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UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023, Important Questions Asked, PDF

Madhavi Gaur September 18, 2023 09:00 14719 0

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis: The UPSC Essay Paper analysis sheds light on the trends, challenges, and strategies that shape the essay-writing dimension of India's prestigious Civil Services Examination.

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023, Important Questions Asked, PDF

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023: The Union Public Service Commission is prepared to administer the Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2023 on September 15 and over the course of five days, including September 16, 17, 23, and 24, 2023, at multiple examination centers. This exam will consist of two sessions: one in the morning and another in the afternoon.

Candidates who lack clear photographs on their e-admit cards must bring a passport-sized photograph for each session, along with an Undertaking. It’s important to note that if a candidate appears at a different center, sub-center, or chooses an optional subject or Indian language other than what’s specified on their e-Admit Card, their answer scripts will not be evaluated, and their candidature may be canceled.

UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2023 Analysis

On the first day of the UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023 exam, which is September 15, 2023, the Commission will conduct Paper-I Essay examination during the morning shift, while there will be no paper held in the afternoon shift. Examinees are advised to arrive at the examination hall 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for each session, and entry to the Examination Hall will close 10 minutes before the commencement of each session.

Here are some important guidelines for the UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023 exam:

1. You can use Scientific (Non-Programmable type) Calculators, if necessary, which candidates may bring with them. However, programmable type calculators are not allowed in this examination.

2. The possession or use of Mobile Phones and other Electronics or Communication devices is strictly prohibited at the examination premises. Any violation of these rules will result in disciplinary action, including a ban from future examinations.

3. It is advisable not to bring valuable or costly items to the Examination Halls as their safekeeping cannot be guaranteed, and the Commission will not be held responsible for any losses.

4. Candidates should bring a black ballpoint pen to the Examination Hall for making entries in the attendance list.

5. All candidates are required to adhere to COVID-19 norms, including social distancing and personal hygiene, while inside the Examination Halls/Rooms and within the examination venue premises.

Candidates must remember to carry their admit cards to the exam center, as this document is crucial for verification and entry into the examination venue. For additional information, please refer to the official UPSC website.

 

Q. No Question
 SECTION A
1. Thinking is like a game; it does not begin unless there is an opposite team.
2. Visionary decision making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic.
3. Not all who wander are lost.
4. Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
SECTION B
5. Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines.
6. Mathematics is the music of reason.
7. A society that has more justice is a society that needs less charity.
8. Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.

 

UPSC Essay Question Paper 2023 – Section A

UPSC Essay Paper Section A

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 – Section B

UPSC Essay Paper Section B

UPSC Essay Paper 2023 PDF

UPSC Mains Essay Paper Analysis – First Reaction By UPSC Aspirants

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis by PWOnlyIAS

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis: UPSC Essay Paper is a crucial component that not only assesses candidates’ knowledge but also their ability to articulate ideas concisely and effectively. This analysis delves into the nuances of this examination segment, uncovering trends, strategies, and insights for aspiring civil servants.

On September 16, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the first paper of CSE Mains 2022, which was the Essay Paper. This year in 2023, the UPSC Mains Paper is going to take place from 15th September 2023.

Watch the YouTube video of UPSC Essay Paper Analysis by PWOnlyIAS:

Instructions for UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2022

  • Total Marks: 250 marks
  • Time duration: 3 hours
  • The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate, clearly stated on the cover of the question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet.
  • No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
  • Adherence to the specified word limit is required.
  • Any blank page or portion must be struck off clearly.
  • Candidates are required to write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, with a word limit of approximately 1000-1200 words each.

Also Read: UPSC Syllabus 2024

UPSC Essay Analysis 2023

  • There has been a trend of increased philosophical essays in recent years, and this year’s benchmark was higher than in previous years.
  • The philosophical nature of the questions made them challenging for many candidates.
  • Writing 1000 words on each topic within the time constraints was not easy.
  • UPSC ensured that the essay topics differed significantly from the General Studies (GS) questions.
  • Rather than asking candidates to write on familiar topics, UPSC assessed essay writing skills by providing abstract or philosophical topics.
  • This year, most of the themes were proverbs or famous quotes.
  • All eight topics tested applicants’ spontaneous thinking, understanding, writing, and time management.
  • The topics required broad interpretation.

UPSC Essay Paper 2022 Analysis

  • Poetic language as a tool to re-institute order in human society.
  • Getting out of one’s comfort zone.
  • Do the right things at the right time.
  • You won’t get the exact time/experience twice.
  • Importance of a smile.
  • Theme related to choices and decision-making.

Importance of the UPSC Essay Paper Analysis

The essay paper serves as a window for examiners to assess the thought process, viewpoints on critical matters, clarity in thinking, ability to explain ideas concisely and effectively, coherence, and the ability to organize ideas in an orderly fashion of aspirants. It evaluates if a candidate possesses the traits required of a potential civil servant, making it a crucial component of the UPSC examination.

Common Misconceptions About UPSC Essay Paper Analysis

  1. No preparation required: Some candidates believe that GS and optional knowledge are sufficient. However, the essay paper assesses more than just content.
  2. Championing English: Using technical jargon and vocabulary is not necessary. Simpler language is often better.
  3. Similarity with language paper essay: The essay paper is distinct from language paper essays, focusing on evaluating the traits of a potential civil servant.
  4. Difficulty in preparation: Preparation for the essay paper is possible, and improvement is achievable with the right strategy.
  5. Source of preparation: General studies and optional preparation provide content, but reading non-fiction, collecting anecdotes, stories, quotes, facts, and figures, and referring to magazines, newspapers, and essay transcripts of previous year toppers are valuable for preparation.
UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023
UPSC Essay Paper Analysis 2023

How to Prepare for the UPSC Essay Paper  

  • Read essay transcripts of previous year toppers to understand what constitutes a well-written essay.
  • Maintain a separate notebook for collecting material from various sources, including quotations, facts, anecdotes, and government schemes.
  • Prepare material on general topics that have been asked in previous exams.
  • Emphasize understanding the topic and its various dimensions.
  • Read different kinds of essays, particularly philosophical essays.
  • Practice previous year essay papers under exam conditions and seek feedback.

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis Approach for Writing

  • Have a clear plan for essay paper attempt, including time management.
  • Choose the right topic and interpret it correctly.
  • Prepare a skeleton for the essay, including introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Structure the essay with clear, simple language, short sentences, proper subheadings, and smooth transitions.
  • Avoid one-sided arguments, excessive focus on one dimension, and criticism of the government.
  • Do not use bullets, diagrams, figures, or charts; essays should be in continuous paragraph format.

The essay paper in UPSC CSE is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in scoring well in the examination. Proper preparation and a strategic approach can lead to substantial improvements in essay scores, giving candidates an advantage in the highly competitive civil services examination.

UPSC Essay Important Topics

here are some important and recurring themes that candidates should be prepared for:

  1. Social Issues:
    • Gender equality
    • Women’s empowerment
    • Education and literacy
    • Poverty and inequality
    • Social justice
  2. Economic Issues:
    • Economic growth and development
    • Inclusive growth
    • Agriculture and rural development
    • Industrialization
    • Employment and unemployment
  3. Political Issues:
    • Democracy and its challenges
    • Electoral reforms
    • Role of media in democracy
    • Political polarization
    • Federalism and center-state relations
  4. Environmental Issues:
    • Climate change and its impact
    • Conservation of natural resources
    • Pollution and its effects
    • Biodiversity and wildlife conservation
    • Sustainable development
  5. Science and Technology:
    • Role of technology in governance
    • Space exploration
    • Information technology and its challenges
    • Artificial intelligence and ethics
    • Biotechnology and its applications
  6. Geopolitical Issues:
    • India’s foreign policy
    • Indo-Pacific strategy
    • International relations and global conflicts
    • Terrorism and its global implications
    • Regional cooperation and integration
  7. Cultural and Historical Topics:
    • Cultural diversity in India
    • Heritage and conservation
    • India’s freedom struggle
    • Ancient civilizations and their relevance today
  8. Ethical and Philosophical Issues:
    • Ethics in governance
    • Moral dilemmas in public service
    • Integrity and accountability
    • Role of ethics in international relations
    • Values in a changing world
  9. Healthcare and Pandemics:
    • Public health infrastructure
    • COVID-19 pandemic and lessons learned
    • Healthcare reforms
    • Access to healthcare services
  10. Education and Skill Development:
    • Education policies and reforms
    • Skill development and employment
    • Online education and its challenges
    • Quality of education

Remember that in the UPSC essay paper, you have to choose one out of several essay topics provided in the exam, and you have to write an essay of around 1000-1200 words. The key is to demonstrate your ability to provide a structured and balanced argument, cite relevant examples, and express your ideas clearly and coherently.

UPSC Essay Paper Analysis
UPSC Essay Paper Analysis

UPSC Essay Examples

Here are a few examples of essay topics that might be relevant for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination, along with brief outlines of how you could approach them. Remember that UPSC essays often require a balanced and comprehensive analysis, so these outlines are just starting points:

  1. Climate Change and its Impact on India:
    • Introduction: Briefly introduce the concept of climate change and its global significance.
    • Causes of Climate Change: Discuss factors like greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and industrialization.
    • Impact on India: Explore how climate change affects India’s agriculture, water resources, coastal regions, and health.
    • Government Initiatives: Mention policies and initiatives taken by the Indian government to address climate change.
    • Conclusion: Summarize the importance of addressing climate change and the role India can play in mitigating its effects.
  2. Women Empowerment in India:
    • Introduction: Define women empowerment and its significance in a diverse country like India.
    • Historical Perspective: Discuss the status of women in India throughout history.
    • Challenges Faced: Analyze the socio-cultural and economic challenges that hinder women’s empowerment.
    • Government Initiatives: Highlight government programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Women Entrepreneurship schemes.
    • Role of Education: Discuss the role of education in empowering women.
    • Conclusion: Emphasize the need for continued efforts to empower women and the benefits it brings to society.
  3. Digital India Campaign:
    • Introduction: Introduce the Digital India campaign and its objectives.
    • Achievements: Discuss the progress made in areas like e-governance, digital infrastructure, and digital literacy.
    • Challenges: Analyze the challenges faced in achieving digital inclusivity and cybersecurity.
    • Socio-economic Impact: Explore how digitalization has impacted various sectors, such as healthcare, education, and finance.
    • Future Prospects: Discuss the potential of Digital India in transforming India’s economy and governance.
    • Conclusion: Summarize the significance of digitalization for India’s development.
  4. The Role of Youth in Nation Building:
    • Introduction: Define the concept of nation-building and its importance.
    • Youth as Agents of Change: Discuss how the youth can contribute to nation-building through education, entrepreneurship, and social activism.
    • Challenges Faced by Youth: Analyze the hurdles faced by young people, such as unemployment and lack of opportunities.
    • Government Initiatives: Highlight government schemes aimed at youth development and employment.
    • Conclusion: Emphasize the pivotal role that the youth play in shaping the future of the nation.
  5. Healthcare in Rural India: Challenges and Solutions:
    • Introduction: Present an overview of the healthcare scenario in rural India.
    • Challenges: Discuss issues like inadequate healthcare infrastructure, lack of access, and low healthcare awareness.
    • Government Initiatives: Explore government programs like Ayushman Bharat and the National Rural Health Mission.
    • Role of Technology: Highlight the role of telemedicine and mobile health clinics in addressing rural healthcare challenges.
    • Conclusion: Summarize the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare in rural India.

These are just a few examples of essay topics that you might encounter in the UPSC examination. Remember to approach each essay with a structured format, providing a balanced view and supporting your arguments with facts, data, and examples. Additionally, practice writing essays regularly to improve your skills and time management.

Also Read
UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 Analysis UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 Analysis
UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 Analysis UPSC Mains GS Paper 4 Analysis
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UPSC Essay Paper Analysis FAQs

UPSC examiners evaluate essays using distinct criteria encompassing coherence, relevance, depth of analysis, and the ingenuity of ideas. An effectively structured and articulated essay that manifests critical thinking and analytical prowess is poised to garner superior ratings.

Scores falling within the range of 110-125 are typically regarded as average in the context of UPSC essay evaluation. For exceptionally well-crafted essays, candidates can aim for scores in the impressive range of 150-160. However, it's essential to bear in mind that UPSC may assign as low as '0' or '20' marks for poorly written essays.

Focus on crafting a compelling introduction, well-structured body paragraphs, and a conclusive conclusion. Utilize suitable headings or subheadings to methodically structure your ideas. Keep in mind that the UPSC essay assesses not only your analytical and writing capabilities but also your proficiency in constructing a comprehensive and persuasive argument.

Preparing for the Essay in UPSC Civil Service Exam 1. Dive into Quality Reading: Immerse yourself in a plethora of excellent essays and articles. This exposure enhances your understanding of effective writing styles and diverse perspectives. 2. Daily Editorial Digest: Cultivate the habit of perusing newspaper editorials daily. This not only keeps you informed but also sharpens your analytical thinking, a valuable asset for essay writing. 3. Quote and Line Repository: Create a repository of relevant lines and quotes. Whenever you encounter insightful phrases while reading books or newspapers, jot them down. They can serve as powerful ammunition for your essays. 4. Masterful Openings and Closures: Assemble a repertoire of compelling opening and closing lines. These bookends provide a strong framework for your essays, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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