The essay paper (200 marks) in the civil services main examination is crucial in determining the ultimate outcome/ selection and ranking. It is decisive because there is no specialization in an article and so no aspirant can claim expertise, unlike optional subjects. Essay paper does not need a supply of definitive information as in case of general studies or optional subjects. This takes its challenge. It is vital to realize that an article is really a reflection of the personality - ideas, views, analysis, assessments and inferences, values, attitude, news,aptitude, orientation and communication (written) abilities, most of the attributes which can be wanted by UPSC in a aspirant. page
General trend is that essay paper will contain 6 topics out of which topic to be chosen. There is no syllabus for essay. Anything under sun may be asked. But, when we analyse previous year paper, it is conspicuous to locate some root topics. As an example, there's at least one question on women empowerment every year. So, the topic'Women Empowerment'is really a root topic.
Suggested Root Topics
Women Empowerment
Environment, S&T, Energy Security, Sustainable Development
Democracy, judiciary and related topics
Education, Indian Culture
Current Events
Suggested Reading:
Yojana issues
Frontline cover stories
"The Hindu" Sunday Magazines
Groundwork Preparation
The duration of the essay paper is 3 hours and the word limit is not mentioned. It is generally stated that 1500-2000 words should make a good essay. This may comfortably be written despite a moderate pace in 2 to 2 ½ hours. So the first 30- 45 minutes may be spent for the groundwork preparation. First is the choice of the proper essay topic. Out of the 6 topics, one topic would generally be linked to philosophical issue, unless one is confident it is better to opt it out. Like wise it's possible to eliminate topics with which is not comfortable. Some topics, most of the aspirants cannot maintain a balance through the essay so better opt them also out. Finally choose the topic that you believe may do justice. The clear answer booklet of the main examination consists of 24 single pages. The last 3-4 pages can be used for rough work.
If you're sure as possible complete the main booklet, then ask for one additional at the start of the exam and use it for rough work. In these pages prepare outline for the essay by asking questions yourselves. It is also referred to as as brainstorming. Suppose have a topic as an example: "Terrorism and global peace (CSE-2005)"
The questions may be:
What's terrorism, it's aims, methodology and its origin?
How it affects global peace?
What are different ways/types of terrorism and how each one is a risk to global peace?
What are the causes for terrorism to flourish?
How the global peace may be maintained (remedy and a worldwide approach in fighting terrorism because of its spread to any or all countries)?
What's the relevance of terrorism to India and affect on Indians means of living?
What should be the conclusion? Ex. Terrorism affects global peace and it is really a fact. So the answer is to create it disappear. Whatever form it might be, it must be condemned since it involves loss of precious lives and living of many.
On these lines additional questions may be evolved.
The next thing is question yourself about the topic and scribble whatever involves the mind without the order in just words, not sentences. Following this part has ended write in conclusion part at length in the rough area.
Tips:
Good introduction and good conclusion are must.
There will be link between paragraphs.
Clarity of expression is quite important. Use simple English to state your point clearly. You will need not use flowery language. Simple logical presentation is sufficient.
Practise is essential for getting a good score.
Try to give a great introduction. It should guide the examiner from what you would like to convey in the essay. The final outcome must certanly be good and satisfy the examiner. Always conclude on a positive note.
The main focus must certanly be on giving a great analysis of the topic.
Do not divert into areas, which are irrelevant to the topic.
Make sure that you've sufficient understanding and material to write, before choosing the topic.