The leading agency in charge of holding civil service examinations in India is the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). With a success rate of less than 1%, the UPSC exam is regarded as one of the hardest exams in the world. It has three stages: the preliminary exam, the main exam, and the interview. The Mains test is the most important, and essay writing is a significant part of this exam. The UPSC CSE application form 2023 last date was 21st February 2023.
Mastering essay writing might be a game-changer for those studying for the UPSC exam. In the UPSC Mains test, the essay portion is worth 250 out of a possible 1750 points, or roughly 14% of the total. Consequently, developing your essay writing skills might greatly improve your chances of getting selected for the UPSC exam.
In this blog, we will understand the basics of a UPSC test, how essential it is to master in essay writing, and a few tips for essay writing in a UPSC exam.
Table of Contents
Understanding the UPSC Test
To be chosen for the renowned Indian civil services, aspirants must pass the three phases of the UPSC exam. There are three phases:
Two objective-type papers, General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II, comprise the preliminary exam (popularly known as the Civil Services Aptitude Test or CSAT). Each paper is worth 200 points, which is the same for both. The preliminary exam is held to narrow down the pool of candidates for the main exam.
Primary Exam: There are nine subjective-type papers total, of which two are qualifying (in English and one candidate-selected Indian language). The merits of the other seven papers are assessed. Essay, General Studies-I, General Studies-II, General Studies-III, General Studies-IV, and Optional Papers-I and II are among the papers offered.
Interview: Experts interview candidates at this last stage of the UPSC exam. The interview is worth 275 points.
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Essay Writing Is Important in the UPSC Exam
The UPSC Mains test includes an important essay writing section worth 250 points, or around 14% of the overall score. Civil officials’ ability to write essays is essential since it allows them to clearly communicate their thoughts and opinions. The UPSC essay test evaluates a candidate’s capacity to critically assess the matter at hand, articulate an informed viewpoint, and do so in a logical and coherent manner.
Also, the essay gives candidates a chance to demonstrate their command of the English language, their capacity for analysis, and their familiarity with a range of current concerns. A well-written essay can influence the judges’ perceptions and earn high points.
Tips to Write an Essay for the UPSC Exam
Although mastering essay writing is challenging, it is doable with persistent work and practice. The following advice will assist candidates in getting ready for the UPSC essay test:
- Create a Reading Habit: Reading is essential for preparing for the UPSC exam and particularly necessary for essay writing. Regular Reading increases vocabulary and linguistic proficiency while exposing one to various viewpoints and thoughts. Applicants should develop the habit of reading books, magazines, and newspapers on different subjects.
- Analyse Previous Year Papers: Examined papers from prior years might aid candidates in comprehending the format and kinds of inquiries answered on the essay paper. They can use it to determine which questions are commonly asked and which have not been in previous years. Essay writing practice is essential to become an expert. Essay writing is a skill that aspirants should regularly practise. It assists them in developing a disciplined approach to essay writing and better writing and time management abilities. Candidates can also take practice exams and assess their performance to determine where to improve.
- Prepare and Organize Your Essay: Preparing and organizing your essay can help you communicate your ideas logically and coherently. Before beginning to write, aspirants should take some time to plan and organize their thoughts. They should pick out the main ideas and arguments and put them in a logical order. A well-organized essay can leave a good impression on the judges and earn high points.
- Concentrate on Clarity and Conciseness: Effective communication requires clarity and conciseness. Candidates should concentrate on using clear and succinct language while conveying their thoughts and opinions. They should avoid using tough terms and jumbled sentences to make the essay easier to read and understand.
- Employ Examples and Evidence: Examples and evidence can strengthen the essay’s arguments and increase persuasiveness. Candidates should back up their claims and positions with pertinent examples and proof. Also, it demonstrates to the judges that the applicant is knowledgeable about the subject and capable of using it in practical settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the Essay paper in UPSC Mains is essential for aspirants who participated in UPSC CSE Prelims 2023 Registration. It is an opportunity for aspirants to showcase their writing skills, analytical abilities, and critical thinking. By following the techniques and tips mentioned in this article, aspirants can improve their essay writing skills and increase their chances of selection in the UPSC exam.
FAQs
Question 1. How many essays must I submit for the UPSC exam?
In the UPSC test, candidates must submit two essays, each worth 125 points. The essay paper has a maximum of 250 points.
Question 2. Should I express my own opinions in the essay?
Certainly, candidates are allowed to express their personal opinions in the essay. Still, they must back them up with pertinent details and proof.
Question 3. How long should I devote to organizing and planning my essay?
Before beginning to write, aspirants should spend about 10-15 minutes organizing and outlining their essays. It aids in the structuring of their thinking and the presentation of their ideas.
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