Answer Writing in Anthropology Optional

Each answer should have a structure – Introduction, explanation, and conclusion. In the introduction, write the meaning and definition of a topic.

Incorporation of Concepts

In your essay or short notes, where ever require you have to explain the concepts. For example, while writing on interpretive anthropology, you have to explain the concept of ‘thick description’.

Using ethnography in your answer writing

It is an advantage to use ethnography in your exam. While writing a topic on ‘exchange’ in economic anthropology, it is better to write the ethnography of Trobrianders explained by Malinowski.

Using theory in your short and essay answers

As with ethnography, it is always an advantage to use theory in your answer writing. For every answer, there is no need to write theory. Where appropriate, make your own theoretical perspectives clear. For instance, while writing on the debate between formalism and substantivism, the importance of the debate between descent theory and alliance theory in the understanding of kinship, anthropological approaches to the study of religion, etc., needs to incorporate theoretical perspectives. The theory is at the heart of anthropology.If you are good in theory, you can write well in institutions.

Using diagrams, tables and flowcharts

Draw the diagrams especially in social organization, archaeological anthropology and biological anthropology. Use tables and flowcharts wherever required. While writing on the topic, factors affecting fertility use flowcharts.

Using case studies in your answers

Many aspirants are confused about the difference between ethnographic examples and case studies. The term ‘case study’ refers to a method of analysis to record ethnographic data in detail. To get more scoring use the case studies in tribal problems and tribal development programmes. The aspirants are advised to incorporate the case studies published by famous anthropologists in anthropological journals.

Using the Latest statistical data  

While writing the answer mention the latest statistical data. For instance, writing the topic on constraints in tribal education, use 2011 census data for literacy rates, and school drop-outs data refer to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs reports.

Avoid using the derogatory terms

It is important to note that in your answer writing, don’t use the terms like ‘primitive’, ‘savage’, and ‘non-civilized’. Use inverted commas when these terms are used by the author.

Mention the anthropology books references

It is better to mention the classical and contemporary anthropology book references in your answer writing depending on the topic. Visit the website link for the list of anthropological journals. https://drgvranthrocivils.com/blogs/anthropology-books-for-upsc/

Sample answer writing

Critically explain the problems involved in the definition of marriage? Visit the link 

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Introduction to Anthropology - Social-Cultural Anthropology (Demo -2)

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In this video, Dr. G.V. Ramana, Senior Anthropologist will be giving a demo on Social-Cultural Anthropology for UPSC aspirants. Meaning of Cultural Anthropology, differences between Ethnography and Ethnology and sub-disciplines have been discussed. For more details, visit the website https://drgvranthrocivils.com