UPSC CIVIL SERVICES MAINS 2024 ESSAY PAPER ANALYSIS

On September 20, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted the Essay paper for the Civil Service Examination (CSE) Mains 2024. The Essay Paper in the UPSC Civil Services Main exam tests a candidate's ability to express ideas clearly, coherently and concisely on a wide range of topics.

The UPSC MAINS 2024 Essay Paper is divided into two sections, each containing four topics. Candidates need to write essays on two topics, one from each section. Each essay should be written in approximately 1,000 to 1,200 words.

Structure of the UPSC MAINS 2024 Essay Paper

The Essay paper in the UPSC Main exam is divided into two sections; Section A and Section B.

Each section consists of four topics.

Candidates should choose one topic from each Section (one topic from Section A and one topic from Section B) and write an essay on it.

Each Essay should be written in approximately 1,000 to 1,200 words.

Each Essay carries 125 Marks, a total of 250 marks for 2 essays.

The Essay Paper carries a total of 250 Marks

The total duration of the Essay paper is 3 hours.

UPSC MAINS 2024 Essay Paper Instructions

The ESSAY must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided.

No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.

Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.

Any page or portion of the page left blank in the Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet must be clearly struck off:

UPSC Civil Services Mains 2024 Essay Question Paper  

Write two essays, choosing one topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000 - 1200 words each:

Section A

1. Forests precede civilizations and deserts follow them.
2. The empires of the future will be the empires of the mind.
3. There is no path to happiness; Happiness is the path.
4. The doubter is a true man of science.

Section B

5. Social media is triggering ‘Fear of Missing Out’ amongst the youth, precipitating depression and loneliness.
6. Nearly all men can stand adversity, but to test the character, give him power.
7. All ideas having large consequences are always simple.
8. The cost of being wrong is less than the cost of doing nothing.

How to attempt the UPSC Mains Essay Paper?

The essay in the UPSC Civil Services Mains exam carries 250 marks and has the potential to increase your overall score significantly. A well-written essay not only demonstrates a candidate’s knowledge; But it also reflects your personality, values, and clarity of thought.

The Essay Paper consists of two sections, with four topics in each section. A Candidate must write 2 essays - one for each section.

Candidates should take the time to read each section carefully before choosing the topic, because choosing the right topic is important in writing a good essay that includes comprehensive understanding, carefully explaining and balancing arguments.

How To Choose The Right Topic For The Essay?

Familiarity with the topic:

 Choose a topic that you are comfortable with in depth knowledge or a topic where you can provide insights, arguments, and examples.

Scope of expression:

Look for topics that are broad enough to allow multidimensional exploration (social, political, economic, philosophical, historical) but specific enough to provide concrete arguments and examples.

Interest and participation:

If the topic interests you, it is more likely that you will write an essay that is enthusiastic and comprehensive.

Find your strengths:

Are you better at writing philosophical essays or are you an expert on current affairs and sociopolitical issues? Choose the topic of your Interest.

Balanced complexity:

Avoid topics that are too simple or too complex.Topics that seem too simple may lack the depth needed to build a thorough argument. While very complex topics can cause confusion or incomplete arguments.

Planning and Structuring Essay:

After selecting a topic, allow roughly 10 to 15 minutes to plan your draft. A well-structured essay demonstrates clarity of thought and organization, which is highly valued by the examiner.

Brainstorming and creating outlines:

1)Write down the key points, arguments, and examples in your mind. It will help not to lose important points later.

2)Organize your thoughts into an outline:

a)Introduction: Start with engaging quotes, definitions, and reports, and present a clear interpretation of the topic.

b)Content: Structure or main content in 3-4 paragraphs. Each paragraph focuses on a different dimension. (History, society, economics, politics, ethics, etc.)

c)Conclusion: Summarizes the argument and presents a balanced conclusion. This may suggest a direction to follow or provide a philosophical perspective.

Balanced approach:

Remember to keep the outline balanced in defending the position.

Accept other points of view and deal with conflicting arguments.

Examples and information

Use examples, facts, and relevant information to support your argument, for example when discussing social issues, discuss the government's plans, historical examples or international examples.

Don't include too many facts in your essay. Analyzing and connecting ideas is the most important thing.

Avoid common Mistakes

1)Don't deviate from the Essay Theme.

2)Keep focus on the topic to ensure that each paragraph is relevant to the Essay Theme.

3)Avoid too much technical language.

4)UPSC expects balanced and reasoned arguments rather than rigid and one-sided opinions.

Time Management

   a)Take 30 minutes to choose a topic and outline each essay.

   b)It takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to write each essay.

   c)Take 5 to 10 minutes to review each essay to look for errors.

Presentation and Language

1.Use simple and precise language. Avoid long, complex sentences that might confuse the examiner. The clarity of his thought process should be reflected in his writing.

2.Write in an organized and easy-to-read manner. Space your paragraphs appropriately to ensure that your essay is properly written.

Adopt the examiner Approach:

Always remember that the UPSC expect:

a)Clarity of thought

b)A balanced argument

c)Extensive knowledge base

d)Original view

e)Maturity and compassion in approach

UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper Analysis

Section A

1. Forests precede civilizations and deserts follow them.

This quote emphasizes the important relationship between nature and human society. Early societies built their homes in forests where they had easy access to food, wood, and iron. However, as these societies grew, dependence on these resources led to environmental degradation, people cut down trees and cleared land for agriculture to support population growth. This practice leads to the slow transformation of a vibrant landscape into a barren land.

Ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia flourished in fertile regions that benefited from the river and its wealth, with time unsustainable agricultural and irrigation practices resulted in salinization and desertification. Today, we see a similar pattern in places like the Aral Sea. Excessive water extraction has turned productive areas into wastelands.

This statement also has importance for modern issues such as climate change.Sustainable practices conservation efforts and a commitment to protecting our natural environment can ensure that future civilizations do not follow the same path of destruction.

2. The empires of the future will be the empires of the mind.

This quote emphasizes the changing power dynamics in our world. Traditional empires were built on land and military power, but future empires will be built from knowledge and innovation.

In the current global situation countries and companies that use technology and control data have enormous power. Large companies like Google and Facebook have modernized communication and have access to the personal information of billions of people, they can influence public opinion and shape cultural narratives. It is an example of how controlling opinions is more important than controlling territory.

Countries that invest in education, research and technological development are positioning themselves as leaders in the global platform. Leading countries in artificial intelligence and scientific research hold the key to future progress.

In this context, Focusing on creativity and education to prepare future generations for this new era would help individuals and nations to develop in this increasingly connected world.

3. There is no path to happiness; Happiness is the path.

This philosophical quote challenges the common idea that happiness is destiny. Instead of waiting to achieve some goal such as wealth or success. This philosophy encourages us to find joy in our daily experiences.

Instead of saying, “I will be happy when I reach my goals.” We should learn to appreciate the little moments that make us happy. This is consistent with practices and philosophies such as Buddhism that emphasize living in the present and engaging yourself in everyday life.

Different cultures view happiness in different ways. But the common thread is the importance of gratitude and happiness. Instead of pursuing or achieving material success, we can cultivate happiness through relationships, experiences, and a positive mindset.

When we focus our attention on the present and find beauty in everyday life. We nourish our well-being. This shift in mindset will not only increase our happiness but also influence those around us and develop a positive impact on our community.

4. The doubter is a true man of science.

This quote highlights the essence of scientific research: questioning and treating bigotry. True scientists don't just take information at face value, they undoubtedly agree that scrutinising is an important part of the scientific process as science is a dynamic subject, and there is a continuous need for updating and testing the knowledge by continuously asking questions and searching for evidence. These things will push the limits of knowledge and understanding.

Take APJ Abdul Kalam and Stephen Hawking, they challenge traditional thinking and have an important role in humanity. Kalam also known as "India's missile home" has revolutionized India's defense capabilities. Hawking, despite suffering from a debilitating disease, has challenged existing theories about the universe in his book A Brief History of Time, paving the way for new insights. Both exemplify the power of curiosity, perseverance, and the quest for understanding in driving scientific progress.

In today's world which is rich in information, critical thinking is more important than ever. We face a constant flow of information and opinions, which makes it necessary to examine sources and challenge beliefs. By promoting a culture of inquiry in our society we can encourage future generations to move towards more critical thinking and doubt traditional beliefs while tackling complex issues.

Section B

5. Social media is triggering ‘Fear of Missing Out’ amongst the youth, precipitating depression and loneliness.

Social Media has become an important part of the lives of today's young people. It determines how they connect, communicate, and recognize themselves. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok offer an endless supply of scripted highlights from other people's lives. This phenomenon often leads to fear of missing out (FOMO); the feeling that everyone is making the most of life while you're out of the race.

When browsing social media, it is easy to fall into the trap of constant comparison. You might see your friends at a party, travel to exotic places or achieve a goal, but this can cause feelings of inadequacy. This constant comparison can cause anxiety and dissociation. It makes young people question their self-esteem and happiness.

Research has also shown that excessive use of social networks is associated with mental health problems. Young people who spend more time online often report feelings of depression and loneliness. They constantly say that their lives aren't as lofty as the highlights presented by their friends.  

To resist these feelings, there is a need to find balance in lifestyle. Taking regular breaks on social media can help refresh your perspective. Engaging in real-life connections and experiences can deliver satisfaction that online interactions often lack. By prioritizing real relationships and activities that bring happiness. Young people can combat the negative effects of FOMO and build a positive self-image.

6. Nearly all men can stand adversity, but to test the character, give him power.

The phrase “May all men be able to endure adversity. But to be tested or confronted, give power” says a lot about human nature. Adversity reveals resilience, but power reveals true character. When a person finds himself in a position of power their actions and decisions will reflect their core values. History is full of examples of leaders who ruled with power with grace, and those who succumbed to corruption.

Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India is an example of outstanding leadership with grace, vision, and commitment to democratic ideals. Nehru led India during the transition from colonial rule to independence in 1947, facing enormous challenges. The partition of India fueled communal violence and mass displacement of people. Despite these chaotic situations, Nehru remained dedicated to building an inclusive and secular nation that embraced diversity.

Nehru's leadership during difficult times showed that true character shines in adversity. Instead of using authoritarian measures, he seeks to inspire and unite the people of India and promote a sense of hope and possibility for the future.  

On the contrary, Adolf Hitler became chancellor in 1933, taking advantage of Germany's post-World War I economic turmoil and political instability, but instead of promoting unity and progress, it promoted division and hatred. Hitler's leadership was characterized as dictatorial by the unilateral suppression of disagreement.

It shows that power can destroy even the most well-intentioned individuals. The difference lies in how to approach leadership. Good leaders care about the welfare of others, show sympathy and behave ethically regardless of the situation.

This discussion of power also invites a deeper examination of what constitutes effective leadership. Qualities such as humility, responsibility, and a genuine desire to serve others are essential. In the final analysis, understanding power dynamics helps us recognize the characteristics that promote true leadership and character.

7. All ideas having large consequences are always simple.

The power of simplicity in thought cannot be underestimated. Two of the most transformative concepts in history include democracy, freedom and equality. It has a simple basis, but it has an incredible impact. These straightforward concepts work for people because they are easy to understand and relate to.

Democracy principle highlights that everyone should have a voice in governance, it is clear and convincing and inspired movements and revolutions around the world because people understood its importance. On the contrary Complex theories can confuse or alienate individuals.  

Simple ideas often serve as meeting points for social change. The civil rights movement around the world was driven by the simplest yet most deeply understood ideas of equality. It has mobilized many people to fight for justice. In the same way, the concept of environmental sustainability encourages us to take care of our planet. This is a simple but significant message.

Simplicity turns concepts into more accessible and communicable. When people can easily understand the concept, they are more likely to adopt it and turn it into reality. This phenomenon highlights the importance of clear communication to bring about change and inspire action.

8. The cost of being wrong is less than the cost of doing nothing.

The quote emphasizes the importance of action. Even at the risk of making mistakes. When acting, you may make mistakes. However, these mistakes often lead to learning and growth. Inaction, on the other hand, can result in missed opportunities and fatigue.

Mistakes provide valuable lessons. They help you understand what works and what doesn't. Such knowledge may be crucial to future success. Taking a position has its costs. If you don't take action You may lose potential benefits. Those missed opportunities may be more biased than mistakes made just to entice you.

Many innovations and advancements come from trial and error. If it all goes wrong, progress will be halted. Taking risks and learning from failure drives innovation.

This phrase promotes proactive behavior. It shows that the benefits of taking action outweigh the risks of making mistakes. When you take action, you will open the door to new opportunities and growth, while not taking action can lead to missed opportunities and regret.

Preparation Strategy for the UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper

a)Study a range of subjects, including philosophy, sociology, and history.

b)Current events, books, essays, and essays can expand your understanding from a variety of perspectives.

c)Reserve your time to write essays on various topics. Start writing based on your interests and slowly move to more complex topics.

d)Create exam conditions to practice time management. This practice will help you manage your writing speed effectively during the actual exam.

e)After writing your essay, share it with a friend, mentor, and teacher to get constructive criticism.

f)Use feedback to refine your writing, and improve your weak points.

Conclusion

By developing understanding and analytical skills, practicing writing, connecting concepts with real-world examples and seeking advice, candidates will develop the confidence and skills needed to excel in the challenging elements of this exam.