must be avoided at all costs.
• 'concise': The essay and the matter discussed therein must be expressed as precisely possible. Clarity of thought and brevity of expression is what is looked for in the CSE essay.
• 'effective': The essay must be written in a language that makes a strong impression. Thus, one needs to be conveying a point with every sentence, every paragraph. Flowery language is best avoided.
• 'coherent': Coherence is required of all forms of writing, including answer writing, but in the CSE essay one must be extra careful to check that all individual sentences in the essay are making sense. Also, paragraphs as a whole must convey a clear and well thought out exposition on the theme of the essay.

Planning to write an essay

A good essay needs planning. There are three steps to it - defining or understanding what the essay is going to be about in very clear terms, brainstroming on the topic and thirdly, devising the outline of the essay.

Central idea of the thesis statement

• All CSE essays have a thesis statement. For example, in CSE 2016, the following essay was asked— ‘Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare’ . Here the central idea is ‘innovation’. The aspirant is supposed to explore those dimensions of innovation that affect ‘economic growth and social welfare’. In doing so, the aspirant should not veer from the central topic of innovation but if possible add a few related ideas which may supplement the overall central idea that not only socio-economic but also other areas like technology and culture are affected by forces of innovation.
• In another essay asked in CSE— ‘Water disputes between States in federal India’ – the central idea is how the water disputes between various Indian states have played out and what are its various dimensions. Constitutional, legal, social and political dimensions, for ex, are a must for addressing this topic. In order to find out the various dimensions of any given topic we should perform a brainstorming exercise.

Brainstorming for essay writing

• Brainstorming for essay is a crucial step. Brainstorming helps you get all the ideas at one place for quick reference. There are no hard and fast rules, but typically one can begin with the given topic and immediately start listing the things that come to mind. One can ideally devote an entire page for this exercise.

Brainstorming guide

• The first requirement for brainstorming is focus. One should be able to focus single-mindedly on the job at hand, which in this case is jotting down as many points as possible regarding the essay topic.
• Boundaries must also be properly defined. If the topic does not absolutely require a particularly complex point or if it does not require following a difficult train of thought, it should be avoided. Keeping the essay as simple as possible without sacrificing the most valid points is what we should be looking for.
• Then we must set a time limit for the brainstorming session. Ideally, for CSE that time limit works out to about 25 minutes per essay. Within that time limit one is supposed to come up with all the necessary points and plans for writing the essay.
• Another important point to be made here is that aspirants should have a fair understanding regarding  the expectations of the CSE examiner from the essay. Every topic will have some basic ideas that the aspirants must necessarily try to explore or address. During brainstorming such a requirement can be searched for.
• In the brainstorming exercise one may also take help of diagrams, flow-charts, mind-maps etc., if needed. Sometimes doing this may clear things up to a great extent or even save precious time.
• Three things that one must exclusively do while brainstorming are — identify causes and factors, define the various issues and make a list of associated ideas. Doing this is key to success in the entire brainstorming exercise.

Adding elements to the essay

• Any good essay will definitely have a multitude of elements and dimensions to it. For CSE essay writing, there are certain basic rules that one can follow while searching for these elements and dimensions.
• The first of such rules would be to follow and uphold Constitutional values at all times . This is very crucial for essay writing in CSE, that the values enshrined in our Constitution reflect in whatever idea, problem or solution we discuss in the essay. At no point should one try and support an idea that is unconstitutional.
• One must also be democratic while addressing issues . The concepts of ‘freedom and equality’ should be the guiding principles while suggesting solutions and while criticising events or issues.
• Generally, one must also avoid taking absolutist/non-compromising positions . In fact, the best way to handle complex problems is to find the middle ground.
• One must also try not to make sweeping generalisations on any given issue. Instead, there should be hints of patience, justice and understanding in addressing or discussing any given topic.
• Lastly, there are two more things that an aspirant need to keep in mind while attempting the CSE essay. (A) Do not question the topic itself, which is to say, in other words, do not contradict yourself. Pick a position (ideally, the middle path) and stay true to it throughout the essay. (B) Never use positively, things that are universally considered or used in a negative sense, and vice-versa. For ex, one must not say that ‘terrorism’ under certain conditions is equivalent to a freedom struggle, even though quotes like ‘one man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter’ are quite common.

Elements in an essay

• The three basic elements — social, political and economic — form the bedrock of a good CSE essay.
• To these, one may add other dimensions like Constitutional, legal, technological, technical etc. 
• Another important element is the persona Good personal experiences or anecdotes can no doubt be used to increase the effectiveness of the essay but these should stay within the accepted framework of ethical conduct.

PESTLE Analysis

• Political – Economic – Sociological – Technological – Legal – Environmental Analysis.
• Use PESTLE Analysis to figure out the various aspects, dimensions, factors etc of any given topic.

Outlining the essay

• Before writing the essay, it is best to outline it. To outline an essay means to figure out what to say in the introduction/conclusion, which idea comes where, or even what quote to use for the essay etc.
• Outlining the essay in rough helps us grasp the entirety of the essay before actually writing it. It helps us get the big picture, and also see what we could be missing.
• It is said that once we can figure out the conclusion to our essay, it becomes much easier to not only begin but finish it with confidence.

Writing An Essay 

Sticking to the time limit

In the CSE, one has to write two essays in 3 hours which translates into 1 hour 30 minutes for each essay. Out of this, around 45 minutes to 1 hour will be required to write one essay. One can add another 10 minutes for the revision of one essay. This leaves us with roughly 30 minutes of time to prepare the essay in rough, and it includes time for carrying out the brainstorming and outlining exercises.

How to introduce the essay

• The goal of the introduction should be to arouse the reader’s interest in the topic and to prepare the reader for what is to follow.
• A good introduction to the essay can be a brief explanation of the essay topic itself. It can be made further interesting by adding to it some personal experience, or some relevant anecdotes or quotes
• The introduction should not be confusing or lacking in clarity, rather it should be able to immediately clear up any doubts regarding the topic if there is any.

Writing in paragraphs

• In a stand-alone paragraph, the concluding sentence announces that the paragraph is finished, complete. In an essay, the concluding sentence of a paragraph is more likely to play the role of a transitional device, joining one paragraph to the next.
• Flow is very important in an essay. It is also connected to writing order. Writing orders are of two types
• Known-to-New is the order of writing where the author by choice goes from known (given) concepts to unknown ones. New material is gradually added to build on the unknown.
• Simple-to-Complex is the order of writing where the author first establishes a base of concepts that are easily understood and then develops over it increasingly complex ideas.
• One can use the FREQOES method to add matter to the various paragraphs.

How to conclude the essay

• The essay can be concluded in the following ways - restating the main points in brief and with different wordings (summarizing), suggesting a way forward or a course of action, or adding an interesting personal comment or any relevant anecdote.
• Another way to conclude the essay is by returning to the discussion begun in the introduction. This is called the ‘cyclic return’ and a lot of essays follow this simple method of concluding an essay.
• The conclusion should bear a positive outlook, it should see the silver lining in the clouds. It should also be as clear and concise as possible.

Revising the essay

• To revise, read the essay in its entirety, underlining (preferably with scale and pencil) important words or phrases. Correct spelling or grammatical mistakes if any. Make sure the pages look clean and tidy.
• One may add or omit a few words but it should not be overdone. It is also not advisable that entirely new ideas/sentences are inserted in the essay at the time of revision, unless such information is critical to the essay.

Some tips on essay writing

• One can go through the CSE previous year’s essays and understand the concepts, dimensions and solutions required to solve those. Having a simple understanding of complex social problems is the secret to writing a good essay for the CSE.
• One can also keep handy a small collection of quotes or quotable phrases and citable anecdotes to be used while writing the essay. This keeps one prepared for writing any type of essay.

• 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

Essay Syllabus – Civil Services Mains Exam UPSC

Last updated on April 3, 2024 by Alex Andrews George

Table of Contents

Tips for UPSC Essay Paper from ClearIAS.com

Do keep in mind the below-mentioned tips. Following these strategies can make a huge boost in your Essay Paper marks .

• Try to write a few essays in full during your preparation, simulating the environment in the examination hall.
• Familiarize yourself with previous essays asked by UPSC so that you will have a clear picture of the type and standard of questions to be expected.
• UPSC/the examiner normally gives credit to new perspectives and fresh analysis.
• Avoid verbosity and flowery language. Use a simple style instead.
• You may use relevant quotes to reinforce your arguments. But never try to alter the quotes of great personalities.
• Good handwriting is always an asset. If your handwriting is not legible, put some effort into that area.
• Make your statements precise. Avoid guesses.
• The introductory paragraph should have clear indications about what you are going to write in the essay.
• You may show your inferences in the concluding paragraph.

Also read:   ClearIAS launches Essay Writing Course for UPSC

Additional Links:

• Useful Civil Services Books .
• Civil Services Study Materials for Online Preparation .
• IAS Question Papers .

Top 8 Best-Selling ClearIAS Courses

Upsc prelims cum mains (pcm) gs course: unbeatable batch 2025 (online), rs.75000   rs.29000, 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 Alex Andrews George

Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

He is the author of many best-seller books like 'Important Judgments that transformed India' and 'Important Acts that transformed India'.

A trusted mentor and pioneer in online training , Alex's guidance, strategies, study-materials, and mock-exams have helped many aspirants to become IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.

Reader Interactions

October 16, 2015 at 12:03 am

Hello sir…. May I know what is the language to write an essay…. I mean English or hindi…thanks

August 8, 2016 at 7:44 pm

Your exam medium is essay langauge

July 7, 2022 at 1:37 am

What types of eassy come in upsc?

May 12, 2016 at 12:59 am

Hello sir…… May I know that what is trade under in IAS. & which is the best course after 12th & which is the best subjects for IAS preparation.

August 28, 2020 at 7:20 am

Make any one of the optional subject as your UG stream .it will help you in the preparation

May 23, 2016 at 7:03 am

plz suggest me books for essay in hindi and english language

October 5, 2016 at 12:25 pm

pls tell me good essay book of bengali version.

December 2, 2016 at 9:15 pm

January 7, 2017 at 4:53 pm

Wt is the medium of essay writing Any language…? We can choose

February 18, 2017 at 9:25 pm

suggest some topics for essay writing

October 13, 2017 at 3:24 pm

Which syllabus for essay writing

October 13, 2017 at 3:26 pm

which topics for essay writing tell me please

April 7, 2017 at 4:45 pm

One of the most discriptive and very helpful website for civil services aapirants..

November 8, 2018 at 1:36 pm

Sir IAS yaa IPS Ke liye physical yaa medical exam bhi dena hota h kya

November 22, 2018 at 11:45 am

PLEASE CLEAR CIVIL SERVICE MAINS PAPER A & B

August 5, 2019 at 9:49 am

my mother tongue is Bengali .can I give the mains exam in Bengali??

August 10, 2019 at 1:15 pm

Hello sir!! Can I know from which topic these essays will be given. Like, generally or from optional subjects we choose?!

September 14, 2019 at 12:39 pm

Go through the previous years question papers to find out what type of essay do UPSC ask

October 13, 2019 at 10:52 am

Sir , What are those tips & advices you are gonna give for school students who’s aim is to become an IAS officer ?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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.

• Web Stories
• Soch with Coach
• Straight Up

UPSC Mains 2024 Preparation — Essay, Ethics, and Optional Papers | Day 1: Essay Writing - Understanding Basics

Weekly Distribution Overview:

Essay:  Develop a clear, structured approach to essay writing. Practice writing essays on a variety of topics, drawing from current events and your static knowledge.

Ethics (GS Paper 4):  Focus on understanding key ethical theories, values, and applying them to case studies. Incorporate relevant current affairs to enrich your answers.

Optional Paper:  Deep dive into your optional subject, revising key concepts and practicing answer writing with a focus on depth and clarity.

1. What's the structure?

Understand the basic structure of an essay — introduction, body, and conclusion. Ensure you can craft a clear thesis statement and support it with logical arguments.

2. Let's review

Review past year's essay questions to identify patterns and common themes. For example, questions related to "education" or "social justice" are frequently asked.

Practice writing essays on two different topics. Choose one from current affairs (Example, "The Role of Technology in Modern Education") and one from a static theme (Example, "Democracy and its Challenges in the 21st Century").

4. Let's take a look at an example

In the 2020 UPSC Mains, candidates were asked to write an essay on "Technology as the Silent Factor in International Relations." Practice structuring your essays with clear arguments supported by examples from history and current events.