Acing the Essay section
A significant paper out of the nine papers of UPSC is the essay paper. This three-hour paper comprises two sections with four essay topics each, of which the candidate selects one from each section. The stipulated length of the essay is from 1000 to 1200 words.
As the candidates are expected to ‘keep closely to the subject of the essay, arrange their ideas in an orderly fashion, write concisely, and credit will be given for effective and exact expression.’ It is important to go through a few key points to be able to get a good score, as this could well set the tone for things to come.
A good essay mandates a clarity in thought that is displayed in coherent, cogent, and cohesive paragraphs. The arguments need to be logical and structured that display language dexterity and proficiency. A well-written essay should display the candidate’s in-depth analysis and reflective skills. The steps to approaching the question would be to first spend time deliberating upon which topic to write, thereafter focusing on developing a clear expression devoid of archaisms and keeping sentences crisp, reflecting clear thinking.
Here are a few tips to ace the essay paper without breaking into a sweat
Well begun is half done
The advantage of selecting a topic that one would be most comfortable writing about is a good idea to begin with. Remember, your choice of the topic has no bearing on the score. Background reading on varied themes will come in handy here, as your ability to flesh out arguments will depend on that. Reading intensively and extensively and practicing the art of writing can’t be stressed enough.
Starting with an arresting introductory sentence that could vary from a quote to an anecdote should be able to hook your reader. The main body of the essay should embody points that support your contention, and the conclusion should summarize and close the essay by rounding off the arguments.
Language and Vocabulary
As far as the language is concerned, being coherent, logical and cohesive in signposting arguments and tying up the aspects of the essay with linkers is very important. Here, an aspect to keep in mind would be to use these devices that are varied and avoid mechanical use, for example, substitute:
‘The government has implemented several policies to reduce pollution. These policies include stricter emissions standards and increased funding for renewable energy projects. Additionally, there are plans to expand public transportation systems.’ With the following sentence: ‘The government has implemented several policies to reduce pollution. For instance, these policies include stricter emissions standards and increased funding for renewable energy projects. Moreover, there are plans to expand public transportation systems, which will further enhance the overall environmental impact of these initiatives.’
Avoid jargon and keep the sentences simple, with turns of phrase, idiomatic language, and impactful words. In the body of the text, you must have one argument per paragraph and supporting examples. It is a good idea to structure your paragraphs in such a way that it links with the next paragraph by either asking a question that is answered in the next paragraph or by using a link sentence that continues in the later.
Organisation and Structure
Cogent and coherent arguments will have to be linked cohesively to make a whole unit for easy readability. It is a good idea to have one topic in each paragraph and state the topic/theme in the first sentence of the paragraph, which is called the topic sentence. The paragraphs will depend on your main points and number of sub-points; additionally, it is a good idea to have relevant examples to add gravitas to your argument. Avoid long-winded structures as they confuse and deviate from the main argument.
Last but not the least.. to sum up
Do not hanker after one point and make it verbose, and try to maintain a neutral tone, giving both aspects of the argument.
Before quoting data or any other technicality, ensure that you are certain of its authenticity, and the conclusion needs to round off your arguments with the help of a connecting line or a thought from the beginning of the essay that would lend it a sense of completeness.
It is a good idea to populate your days with reading extensively as well as intensively on wide-ranging subjects. Additionally, it is a must to have an opinion on a few to be able to critically engage with the ideas to be able to expand on them as practice.
