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The UPSC Mains 2024 exam commenced today. First exam was essay paper from 9AM to 12 PM. As the exam is over, we are releasing the UPSC mains essay paper 2024 PDF and its questions in the written format. Candidates, who have appeared in the exam have already read and attempted those topics, but these are useful for the candidates, who are planning to attempt exam in the future or who have skipped this attempt. You can click on the following link or simply read them
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2024 PDF Download
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2024 Topics
Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000 -1200 words each :
SECTION A
Forests precede civilizations, and deserts follow them.
The empires of the future will be the empires of the mind.
There is no path to happiness; Happiness is the path
The doubter is a true man of science.
SECTION B
Social media is triggering ‘Fear of Missing Out’ amongst the youth, precipitating depression and loneliness.
Nearly all men can stand adversity, but to test the character, give him power.
All ideas having large consequences are always simple.
The cost of being wrong is less than the cost of doing nothing.
| To access all other UPSC mains 2024 question papers – click here To access all other mains PYQs – Click Here |
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2024 Pattern
The Essay Paper is crucial, carrying 250 marks and testing a candidate’s ability to construct and present a well-argued essay on diverse topics.
Key Features of the Essay Paper:
- Duration: 3 hours
- Total Marks: 250
- Sections: The paper typically consists of two sections. Candidates are required to write one essay from each section.
- Section A: Generally, these topics focus on philosophical, abstract, or conceptual issues that demand introspection and analysis.
- Section B: This section tends to revolve around contemporary issues, including political, social, and economic topics.
UPSC Mains 2024 Datasheet
| Dates | Morning Session (9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.) | Afternoon Session (2:30 P.M. to 5:30 P.M.) |
|---|---|---|
| 20/9/2024 (Friday) | Paper-I: Essay | No Paper |
| 21/9/2024 (Saturday) | Paper-II: General Studies-I | Paper-III: General Studies-II |
| 22/9/2024 (Sunday) | Paper-IV: General Studies-III | Paper-V: General Studies-IV |
| 28/9/2024 (Saturday) | Paper-A: Indian Language | Paper-B: English |
| 29/9/2024 (Sunday) | Paper-VI: Optional Subject-Paper-1 | Paper-VII: Optional Subject-Paper-2 |
The complete schedule for the UPSC Mains 2024 is as follows:
Candidates should ensure they are well-prepared and punctual for all the papers.
Detailed overview of the UPSC mains essay paper 2024
The Essay paper in the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination follows a specific pattern designed to test a candidate’s writing skills, critical thinking, and ability to present ideas coherently. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the pattern:
Duration: 3 hours
Total Marks: 250
Number of Essays: Candidates are required to write two essays, each carrying 125 marks.
Word Limit:
Approximately 1000–1200 words for each essay
There’s no strict word limit, but candidates are expected to adhere to this range
Topic Selection:
Candidates are given a choice of topics for each essay
Typically, there are 4–5 options for each of the two essays
Topics are often divided into two sections (A and B), with one essay to be chosen from each section
UPSC mains essay paper 2024
Topic Areas:
Topics can cover a wide range of areas, including:
Social issues
Economic matters
Political subjects
Environmental concerns
Science and technology
Cultural themes
Philosophical ideas
Current affairs
Abstract concepts
Structure:
While there’s no prescribed structure, a well-written essay typically includes:
Introduction
Main body (multiple paragraphs)
Conclusion
Language:
Candidates can write in English or any language included in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution
However, most candidates opt for English
Evaluation Criteria:
Although any official standard of copy checking is not clear. There is a consensus among experts that UPSC mains essay paper 2024 as done in the past years, will be checked based on the following aspects:
- Clarity of thought: How clearly the candidate expresses their viewpoint.
- Coherence and Structure: The logical flow of arguments and organization of ideas.
- Critical Analysis: Depth of analysis, originality of ideas, and balanced arguments.
- Use of Examples: Ability to provide relevant examples to support viewpoints, whether from historical, current, or hypothetical scenarios.
- Language Proficiency: Grammar, vocabulary, and overall presentation of ideas are also assessed.
Stay tuned for the detailed analysis of the topics asked in the UPSC mains Essay Paper 2024.
Wishing all aspirants the best for the remaining exams!
