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What to Keep In Mind When Writing Essays In UPSC?

In the UPSC exam, the ninth paper is the essay paper that candidates need to attend when they move on to the UPSC Mains. It carries 250 marks, 125 marks for each essay. Although there is no prescribed syllabus for the essay paper, however, rigorous practice and analyzing the previous years’ question papers will help you get an idea about writing good essays. Besides, you can also attend the essay test series conducted by various IAS institutions in Delhi. The essays in UPSC demands candidates to think critically. Here are some pointers that you need to keep in mind while writing essays in the UPSC exam.


1.     Selecting the topic


First and foremost, the candidates are asked to select a topic. The essay paper is divided into two sections. Each section has four essay topics from which you have to choose two topics, one from each section. Each essay bears 125 marks. Choose a topic that you are comfortable and confident to write about. Don’t pick any topic about which you do not know what to write. Also, stay away from those topics that can create controversial opinions.


2.     Ideation


After you have finally selected the topic, now is the time to think about it and jot down the points. Make sure that the points that you have formed can all be connected to one another. The more points you can gather, the more marks you can secure. Remember, all the points need to be appropriately justified.


3.     Arranging the ideas


Arrange the ideas of the essay in such a sequence that they maintain logical consistency. For example, if you have jotted down eight points in rough, place all these eight points to look logical. After you have arranged them all, add a good introduction and a conclusion.


4.     Referring to figures and facts


Whatever points you put up should be justified with related facts and figures. You have to substantiate your answer with relevant facts and figures. For example, suppose you are writing about any significant event. You need to put up the facts and figures associated with it. Do not makeup figures and information. If you do not know anything or are not confident about anything, leave it like that.


5.     Avoid deviating from the topic


Many candidates lose marks in the essay because of not writing to the point. Deviating from the topic or beating around the bush does not make your essay interesting to read. Once you go off the topic, your essay loses the strength and vigor that it should have.


6.     Conciseness


Each essay consists of a word limit of 1000 – 1200 words. Many students have in mind that writing long essays will fetch you a lot of marks. Remember, you have a time limit to finish the paper. If you spend too much time behind one essay, you are sure to leave the paper incomplete. Keeping in mind the word limit, including all the points that can justify your views.


7.     Efficient representation


When writing essays, it is essential to represent your ideas and thoughts. The UPSC syllabus clearly states that the candidates have to represent the views effectively and precisely. For the effectiveness of an essay, one has to write grammatically correct English, avoid spelling mistakes, and have a flair.


8.     Tone


When writing essays for the UPSC paper, make sure you do not use flowery language. The topics provided by the UPSC are all serious matters. Avoid using provocative statements.


Conclusion


Finally, after you have finished writing the essay completely, go through it thrice and make the necessary changes. Revising and proofreading are a must. 


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