How to Write a Good Essay for UPSC Mains 2025, Tips and Tricks
Deeksha Dixit21 Aug, 2025
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Good Essay for UPSC Mains 2025: In the Civil Services Exam 2025, essay writing is integral to the UPSC Mains. Candidates are required to write well-structured essays in both Indian and English, which are qualifying in nature, as well as for the UPSC Mains Paper I (Essay).
Writing a good essay for UPSC Mains 2025 is a crucial skill that can significantly influence your overall score in the examination. The UPSC essay paper tests your writing ability and understanding of various issues, analytical skills, and ability to articulate thoughts clearly. To excel, it is essential to master the components of a good essay, employ effective writing strategies, and continually improve your skills. Read on to discover key tips and techniques for writing a compelling essay for UPSC Mains 2025.
Essay Writing for UPSC Mains 2025
The UPSC Mains Essay Paper carries 250 marks, making it a crucial part of the overall score. Candidates are required to write two essays, each worth 125 marks. The UPSC Mains Essay topics are diverse, ranging from philosophical reflections to contemporary issues.- The UPSC Mains Essay Paper is divided into two sections: Section A and Section, each offering four topics.
- Candidates are required to write one essay from each section.
- Candidates are allotted three hours for the essay paper.
- The word limit of a UPSC essay is a maximum of 1000–1200 words .
What UPSC Wants From The Essay Paper?
As you begin your preparation for the Essay paper, you should understand the requirements of UPSC from aspirants. While there is no clear syllabus, the UPSC Syllabus 2025 mentions this about the Essay - “Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics. They will be expected to keep closely to the subject of the essay, to arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion, and to write concisely . Credit will be given for effective and exact expression .”How do UPSC Essay Paper Differ from GS Papers?
While the content of UPSC GS subjects is useful in writing essays, candidates can not follow the same approach in both papers. The reason being:- Beyond Content : Unlike GS, the examiner considers language, coherence, and organization alongside content while evaluating the essays.
- Language and Grammar : The fundamental spelling and grammatical errors matter in the Essay paper and can impact your score. Further, you need to arrange ideas properly in 1000-1200 words, unlike the 150-250 word limit in GS papers.
How and Where to Prepare for UPSC Essay Paper?
The sources to prepare for the UPSC essay paper are similar to those of the GS paper. Some Essay Book for UPSC Mains paper including the following sources:- General Studies (GS) : Most essay content will come from GS preparation.
- Non-Fiction Reading : Develop a mature thought process and gather examples.
- Specific Magazines : Refer to Yojana, EPW, and Economic Survey 2025 for the latest statistics and government scheme insights.
- Anecdotes and Quotes : Collect stories, anecdotes, and quotes from newspapers and books for use in essays.
- Useful Phrases : Phrases from speeches by the PM, President & other signatories like “Viksit Bharat” can enhance your conclusion.
How to Write a Good Essay for UPSC Mains 2025?
Writing an effective essay for the UPSC Mains 2025 requires careful planning and clear thinking. Follow these UPSC Mains essay writing tips to craft a compelling essay that showcases your abilities and helps you succeed in the examination: Understand the Topic: Read all the topics in each section and carefully pick the topic you are comfortable with and have good knowledge of. Spend the first few minutes understanding the topic thoroughly. Break down the topic into key components and identify the core issue. Brainstorm and Outline : Spend 10–15 minutes brainstorming ideas and creating an outline. Think of any good quote, example, or anecdote to start your essay. List down the main points you want to cover and organize them logically. Organize Your Thoughts: Use rough pages to organize your ideas based in the structure you would like to have. By spending initial time in this exercise you can ensure to structure your essay logically, ensuring that each point flows into the next. Writing the Essay: Start with a clear introduction to grab the reader’s attention. Avoid complex vocabulary and lengthy sentences. Try to include multiple dimensions in your essay to show the depth of your knowledge and clarity of your thoughts. Be Concise: Stick to the point and avoid unnecessary arguments. Provide relevant evidence to support your arguments in the essay. Go through Topper’s UPSC Mains essay examples to understand how to arrange their ideas. How to Build Vocabulary?
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Components of a Good Essay for UPSC Mains 2025
While UPSC does not set any strict format, it has been analyzed from UPSC topper’s copies that a good essay for UPSC Mains 2025 should have the following components:Introduction
The introduction should be engaging and set the tone for the essay. It should provide a brief overview of the topic, capturing the attention of the examiner. You can use quotes, examples, case studies, etc. to begin your essay. Introduction Methods :
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Body
The body of the essay should be well-structured and divided into clear paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point or argument. Use examples and data to support your points. Use multiple dimensions and keep the logical flow of your thoughts. UPSC rewards effective and exact expression. Content of the Body:
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Language and Style
Use clear, concise, and formal language to articulate your points. The language style for a good essay for UPSC Mains 2025 should be analytical and balanced, presenting multiple perspectives on the issue. How to Improve Language and Expression?
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Coherence and Flow
Ensure that the essay has a logical flow and that the ideas or dimensions are connected. Use transition words and phrases like as discussed, in fact, also, for this reason, etc. to maintain the flow between paragraphs. How to Transition Between Paragraphs?
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Conclusion
The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and support your final statements with evidence. A conclusion provides a sense of closure and leaves a lasting impression on the examiner, therefore try to keep a positive tone. How to Write a Good Conclusion in UPSC Essay?
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What to Avoid in a Good Essay For UPSC Mains 2025?
Knowing what to avoid in the essay is equally important for candidates. Ensure to avoid the following mistakes that may cost you in the essay paper:- Single-Dimensional Focus : Ensure essays are expansive and multi-dimensional.
- Sticking to the Topic : Write what is asked, not what you know or feel like.
- Avoiding Abstract Topics : If uncomfortable with abstract topics, avoid them.
- Extreme Opinions : Avoid extreme or highly unpopular opinions.
- Ranting : Present balanced views and avoid one-sided rants.
- Time Management : Do not favor one essay, allocate equal time to both essays.
How to Write a Good Essay for UPSC Mains 2024 FAQs
How can I write an effective essay for the UPSC Mains 2024?
Understand the topic thoroughly, brainstorm and outline your ideas, write a clear introduction, organize your thoughts logically, and use examples.
How do I score good marks in the UPSC essay paper?
To score well, select topics you are knowledgeable about, present multiple perspectives, use relevant examples, maintain a logical flow, and ensure your essay is well-structured and concise.
How do I evaluate the UPSC essay?
Review your essay by proofreading for basic mistakes such as spelling and grammar. Consult the PW OnlyIAS expert for feedback.
How do I conclude an essay in the UPSC Mains exam?
Write a conclusion by summarising the key points, providing a way forward, or giving your futuristic perspective.
What mistakes to be avoided in UPSC essay?
Avoid choosing unfamiliar topics, using complex vocabulary, going off-topic, lacking coherence, and failing to review your essay for errors.
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