• UPSC IAS Exam Pattern
  • UPSC IAS Prelims
  • UPSC IAS Mains
  • UPSC IAS Interview
  • UPSC IAS Optionals
  • UPSC Notification
  • UPSC Eligibility Criteria
  • UPSC Online
  • UPSC Admit Card
  • UPSC Results
  • UPSC Cut-Off
  • UPSC Calendar
  • Documents Required for UPSC IAS Exam
  • UPSC IAS Prelims Syllabus
  • General Studies 1
  • General Studies 2
  • General Studies 3
  • General Studies 4
  • UPSC IAS Interview Syllabus
  • UPSC IAS Optional Syllabus

upsc mains essay word limit

How to Write Good Essay: Do’s and Don’ts in UPSC CSE Mains

This article outlines the key things that aspirants should keep in mind while writing the essay..

UPSC Current Affairs Daily Quiz - Edukemy

The essay paper is a significant component of the UPSC civil services examinations. It is capable to make or break your outcome. Before writing an essay in the UPSC Mains Exam, there are a few things to consider. People frequently make silly mistakes when writing essays for the IAS Mains Exam. This article will help the aspirants with essay writing for the UPSC examination.

Before beginning any piece of work, we ensure that it has a basic framework in order to be effective and coherent. It is necessary to understand what should be included and what should be left out when writing for this purpose. The common do’s and don’ts of essay writing assist in writing in a comprehensive and structured manner. They serve as guidelines for improving the content’s relevance and impact. They aid in reducing the most common errors we make when writing essays.

This paper is divided into two portions. Each component contains four themes from which you must select one for each portion. Each essay is graded on a scale of 125 points, for a total of 250 points.

Writing allows you to see inside your mind. The reader will be able to tell how you think, debate, and support your point of view based on what you write on paper. As a result, essays are required for the majority of competitive exams and academic admission exams. Despite its importance, aspirants frequently fail to give essay papers the attention they deserve. First-timers believe they will write a brilliant essay in the final test, but experienced applicants believe that having prepared extensively for GS will be sufficient to create a strong essay on its own. This is a deadly error in judgment.

Candidates may be asked to produce essays on a variety of subjects. They will be expected to stick to the essay’s topic, organize their thoughts in a logical manner, and write concisely. Effective and precise expression will be rewarded. In GS, marks are only given on the basis of substance, whereas in essays, marks are only given on the basis of content. Examiners will pay close attention not only to the content of your essay, but also to the coherence, language, and organization of your writing. As a result, you must take extra care to organize your thoughts and avoid common spelling and grammatical mistakes.

Table of Contents

What should you do and where should you start?

Your GS preparation will provide the majority of the content for your Essay. Aside from that, the following resources will be beneficial:

Nonfiction reading promotes the maturation of the mental process. In addition to communicating knowledge, they will enable you to come across good figures of speech, the art of arguing, appealing rhetoric, and creative stuff, among other things. Develop the habit of reading non-fiction books in addition to UPSC-related material. It doesn’t mean you should start reading one nonfiction book on every topic to improve your Essay scores; rather, reading them in your spare time will help you in the long run.

Referencing individual magazines: For specific topics, you can refer to various issues of Yojana/EPW/Economic Survey, etc. If you’re writing an essay on tribal issues or public health, for example, you can look through specific issues of these magazines to find the most up-to-date statistics (IMR, MMR, malnutrition levels, and so on) as well as information on the benefits and drawbacks of government programs in those areas.

Gathering interesting stories, anecdotes, and quotes: Anecdotes, quotes, and true stories that you come across in newspapers and books and want to incorporate in your essay should be written down. Begin with a relevant anecdote or narrative with the essay topic as its underlying theme.

Language and expression improvement

The article should be written in simple, basic English with as little complexity as possible. If you’re going to use a complicated definitional concept like “Constitutionalism” or “Sanskritization,” define it first in a phrase. The examiner will also comprehend exactly what you’re trying to say. Clear writing equates to clear thinking. And it’s exactly what a reader is looking for.

Keep your sentences succinct and precise. Because of the long, twisted language, it’s difficult to read and understand. You get a bad sentence sprawl when you utilize conjunctions to add one clause after another.

To create a good essay, it is not required to memorize complex words. Using a strong term or a witty phrase every now and then, on the other hand, will offer your content a competitive edge. Reading nonfiction and English newspapers is the simplest approach to expanding your vocabulary. While reading them, if you come across a good turn of phrase or a word you don’t recognize, scribble it down in a book, look it up in a dictionary, and understand the context in which it was used. This helps with long-term memory. A dictionary app on your phone is also beneficial. It takes time to build a vast vocabulary, but with practice, anyone may enhance their ability to employ a wide range of words.

How to make a smooth transition from one paragraph to the next

1. Using a linking sentence at the conclusion of each paragraph:

You write a statement at the conclusion of each part to let the examiner know what’s coming next

2. Using a question:

Instead of a link sentence, you can add a question at the end of a paragraph to helplessly carry the examiner’s attention to the next.

3. Starting the next paragraph with a shift signal:

Simply insert a word or two at the beginning of each paragraph to indicate a change in your subtopic.

Creating Main Content from the Topic

This is analogous to spinning a web from a thread. Depending on the topic, you can select the best option from the list below.

  • Temporal: the past, the present, and the future
  • Sectors include media, science and technology, business, sports, religion, politics, and administration, among others.
  • Individual, Family, Professional Workplace, Society, Community, National, and Global Problems and Solutions: Concept (historical evolution + status), benefits, problems, and solutions
  • Social, political, economic, administrative, international, environmental, historical, scientific, security/defense, and legal standards.
  • Original: An essay should be formed primarily by your understanding and perceptions, rather than entirely on borrowed opinions.
  • Exploration of relevant dimensions with causation, points-counterpoints, logical evaluation, inferences, and so on.
  • Effective communication: An essay should be distinguished by clarity and flow, with no “silt” of bulky information or difficult academic ideas. These factors disrupt the flow. Effective communication requires a simple style, small sentences, appropriate vocabulary, an emotional appeal, quotes, punch lines, and the right thrust at the right times, among other things.
  • Structure: Because an essay is a structured piece of writing, it must have a distinct introduction, main body (description), and conclusion.
  • Consistency and coherence- Consistency and coherence help to keep our arguments from becoming contradictory or conflicting.
  • Signposting- A predetermined trajectory, path, or direction denoted by the orderly placement of point numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, etc. It does not imply that each aspect should be numbered, but rather that all aspects should be in a way that the examiner can see the direction and order in your writing.
  • Focus and relevance: The writing in an essay should be concentrated and pertinent to the major issue and its aspects because it is thought in orbit.
  • Organic Connection: An essay should be distinguished by links between ideas in each paragraph. To be more specific, an essay should develop organically through childhood, adolescence, youth, maturity, and old age. An essay does not consist of isolated points; they must be related to the context and perspectives of the given topic.
  • Quote placement: Using the right quotes in the right places adds punch, thrust, and value.
  • Critical Thinking: The hallmarks of an essay are critical thinking, insight, understanding, consistency, and coherence.

DON’T’S

  • Stay away from political and ideological biases: Neutrality and the absence of prejudice and bias are important indicators of rationality. Only facts, real-life observations, and established wisdom should guide you to a logical evolution and conclusion; political or ideological affiliations should have no bearing on your writing.
  • Avoid giving a long background; instead, get to the topic as soon as possible.
  • Avoid grammatical errors: As much as possible, avoid grammatical and syntax errors.
  • Keep your emotions in check. Control: Avoid being swayed by emotions; instead, try to stay anchored in logic, rationality, and wisdom.
  • Avoid being unbalanced and biased: A balanced and rational approach is the best approach in an intellectual endeavor. Without a doubt, an essay should be analytical, draw inferences, and make value judgments, but it should also be emotionally balanced (anger, vengeance, retribution, abuse, naming, and shaming should be avoided) and politically neutral (obsession, fetish, bias, prejudice, contempt, outlandish views right or left should be avoided)
  • Avoid using exclamatory words: Ornamental words may be appropriate in some situations, but the beauty of communication lies in its simplicity.
  • Content and references that are irrelevant should be avoided: It is best to avoid dragging irrelevant ideas that aren’t related to the topic, major idea, or theme.
  • Stick to the context: In the name of unconventional thought, avoid straying too far from the theme. Avoid arrogance and self-righteousness: in other words, respect ideas that are different from yours but nonetheless relevant. You can criticize a competitor’s idea, but you can’t put it down.
  • Starting paragraphs with borrowed opinions or quotes is not a good idea: Avoid relying on quotations to build or ride each paragraph. It’s permissible to use a citation at the start of the introduction and at the end of the conclusion, or wherever you think it’ll be most effective. However, don’t overdo it. You can cite statements and quotes within a paragraph to support your argument if you create a hypothesis and assess it rationally, but you should avoid starting paragraphs with borrowed ideas or quotes.

To manage time while taking the Mains exam, you must understand how to dedicate the appropriate amount of time to each question so that you may complete all of the questions in the allotted period of three hours. In this instance, the three rules of thumb for time management are:

  • go with the flow while writing and thinking; learn to trust yourself; and avoid self-doubt, such as being unable to decide whether or not to write something.
  • do not become trapped with one question – temporarily abandon the question that you are unable to write at a given time and move on to the next question;
  • come back to the tough question as and when you have the opportunity to do so. You should be able to master the time management aspects of the Mains examination with enough practice.
  • Stick to the word limit; improve your writing speed; try to use as little personal time as possible – in the exam hall, drinking water, going to the bathroom, changing pens, imagining how others are doing, and so on all qualify as personal time; and finally, do not try to achieve ‘perfection’ with your answers – the Mains examination is not the right platform for such things – instead, try to consistently maintain above average quality in all of your answers. It’s important to be consistent than to write an outstanding answer and then follow it up with a poor response.

How to conclude an essay

The conclusion should be upbeat and optimistic. You must summarise the entire essay in 3-4 sentences before writing your future vision. You can find some useful terms in PM Modi’s speeches. Sabka saath sabka vikas, Reform-Perform-Transform, Building A New India, and other phrases can be useful. To conclude your essay, use rhetoric, lofty expressions, constitutional ideals, Sanskrit slokas, and quotes. However, if you mentioned a fictitious character in your introduction, it’s always a good idea to end your write-up with a reference to that character. It gives the essay a sense of completion.

If you make it a practice to read superb UPSC essays on a regular basis, you’ll be able to write excellent essays. As part of your UPSC civil service preparation, incorporate reading essays. It’s also worth noting that consulting prior year UPSC essay papers can be really beneficial. Practice makes perfect, as they say.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. faq: what are the key dos and don’ts when writing an essay for upsc cse mains.

  • Do: Clearly understand the topic and analyze it comprehensively before you start writing.
  • Do: Develop a well-structured essay with a logical flow of ideas and a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Do: Use relevant examples and case studies to support your arguments and showcase a deep understanding of the subject matter.
  • Don’t: Deviate from the given topic. Stick to the prompt and avoid unnecessary information.
  • Don’t: Use overly complex language. Keep your writing clear, concise, and focused.

2. FAQ: How important is time management when writing essays in UPSC CSE Mains?

  • Do: Allocate sufficient time to understand the question, plan your essay, and revise it.
  • Do: Prioritize your arguments and allocate time accordingly to ensure a balanced and well-developed essay.
  • Don’t: Spend too much time on one section, leaving insufficient time for other crucial parts of your essay.
  • Don’t: Rush through the writing process. Take the time to revise and refine your essay for coherence and clarity.

3. FAQ: Should I include my personal opinion in the essay for UPSC CSE Mains?

  • Do: Present a balanced perspective by incorporating diverse viewpoints on the given topic.
  • Do: Support your arguments with evidence and facts rather than personal opinions.
  • Don’t: Express personal biases or sentiments. Maintain an objective and analytical tone throughout.
  • Don’t: Assume that your personal views are universally applicable. Stick to a factual and well-supported analysis.

4. FAQ: How can I make my essay stand out and leave a lasting impression on the examiner?

  • Do: Craft a compelling introduction that clearly outlines the scope and direction of your essay.
  • Do: Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the topic by exploring both its broad and specific aspects.
  • Do: Use vivid and relevant examples to illustrate your points, making your essay more engaging.
  • Don’t: Use clichés or generic statements. Strive for originality and depth in your arguments.
  • Don’t: Overlook the importance of a strong conclusion that summarizes key points and provides a thoughtful closing.

5. FAQ: How should I handle the word limit in UPSC CSE Mains essays?

  • Do: Respect the prescribed word limit. Exceeding it may lead to penalties, while writing significantly less might result in a lack of depth.
  • Do: Prioritize information to include based on its relevance to the topic. Trim unnecessary details to meet the word limit.
  • Don’t: Sacrifice the quality of your essay to fit within the word limit. Focus on presenting a well-argued and coherent piece.
  • Don’t: Ignore the importance of editing. Ensure your essay is concise and impactful while adhering to the specified word count.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.  

For UPSC Prelims Resources,  Click here

For Daily Updates and Study Material:

Join our Telegram Channel –  Edukemy for IAS

  • 1. Learn through Videos –  here
  • 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs –  here
  • 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered –  here
  • 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice –  here

Visit our YouTube Channel –  here

  • Essay PYQs 2013 – 2023
  • UPSC Exam 2024
  • UPSC Prelims Mock Test – ECONOMY 4
  • How to integrate newspaper reading in UPSC preparation?

Related posts:

  • How to Prepare Compulsory Language Paper for UPSC Mains?
  • Pujya Priyadarshini, Topped UPSC after appearing for the 4th time.
  • You need to avoid some mistakes if you’re preparing for the UPSC interview
  • How should I start my UPSC exam preparation?

'  data-srcset=

Ditilaxmi Sahu

I am an aspiring Content Writer and Content Creator

Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) Syllabus 2024

Cracking the code: upsc topper with 2 optionals unveils secrets..., who clears upsc on the first attempt, examine the status of forest resources of india and its..., how to maintain a healthy lifestyle during upsc preparation, impact of operation muskan on missing children in uttar pradesh, all work, no break makes one scoreless, how to handle tough topics in upsc syllabus, upsc governance notes, environment and ecology – booklist for upsc, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies Got it

Keep me signed in until I sign out

Forgot your password?

A new password will be emailed to you.

Have received a new password? Login here

upsc mains essay word limit

Home

IAS EXAM PORTAL

  • Study Notes
  • Current Affairs
  • Getting Started

NEW!   The Gist (FREE)  | E-BOOKS  |

HOT!   UPSC 2024-2025 COMPLETE STUDY NOTES  

upsc mains essay word limit

UPSC : GUIDELINES ON ESSAY WRITING

Upsc : guidelines on essay writing .

An essay is a written exposition on a given subject which allows the writer to organize her/ his thoughts intellectually, and present them in a logical and coherent manner. Essay writing aids in critical reading and in developing written communication skill. It fosters a spirit of logical inquiry and an ability to identify significant aspects of any topic. It allows the writer  to construct arguments supported by evidence.Essay is a critical examination of the issue which presents its various dimensions. All pertinent questions are raised and answered. The author is required to take a stand after examining all facts and facets and present it in a convincing and well thought out manner. The objective of an essay is to convey the author’s thoughts on the topic s/he sets out to examine. A well written essay can shed new light on the subject and add significantly to the existing body of knowledge.

Theme and Topic: 

1. National Security: Threats to National Security in Coming Decade 2. National Integration and Communal Harmony : Science and Technology as a promoter of Communal harmony in the Society 3. Human Rights : Nationalism, Globalisation and Humanitarian Crisis-The paradox of our times 4. Science and Human Development : Nurturing Scientific Temper in India: Challenges and Prospects

Note: 100 marks will have a weightage of 10 marks in Director’s assessment. Style: Every individual has a style of expression and word usage. It becomes very clear to the reader when an essayist cobbles up random quotes from various sources since there is no consistency in style. Use of short and simple sentences is preferable. It is better to spread out complex/compound sentences. Flowery language and archaic use puts off readers and more often does not communicate the meaning at all. Word / phrase usage should be appropriate. Refer to get the correct meaning and the context of usage of words, whenever in doubt. Usually essays are written in third person singular. However, narrative in the first person can be adopted if you have a flair for it. Avoid use of words which convey vagueness or uncertainty. Avoid repetitive use of words. (Example –but, therefore, supposedly, as they say, not only but also, used to etc.) Lay out: Every essay has the following layout1. Introduction 2. Body /Discussion 3. Conclusion Plan the word limit for each of these sections. As you research the topic, it is useful to take notes with relevant references and later on arrange them in logical sequence.

Introduction generates interest in the topic. A statement, a quotation or an incident can be used to open an essay. The body contains review of available literature, raises pertinent issues or questions, presents them in the context, and sheds light on the views of the author and the thought process that leads her/him to those views. Every idea is presented in one or more separate paragraphs arranged in logical sequence. When there is a need to reiterate an idea already discussed, it can be mentioned in detail. While reinforcement of a line of thought may need reiteration, try and reduce redundancy. Pay attention to Grammar and spelling. The conclusion of an Essay is more than just a summary. It gives a comprehensive idea of what has been discussed and the settled thoughts of the author after due inquiry. 

Referencing: Same guidelines to be followed as given for the Book review. Foot notes:

Foot notes can be given wherever relevant. Care should be taken that they are short and never longer than the main text on the page.  Plagiarism: Plagiarism is strictly prohibited. The Essay has to be put through Turn it in Software before submission. More than 10% of commonality will attract penal action and the essay will be marked zero.The entire activity of Essay writing should result in knowledge and skill enhancement to the writer. A good essay gives a comprehensive idea of the topic and makes for an interesting reading. Suggested References:  Booth, Wayne C., Gregory G. Colomb, Joseph M Williams, (2008) The Craft of Research, University of Chicago Press: Chicago 

DOWNLOAD UPSC MAINS ESSAY PAPERS PDF

Download upsc mains gs 10 year papers pdf, download upsc pre gs 10 year papers pdf, download upsc mains gs solved papers pdf.

Courtesy : LBSNAA

  • trainee5's blog

NEW!   UPSC IAS COMPLETE NOTES

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

UPSC IAS STUDY NOTES

NEW! UPSC Exam Complete Study Notes (PDF Available)

  • ALERT: UPSC IAS, IPS, IFS 2024-2025 Exam...
  • Download UPSC IAS PRELIM (GS+CSAT) Question...
  • (Download) UPSC Toppers Study Notes PDF
  • UPSC Exam Complete Study Notes 2024-2025 (...
  • (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 2004-2023
  • IAS परीक्षा पेपर in Hindi 2004-2023
  • 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  |  Study Notes  | Coaching  | E-Books

UPSC Hindi  |  यूपीइससी 2024   |  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.

To get Personalised DAF Based Questions for your Robust Interview Preparation.

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

pw

  • Offline Centers
  • NCERT Notes
  • UPSC Syllabus
  • Prelims Preparation
  • Interview Preparation

upsc mains essay word limit

Essay Syllabus

In this article, we will discuss the UPSC essay syllabus and its importance in the preparation for the prestigious Civil Services Examination. The essay paper is a vital component of the UPSC mains exam, and it evaluates a candidate’s ability to express their thoughts in a concise and coherent manner. We will explore the structure and format of the essay paper, the types of topics that usually appear, and the approach that candidates should adopt while attempting the essay. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the IAS essay syllabus and how to prepare for it effectively.

Importance of Essay Paper

Aspiring candidates preparing for the UPSC IAS examination must pay close attention to the Essay Paper section. It holds significant weightage and plays a vital role in determining the candidate’s overall rank. You must dedicate time and effort to develop this skill, as the Essay Paper is a reflection of your critical analytical and comprehensive aptitude. This paper evaluates your presentation skills, creativity, and thought process. Moreover, it tests your ability to articulate your thoughts coherently and succinctly. So, start working on your writing skills from today to make the most of this crucial paper.

Syllabus Overview

The syllabus for the essay paper is not specifically defined . Aspiring civil servants preparing for the highly competitive UPSC IAS exam must focus their attention on the essay paper. This is where candidates can showcase their writing skills and analytical abilities.

The essay paper is divided into two sections, each consisting of four topics. Candidates are required to write two essays in a span of three hours. The essays carry a total of 250 marks and are a crucial part of the selection process. It covers a wide range of topics from socioeconomic issues, to political and philosophical musings.

However, it is important to note that candidates are not expected to be experts in any particular subject. Rather, the essay paper tests their ability to articulate their thoughts and opinions. It is crucial that candidates start preparing for the essay paper well in advance, paying careful attention to the type of essays and common mistakes to avoid.

Also Read, UPSC 2023

Types of Essays

When it comes to the UPSC Essay Syllabus , it’s crucial to understand the types of essays you’ll be asked to write. As such, you must know the different types of essays that are tested in the examination, such as Informative essays, Descriptive essays, Narrative essays, and Persuasive essays. Each type has its unique writing style, skill set, and format to adhere to.

Thus, mastering each essay type is important to score high marks in the exam. While an informative essay highlights the positive and negative points of the given topic, a descriptive essay must focus on describing the topic. The narrative essay must follow a story-style narration while the Persuasive essay must be written in a way to convince the reader about the given topic.

Therefore, a deep understanding of the types of essays is necessary to excel in the UPSC IAS Exam.

Topics for Essay Writing

The UPSC Essay paper is an important part of the Civil Services Examination. As a part of the UPSC essay syllabus , candidates need to write two essays for the examination. The essays are supposed to be on topics of national and international importance, relevant social, economic, and political issues, cultural, historical and geographical significance, and contemporary issues of interest.

The topics for essay writing can range from the economy, politics, education, health, women empowerment, environmental issues, human rights, current affairs, science, technology, and more. It is advisable to read newspapers and books to keep oneself updated with the latest developments and possible essay topics. Additionally, candidates can also refer to previous years’ question papers to understand the nature of the questions and topics that are frequently asked.

Candidates should choose a topic that they are familiar with and express their thoughts and opinions in a coherent and structured way. The essay should be well-researched, free from grammatical errors, and should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. By choosing the right topic and writing an impressive essay, candidates can score well on the UPSC IAS Essay paper .

Essay Writing Tips

Here are some tips for candidates to excel in the essay writing section:

  • Understand the topic: It’s important to read and comprehend the essay topic thoroughly. Ensure that you understand the question’s intent, the tone of the essay, and the arguments that you need to present.
  • Prepare an outline: Creating an outline before writing helps the writer organise their thoughts and arguments logically. It ensures that the essay is structured and coherent.
  • Write in a simple and lucid language: UPSC exams are not meant to test your vocabulary. Therefore, try to write in simple and clear language.
  • Stick to the word limit: The UPSC sets a word limit for each essay question. Exceeding the limit can result in a deduction of marks. Therefore, it is crucial to practice writing essays within the stipulated word limit.
  • Provide examples and facts: To support your arguments, use real-life examples and factual data to reinforce your views.

By following these tips and practising regularly, aspiring candidates can improve their essay-writing skills, making it easier to crack the UPSC exam successfully.

How to Prepare for an Essay Paper

The essay paper is an integral part of the UPSC IAS exam, and it requires a different level of preparation compared to other papers. In order to ace the essay paper, it is important to have a clear strategy and methodical approach.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand the types of essays that might appear in the exam. This will help in creating a plan for essay writing and practicing accordingly.

Another important aspect is staying updated on current affairs and trending topics. Keeping oneself informed about world events and happenings helps in generating ideas and content for the essay.

It is also crucial to focus on improving language skills and creative thinking. Reading widely, practicing writing every day, and taking mock essay tests can help in enhancing these skills.

When it comes to time management, it is recommended to allocate a fixed amount of time for brainstorming, outlining, and writing the essay. This helps in maintaining a structured and organized approach.

Lastly, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes like using too many quotes, memorizing essays, or not staying relevant to the topic. These mistakes can be easily avoided by focusing on the guidelines and practicing regularly.

Overall, preparing for the essay paper requires focus, dedication, and a structured approach. By following these tips, one can improve their chances of acing the essay paper and moving closer to their dream of becoming an IAS officer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Essay Writing

UPSC essay writing is an important component of the civil services examination. However, many students make some common mistakes while writing their essays that can prove detrimental to their scores. Here are a few errors to avoid when writing your UPSC essays :

  • Lack of clarity: One of the most common mistakes that students make is writing unclear or ambiguous essays. Ensure that the language and ideas that you use are clear and concise.
  • Overuse of quotes: Many students use too many quotations in their essays, which makes them sound less original. Try to use quotes sparingly, and only when they add significant value to your essay.
  • Poor structure: A well-structured essay requires an introduction, several paragraphs supporting your arguments, and a conclusion. Ensure that your essay has a clear and logical structure.
  • Lack of relevance: Many students write essays that are not directly relevant to the question asked, which can result in a reduced score. Make sure you understand the question and write an essay that is directly relevant to it.
  • Poor time management: UPSC essay writing requires a student to demonstrate their ability to write coherently and without errors within a given period. Students must manage their time effectively, allowing ample time for each paragraph, revision, and proofreading.
  • Lack of examples: Candidates should use examples from real life, which strengthens their arguments and provides more depth to their essays.

Avoid these common mistakes during your UPSC essay writing , and you are one step closer to achieving a high score that will make you proud.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):-

Q1. Which type of essay comes in the IAS exam?

Ans: The four types of essays that come in the IAS exam are Informative essays, Descriptive essays, Narrative essays, and Persuasive essays.

Q2. How to write a UPSC-level essay?

Ans: Tips to write UPSC Essay are given in the article above.

Q3. What is a good score for a UPSC essay?

Ans: An average score falls within the range of 110-125. However, exceptional essays can receive marks as high as 150-160.

Q4. How long is the UPSC essay paper?

Ans: The candidate is to write two essays in a span of 3 hours with a word limit of 1000-1200 words per essay. There are two sections which contain 4 topics each and out of which the candidate has to pick a single topic from each section to write an essay on.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Our Courses

upsc mains essay word limit

THE MOST LEARNING PLATFORM

Learn From India's Best Faculty

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

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

#

Our Initiatives

Beginner’s roadmap, quick links.

#

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

Subscribe our Newsletter

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

Contact Details

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

Download Our App

🔥

Biginner's Roadmap

Suscribe now form, to get early access of such quality content..

Join Us Now

(Promise! We Will Not Spam You.)

CURRENT AF.

<div class="new-fform">

</div>

upsc mains essay word limit

UrbanPro

Location Set your Location

Popular Cities

Take UPSC Exams Coaching from the Best Tutors

upsc mains essay word limit

Book a Free Demo

  • UPSC Registration
  • UPSC Exam Syllabus
  • About ISS Exam
  • ISS Syllabus
  • UPSC Exams Blog

How word limit is counted for IAS Mains exams?

Asked by Anand 20/10/2023 Last Modified   17/11/2023

Learn IAS (Indian Administrative Service) Coaching

upsc mains essay word limit

Please enter your answer

upsc mains essay word limit

Pooja R. Jain

As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, I understand the importance of clarity and precision in UPSC Mains exam preparation. One common query among UPSC aspirants pertains to the word limit in the IAS Mains exams.

Understanding Word Limit in IAS Mains Exams:

Word Limit Overview: In UPSC Mains exams, candidates are required to adhere to specific word limits for each question. This is a crucial aspect of the evaluation process, testing candidates' ability to express their thoughts concisely and coherently.

Counting Methodology: The word limit is counted for each question, and candidates must stay within the specified range. The count typically includes all the words in the answer, excluding footnotes and references.

UrbanPro.com - Your Go-To Platform for UPSC Exams Coaching:

Why UrbanPro? UrbanPro.com stands out as a leading marketplace for UPSC Exams Coaching, connecting students with experienced tutors and coaching institutes specializing in UPSC exam preparation.

UPSC Exams Coaching - Coaching on UrbanPro:

  • Diverse Tutors: Find a diverse range of experienced tutors offering UPSC Exams Coaching on UrbanPro.com.
  • Online Coaching: Benefit from the convenience of online coaching for UPSC exams, allowing flexibility in your preparation schedule.

Best Online Coaching for UPSC Exams Coaching on UrbanPro: UrbanPro.com hosts some of the best online coaching institutes for UPSC Exams Coaching. These institutes leverage modern teaching methodologies to enhance your preparation and provide comprehensive guidance.

Trusted Tutors and Institutes:

  • Verified Profiles: UrbanPro verifies the profiles of tutors and coaching institutes, ensuring credibility and reliability.
  • Reviews and Ratings: Access reviews and ratings from fellow UPSC aspirants to make informed decisions about choosing the right tutor or institute.

Personalized Learning Experience:

  • Tailored Approach: Tutors on UrbanPro understand the individual learning needs of students, providing a personalized approach to UPSC exam preparation.
  • Interactive Sessions: Engage in interactive sessions to clarify doubts and strengthen your understanding of complex topics.

Conclusion: In conclusion, UrbanPro.com emerges as the trusted marketplace for UPSC Exams Coaching, offering a wide array of experienced tutors and coaching institutes. As you navigate the intricacies of UPSC Mains exams, rest assured that UrbanPro.com is your reliable partner in the journey towards success.

Related Questions

upsc mains essay word limit

I'm an MBA graduate and I have 5 years of experience in BPO sector. I want to switch my profile to Data Admin, Please suggest me one of the good tools which do not involve programming..

upsc mains essay word limit

Now ask question in any of the 1000+ Categories, and get Answers from Tutors and Trainers on UrbanPro.com

Related Lessons

upsc mains essay word limit

JR JUNIOR IAS

upsc mains essay word limit

Pushpendra Sharma

upsc mains essay word limit

Harish Tripathi

Recommended Articles

upsc mains essay word limit

How to Prepare for Indian Forest Service...

Indian Forest Service (IFS) exam is the Forestry service of India conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). On successful completion of the Prelims, Main and Interview candidates are eligible to serve under the State or Central governments. Candidates who have qualified in the Prelims will be eligible to sit...

Read full article >

upsc mains essay word limit

Essential Strategies to Prepare for UPSC...

The UPSC Civil Services is one of the toughest exams in India. It is also one of the most noble and prestigious occupations that give every future civil servant the opportunity to bring change in the society. Preparing for the exam requires a lot of hard work and efforts. And the following tips could be very useful for...

upsc mains essay word limit

Learn these tips and strategies, if you want...

Clearing the IAS Prelims is the very first critical step towards building a career in public administration. Choosing the right books & study materials, best IAS coaching centers, scheduling study time, and self-discipline are not just enough when it comes to cracking the Civil Services Prelims, you got to do really...

upsc mains essay word limit

How to spot a great IAS coaching institute?

Civil Services is one of the toughest exams which need rigorous training and preparation. If you are looking for IAS coaching centers, keep in mind the following things before enrolling yourself: Check students reviews Use the Internet and dig in some information about the quality of IAS coaching classes of an...

Looking for UPSC Exams Coaching classes?

Learn from the Best Tutors on UrbanPro

Are you a Tutor or Training Institute?

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Already a member?

Looking for UPSC Exams Coaching Classes?

The best tutors for UPSC Exams Coaching Classes are on UrbanPro

  • Select the best Tutor
  • Book & Attend a Free Demo
  • Pay and start Learning

upsc mains essay word limit

Take UPSC Exams Coaching with the Best Tutors

The best Tutors for UPSC Exams Coaching Classes are on UrbanPro

upsc mains essay word limit

This website uses cookies

We use cookies to improve user experience. Choose what cookies you allow us to use. You can read more about our Cookie Policy in our Privacy Policy

  • About UrbanPro.com
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy

upsc mains essay word limit

UrbanPro.com is India's largest network of most trusted tutors and institutes. Over 55 lakh students rely on UrbanPro.com, to fulfill their learning requirements across 1,000+ categories. Using UrbanPro.com, parents, and students can compare multiple Tutors and Institutes and choose the one that best suits their requirements. More than 7.5 lakh verified Tutors and Institutes are helping millions of students every day and growing their tutoring business on UrbanPro.com. Whether you are looking for a tutor to learn mathematics, a German language trainer to brush up your German language skills or an institute to upgrade your IT skills, we have got the best selection of Tutors and Training Institutes for you. Read more

General Studies

All Programmes

Study Material

UPSC Essay Topics - Important Essay Topics for UPSC Mains 2023

By vajiram & ravi.

Essay Course for UPSC

UPSC CSE Mains 2023 Essay Question Paper

UPSC Mains Optional Test Series

Mentorship Program for UPSC 2024

Understanding UPSC Essay Topics holds significant importance as it evaluates the candidate's ability to analyse, present arguments, and communicate effectively. In this article, we will explore the diverse range of UPSC essay topics, their significance, and essential tips to excel in this section. Get ready to enhance your writing and analytical skills and make a strong impression on the evaluators with well-crafted essays.

UPSC Essay Paper

The Essay paper in the UPSC Mains examination requires candidates to write multiple essays , each on a different topic, chosen from a given list of options. The essay topics for UPSC cover a wide range of issues, including social, economic, political, cultural, and philosophical aspects, both national and international.

The essay paper holds significant weightage in the UPSC Mains examination, contributing 250 marks out of the total 1750 marks . Scoring well in this section can have a considerable impact on the overall ranking and selection for the coveted civil services.

Weekly UPSC Essay Topics By Vajiram & Ravi

The UPSC Essay Paper is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their proficiency in expressing ideas and analysing complex issues. Vajiram & Ravi Pensive-Weekly Essay Writing Programme provides you with two Essay Topics every Saturday based on the previous year's question papers and the changing trends analysis. You can submit your Essay for peer evaluation on vajiramandravi.com. This will help you nourish your writing skills, give you clarity of thought, and build the capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Important Essay Topics for UPSC 2023

The purpose of the essay paper is to assess the candidate's ability to critically analyse a topic, present well-structured arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. It also evaluates their knowledge of various issues, their clarity of thought, and their capacity to express opinions in a logical and coherent manner.

Some of the Important Essay Topics to prepare for the UPSC Mains Examination 2023 are:

  • Gender Equality
  • Environment/Urbanization
  • Economic Growth
  • Federalism/Decentralization
  • Agriculture
  • Economics 

UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy

Every year, UPSC typically provides you with two or more essay topics centred around philosophical thoughts, Indian philosophical schools, or quotes from notable personalities. To effectively address these philosophical topics, you should refer to Philosophy Books to gain a foundational understanding. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Philosophy :

  • Everything comes to him, who hustles while he waits.
  • We are always blind as we want to be.
  • You cannot step twice in the same river.
  • A disciplined mind brings happiness.
  • The price of Greatness is Responsibility.
  • People would rather Believe than Know.
  • Mind - A beautiful Servant? Or a dangerous Master?

UPSC Essay Topics on Art and Culture

The UPSC Essay Topics related to Indian society, art, and culture cover a wide range of subjects, offering great diversity. To gain knowledge about the static content on these topics, you should rely on fundamental books on society, as recommended for the exam. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Indian Art and Culture :

  • Culture changes with economic development.
  • Culture is what we are, Civilization is what we have.
  • Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
  • Impact of Globalization on Indian Art and Culture.
  • Caste System - India’s Enduring Curse.
  • Godmen - A Threat to Indian Art and Culture?

UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology

UPSC essay topics on Science and Technology can largely be addressed through current affairs. You may also benefit from consulting a Science and Technology Book for UPSC to compose a comprehensive and well-rounded essay. Here are some UPSC Essay Topics on Science and Technology:

  • Deglobalisation is good for the world.
  • Science is organised Knowledge. Wisdom is Organised life.
  • Technology is a Weapon against Poverty.
  • Prioritising Education Technology for Global Growth.
  • Technology is the silent factor in International Relations.
  • Scientific and Technological Progress cannot be equated with Human Progress.

UPSC Essay Topics on Education

Education stands as one of the preferred UPSC Essay Topics, with an essay related to this subject often appearing in the paper each year. To tackle this topic effectively, you should stay abreast of Current Affairs , incorporating significant changes and advancements in the field. Let's explore some of the Essay topics for UPSC centred around education:

  • Self Education is a lifelong curiosity.
  • Education Breeds Peace.
  • Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance.
  • Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking.
  • Schooling is not Education.

UPSC Essay Topics on Polity and Governance

To comprehensively address Polity and Governance topics, you should acquire fundamental knowledge from Polity Books for UPSC and Current Affairs. These resources offer static information about relevant issues and their historical context, which proves valuable while writing UPSC Essay Topics on Polity. Here are some Essay Topics on Polity and Governance:

  • The Role of Politics in Development.
  • Should Youth in India Consider Politics as a Career?
  • Art, Freedom and Creativity will change society faster than politics.
  • The politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak.
  • People should not be afraid of their Government. The Government should be afraid of its people.
  • Government Surveillance - Good or Bad?

UPSC Essay Topics on Economy

Essays concerning economic growth are frequently included in the Essay Paper. To tackle these topics effectively, you should refer to Economy Notes for UPSC to gain a comprehensive understanding. Once the fundamentals are grasped, you can enhance their essays by incorporating examples, data, and statistics to create a multidimensional perspective. Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics on Economy:

  • We don't have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment.
  • India, a $5 trillion Economy - Dream or Reality?
  • Digital Economy: A leveller or a source of Economic Inequality?
  • Innovation is the key determinant of social welfare and economic growth.
  • Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Growth.

UPSC Essay Topics on Social Issues

Social issues are a significant aspect of the UPSC essay paper, reflecting the candidates' understanding of societal challenges and their ability to propose viable solutions. These essays provide a platform for candidates to analyse, critique, and suggest measures for pressing social concerns. Topics related to social issues in the UPSC Essay paper may include:

  • Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a Peaceful Society.
  • A Gender-sensitive Indian Society is a prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment.
  • The weaker sections of Indian Society - are their Rights and Access to Justice getting Better?

Previous Year UPSC Essay Topics

Practising previous year's essay topics will help you become familiar with the UPSC exam pattern , word limit, and the types of essay questions frequently asked in the Mains Examination. Analysing past essay topics will also allow you to identify recurring themes and trends, enabling you to prioritise their preparation accordingly. Regular practice with past essay topics will instil confidence in you, helping you feel more comfortable and prepared for the actual exam.

  • Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence.
  • Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.
  • History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man.
  • A ship in the harbour is safe, but that is not what a ship is for.
  • The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.
  • 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.

Tips to Excel in UPSC Essay Paper

  • Understand the Topics: Thoroughly comprehend the essay topics, including the keywords and instructions. Choose a topic that aligns with your strengths and interests.
  • Plan and Structure: Devote some time to plan your essay. Create an outline and organise your thoughts in a structured manner, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Be Objective: Present balanced arguments and avoid a biased or one-sided approach. Consider multiple perspectives and present a holistic view.
  • Provide Examples and Evidence: Support your arguments with relevant examples, data, quotes and evidence to strengthen your essay.
  • Maintain Clarity: Write in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language and avoid jargon or overly complex vocabulary.
  • Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential to improve Essay writing skills. Write essays on diverse topics to enhance your versatility.
  • Time Management: Allocate appropriate time for planning, writing, and revising each essay to manage time effectively during the examination.
  • Revise and Edit: Review your essays for coherence, grammar, and structure. Make necessary edits to refine your work.

FAQs on UPSC Essay Topics

What are the important UPSC Essay Topics?

Here is a list of UPSC Essay Topics asked in Mains Examination previously:

  • Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have.
  • Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
  • What is research but a blind date with knowledge?
  • Best for an individual is not necessarily best for society.
  • Wisdom finds truth.
  • Ships don’t sink because of water around them, ships sink because of water that gets into them.
  • Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality.
  • Technology as the silent factor in international relations.

How do I Prepare for the UPSC Essay?

To prepare for the UPSC essay, focus on understanding the essay syllabus and past topics to identify recurring themes. Regularly practise writing essays on various topics to improve your writing skills and time management. Structure your essays with a clear introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Which is the best source to practise UPSC Essay Topics?

The best sources to prepare Essay for UPSC include official UPSC materials, newspapers, and magazines like The Hindu, Yojana , and Kurukshetra for current affairs, standard books on diverse subjects, government reports and publications, online platforms like PIB and PRS India, UPSC previous year papers for understanding the exam pattern, and regular practice of essay writing on various topics.

To request a counselling call, please fill out this form:

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

Officers IAS Academy

UPSC CSE Prelims 2024 in

Officers IAS Academy

How many pages should we write for UPSC Mains answer?

The Civil Services Mains examination is a subjective type exam consisting of 9 papers and overall writing of 27 hours. Of these, two are of qualifying nature- The Compulsory Indian Language paper (Paper A) and the English paper (Paper B). Here, each question will be provided with fixed spaces accordingly. Since the nature of questions is not of the standard type in the language papers, one does not have to worry about the pages as the focus should be only to answer them within the given space. For the mains exam, UPSC will be providing a booklet that comes with pre-printed questions that have a fixed space for the aspirant to write their answers.

Coming onto the next one, the essay paper (Paper I) asks for two essays to be written in 3 hours. There will be a list of topics, from which the aspirant has to select one topic from each section (Section A & B). Here, each essay has to be written adhering to a word count of 1000 to 1100 words.

Moving onto the General Studies (GS) papers (Paper II to Paper V), there are four papers, each with a maximum of 250 marks. In the GS papers, there will be 20 questions in each paper. Here, two types of questions are asked- 10 marks questions with a word limit of 150 words and 15 marks questions with a word limit of 250 words. Here, the ten markers are given two pages, and for the 15 markers, three pages are provided. The aspirants are expected to write their answers within the fixed space and word limit. Please keep in mind that you do not have to use the word limit perfectly. The idea should be to NOT cross the word limit.

Concerning the Optional papers (paper VI, paper VII), there are two, and each paper counts for 250 marks. Here, there is a slight difference in the marks distribution. Of the five questions that an aspirant has to write, each question has sub-questions, which is further subdivided into three types- 10 mark questions, 15 mark questions and 20 mark questions. These different types in various orders make the entirety of one optional paper. Here, the pages allotted for 10 marks, 15 marks, and 20 marks are two, three and four pages, respectively.

When you are ready to appear for the Mains exam, make sure that you have practised enough. The answers are expected to have quality, quantity, clarity, flow, and relevance and should cover various dimensions. While you attempt a question, the standard practice is to have an introduction-body-conclusion style. Keep writing mock tests to sharpen your skills while you learn to ace the Mains exam. UPSC will frame questions that will test your knowledge and mental calibre to withstand pressure in the actual exam. Hence, one might be pressed for time to complete the papers on time. This is another reason to take practice tests.  Kindly keep in mind that the expertise in the Mains is acquired through practice. So, one should not worry if the marks they get in their mocks are less than satisfactory. While practising, make sure that you take papers that are identical to the ones used by UPSC. This is to ensure that you are accustomed to the space provided for writing as UPSC answer booklet space does not correspond to the usual A4 sheet space. There will be margins on the UPSC mains booklet, and it is wise to practice on similar lines to ensure maximum benefit. Below given is a sample specimen of the GS answer sheet.

Published by

Officers ias academy –  best ias academy in chennai., leave a comment cancel reply.

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

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1. Admission Calendar 2024-2025 released . 

2. Bilingual Batches start from 10th May 2024  onwards. 

3. LIVE General Quiz for College students will be conducted EVERY WEDNESDAY on our YouTube channel “Officers UPSC Path”. The link will be shared before that. The next Quiz is on 28th Feb 2024.

4. LIVE UPSC Quiz will be conducted EVERY SATURDAY on our YouTube channel “Officers UPSC Path”. The next Quiz is 24th Feb 2024.

5. March test series schedule updated. click here for the  schedule.   

6. UPSC 8 hours Workshop by Mr.John Victor on 25th Feb 2024 in Chennai Campus. click here to register.

Demo Videos For Online Course

Fill this form.

nextjob logo

What Is Word Limit For Essay In Upsc Cse?

Search nextjob for answers, how long should a upsc essay be.

The Essay Paper in the IAS Mains Exam consists of two sections A and B with four topics each of 125 marks and a total of 250 (125×2) marks. Candidates have to select a topic from each section and write about it in 1,000 to 2,000 words within the given time of three hours.

How much to write for 150 words in UPSC?

A general thumb rule which can be helpful in the exam hall is that – if the question has a 150-word limit, then the answer should be written within 1 and a half A4 pages. If it’s 250, then write the answer not going beyond 2.5 A4 pages.

Can I exceed word limit in UPSC mains?

This limit is usually considered as the ideal word limit for UPSC Mains. This word limit caution should be maintained because you will be given a fixed amount of pages. Hence if you exceed the word limit in each answer, it is possible that you will not be able to attempt all the answers.

How much is 200 words in UPSC?

200 words is 0.4 pages single-spaced or 0.8 pages double-spaced.

How long does a 1k essay take?

The writing time for a 1,000-word essay varies depending on the type of essay. You could say that it takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours to write most 1000 word college essays.

Can I write a 3 page essay in 3 hours?

Writing 3 pages will take about 37.5 minutes for the average writer typing on a keyboard and 1.3 hours for handwriting. However, if the content needs to include in-depth research, links, citations, or graphics such as for a blog article or high school essay, the length can grow to 5 hours.

What is 7 5 3 rule in UPSC?

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

Who got highest score in essay in UPSC?

UPSC CSE: IAS officer T Prateek Rao scored one of the highest marks in the Essay paper of UPSC Mains.

Is it OK to exceed word limit essays?

Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit to write a developed and thoughtful essay. You should aim to stay under the specified word count limit to show you can follow directions and write concisely.

How to count word limit in UPSC?

The General Studies (GS) papers, with the exception of GS paper IV which is the Ethics paper, has a limit of 200 words per question. GS paper IV (Ethics) has 150, 250 and 300 as word limits.

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

UPSC: Latest News, IAS, IPS, UPSC Preparation

Enroll in ClearIAS UPSC Coaching Join Now Log In

Call us: +91-9605741000

How to Write a Great Answer in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam: ClearIAS Guidelines

Last updated on October 13, 2023 by Alex Andrews George

Write a Great Answer

What is the difference between a good answer and a great answer?

If you ask me, I would say it lies in the structure and logical continuity of the answer.

To be frank, well-structured to-the-point answers are rare.

In this post, ClearIAS presents important guidelines on how to write a great answer.

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

Table of Contents

Find what are you really supposed to answer

Let us first go through the question given below.

ClearIAS Online Courses

This is a question asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam 2019 in General Studies Paper 2.

“Parliament’s power to amend the constitution is limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power”. In light of this statement explain whether parliament under article 368 of the constitution can destroy the Basic structure of the constitution by expanding its amending power? (UPSC CSE 2019 Question, answer in 250 words, 15 marks)

In the above question, you are supposed to explain whether parliament can destroy the basic structure of the Constitution.

This should be the prime focus when you write an answer to this question.

Did you get this core requirement correct?

To find the core part of the question correctly, do the following process.

Find Keywords in the Question

Consider the same question again, with certain words written in bold.

“ Parliament’s power to amend the constitution is limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power”. In light of this statement explain whether parliament under article 368 of the constitution can destroy the Basic structure of the constitution by expanding its amending power? (UPSC CSE 2019 Question, answer in 250 words, 15 marks)

We call those words mentioned in bold letters are keywords.

In the above question, the keywords are – (1) Parliaments power to amend the constitution (2) Article 368 of the Constitution (3) Basic structure of the Constitution.

When you write your answer, ensure that you touch all the main keywords in the question.

Answer according to the Question Directive

Go through the same question again. Was there any question directive?

In the above question, the question directive is ‘explain’.

‘Explain’, ‘Elucidate’, ‘Discuss’, ‘Analyse, ‘Critically Analyse’, ‘Elaborate’ etc are all question directives with a different meaning. You should answer according to the question directive.

We shall explain the minute differences in each of these directives in another post.

Also read: ClearIAS Restarts UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice (AWP)

Structure your answers with the correct logical flow

How to Write a Great Answer in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam: ClearIAS Guidelines

Make sure your answer contains a well-planned introduction, body, and conclusion.

There are marks for each part.

Impressive introductions and conclusions play a great role in boosting your marks.

However, what matters most is the content present in the body of your answer.

Introduction of the answer: State your thesis

A thesis is a statement that is put forward to be proved. Your introduction should put forward the unproven ‘thesis’, which will be your opinion in most cases. This thesis should be proved and substantiated by quoting facts and examples in the body.

Note: Introduction is not the summary of your answer, but rather the thesis.

Body of the answer: Justify your thesis

Present your arguments logically in the body of your answer.

Touch all dimensions possible – social, political, economic – and give different examples to substantiate your view.

If the question is something related to India, don’t just present from the point of view of the Central government. As you know, India is a federal country . You may think from the perspective of states and even bring factors affecting local self-governing bodies. That’s how you can bring different dimensions to the answer.

Conclusion of the answer: Prove your thesis

In the conclusion part you should state that after analysing ‘this’ ‘this’ and ‘this’, your thesis is proved.

The conclusion should be logically derived from the introduction and body of the answer. If your thesis is positive, your conclusion should also be positive in nature. If your thesis is negative, your conclusion should also be negative.

That is, if you presented a negative outlook in the introduction and body, then don’t deviate abruptly from the same and provide a positive futuristic standpoint in the conclusion – just to impress the examiner.

You are supposed to prove your thesis, not contradict it at the end.

You should also not forget to

Apart from the above-discussed points, there are some other vital tips to boost your marks. This includes sticking to the mentioned word limit in the question, providing examples, lucid explanations, critical thinking, creativity, original ideas etc.

(1) Provide value addition

UPSC CSE is a low-scoring exam with tough evaluation standards. The highest marks secured by toppers in GS is only around 45% (450 marks out of 1000). In that background, we have developed a marking scheme, which we use for ClearIAS AWP as well.

  • 0-19% –  Not satisfactory.
  • 20%-29% – Below average answer.
  • 30%-39% – Average answer.
  • 40%-49% – Above Average Answer.
  • 50%-59% – Excellent Answer.
  • 60% and above – Exceptional Answer.

Looking at the above marking scheme, you can understand that if you get 3.5 marks for a 10 mark question, that is an average score. However, if you get 1 mark extra (ie 4.5 marks for a 10 mark question), your answer is above average!

If there are 20 questions, and if you manage to get 1 mark more for each question, you would get 20 marks extra! Overall this would make a huge difference. This would help your final rank to go up at least by 300, considering that there will be 10-15 candidates per each mark.

Now the question is how to provide the correct value addition for each answer to get that 1 extra mark? How to make your answer stand out? How to make your answer special?

A few tips:

  • Quote Supreme Court Judgments: In General Studies Paper 2, bring the viewpoints of the honourable Supreme Court of India to supplement your answer on crucial issues. We have compiled important judgments for UPSC aspirants into a handy book, which is already a best seller. Get the book ‘ Important Judgments that Transformed India ‘.
  • Quote provisions from relevant Acts:  For all papers (General Studies Paper 1 to Paper IV), add value to your answers by quoting provisions from relevant Acts. For example, when a question is asked about Disaster Managment, mention provisions from the Disaster Managment Act. If a question is asked about Fiscal Responsibility, quote provisions of the FRBM Act. The book ‘ Important Acts that transformed India ‘ can save a lot of your time in this respect.
  • Connect the static part of your answer with relevant current issues: Make your answer interesting by linking it with items in news. Use recent examples.
  • Use Important Data from the Economic Survey – Get Economic Survey Summary by ClearIAS . Use the facts and statistics to substantiate your answer.
  • Quote the latest Budget – Get India Budget summary by ClearIAS .
  • Mention relevant schemes or programs from the India Yearbook
  • Quote NITI Aayog Reports
  • Quote ARC Reports
  • Quote Sarkaria Commission and Punchi Commission Reports
  • Keep 5 notebooks – one for the essay paper, and four each for the General Studies Papers. Note down the value-adding points you come across during your preparation time in the respective notebooks. Practice this and believe me, the points you add to these notebooks will make your answer special in the exam hall.

(2) Stick to the word limit

Sticking to the word limit will help you score better. Some questions may have the word-limit set at 150, some others may have it at 250. Carefully check the word limit before starting answering.

As you won’t get time to check the word limit for every answer in the exam hall, make sure you try this while doing Answer Writing Practice (AWP) .

A general thumb rule which can be helpful in the exam hall is that – if the question has a 150-word limit, then the answer should be written within 1 and a half A4 pages. If it’s 250, then write the answer not going beyond 2.5 A4 pages.

Precise answers will not only help you fetch better marks but also save a lot of time.

(3) Address add parts of the question

Not all questions are focused on a single topic. There may be questions that may be divided into 2-3 parts. While answering such questions, make sure you address each of these subparts.

(4) Give examples to substantiate your answer

Without examples, your answer will be so dry.

Your need interesting examples to justify your arguments.

If possible, use an example to substantiate each of your main points/arguments.

(5) Use simple language (and may use points to explain)

Use small and simple sentences. Avoid jargon and flowery language.

You can use ‘points’ inside the body part of your answer – if you feel that will make the answer stand out.

If you prefer a paragraph way of writing, break your contents into small paragraphs whenever possible.

(6) Bring Creative Thinking and Critical Thinking into the Answer

Even if automation replaces everything that human beings do currently, it cannot replace creative and critical thinking. This is what UPSC looks for in future candidates. No wonder, the Commission sets most of the questions with the popular directive – “Critically Analyse”.

If the question demands creative or critical thinking, your answers should be in that direction.

If you are asked to critically analyse, be sure that you present both sides – for and against – in the answer.

(7) Express your opinion; Bring original ideas

UPSC asks many questions seeking your opinion or viewpoint. Consider the below question asked in UPSC CSE Mains 2019.

“Do you think the Constitution of India does not accept the principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’? Explain.” (10 Marks)

In this question, UPSC had directly asked your opinion. Don’t run away without giving your opinion.

In these questions, rather than adding the quotes of experts, mention your opinion and substantiate it well. UPSC will appreciate candidates with fresh ideas and original thinking.

How to write a great answer: Concluding remarks

  • You need to write a well-structured answer to score high marks in the UPSC Civil Services Exam .
  • By being well-structured, it means having a logical connection between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Make sure you understand what is really asked in the UPSC question before starting to answer it. This can be understood by carefully observing the keywords and directives.
  • State your thesis clearly in the introduction.
  • Give examples to substantiate your view of the body part. Cover multiple dimensions – social, political, economic etc in the body of the answer.
  • End your answer by unequivocally that your thesis is proved based on the discussed arguments/facts/examples.
  • If you maintain the flow and logical continuity throughout your answer, you will definitely get high marks in UPSC Mains. All the best!

Do you need proper training on how to write a high scoring answer in UPSC CSE Mains?

If you are looking for online training on how to write a high scoring answer in UPSC CSE Mains, you are at the right place.

ClearIAS program for UPSC CSE Mains has two components.

  • ClearIAS UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice (AWP – Practise of 1 question daily with personalised feedback)
  • ClearIAS UPSC Mains Test Series (Exams simulating actual UPSC Mains for Essay, GS1, GS2, GS3 and GS4)

At this moment, we offer both programs for aspirants who register in  ClearIAS Online Classroom Program Ultimate Batch . You can find more details here .

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Follow ClearIAS!

Subscribe ClearIAS YouTube Channel

# Trending Now on ClearIAS

Csat course.

Join CSAT Course

Current Affairs Course

Join Current Affairs Course

  • UPSC Prelims Test Series

Join Prelims Test Series

UPSC Prelims Marks Booster

Join Prelims Marks Booster

Join ClearIAS Courses!

What makes ClearIAS special: Explore ClearIAS Courses

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

upsc mains essay word limit

May 23, 2020 at 10:26 pm

Any model question and answer paper give me please

ClearIAS Logo 128

May 23, 2020 at 10:35 pm

We will be publishing model answers on the website soon. Until then, you can refer the guidance and personalised feedback we gave to answers written by participants in ClearIAS Answer Writing Practice. Link – AWP

upsc mains essay word limit

May 24, 2020 at 2:21 am

Give some model answers too

May 24, 2020 at 3:34 pm

Thank you for the suggestion. We will be providing that.

upsc mains essay word limit

May 24, 2020 at 7:52 am

May 24, 2020 at 3:33 pm

You are welcome 🙂

upsc mains essay word limit

May 24, 2020 at 2:44 pm

Sir can you plz share the answer writing strategy for optional paper as well. Like if i have opted for anthropology as an optional…what should be my answer writing strategy for that.

May 24, 2020 at 3:32 pm

The above write-up is general in nature. That means following the ClearIAS guidelines mentioned above will help you in the optional papers as well.

upsc mains essay word limit

May 24, 2020 at 3:00 pm

A separate “Answer writing telegram group ” would help aspirants. Thank you

May 24, 2020 at 3:30 pm

Hi Aryan…Thank you for the suggestion. We can do that at a later stage.

November 3, 2020 at 9:41 pm

Sir! Please sprovide some model answer of privious years question which is asked in UPSC exam… I will wait this!!

upsc mains essay word limit

March 8, 2021 at 8:37 am

‘Explain’, ‘Elucidate’, ‘Discuss’, ‘Analyse, ‘Critically Analyse’, ‘Elaborate’ etc are all question directives with a different meaning. You should answer according to the question directive.

We shall explain the minute differences in each of these directives in another post’ …. Sir please share that link…

upsc mains essay word limit

August 17, 2023 at 8:48 pm

She never criticise BJP for any issue in the country. She especially mentions that no matter whichever the political party: either Congress or BJP, Government of India needs to be accountable for every matter. Means she doesn’t want to defame BJP at any cost! That is right wing party and she supports RIGHT WING ideology. But being an independent content writer for the public, she can’t clearly promote ideologies of right wing political party. But she had supported each and evey bill passed by the BJP (bcz all those bills are either in favour of Hindus or in favour of Hindu Girls!)

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 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

ClearIAS Featured in The Hindu

and many more...

Admissions Open: UPSC PCM 2025

Thank You 🙌

upsc mains essay word limit

  • IAS Preparation
  • UPSC Preparation Strategy
  • Topic Wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains 1994 2018

Last 25 Years Topic-wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains (1994 - 2018)

Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services mains exam is the Essay. Here, prelims-qualified IAS aspirants have to write two essays out of a few given topics. The paper is for a total of 250 marks and its marks are taken into consideration for the Final Merit List. In this article, we have listed all the essay topics asked in the UPSC mains exam from 1994 to 2018. We have also classified the last 25 years essay questions into topics to make your preparation easier.

Latest – See the UPSC Essay Topics in the IAS Mains 2020 Essay Paper. Download UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Paper from the linked article.

web Banner 2

Explore The Ultimate Guide to IAS Exam Preparation

Download The E-Book Now!

UPSC 2022

UPSC Essay Topics

Administration.

  • Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. (1994)
  • 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)
  • How should a civil servant conduct himself? (2003)

Democracy/India since independence

  • Whither Indian democracy? (1995)
  • What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. (1997)
  • Why should we be proud of being Indians? (2000)
  • What have we gained from our democratic set-up? (2001)
  • How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? (2003)
  • National identity and patriotism. (2008)
  • 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)
  • Is the colonial mentality hindering India’s success? (2013)
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep. (2015)
  • Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task. (2018)

Economic growth and development

  • Resource management in the Indian context. (1999)
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country. (2013)
  • Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? (2014)
  • Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. (2015)
  • Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. (2016)
  • Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. (2016)
  • Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. (2016)
  • Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. (2017)

Federalism, Decentralisation

  • The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. (1998)
  • Water resources should be under the control of the central government. (2004)
  • Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. (2007)
  • Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? (2007)
  • Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication. (2011)
  • Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality. (2016)
  • Water disputes between States in federal India. (2016)

Indian Culture & Society

  • The Indian society at the crossroads. (1994)
  • New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion. (1996)
  • The composite culture of India. (1998)
  • Youth culture today. (1999)
  • Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. (2000)
  • Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? (2000)
  • As civilization advances culture declines. (2003)
  • From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? (2010)
  • Judicial activism. (1997)
  • Judicial activism and Indian democracy. (2004)
  • Justice must reach the poor. (2005)

Social justice/Poverty

  • Reservation, politics and empowerment. (1999)
  • Food security for sustainable national development. (2005)
  • The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. (2009)
  • Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for the majority of farmers in India. (2017)
  • Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. (2018)

Media & Society

  • Misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. (1998)
  • Mass media and cultural invasion. (1999)
  • Responsibility of media in a democracy. (2002)
  • How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? (2007)
  • Role of media in good governance. (2008)
  • Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? (2011)
  • Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? (2014)

Environment/Urbanisation

  • Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. (1997)
  • Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. (2006)
  • Urbanisation and its hazards. (2008)
  • Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? (2010)
  • We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. (2017)

Economic sectors/MNCs

  • Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs. (1994)
  • Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. (2006)
  • BPO boom in India. (2007)
  • Special economic zone: boon or bane? (2008)
  • Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? (2009)
  • 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)
  • Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? (2014)
  • Restructuring of Indian education system. (1995)
  • Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. (1996)
  • Irrelevance of the classroom. (2001)
  • Privatization of higher education in India. (2002)
  • Modern technological education and human values. (2002)
  • What is real education? (2005)
  • “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. (2006)
  • Independent thinking should be encouraged right from the childhood. (2007)
  • Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses? (2008)
  • Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges. (2011)
  • Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? (2014)
  • Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? (2014)
  • Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. (2015)
  • Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. (2017)
  • The new emerging women power: the ground realities. (1995)
  • Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. (1997)
  • Woman is god’s best creation. (1998)
  • Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. (1999)
  • Empowerment alone cannot help our women. (2001)
  • Whither women’s emancipation? (2004)
  • If women ruled the world. (2005)
  • The hand that rocks the cradle. (2005)
  • Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. (2006)
  • Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal? (2012)
  • If development is not engendered, it is endangered. (2016)
  • Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. (2017)

Quotes-based/Philosophy

  • Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret. (1994)
  • Useless life is an early death. (1994)
  • Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. (1995)
  • When money speaks, the truth is silent. (1995)
  • Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. (1995)
  • Truth is lived, not taught. (1996)
  • True religion cannot be misused. (1997)
  • Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. (2002)
  • The paths of glory lead but to the grave. (2002)
  • If youth knew, if age could. (2002)
  • There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. (2003)
  • Be the change you want to see in others. (2013)
  • With greater power comes greater responsibility. (2014)
  • Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. (2014)
  • Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. (2015)
  • “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. (2018)
  • Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. (2018)
  • Attitude makes habit, habit makes character and character makes a man. (2007)
  • Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin. (2008)
  • Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. (2015)
  • Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. (2016)
  • Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. (2017)
  • A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. (2018)
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. (2018)
  • Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life. (2018)

Globalisation

  • Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. (1994)
  • The world of the twenty-first century. (1998)
  • The implications of globalization for India. (2000)
  • My vision of an ideal world order. (2001)
  • The masks of new imperialism. (2003)
  • Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. (2004)
  • ‘Globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’. (2009)
  • Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. (2010)

Science & Tech

  • The modern doctor and his patients. (1997)
  • Value-based science and education. (1999)
  • The march of science and the erosion of human values. (2001)
  • Spirituality and scientific temper. (2003)
  • The lure of space. (2004)
  • Science and Mysticism: Are they compatible? (2012)
  • Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation. (2013)
  • Technology cannot replace manpower. (2015)
  • Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. (2018)

Internet/IT

  • The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. (2000)
  • Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. (2006)
  • Cyberspace and Internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run. (2016)
  • Social media is inherently a selfish medium. (2017)

International organisations/relations

  • Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities. (1996)
  • India’s role in promoting ASEAN cooperation. (2004)
  • Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement. (2006)
  • Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world. (2017)
  • Terrorism and world peace. (2005)
  • Are we a ‘soft’ state? (2009)
  • Good fences make good neighbours. (2009)
  • In the Indian context, both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism. (2011)

Miscellaneous

  • India’s contribution to world wisdom. (1998)
  • The pursuit of excellence. (2001)
  • Geography may remain the same; history need not. (2010)
  • Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? (2014)
  • Quick but steady wins the race. (2015)

When preparing for IAS Mains, aspirants must focus on UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practise as this will improve one’s speed, efficiency and writing skills. It will automatically help in essay writing as well. 

Also, read:

Frequently Asked Questions on UPSC Essay Topics for UPSC Mains

Q 1. how can i write a good essay in upsc, q 2. does handwriting matter in upsc.

Daily News

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

upsc mains essay word limit

Please share all essay mains paper for UPSC ?

Hi Download UPSC Question Papers from the linked article.

upsc mains essay word limit

IAS 2024 - Your dream can come true!

Download the ultimate guide to upsc cse preparation.

  • Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

  • India Today
  • Business Today
  • Reader’s Digest
  • Harper's Bazaar
  • Brides Today
  • Cosmopolitan
  • Aaj Tak Campus
  • India Today Hindi

upsc mains essay word limit

7 UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate

Here are the seven top upsc optional papers with the highest success rate as per official data..

Listen to Story

7 UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate

When choosing subjects for the UPSC Civil Services Main Exam, candidates must choose carefully because these subjects together account for 500 marks out of 2025 total marks. Picking the right subject can greatly impact the final score.

There are various factors to consider when choosing two optional subjects of UPSC from the total 48 available subjects.

Your choices should align with your background and interests, not just based on toppers' scores. Evaluating syllabi overlap with the UPSC prelims and mains exams (General Studies I, II, III, IV, and essays) would also ensure quick revision and efficient preparation for the UPSC exams.

For more details, check this article on how to choose the best optional subject for UPSC .

As an aspirant, you need to research the details of all the available optional subjects before coming to a decision.

Here, we have analysed the success rates of all UPSC CSE optional subjects in the last few years as per the reports released by the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) to find those UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate.

Top 7 UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate (as per 2019 data):

  • Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
  • Commerce & Accountancy
  • Medical Science
  • Agriculture
  • Civil Engineering

Top 4 UPSC literature-based optional subjects with the highest success rate (as per 2019 data):

  • Literature Of Sindhi(Devanagari) Language
  • Literature Of Kannada Language
  • Literature Of Malayalam Language
  • Literature Of Urdu Language

Top 7 UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate (as per 2020 data):

  • Political Science & International Relations
  • Mathematics

Now, check out the 6 most popular UPSC optional papers with highest GS syllabus overlap .

Note that it is your knowledge level and practice that decides how much you can score in any optional subject. Every optional paper can be scoring for you if you work hard, especially technical subjects like mathematics because there’s a fixed answer to every question.

Non-technical optional papers can also be scoring as IAS toppers have secured 320+ marks in both technical and non-technical papers.

So, if you feel drawn to picking UPSC optional papers that feature nowhere on this list but you are confident about your expertise in them, go ahead!

Online Essay Writing Service to Reach Academic Success.

Are you looking for the best essay writing service to help you with meeting your academic goals? You are lucky because your search has ended. is a place where all students get exactly what they need: customized academic papers written by experts with vast knowledge in all fields of study. All of our writers are dedicated to their job and do their best to produce all types of academic papers of superior quality. We have experts even in very specific fields of study, so you will definitely find a writer who can manage your order.

upsc mains essay word limit

IMAGES

  1. 7PM CIVIL SERVICE ASPIRANTS: UPSC 2018 MAINS QUESTION PAPER GENERAL

    upsc mains essay word limit

  2. UPSC MAINS

    upsc mains essay word limit

  3. Amid meme fest on UPSC mains essay paper, here’s what experts and

    upsc mains essay word limit

  4. How to write a good essay in upsc mains

    upsc mains essay word limit

  5. UPSC CSE Mains Essay Paper 2022

    upsc mains essay word limit

  6. UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Paper PDF Download

    upsc mains essay word limit

VIDEO

  1. WORD LIMIT SWT SST ESSAY #pte

  2. You Need THIS to Ace the UPSC Essay #upsc #upscmains #essay

  3. बाप रे... UPSC Mains के लिए इतना भीड़😳😭

  4. लड़की ने 1 मिनट में बताया Mains की पूरी strategy

  5. SCORE 130+ IN ESSAY| PART-1| Mains Rapid Revision Series| UPSC

  6. upsc mains essay writing quotation #ias #uppcs #pcs #viral #

COMMENTS

  1. Essay Writing for Civil Services Examination

    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.

  2. Essay Paper UPSC 2021 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

    Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to. Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly. Essay Question Paper - UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2021 Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each: Section A 1.

  3. Essay Paper UPSC 2023 (Mains) Question Paper and Analysis

    Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to. Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly. Essay Question Paper: UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2023. The question paper of the UPSC CSE mains essay paper is provided here.

  4. Essay Paper UPSC 2020 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

    Section A Section B Essay Paper UPSC 2020 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis Essay Paper UPSC 2020 Instructions Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours. 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.

  5. How to Write the Essay Paper in UPSC Mains?

    Also, you have three hours to write about 1000 to 1200 words per topic (word limit for essay in UPSC exam). Hence, you can do justice to the essay topic as you have ample time to structure your thoughts and then start writing. Let us look at how your essay should be structured!

  6. How to Write Good Essay: Do's and Don'ts in UPSC CSE Mains

    by Ditilaxmi Sahu June 20, 2022 The essay paper is a significant component of the UPSC civil services examinations. It is capable to make or break your outcome. Before writing an essay in the UPSC Mains Exam, there are a few things to consider. People frequently make silly mistakes when writing essays for the IAS Mains Exam.

  7. 6 Easy Steps On Essay Writing For UPSC Mains Exam 2024

    The UPSC Mains Essay paper consists of a total of 8 Essays out of which two essays need to be attempted within 3 hours in the 1000-1200 word limit each. The essay paper is divided into two sections: A and B. Each section has a choice of 4 essays and the aspirant has to choose only one essay from each section.

  8. Upsc : Guidelines on Essay Writing

    Word limit: The word limit of 3000 words has to be strictly adhered to. Prepare a draft of the essay which is longer than the prescribed word limit. Revise the draft after consulting your colleagues or the Counsellor. Font and spacing: A typed soft copy has to be submitted.

  9. Essay Syllabus

    Candidates are required to write two essays in a span of three hours. The essays carry a total of 250 marks and are a crucial part of the selection process. It covers a wide range of topics from socioeconomic issues, to political and philosophical musings.

  10. Unique Tips and Tricks of UPSC Mains Answer Writing

    In an Essay paper, you have to write two essays within the 1000-1200 word limit to maintain a plan of brainstorming, outlining, idea/argument placement, and structuring. ... This limit is usually considered as the ideal word limit for UPSC Mains. This word limit caution should be maintained because you will be given a fixed amount of pages.

  11. How word limit is counted for IAS Mains exams?

    17/11/2023 As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, I understand the importance of clarity and precision in UPSC Mains exam preparation. One common query among UPSC aspirants pertains to the word limit in the IAS Mains exams. Understanding Word Limit in IAS Mains Exams: Word Limit Overview: In UPSC... read more 0 Comments

  12. Essay Writing for UPSC: Books, Syllabus, How to Write Essay?

    Essay Writing for UPSC: Candidates preparing for the 2023 Civil Services exam must be well versed in Essay Writing for UPSC as it is an important paper in the Mains exam.In the UPSC essay paper, 2 essays have to be written in 3 hours of time.Each essay carries 125 marks in total, which makes this paper worth 250 marks. The word limit for each essay is 1000 to 1200 words.

  13. Essay Paper UPSC 2022 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

    Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to. Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly. Essay Question Paper - UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2022 Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each: Section A

  14. UPSC/IAS Main Exam

    In general studies, word limit can range from 20 to 150 to 250 words. The candidate then has to prepare himself/herself to answer all types of questions. An important consideration is the...

  15. UPSC Essay Topics

    Practising previous year's essay topics will help you become familiar with the UPSC exam pattern, word limit, and the types of essay questions frequently asked in the Mains Examination. Analysing past essay topics will also allow you to identify recurring themes and trends, enabling you to prioritise their preparation accordingly.

  16. The 7-5-3 Rule for UPSC Mains Answer Writing

    The 7-5-3 Rule of Answer Writing The name of this rule is taken from the code of discipline that many martial artists use. The 7-5-3 rule is as simple as the numbers given, where: SEVEN - Candidates' should aim to answer questions within 7 minutes per question. FIVE - Write 5 points in their answers related to the keyword.

  17. How many pages should we write for UPSC Mains answer?

    Moving onto the General Studies (GS) papers (Paper II to Paper V), there are four papers, each with a maximum of 250 marks. In the GS papers, there will be 20 questions in each paper. Here, two types of questions are asked- 10 marks questions with a word limit of 150 words and 15 marks questions with a word limit of 250 words.

  18. How Upsc Counts The Words While Writing Answer In Mains?

    A general thumb rule which can be helpful in the exam hall is that - if the question has a 150-word limit, then the answer should be written within 1 and a half A4 pages. If it's 250, then write the answer not going beyond 2.5 A4 pages. How can I write fast in UPSC mains? Get the correct tool.

  19. What Is Word Limit For Essay In Upsc Cse?

    UPSC CSE: IAS officer T Prateek Rao scored one of the highest marks in the Essay paper of UPSC Mains. Is it OK to exceed word limit essays? Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit to write a developed and thoughtful essay.

  20. How to Write a Great Answer in the UPSC Civil Services Mains ...

    (1) Provide value addition (2) Stick to the word limit (3) Address add parts of the question (4) Give examples to substantiate your answer (5) Use simple language (and may use points to explain) (6) Bring Creative Thinking and Critical Thinking into the Answer (7) Express your opinion; Bring original ideas

  21. UPSC Essay Topics From Last 25 Years

    Last 25 Years Topic-wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains (1994 - 2018) Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services mains exam is the Essay. Here, prelims-qualified IAS aspirants have to write two essays out of a few given topics. The paper is for a total of 250 marks and its marks are taken into consideration for the Final Merit List.

  22. 7 UPSC optional papers with the highest success rate

    When choosing subjects for the UPSC Civil Services Main Exam, candidates must choose carefully because these subjects together account for 500 marks out of 2025 total marks. ... II, III, IV, and essays) would also ensure quick revision and efficient preparation for the UPSC exams. advertisement. For more details, check this article on how to ...

  23. Upsc Mains Essay Word Limit

    Upsc Mains Essay Word Limit - 132 . Customer Reviews. ID 7766556. Finished paper. Hire a Writer. 20 Customer reviews. Ask the experts to write an essay for me! Our writers will be by your side throughout the entire process of essay writing. After you have made the payment, the essay writer for me will take over 'my assignment' and start ...