The UPSC Mains exam is considered the most critical and decisive stage of the civil services examination. While prelims tests your knowledge and aptitude, the mains exam evaluates your intellectual skills, content knowledge and communication abilities. In particular, the written essay type questions in the GS papers and optional subjects require strong answer writing skills. Here are some useful tips for UPSC mains answer writing.
Analyze the Question
Read the question prompt carefully and identify the key terms, directives and context provided. Understand what is being asked before you start writing.
Categorize the question based on the directive words like ‘discuss’, ‘examine’, ‘comment’, ‘critically analyze’ etc. This will guide your approach and structure.
Brainstorm relevant points, data, examples, arguments etc before organizing your thoughts.
Structure your Answer
Plan a structure with an introduction, coherent body and conclusion. Follow the conventional approach of ATTC – Answer, Theory, Theme, Conclusion.
The intro can define key terms, provide context and highlight your position on the question.
The body can include theories, legislative background, analytical discussions, case studies, critical arguments etc to substantiate your answer.
Conclude by reinstating your position and providing a way forward.
Write Coherently
Maintain logical flow and connect paragraphs smoothly. Use transition words and links effectively to create a holistic answer.
Sequencing points chronologically or in order of relevance can enhance flow. Grouping related arguments in paragraphs also adds structure.
Stick to the word limit by avoiding tangents and verbosity. Quality of content takes priority over quantity.
Analyze Comprehensively
Answering in depth from multiple perspectives demonstrates your grasp on the topic.
Provide well-rounded, multifaceted arguments instead of a one-sided view. Consider historical, social, economic, cultural, ethical and political aspects.
Support statements with relevant facts, data and examples. Quote statistics, reports, surveys, case studies etc to substantiate.
Incorporate Keywords
Ensure that you accurately define and highlight the keywords present in the question prompt.
Use important terms, legislations, doctrines, theories, names etc as relevant throughout the answer.
Avoid spelling, factual or terminology errors that could undermine content quality.
Maintain Objectivity
Be analytical and objective instead of making normative and definitive judgments. Wherever required, substantiate opinions with reasoning.
Conclude diplomatically instead of taking an absolute stand, unless the question demands it.
Refine Answers
Leave time to revise and refine answers. Eliminate repetition, improve flow, add missing perspectives and strengthen arguments.
Pay attention to language, grammar and style guidelines. Avoid colloquialisms and utilize formal academic vocabulary suitable for public administration. Stick to word limit.
Robust UPSC mains answer writing requires strategic planning, structured writing and comprehensive coverage of the topic. Follow these tips diligently to articulate informed, analytical and coherent answers. Hone answers writing skills rigorously through mock tests and daily practice. Master this art to maximize scores in the main exam.
Hope this blog provides a good overview of how to effectively tackle UPSC mains answer writing. Let us know if you need any clarification or guidance on qualifying the civil services exam. Will be happy to help!