What Are Rules for Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains 2025?

Use of pencil in UPSC Mains 2025 will not be permitted except for diagrams. The UPSC CSE Mains, scheduled for August 22nd, is one of the most challenging exams in India, and understanding the rules for the exam is crucial for all aspirants. One common query candidates have is about the ‘use of pencil in UPSC Mains’ exam.

Enroll Now for UPSC Online Course

Can We Use Pencil in UPSC Mains 2025?

Official Rules for Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains

• No Pencils for Writing: Write all your answers with a pen. The pencil marks can be erased or smudged, which can affect your answer sheet's evaluation.
• Pencil for Diagrams Only: Candidates can use pencils to draw diagrams, charts, and maps in their answers.
• Avoiding Overuse: Candidates should avoid excessive use of pencil in UPSC Mains answers. The primary text should be written in pen.
• No Multiple Colors: While there is no official rule, it is advisable to use a single-color pencil for diagrams to maintain uniformity and clarity.
• Clarity: Ensure that any pencil markings are clear and legible, as evaluators need to read them easily.

Enroll Now for UPSC Course

Which Pencil to Use for UPSC Mains?

• HB or 2B Pencils: These are recommended for their balanced hardness, ensuring clear, sharp lines that can be easily erased if necessary.
• Mechanical Pencils: For consistent line thickness and precision, mechanical pencils with 0.5mm or 0.7mm lead are excellent choices.

Also Check, Write 250 Words in 7-8 Minutes in UPSC Mains 

Expert Tips on the Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains

• Limited Use Pencil: Stick to using pencils only for diagrams, maps, and illustrations where necessary.
• Draw Neat Diagrams: Ensure your diagrams are neat and labeled properly for better understanding by the examiner.
• Sharpen Your Pencils: Keep pencils sharpened and ready before the exam to save time and ensure clarity when drawing.
• Carry Extra Pencils: Bring at least 2-3 pencils to the exam to avoid interruptions if one breaks.
• Avoid Outlining Answers: While some candidates prefer outlining diagrams or answers with a pencil before using ink, this practice may consume time and is not recommended.
• Marking on Maps: In subjects like Geography, mark maps clearly with a pencil for better understanding of the examiner.

To conclude, the use of pencil in UPSC Mains is limited to specific tasks such as diagrams and maps. By adhering to these guidelines and choosing the right writing tools, you can ensure that your answers are presented clearly and professionally.