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Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains: Guidelines and Best Practices

Deeksha Dixit September 04, 2024 05:56 1542 0

Know about the rules and guidelines regarding the use of pencils in the UPSC Mains exam. Also learn when and how pencils can be used for diagrams and maps.

Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains: Guidelines and Best Practices

Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains: The UPSC Civil Services Examination is India’s most challenging and prestigious exam. Every year, thousands of candidates appear for the UPSC exam with the dream of becoming Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). The UPSC Mains Examination is the second stage of this challenging journey, it is subjective and requires candidates to write detailed answers. Because of its demanding nature and process many candidates often wonder about the use of pencil in UPSC Mains and how it could impact their performance. We have created this comprehensive blog, to discuss the key factors related to this topic while addressing concern like “Is pencil allowed in UPSC mains?”, “Can we use pencil in UPSC mains?”, and “Can I write my answers in UPSC Mains with pencil?”.

Is Pencil Allowed in UPSC Mains?

One of the most common questions aspirants ask is, “Is pencil allowed in UPSC Mains?” According to the guidelines published by the UPSC, using pencils is generally restricted to writing and drafting answers. Pencils can be only used for specific tasks such as marking maps or diagrams. It is advisable to use either a black or blue ink pen.

This guideline published by UPSC ensures uniformity and prevents issues during the evaluation process. Use of pencil in UPSC Mains exam, while drafting an answer could lead the candidate to disqualification or deduction of marks as it violates the commission’s instructions.

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Official Notification on Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has clearly mentioned in their published guidelines regarding the tools that candidates can use during the Mains Examination. According to the official notification:

  • Writing tools: It is mandatory for candidates to write their answers using either a black ballpoint pen or a blue ballpoint pen. Fountain pens and gel pens should be avoided because of the issue of smudging.
  • Use of Pencil is prohibited: The use of pencil in UPSC Mains is prohibited for writing answers. However, candidates can only use pencils for specific tasks such as drawing diagrams, maps, or illustrations in papers like General Studies (especially GS Paper 1) and Optional subjects like Geography.

Selective Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains Examination

The answer to the question, “Can we use pencil in UPSC Mains?” is yes, but only to a specific limit. The use of pencils is primarily permitted for the following purposes:

  1. Marking on Maps: In the Geography optional paper, candidates can draw and mark maps while using pencils, for such tasks pencil is allowed and even recommended for precision.
  2. Diagrams and Illustrations: In papers like Geography and Sociology, or any other paper where diagrams are an important part of the answer, candidates are allowed to use a pencil to draw the diagrams. However, candidates must ensure to adhere to the instructions provided in the exam hall regarding the use of pencils for diagrams.
  3. Outlining Before Inking: Some candidates prefer outlining their answers or diagrams with a pencil before concluding. While this is not officially prohibited, it is advisable to avoid this practice as it may consume more time.

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Can We Use Colour Pencils in the UPSC Exam?

This question often arises among candidates, who choose subjects like Geography, Anthropology, Sociology or any other option that requires detailed maps, diagrams, or illustrations.

  • Colour Pencils: The use of coloured pencils is not recommended in the UPSC Mains. Yet, the prohibition of colour pencils is not mentioned in the UPSC guidelines but it is advisable to avoid them. This is because the use of coloured pencils to highlight the answer or diagram can lead to a breach of uniformity, which can result in disqualification.
  • Alternative: Instead of using coloured pencils, candidates can use shading techniques with a regular pencil to differentiate various elements in diagrams or maps. The aim of the candidate should be to maintain clarity and precision in answers rather than showing art.

The Best Pen to Write UPSC Mains Exam

Choosing the right pen for writing answers in the UPSC Mains Examination is necessary as well as crucial because it significantly impacts the writing speed, clarity, and comfort of the candidate during the exam. When selecting the best pen to write UPSC Mains Exam, consider the following factors:

  • Comfortable Grip: A pen with a comfortable grip is essential which will help for writing for long hours without causing pressure or pain on your fingers.
  • Smooth Flow: Choose a pen that offers a smooth flow of ink without requiring too much pressure. This reduces hand fatigue.
  • No Smudging: Gel pens and fountain pens work smoothly but can smudge easily, especially in humid conditions. A ballpoint pen with quick-drying ink is usually the best option to avoid smudging.
  • Consistency: Ensure that the pen you choose provides a consistent flow of ink without skipping. This ensures that your handwriting remains readable throughout the exam.
  • Ink Color: The UPSC allows the use of blue or black ink. It’s advisable to pick a pen that writes smoothly in either of these colours. Gel pens, ballpoint pens, or fountain pens are all viable options.
  • Reliability: Always carry multiple pens with you to the exam hall, and test them before to ensure they do not skip. Avoid experimenting with new pens on the day of the exam.

Some popular of the aspiring candidates include the Pilot V5 Hi-Techpoint, Uni-ball Eye Micro, and Parker Vector. These pens are known for their reliability and ease of writing, making them suitable for the demands of the UPSC Mains.

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Practical Tips for Using Writing Instruments in UPSC Mains

Here are some practical tips to keep in mind regarding the use of pencil in UPSC Mains and pen selection:

  • Practice Writing with Your Chosen Pen: Before the exam, practice with the chosen pen you plan to use. This helps you get used to the grip, flow, and weight of the pen.
  • Use Pencil Carefully: Only use a pencil for diagrams or maps when it is necessary. Ensure that your lines are clear, and avoid excessive erasing, as it can make your paper look untidy.
  • Carry Extra Pens: Always carry extra pens that have you chosen in case your primary pen runs out of ink or stops writing.
  • Avoid Over-Decoration: Remember, clarity and content are more important than how your paper looks. Avoid overusing pencils or any other writing tools in an attempt to beautify your answers.

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Conclusion

The Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains by the candidate should be limited and approached with caution. Pencils can be used for diagrams and maps, they should not be used for writing answers. Following the guidelines ensures that your hard work is evaluated fairly and without any issues. Follow the prescribed ink colours and choose the pens wisely according to your speed and precision to present your answers clearly and professionally.

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FAQs On Use of Pencil in UPSC Mains

No, using a pencil for writing answers in UPSC mains is not allowed. It’s only permitted for diagrams or illustrations.

A black or blue ballpoint pen is recommended for writing answers in UPSC mains.

Yes, clear and readable handwriting is important as it ensures that the examiner can easily read and understand your answers.

You can use a pencil only for drawing diagrams or maps, not for writing answers.

Yes, you can use a black ballpoint pen to write your answers in UPSC mains.

It's better to avoid gel pens, as they can smudge. A ballpoint pen is the safer choice.
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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
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