UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024
UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 details themes asked in the exam. The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 is shared here.
Deeksha Dixit22 Sept, 2024
Share
UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 : The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024, commonly known as the Ethics Paper was held in the afternoon shift on September 22, 2024, from 2:30 to 5:30 PM. This paper is a crucial part of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination . UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 evaluates the candidates' ethical and moral reasoning, decision-making capabilities, and integrity in public administration.
With a unique blend of theory and case studies, the UPSC Mains GS 4 paper challenged aspirants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life ethical dilemmas. The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 will be done by PW OnlyIAS experts offering a detailed insight into the key areas, difficulty level, and new trends.UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 4 2024 First Reaction Live
UPSC Mains 2024 GS 4 Paper was held in the afternoon shift on September 22, 2024. Do not miss the expert's take on the Ethics question paper to understand the difficulty level and trends this year. Catch the overview of the nature of questions and case studies in the first reaction of UPSC GS Paper 4 Analysis 2024 by OnlyIAS experts here: https://www.youtube.com/live/-NcBHHKTAlY?si=fYTsCfPTeASzE6gVUPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 - Overview
The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 consists of a Theory section with 13 questions worth 10 marks each and 6 Case Studies worth 20 marks. The Ethics paper typically features subjective questions on basic ethics theories, attitudes, and notable quotes. Here is an overview of UPSC Mains GS Paper IV:| UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 Overview | |
| Particular | Detail |
| Paper | Paper V |
| Paper Name | General Studies Paper 4 |
| Exam Date | 22 September 2024 |
| Shift | 02:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. |
| Total Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Number of Questions | 19 Questions (13X10 and 6X20) |
| Nature of Paper | Considered for Merit List |
| Minimum Marks | 10% (25 marks) |
Also Read: UPSC Mains Exam Analysis
Detailed UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024
The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 maintained a balance between theoretical questions and case studies. The case studies in the paper were lengthy and presented without paragraph breaks, requiring careful analysis of the four-part questions. Questions in section A varied in length from three to five lines, indicating a shift towards more complex questioning, rather than straightforward. Candidates should go through the previous year’s analysis to have an idea of what to expect in the exam. For instance, in 2023, questions in Section A featured new terms like "moral integrity" and "social capital," which are not directly covered in the syllabus.| UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Analysis 2024 | ||
| Section | Total Questions | Difficulty Level |
| Section A | 13 | Moderate to tough |
| Section B | 6 | Moderate to tough |
UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 in detail will be shared by PW OnlyIAS experts in the live session: https://www.youtube.com/live/Dmv0TOAynv4?si=u3HARp7Qsm2uetvm
Section-Wise UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Analysis
The GS Paper 4 has increasingly become analytical and applied in nature, moving beyond mere definitions and examples. Candidates are expected to demonstrate deep thinking and a nuanced understanding of ethical issues. Here is the UPSC Mains GS 4 paper analysis from previous years:Section A (Theory):
- The questions in this section have become more analytical, requiring candidates to demonstrate a deeper understanding of ethical theories and their application.
- Avoid relying solely on keywords and definitions. Provide a balanced perspective by discussing the pros and cons of different ethical frameworks.
- There’s a noticeable trend towards more complex and lengthy questions compared to previous years. This requires students to adapt their preparation strategies.
- Many questions presented ethical issues that require you to weigh different viewpoints and provide a balanced analysis.
Section B (Case Studies):
- The case studies have become more complex in UPSC Mains GS Paper 4, with multiple ethical dilemmas and conflicting values at play.
- UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 usually tests the key ethical issues involved, analyse them from different perspectives, and provides a justified conclusion.
- The case studies in 2024 were longer than in previous years and lacked clear breaks, making them harder to read quickly.
- Each case study has multiple questions (A, B, C, D), which require careful understanding and analysis to answer correctly.
Trends in UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Analysis
In recent years, the UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 has shown a noticeable increase in basic theory questions. The 2022 paper, known for its complexity, featured extensive theoretical questions and lengthy case studies , making it one of the most challenging in recent years. GS 4 Paper’s analytical and applied nature demands deep thinking and comprehension rather than mere rote memorization. Here is the year-wise distribution of questions according to the previous year's UPSC Mains GS Paper 4:
UPSC Mains GS 4 Syllabus
The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper is named ‘Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude ’ and focuses on the theoretical understanding and practical application of ethical principles. Here is the breakdown of the UPSC Mains GS 4 syllabus :- Ethics and Human Interface : This section covers the essence, determinants, and consequences of ethics in human actions. It also explores the dimensions of ethics in both private and public relationships.
- Attitude: Questions here focus on the content, structure, and function of attitude, along with its influence on behaviour. The relationship between moral and political attitudes is also examined.
- Aptitude : It tests foundational values such as integrity, impartiality, objectivity, empathy, and dedication to public service.
- Emotional Intelligence: Questions explore concepts related to emotional intelligence (EI) and how they are applied in public administration and governance.
- Moral Thinkers and Philosophers: Contributions of Indian and global moral thinkers are highlighted, with questions often focusing on how their teachings can be applied in contemporary governance.
- Ethics in Public Administration: This section deals with ethical issues in public administration, including dilemmas faced by civil servants, the role of rules and regulations, and corporate governance.
- Probity in Governance: A significant area in GS 4, this section focuses on probity in governance, public service values, and ethical issues like corruption, information sharing, and the Right to Information.
- Case Studies : Case studies on real-life scenarios involving ethical issues in public administration and governance form the second part of the paper.
Download UPSC Mains GS 4 Question Paper
Candidates should download the previous years' GS 4 question papers to get insights into the structure and types of questions asked. The direct link to download the UPSC Mains GS 4 Question Paper 2024 is also available in the below table, from where you can download previous year’s question papers:| Download UPSC Mains GS 4 Question Paper PDF | |
| Year | Download Link |
| UPSC Mains 2024 | Click Here |
| UPSC Mains 2023 | Click Here |
| UPSC Mains 2022 | Click Here |
| UPSC Mains 2021 | Click Here |
| UPSC Mains 2020 | Click Here |
| UPSC Mains 2019 | Click Here |
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| UPSC Cut off Trends | UPSC Optional Subject | UPSC Mains GS 2 Analysis |
| How to Read Union Budget? | UPSC Mains Exam Pattern | UPSC Mains Syllabus |
UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper Analysis 2024 FAQs
How was UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024?
The UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 2024 was challenging due to its lengthy and complex questions, requiring deep analysis and effective time management.
How many case studies are asked in UPSC Mains GS 4?
The UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper typically includes 6 case studies, each worth 20 marks.
What is the weightage of theories UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024?
Theories in the UPSC Mains GS 4 Paper 2024 comprise a significant portion, with 13 questions worth 10 marks each.
How to prepare for the Ethics Paper?
Preparation for GS IV includes understanding the syllabus, studying ethical theories, practicing case studies, engaging in discussions, and focusing on answer writing skills.
What are the key topics covered in the UPSC Mains GS 4 syllabus?
Key topics include ethics and human interface, attitude, aptitude, emotional intelligence, moral thinkers, ethics in public administration, and probity in governance.
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Check out these Related Articles
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.