How to Write Essay in UPSC

Some UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) aspirants score good grades on their essay papers while others struggle.

What’s the reason? 

It’s not about using fancy vocabulary or complicated sentences to impress the paper checker. Absolutely not! The truth is that smart aspirants write from their hearts & follow simple yet powerful techniques. 

As a UPSC aspirant, you might be feeling worried about the essay paper. 

We understand! 

When we first learned about the essay paper's format, we also had so many questions running through our minds. 

• How to choose the right topic? 

• What’s the best way to draft an attractive introduction?

• How to structure the essay? 

Well, don't worry! Today, we're going to break down everything about UPSC essay writing in the simplest way possible.

7 Proven Tips to Write Outstanding Essays in UPSC

1. Understand the Basics First

This is the basic structure of the UPSC essay paper:

2. Choose the Right Topic

How to pick the right essay topic? 

Let us make this simple for you with a quick checklist:

• Read all topics carefully

• Pick topics you're interested in & are comfortable with

• Do you have a deep knowledge of the topic?

• Think about relevant examples you can use

• Choose topics where you can present different viewpoints

Remember:

When you're in the exam hall: take at least 5-7 minutes to choose your topics. You’ve to choose something you know you can handle well!

3. Follow the Right Structure

This is the structure of the essay:

4. Write a Powerful Introduction

Want to know how to grab the examiner's attention right from the start? 

Here's what you can do:

• Start with a relevant quote

• Share an interesting fact

• Ask a thought-provoking question

• Tell a short story

For example, if you're writing an essay about technology & society, you could start like this: “Do you remember the time when we had to stand in long queues to pay our bills? Today, with a few clicks on our smartphones, we can manage our entire financial life. Is this technological revolution making our lives better, or are we becoming too dependent on it?”

This introduction directly relates to the topic & sets the stage for the rest of the essay. 

5. Make Your Arguments Strong in the Body Paragraphs 

Here's where many students get confused. 

But don’t be worried! We make this section super simple for you. 

You need to make a statement for each main point in your body paragraphs. After that, you need to explain it clearly. Following this step, you’ve to add a relevant example. Lastly, show readers how the point connects to the main topic. 

If you’re telling a story to a friend, would you state facts?

Definitely, not!

You'd explain things, give examples, & make connections. And so is the case with the UPSC essay.

6. Add Your Personal Touch

Want to know what makes an essay truly special? 

It's your personal touch! 

Don't just write what you think the examiner wants to read. It would be best to share your genuine thoughts & insights. Be honest in your writing.

Remember, the examiner wants to see how you think, analyze, & express your ideas.

7. End up with a Strong Conclusion

When you write essays for the UPSC exam, the ending needs to be compelling. You’ve to show the examiner that you, as a future leader, remain hopeful about the future despite challenges. 

Avoid crafting a lengthy conclusion; be short & to the point. Summarize the keynotes in 5-6 lines. 

Don’t forget to connect the ending back to your introduction. 

Smart Tips for Better Writing

Here are some friendly tips that can make your essay stand out:

• Use simple yet formal language 

• Keep paragraphs short (4-5 lines each)

• Connect your paragraphs smoothly

• Include current examples 

• Balance different viewpoints

• Write neatly (presentation matters!)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

We all make mistakes! 

But knowing about them helps us avoid them. Here are some common ones:

• Writing too many quotes (2-3 is enough)

• Using very long sentences

• Forgetting to give examples

• Writing without proper structure

• Not proofreading

Practice Makes Perfect

You know the proverb - practice makes a man perfect! But how should you practice? Here's a simple plan for you:

1. Write one essay every week

2. Time yourself (3 hours maximum)

3. Get feedback from teachers or study groups

4. Read good essays from toppers

5. Keep a notebook of good examples & quotes

Concluding Remarks 

Writing a UPSC essay isn’t as challenging as it might have seemed. All you need to do is have a clear structure, use simple language, & express your thoughts honestly. Practice regularly & believe in yourself. With these tips & regular practice, you'll definitely improve your UPSC essay writing skills.

Remember, every UPSC topper was once a beginner. They improved with practice, & so can you!