The UPSC Mains 2025 exam commenced today, and the first paper was the Essay Paper, conducted from 9 AM to 12 Noon.
As the exam is now over, we are releasing the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF along with the complete list of questions in written format.
Candidates who appeared in the exam have already attempted these topics, but this question paper will also be very useful for:
Aspirants preparing for future UPSC attempts
Candidates who have skipped this attempt but want to familiarize themselves with the pattern and nature of essay topics
You can either download the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF from the link given below or simply go through the questions provided in text format here.
Download UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper PDF
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| Download GS Paper 4 | Click Here |
UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper Topics
Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000 -1200 words each :
SECTION—A
Truth knows no color.
The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.
Thought finds a world and creates one also.
Best lessons are learnt through bitter experiences.
SECTION—B
Muddy water is best cleared by leaving it alone.
The years teach much which the days never know.
It is best to see life as a journey, not as a destination.
Contentment is natural wealth; luxury is artificial poverty.
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UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper Pattern
The Essay Paper in the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination remains one of the most crucial components, carrying 250 marks. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to construct, analyze, and present a well-structured essay on diverse topics.
Key Features of the Essay Paper
Duration: 3 hours
Total Marks: 250
Sections: The paper consists of two sections. Candidates are required to write one essay from each section.
Section A: Generally focuses on philosophical, abstract, or conceptual issues, demanding introspection and analysis.
Section B: Typically revolves around contemporary issues, including political, social, economic, and cultural dimensions.
Detailed Overview of the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper
The Essay paper follows a consistent pattern designed to test writing skills, critical thinking, and the ability to present ideas coherently.
Duration: 3 hours
Total Marks: 250
Number of Essays: Two (each carrying 125 marks)
Word Limit
Approximately 1000–1200 words per essay
While not a rigid limit, candidates are expected to stay within this range
Topic Selection
Candidates are given a choice of 4 topics in each section
One essay must be written from Section A and one from Section B
Topic Areas
Essay topics may span across multiple domains, such as:
Social issues
Political subjects
Economic matters
Environmental concerns
Science and technology
Philosophical and abstract ideas
Cultural themes
Current affairs
Structure of an Ideal Essay
Although there is no prescribed structure, a good essay generally includes:
Introduction – setting the context
Main Body – organized into paragraphs with logical flow and arguments
Conclusion – holistic and forward-looking closure
Language Medium
Candidates can write in English or any of the languages included in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution
However, a majority of candidates prefer English
Evaluation Criteria (as per expert consensus)
Clarity of Thought – Expression of ideas in a precise manner
Coherence and Structure – Logical organization and flow of arguments
Critical Analysis – Depth of reasoning, originality, and balanced perspective
Use of Examples – Supporting arguments with relevant historical, contemporary, or case-study based examples
Language Proficiency – Grammar, vocabulary, and overall presentation
Stay tuned for the detailed analysis of the topics asked in the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper along with key takeaways for future aspirants.
Wishing all candidates the very best for the remaining Mains papers!
