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com
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CSE 2021
UPDATED

Toppers Answer CSE 2020

Reflections CSE 2020
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INDEX

[Link] Topics Page No

1. FOREWORD 3

2. CHALLENGES TO EFFECTIVE ANSWER WRITING 4

WHAT IS THE EXAMINER EXPECTING WITH A

3. 7
QUESTION?
3.1 WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS TYPES OF
7
QUESTIONS ASKED?
3.2 HOW TO APPROACH DIRECTIVES IN
11
QUESTION INTERPRETATION?
WHAT ARE THE QUALITATIVE AND
4. 21
QUANTITATIVE ASPECTS OF A GOOD ANSWER?

5. HOW TO MAKE YOUR ANSWERS MORE VISIBLE? 39

WHAT ARE THE COMMON MISTAKES STUDENTS

6. 67
MAKE?

7. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR TOPPERS COPIES 70

WHAT CAN I UNDERSTAND FROM THE LAST

8. 71
FEW YEARS UPSC PAPERS?
WHAT ANALYSIS AND EXERCISES SHOULD
9. 78
I DO BEFORE I START WRITING ANSWERS?
OUR QUESTIONS VIS A VIS CSE 2020 MAINS
10. 90
QUESTIONS
I DON’T THINK I AM CLEARING PRELIMS,
11 94
WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?

12 ENDNOTE 97

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 2. CHALLENGES TO EFFECTIVE ANSWER WRITING

Answer writing is the most indispensable 3. You don’t know that you don’t
aspect of UPSC preparation, however, there know. (Untapped knowledge)
are only limited resources that can help
aspirants ace this needed skill. The lack of
proper mentorship discourages many from The challenges to self-evaluation
continuing to answer writing practice after emanate not from the ‘known- knowns’
a very passionate start. The driving force or ‘unknown-knowns’ but the ‘unknown-
unknowns’.
for the motivation to practice any skill has
been the measurement of progress.

After all, how long can you continue to

write answers without knowing the areas
you need to improve upon. This brings us
to the most important constraint aspirants
face in their answer writing journey.

Most aspirants bank on toppers talk,

current affairs classes, or resort to daily
answer writing to improve upon it. The
only concern in this approach is the “Often after many mentorship sessions,
“challenges of self-evaluation.” we hear aspirants saying “If only I had
known” or “If I knew then what I know
To establish this enigma let us resort
now”.
to the world view of human knowledge. All
knowledge that man has accumulated since Challenges to self-evaluation
the beginning of time can be categorised as
1. You don’t know what to look for.
1. You know. (knowledge) 2. Failure to perceive progress.
2. You know that you don’t know. 3. Predispositions and preconceived
(Learning opportunity) notions.

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[Link]
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4. Mental inertia developed after worked for selected candidates, and what
many failed attempts. has not worked for many.
5. Peer Review subjected to limitations A thorough reading of this book
or biases of peer group will help you understand what are the
6. Lack of structured evaluation key ingredients of a good answer,
means review becomes arbitrary there is much more to it than a good
and erratic introduction, body, and conclusion. The
intention behind this book is to establish
7. Your Friend with whom you had a
a set of practical guidelines for answer
pact lose interest in maintaining
consistency most times writing, useful for beginners, and help
senior aspirants in course correction.
8. You don’t see your performance vis This book will help you self-evaluate your
a vis a competitive crowd. progress in answer writing to a large extent.
9. For self evaluation most students
But, before we proceed let’s briefly
write 1 answer at a time, which
discuss some of the challenges any
does not reveal the real challenge
aspirant would face in their journey of
in completing a 20 question paper
answer writing.
in 3 hours.

10. Test series themes and questions Why Answer Writing is a Challenge
are practiced by a large number
for Beginners?
of students leading you to the The beginners in the course of their
possibility of FOMO.
UPSC journey often make the mistake
11. O n l i n e f r e e a n s w e r w r i t i n g of failing to balance between intellectual
initiatives are based on a specific development and devoting appropriate
news or article, however UPSC time for answer writing. Reading is always
questions are broad and issue easy, and though it is important to read the
based. topper’s answer sheets, let us clarify that
you will not be able to write good answers
Now, in the very beginning, we would
by just referring to toppers’ answers, but
like to clarify that this would be “A Practical
this may already be known to many of you.
Handbook” for aspirants, we don’t claim
One needs to know why despite extensive
to possess any insider knowledge of the
subject knowledge and repeatedly clearing
mechanism that UPSC follows in their
prelims some of you fail at answer writing.
evaluation. The contents of this book
Among the many skill sets you acquire
are based on our extensive observational
in your path of preparation, the most
learnings and empirical findings from
important one needed to ace this exam is
various toppers’ answers, strategies that
answer writing.
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Why do many of you find it difficult 2. They struggle with the demand
to start writing good answers? of the question and often end up
writing peripheral content.
1. Answer writing is not taught in
most classroom programs. (We 3. Time management per answer is
do☻) a difficulty, this results in a lot of
2. Students procrastinate and delay unattempted questions across four
answer writing and prioritize GS papers.
syllabus completion.
4. Thinking that answer writing can
3. They fail to devote enough time be practiced after Prelims.
to practice this skill vis a vis
intellectual development. 5. Some test series give you a false
sense of confidence with inflated
4. Prelims phobia gets the better of
marks that are not reflected in
many aspirants and they devote
actual UPSC performance.
substantial time to it.
6. Being guided on answer writing
5. Many beginners don’t have
conceptual clarity, grip on current by people who don’t have the
affairs, along with brevity and experience or knowledge to do the
clarity in presentation. same.

Despite appearing for Multiple *Our intention is not to target

Prelims and Mains, answer Writing any institute or program but to share
is Still a Challenge what we have learned over the years
interacting with countless toppers.
Experienced candidates have done
answer writing at some point in their Each day you pass without taking the
preparation but still scored low in mains, initiative to improve on answer writing,
still face blackout when faced with tricky or the farther you are away from giving your
difficult questions. So what’s going wrong best in the Mains examination. The gap
then? between prelims and mains exam is
not sufficient to improve upon answer
They have completed the entire syllabus
writing, it is for revision and consolidation
but are facing difficulty in consolidating it.
of content along with practice. In the
1. You still write what you learned coming chapters, we will discuss various
in your early years of preparation. aspects of a good answer.
This is what we call Failure to
update.

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 3. WHAT IS THE EXAMINER EXPECTING
WITH A QUESTION?

3.1 WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS 3. What do you understand by

TYPES OF QUESTIONS ASKED? nanotechnology and how is it
helping in the health sector? 10 (
Types of Questions UPSC GS3,2020)

Let us go into the details of the type

As you can see from the above questions,
of questions UPSC is asking in the mains
the demand is very clear, you can easily
exam. Questions asked in UPSC can
identify the parts in the question and thus
broadly be classified into three categories.
effectively structure your answer. The first
¾ Direct questions question requires you to explain the impact
of melting Himalayan glaciers on water
¾ Opinion-based questions
resources in India. Your potential to score
¾ Context-based questions better improves by substantiating some of
your points with examples and data.
Direct Question:

Let’s look at some direct questions In the second question, the first part of
first the question is clearly demanding you to
enumerate (list out) the methods farmers’
1. How will the melting of Himalayan organisations use to influence the policy
glaciers have a far-reaching impact outcome, the second part however requires
on the water resources of India? 10 you to discuss the effectiveness of these
(UPSC GS 1,2020) methods, which is relatively analytical.

Direct questions are relatively

2. What are the methods used by the
straightforward and would require a grasp
farmers’ organisations to influence
of the concepts along with data, facts, and
the policy-makers in India and
examples to substantiate your answer.
how effective are these methods?
10 (UPSC GS 2,2019)

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Opinion-Based Question: Here are some examples of opinion-

based questions asked in the last two
1. How far do you think cooperation, years, you can clearly identify them from
competition and confrontation have the tone of the questions. Most of such
shaped the nature of federation in questions would start with ‘How far do
India? Cite some recent examples you think’, ‘How far do you agree’, ‘Do
to validate your answer. 10 (UPSC you agree’, ‘Do you think’ etc. Also focus
2020,GS 2)
on tail words like validate with recent
2. How far has integrated farming examples or elaborate with illustrations,
system helpful in sustaining which basically would require you to
agricultural production?10 (UPSC substantiate your points with examples.
2019,GS 3)
However, in general in opinion-based
3. Has caste lost its relevance in questions, you should try to add examples
understanding the multi-cultural wherever possible for better validation of
Indian Society? Elaborate your your point of view and to establish the
answer with illustrations. 10 current context of the question. While
(UPSC 2020, GS 1)
writing an opinion-based question it
4. Do you agree that regionalism in is very important to understand the
India appears to be a consequence discourse of the topic in order to
of rising cultural assertiveness? structure your answer properly. Let us
Argue. 10 (UPSC 2020,GS1) understand with the help of examples.

Example 1: How far do you think cooperation, competition, and confrontation

have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to
validate your answer. 10 (UPSC 2020, GS2).
Now as you can see this question is about how cooperation, competition, and
confrontation have shaped up the Indian federation. Since it is an opinion-oriented
question (how far) the very first question you need to ask yourself is are there any other
factors involved in the shaping of Indian federation? So you can conclude that whatever
we can think of would mostly fall under the domain of these three broad keywords. So
now it’s easier to figure out the demand of the question
Let’s try to structure it:
Introduction: You can start with the nature of Indian federalism and the importance
of these three aspects in shaping up federalism.

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Body:

You can make three subheadings like

Cooperation: In this part, you have to show areas of cooperation and how they are
helping our federalism.

¾ under the seventh schedule,

¾ the institution of GST,
¾ the role of the Finance Commission ( increased devolution by 15th Finance
commission)

Competition: In this part, you have to show how competitive federalism is shaping
up and how it is helpful

¾ institutions like Niti Aayog ( Aspirational District program, Ease of doing

business index),
¾ Performance-based grants disbursal by 15th Finance commission

Confrontation: Recent incidents of confrontation owing to the passage of certain bills

¾ Farm laws

¾ Kerala Govt moved to SC against CAA, Chhattisgarh against NIA Act under Art
131.

¾ Role of Governor

Conclude your answer with a current context or additional value addition.

Now let us look at another question for more clarity.

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Example 2: Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence

of rising cultural assertiveness? Argue.10 (UPSC 2020, GS1)
Introduction: You can start by defining regionalism and briefly on cultural assertiveness
too.
Now read the question again and ask yourself, is regionalism only a consequence of
rising cultural assertiveness or there are other factors at play here. Well, there are many
and cultural assertiveness is an important factor at play. So once you can identify the
discourse of the topic all you need to do is argue your case.
Body:
Regionalism owing to rising cultural assertiveness:
¾ Linguistic Priorities have strengthened regionalism( recently witnessed in West
Bengal).
¾ Regionalism as a byproduct of ethnicity ( prevalent in North East India).
¾ Developmental deficit coupled with developmental issues of linguistic
minorities( Telangana, Gorkhaland, Jharkhand).
¾ Regionalism on religious grounds. (Khalistan issue, Kashmir)
Regionalism owing to other factors:
The dominance of regional parties in the coalition era. Political aspirations of these
parties. ( eg Jharkhand Mukti Morcha)
¾ Sons of soil movement ( Maharashtra, Assam, etc)
¾ Poor economic indicators in certain regions. (Vidarbha, Bundelkhand etc)

Way Forward/ Conclusion: Connect to current context.

So as you can clearly see the difference in the structuring of these two answers
is basically a question of understanding the discourse i.e the difference between
the question which is a universal truth (Example 1) and a question that is debatable
(Example 2).
Context Based Question:
Now for the third type of questions, which are context/statement based questions
we need an understanding of directives. Often UPSC would provide a quote or a context
followed by a directive like Discuss, Examine, Critically Examine. These are called
directives and have been covered extensively in the next chapter. We have incorporated
examples from UPSC mains questions to show the approach to interpretation for each
directive .
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3.2 HOW TO APPROACH Identify And Observe How Directives

DIRECTIVES IN QUESTION Are Used In These Questions:
INTERPRETATION?
Examine the linkages between 19th
What are Directives?
century ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the
emergence of national identity. 10 (UPSC
A directive is a keyword that is included
2019, GS paper 1)
in a question to provide direction for
the student to understand what UPSC
1. “The Attorney-General is the chief
expects by asking a particular question.
legal adviser and lawyer of the
It provides a perspective on what to write
Government of India.” Discuss. 15
and how to write it. A directive can be any
(UPSC 2019, GS paper 2)
keyword like elucidate, comment, discuss,
analyse, explain etc. You hit the demand
2. It is argued that the strategy of
of a question when you have relevant
inclusive growth is intended to meet
content and address the question as per
the objectives of inclusiveness and
the keyword.
sustainability together. Comment
on this statement.15 (UPSC 2019,
Let’s Move Forward With
GS paper 3)
Directives:
3. Effective utilization of public funds
In this section we are going to discuss
is crucial to meet development
the greatest predicament of a student.
goals. Critically examine the
How to have a good understanding of what
reasons for under-utilization and
these directives mean and how to interpret
mis-utilization of public funds and
them along with the context provided.
their implications.10 (UPSC 2019,
Writing an answer is simple, but writing
GS paper 4)
an answer that satisfies the demands of
the question is challenging for most of you
These are some of the questions asked
in your first or second year of preparation.
in previous years, you can take note of
In this chapter, we will try to bring clarity
the directives like ‘Examine’, ‘Discuss’,
with respect to the Directives used in UPSC
‘Comment’ and ‘Critically examine’.
mains questions.
Apart from these prominent ones students
will also encounter other directives like
clarify, elaborate, etc.

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In some of the above questions, you are provided with a context like,

“The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government
of India.”15

Effective utilization of public funds is crucial to meet development goals.

Critically examine the reasons for under-utilization and mis-utilization of public funds
and their implications.10

While in other questions directives will help you link the content words and
understand the demand. Such as this question

Examine the linkages between 19th century ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the
emergence of national identity.10

Now at the very onset, identifying directives may be very easy, but what matters is
how you interpret them along with the context, content words in order to understand
what is expected of you in the answer.

TYPES OF DIRECTIVES

1. DISCUSS

This is one of the most important and popular directives used, to discuss would
mean going over the intricacies of the problems in question and evaluating each one
individually. Both advantages and disadvantages or pro and opposing arguments must
be supported by evidence.

Example: ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces

until and unless they are backed by political will’. Discuss with reference to the
performance of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India.15 (UPSC
2017,GS2)

Since it is a 15 marker you need to introduce it by citing government poverty

alleviation programs/ recent programs in news etc. Look at the context of the
question, it’s critical of poverty alleviation programmes, so in your main body while
highlighting the success of the programs major emphasis has to be on highlighting
the shortcomings in order to justify the critique in the context.

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2. ENUMERATE
This directive requires the student to list out the points in order.

Example: The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal

subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description
of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the
same.10 (UPSC 2018, GS 3)

As you can see the context is about CPEC (introduction) , the question asks to
briefly describe CPEC (first part) , and in the second part, you need to enumerate or
list out the reasons why India distanced itself from becoming a part of CPEC

3. EXPLAIN

You may encounter such a directive either at the beginning or as a tail word in the
question. Here you have to make sure that you provide clarification on the topic. You
need to go into details by defining, using jargon and examples or data wherever required.

Example: Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their

importance in maintaining coastal ecology. 10 (UPSC 2019, GS 1)

In this question there are two parts, the first part demands you to discuss the
causes of depletion of mangroves, while the second part asks students to explain
their importance in maintaining coastal ecology. In the second part, you need to use
subject key words like edge effect, ecological niche for organisms, etc. Other relevant
details like the supply of natural resources, protection to the shoreline (Sunderbans),
etc need to be added.

4. DESCRIBE

When you have to describe, focus on the main features of the topic or discourse.

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Example: Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight

in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives by our
government for this purpose? 15 (UPSC 2020, GS3)

Clearly, in this particular question, you have to describe the benefits of deriving
electricity from sunlight vis a vis conventional energy sources. You need to focus on
the main features of the topic like adaptability/availability, resilience/ not easily
disrupted, impact on climate change, etc. and describe how these main features are
advantageous over conventional form.

5. JUSTIFY

This directive requires you to cite evidence of the arguments you have made. You
need to understand the discourse here and show why other possible arguments are
unsatisfactory.

Example: Judicial legislations are antithetical to doctrine of separation of powers

as envisaged in the Indian constitution. In this context justify the filing of a large
number of public interest petitions, praying for issuing guidelines to executive
authorities.15 (UPSC 2020, GS 2)

Understand the discourse here, judicial legislation is being critiqued for being
antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers. You need to justify the filing of
a large number of PIL’s, and issuing guidelines to the executive. Some of the recent
examples of judicial legislation would be the Cracker ban, Liquor ban across National
Highways, Vishakha Guidelines, Lodha Panel to reform BCCI.

Now clearly there is no water-tight separation of powers envisaged in the Indian

constitution and the functional autonomy of various organs is constrained by the
principle of checks and balances. So you may briefly criticise judicial legislation for
encroaching into the domain of the executive but judicial encroachment into the
legislative or executive domain has largely been to fill the loopholes in the legislation. A
proactive judiciary is needed to ensure speedy resolution of contentious issues, instill
faith of the public in judicial process through article 32, Landmark judgments like
Puttuswamy case, etc which have broadened the scope of fundamental rights and its
application resulted in the decriminalization of unjust sec 377 of CRPC.

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6. COMMENT/ CRITICALLY COMMENT:

Comment in general parlance would be understood as ‘to give opinion’, however

you should detest from presenting personal opinion to argue. You need to understand
the main issue and write about it. Try to have a progressive and optimistic view while
presenting your arguments. In critically comment you will have to present both sides of
the argument substantiated with facts/examples.

Example: Covid 19 pandemic has accelerated class inequalities and poverty in

India Comment.10 (UPSC 2020, GS1)

Now clearly this statement is true, we cannot present any logical counter arguments
here, so you need to highlight how the pandemic has affected accelerated class
inequalities( availability of healthcare services, poor doctor to population ratio), income
inequality due to lockdown, rationalization in the workforce.

7. ARGUE

It’s a fairly simple directive to understand, you have to argue your case, you will have
to substantiate your answer using examples, data, graphs, or specific research facts and
proof. The goal is to utilise these examples to show that you understand the question’s
subject and you need to further explain or clarify your response.

Example: ‘Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative

deprivation.’ Argue by giving suitable illustrations.15 ( UPSC 2018, GS 1)

Now if you have already covered communalism in Indian society you would know
this statement is true and no counterarguments against it would hold. Understand the
discourse in the body, we will have two parts, one showing the relationship of power
struggle and communalism and the other establishing this relationship with relative
deprivation. However, when you are presenting your points you need to ensure that
they are substantiated with examples.

8. CLARIFY

Here you are basically required to establish some form of linkage, either a cause and
effect linkage or it may be of some other type. It is expected that you provide a clarification
for the same.

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Example: Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre
of a fragmented polity.10 (UPSC 2017, GS paper 1)
Now if you look at the first question, you can read and understand that you have to
establish how the decline of the Mughal empire, which led to a fragmented polity was
a ‘spectre’ or having a ghostly appearance. So there are two parts to this question. You
need to highlight the fragmented polity aspect by showcasing the rise of weak rulers,
the rise of autonomous states, the rise of new kingdoms like Maratha, etc.
In conclusion you can highlight the consequences of fragmented polity.

CRITICAL DIRECTIVES
These are some of the critical directives often used while framing a question, always
remember that in questions with these directives you have to provide arguments both for
and against the discourse of the question. Understanding the discourse hence becomes
very important.
9. EVALUATE

You are required to demonstrate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the
argument. You will have to evaluate both sides of the argument by citing evidence for it.

[Link] and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India
still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing
with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement.10 (UPSC
2017, GS2)
Now in this question, you need to understand the context, it’s basically asserting
that hunger and poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance. Then you
have to evaluate the success of successive governments in dealing with this problem.
First the structure part, clearly there are three parts, but first briefly highlight
the relationship between Hunger, poverty, and good governance. That’s the context.
(You can make this part your intro). In the body, you need to evaluate the success of
prominent hunger and poverty reduction measures, these need to be backed up with
data and facts.
You need to cite data on important indicators like reduction in absolute poverty,
reduced poverty rate, etc to substantiate your claims on progress. Similarly, for hunger
data on food security, stunting is very important. Now understand this, since you
are required to evaluate the challenges of poverty and hunger elimination become
imperative, you must be aware of India’s poor rank in Global Hunger Index(GHI),
nutritional insecurity, Oxfam report, etc.

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Examine/Critically examine:

Examine in general parlance would mean to inspect thoroughly, in questions with

examine as a directive you need to look into the topic intricately with analysis of various
aspects of the topics or its implications.

However, when you critically examine, apart from examining the discourse intricately,
try to provide valid data,facts, examples as evidence to support your claim. You also
need to make sure you are covering all the aspects like pros and cons or arguments for
or against the discourse provided.

Examine
Example: Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact
on climate change. 15 (UPSC 2020, GS 1)
As you read this question and understand the discourse it’s about the present status
of forest resources, and how it’s impacting climate change. If you have read the State
of Forest report you would know, the present status, the challenges they are facing etc.
So the structure for this question would be,
Introduction: You can quote data from the State of Forest report.
Body: The main concern has been deforestation over the years owing to multiple
factors,you can very briefly mention the natural as well as anthropogenic factors for
the same.
In the next part you have to discuss the concerns over status of forest resources,
and link your points to the impact it will have on climate change.
¾ Forest degradation affects its role as a carbon sink.
¾ Land degradation and desertification in the North east which forms a vicious
circle for more deforestation.
¾ Its impact on soil carbon, groundwater and livelihood, you can use data as
evidence here,etc.
Since this question requires you to examine, the efforts undertaken for afforestation
becomes imperative.
¾ National Afforestation programme.
¾ CAMPA funds.
¾ National Mission on Green India, etc.
Conclude with best practices.

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Critically Examine
Example: Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security
during covid 19 pandemic. 10 (UPSC 2020, GS 2)
Here we have another question which requires a critical examination of WHO in
providing global health security during Covid 19 pandemic. If you have followed this
issue WHO received huge criticism for the way it managed the outbreak of covid 19 in
China then did a needed course correction at some point later.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction: Start with a general introduction on WHO and include its mandate.

Body:
Covid 19 Pandemic Mismanagement:
¾ Praised China for its transparency, data sharing etc which were criticised by
many.
¾ Early spread of misinformation.(China found no evidence of human
transmission of the virus.)
¾ Delayed response in declaring Covid 19 pandemic as a public health emergency.
However despite many criticisms WHO played a crucial role in many areas like
¾ Vaccine trials and vaccine development.
¾ Providing real time information and helped fight myths around transmission
of covid 19.
¾ Helping many poor countries in preparing for an effective response.
You can write a wayforward on how we can strengthen its role.

Analyse/Critically Analyse:

To analyse means to examine something methodically and in detail such as to

interpret it. When you encounter this directive, try to break down the question into parts
and analyse each part from various points of view, there can be pros and cons or for and
against this kind of approach to the discourse.

In critically analyse, you need to argue on the discourse from all perspectives providing
sufficient data,examples and facts to validate your points.

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Analyse
Example: Rapid economic development and changing social order have strained
political and civil society institutions since independence. Critically Analyse. 15
Now if you understand the discourse, the rapid economic development started in
India post LPG reforms, the social order has been changing ever since India acquired
Independence.
Introduction: You can briefly write about the context here
Body:
Impact of Rapid Economic Growth and changing social order before LPG
Political Institutions:
• Congress system of government, largely stable polity.
• Skewed socio economic structure led to competitive populism.

Civil society:
• Civil society groups largely remained elitist in nature.
• Nature of demands and agitations were more human rights oriented. ( Anti rape
movement, Anti dowry movement etc)
Impact of Rapid Economic Growth and changing social order post LPG

Political institutions:
¾ Sons of soil movement. ( Maharashtra)
¾ Politicization of caste.
¾ Rise of regional politics and coalition politics.

Civil society:
¾ Strengthening of grassroot civil society groups.
¾ Nature of demands changed to right based entitlements ( Food security, RTI
etc)
You can conclude by summarising your observations.

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Critically Analyse
Example: ‘India is often seen as a land of contrasts where tradition and modernity
coexist where Indian women are often showcased as emblematic of this coexistence.’
Critically Analyse the Statement in the context of ‘new women’ in India.15 (Mainstorming
2021)
Introduction: You can write a brief contextual introduction showcasing the
contradictions in tradition and modernity and how they coexist in India.
Body: Since the word New Women is specified in quotes, first write briefly on what
you understand by the ‘new women’.
¾ The new Indian women seek to be defined independently.
¾ Economic empowerment and independence is a defining force
¾ new woman seeks a more equal voice
Since the directive is critically analyse, you need to showcase the contradictions
in India society in the context of New women.
New Women as Emblem of Contradictions

MODERNITY STATUS QUO

Educational opportunities have The gender gap widens with
increased progressive levels of education
The traditional neglect of women’s Neglect of women’s nutritional needs
health has been overcome by a special is still a norm. For example 51% of
focus on their nutrition and maternal women in the age group 15 to 49 are
health care anaemic.
glass ceilings of the professional However, women continue to be a
world are shattered, for example disproportionate part of care based
granting permanent commission to services. Thus women are still
women in the Army. stereotyped.
In personal lives women have However, the scar of honour killings for
achieved greater autonomy in alleged loss of family honour continues.
decision making,
You can conclude by summarising your observations

This completes the chapter on directives, sound knowledge of directives is very crucial
to correct structure of the answer and you will only learn this through practice. In the
next chapter we will introduce some guidelines on answer writing which will help you
understand the full picture very clearly.

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 4. WHAT ARE THE QUALITATIVE AND
QUANTITATIVE ASPECTS OF A GOOD ANSWER?

In this chapter, we would discuss how to apply the knowledge of Directives and build
upon some basic rules for effective answer writing. We understand that some of you
may find these rules difficult to apply, so we will try to enrich the content with practical
examples. These rules are a result of empirical knowledge from the review of various
toppers copies, so should not be considered universal, students may have different
approaches and UPSC rewards them on their merit. To write a good answer, you need to
understand the quantitative as well as qualitative aspects of a good answer

Quantitative Aspect:
For a 10 marks question

• Introduction: 25-30 words

• Body: 100 words

• Conclusion: 20 words

In the body for a 10 marker try to write a total of 7-9 points giving sufficient emphasis
on all parts as per demand of the question. The ideal time you should spend on such
an answer should be between 6-8 minutes.

For a 15 marks question

• Introduction:35-40 words

• Body: 180 words

• Conclusion: 30-35 words

In a 15 marker try to write a total of 12-14 points giving sufficient emphasis on all
parts as per demand of the question. The time you should spend on such an answer
should be between 10-12 minutes each.

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Qualitative Aspect:

Now coming to the Qualitative aspect of answer writing, this needs to be understood
on two fronts: the structural aspect and the content aspect, to a large extent these two
depend on the understanding of the demand of the question, you will have more clarity
on this as we proceed.

Structure: Often students think that the structure of an answer entails introduction,
body, and conclusion, to a large extent it’s true. However, when it comes to a proper
structure it requires a good understanding of parts or subparts of the question.

Rule 1: Identify keywords and directives, structuring of an answer is

based on your identification.

Rule 2: Understand the discourse of the topic, don’t be too rigid with the
directive in every question.

Rule 3: Understand the context of the question and your content should
be in sync with it.

Let us apply these 3 rules on some select questions.

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Example 1: Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation
of Article 19 of the Constitution.10 (UPSC 2013, GS2)
Please mark the important words and directives in the Question
1. Directive: Discuss
2. Important words: Section 66A of IT Act, Alleged Violation, and Article 19.
Now let’s understand how to apply these rules in this question.
Introduction: We can briefly write about section 66A of the IT Act or current
context. (20 words)
Context: Right to freedom of speech guaranteed under Art 19(1)(a) and the
reasonable restrictions on it (20 words)
Body: How section 66A of the IT Act violates article 19.
1. No proximate connection with violence
2. Vagueness in law
3. Against rule of law
4. Over-breadth of the section etc
Now, most students would conclude and won’t focus on the important word Alleged
violation. In 2013 the matter was sub judice, there were debates around the relevance
of Section 66A and the challenges it poses, hence the word ‘Alleged Violation’. This
keyword adds a part to your answer.
Alleged Violation:
1. In comparison to television, newspapers, and other forms of communication,
the Internet is a completely different medium that must be treated differently.
2. Owing to this difference, there is a need for separate, specially crafted laws,
like Section 66A.
3. The Internet’s borderless reach, anonymity, difficulties in censoring it, sharing
content with a single click, violation of privacy, and the proliferation of abusive
content need a reinterpretation of reasonable limits under Article 19(2).
This question was asked in 2013 which is before the Shreya Singhal judgment
struck down section 66A, in this context understanding the importance of Alleged
violation in meeting the demand of the question.

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Example 2: Discuss the effectiveness of the Representation of Peoples Act

1951 in strengthening and deepening democracy. (10m, 150 words)
Now the question is basically asking you to discuss how effective RPA 1951 has been
in strengthening and deepening democracy.
Context: Effectiveness of RPA 1951 in strengthening and deepening democracy.
Keywords: RPA 1951, effectiveness, strengthening, deepening.
Directive: Discuss.
We have seen many students write such answers and the usual approach is they
would start with an introduction on RPA, mentioning its provisions related to conduct
of elections, here and there they may mention one or two points relating to how it
strengthens democracy.
One need not write the provisions of RPA 1951 as it’s not asked. The context is about
its effectiveness.
Now understand that the directive has a limited role to play here, the word
effectiveness requires you to evaluate how effective it has been over the years and
provide evidence for the same. So if we structure this answer it would have two parts
1. What has RPA 1951 achieved so far with reference to strengthening and
deepening democracy in India?
2. What are the shortfalls or contemporary challenges hindering the process of
strengthening and deepening democracy? (this part is imperative not optional
because of the word effectiveness)
3. Way Forward
Introduction: You can briefly write about RPA 1951
Body:
Achievements so far
Strengthening:
Checked criminalization of politics ( repeal of section 8(4) Lily Thomas case)
Appeal to vote on religion, caste, language a corrupt practice ( section 123(3)
Abhiram Singh v/s C.D Commachen)
Track source of political funding via Electoral bonds( section 29A)
Deepening:
¾ Effective political participation through NOTA. ( PUCL case)
¾ NRI voting. (Section 20A)
Contemporary Challenges for RPA
¾ False disclosures in affidavit.
¾ Misuse of official machinery, unfair advantage to the ruling party.
¾ Need to minimize the role of money.
In the way forward you may include Indrajit Gupta committee, Law commission and
Second ARC recommendations.

Such questions have often been asked in mains and UPSC continues to test students
with such keywords. Let us discuss one more example from previous year question,

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Example 3: “Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms.

Hence, caste system cannot be eradicated in India.” Comment. 10 (UPSC
2018, GS 1)

Now, pay attention to the discourse of the topic. It’s true that the caste system is
assuming new identities and associational forms

¾ Politicization of caste through demand of reservation Jats, Patel agitation,

¾ Decentralization and caste equations in Panchayat polls,

¾ Endogamous marriages,

¾ Ghettoisation in cities etc

But can we say it cannot be eradicated? In this context we would need a balanced
point of view here. If you follow what we have discussed so far, don’t be rigid with
your interpretation of comment as a directive in this question, the discourse here
needs a critical perspective.

Regressive forms of caste system such as

¾ Practice of untouchability, access to public places and employment are already

covered under Fundamental rights and affirmative action,

¾ Urbanization and globalization has diluted the institution of caste to a large

extent,

¾ Civil rights Act and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of
Atrocities) Act have helped prevent caste based violence to a large extent.

Caste system will evolve in times to come and we cannot say it can be eradicated
completely but at least incorporate the measures taken so far to check its
stronghold on Indian society.

Rule 4: A good answer is all about ‘Content, content, and content’ so

apart from presenting contextual content, substantiate your points with
data, examples, facts, etc as the case may be.
Rule 5: Your introduction should set the tone of the answer, be direct you
don’t have to beat about the bush.

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Now for Rule 4 and Rule 5, we have added lots of toppers answers across all papers
for your reference (see chapter 7). One of the basic questions beginners always ask is
how to start the answer. We have already discussed the quantitative aspect of it, let’s
delve into different ways in which you can write the introduction.

Introduction: A good introduction in a GS answer should directly address the topic

and be simple enough to catch the attention of the examiner and also must not take too
much of time thinking about it. Simplicity is the key so try to avoid jargon and complex
sentences. There are some tested approaches that will help you improve the introduction,
let’s discuss them.

Approaches to Introduction:

1. Definition: This is one of the simplest and potent ways of starting your answer,
this approach is useful across all four GS papers. You can learn how to start
with a definitional approach from toppers answers on (see chapter 7).

2. Explaining the context: UPSC often provides a context along with the question,
you can start your answer by explaining this context, particularly for questions
that may have interconnected topics or multiple keywords.

3. Start with data, report, facts: You may also start your answer with any relevant
data, fact, or report that is meeting the demand of the context or discourse of
the question. This method is most potent in GS2, GS3, and the governance part
of GS 4. You can see the approach on (see chapter 7).

A student would be able to write an introduction to almost any question using one
of these three approaches discussed above. If we classify as per the demand of different
topics asked under GS paper I,II,III,IV we can prepare the ingredients of an effective
introduction while preparing for the topic in advance.

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GS PAPER 1 SUB TOPICS APPROACH EXAMPLES

GEOGRAPHY Physical Geography You need to prepare for Definition: Discuss the
self made definitions geophysical characteristics
Economic
o f t o p i c s y o u r e a d . of Circum-Pacific zone.10
Geography
Questions are often (UPSC 2020)
a s k e d o n c y c l o n e s , Definition: How do ocean
c i r c u m p a c i f i c b e l t currents and water masses
e t c , p r e p a r i n g s e l f differ in their impacts on
made definition would marine life and coastal
help you write a good environment? Give suitable
introduction. examples.15 (UPSC 2019)
Context+Data: India has
In such questions you
immense potential for
can use import-export
solar energy though there
data, data on availability
are regional variations in its
and existing capacity etc
development.
or write about important
terms (solar energy, Elaborate. 15(UPSC 2020)
agro-food processing etc) Definition: Discuss the
factors for localisation of
agro-based food processing
industries of North-West
India.10 (UPSC 2019)
Human Geography Mostly a data centric Data: How is efficient and
approach or explaining a f f o r d a b l e u r b a n m a s s
the context would work transport key to the rapid
here. Focus on data on economic development in
urbanisation and related India? 15(UPSC 2019)
issues(transport, poverty
etc)

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Environmental All the above mentioned Context/Data: Account

Geography approaches would work for the huge floodings
as per context. You of million cities in India
can define terms like including the smart ones
coral reef, mangroves. like hyderabad and Pune.
A data centric approach Suggesting lasting remedial
can be taken for issues measures. 15 (UPSC 2020)
l i k e f l o o d i n g , f o r e s t Data: Examine the status
resources. However some of forest resources of India
questions may interlink and its resultant impact on
various keywords where climate change. 15 (UPSC
you need to explain the 2020)
context.
HISTORY Modern History & Try to add timelines, D e f i n i t i o n + T i m e l i n e :
World History important events, you Examine the linkages between
can prepare self made the nineteenth century’s
d e f i n i t i o n s f o r k e y ‘Indian Renaissance’ and
words like Renaissance, the emergence of national
Subsidiary Alliance, identity.10 (UPSC 2019)
however many questions Explain Context: Since the
would require you to decade of 1920’s the national
explain the context. movement acquired
various deological strains
and thereby extended its
social base. Discuss 15
(UPSC 2020).
CULTURE Culture of Ancient, Mainly focus on providing E x p l a i n + T i m e l i n e :
medieval and the background and Pala period is the most
modern India timeline, in most of the significant phase in the
culture questions you history of Buddhism in India.
will have to elaborate on Enumerate. 10 (UPSC 2020)
the context or discourse
for introduction.

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SOCIETY Indian Society A d e f i n i t i o n a l Definition: Has caste lost its

approach would work relevance in understanding
in questions having the multicultural Indian
a single keyword like society? Elaborate your
secularism,regionalism, answers with Illustrations.
c o m m u n a l i s m e t c . 10 (UPSC 2020)
H o w e v e r q u e s t i o n s Explain: Is diversity and
interlinking multiple pluralism in India under
concepts and provides a threat due to globalisation.
discourse try to explain Justify your answer. 15
the context. (UPSC 2020)

GS PAPER 2 SUB TOPICS APPROACH EXAMPLES

POLITY Indian A definitional approach D e f i n i t i o n : “ P a r l i a m e n t ’ s

Constitution can work in some of p o w e r to amend the
the questions centered constitution is a limited power
around key words like and it cannot be enlarged into
Basic Structure, FR’s & absolute power”. In the light of
DPSP, Federalism etc. You this statement explain whether
can include important parliament under article 368
articles, amendments and of the constitution can destroy
judgements for a good the Basic structure of the
start. constitution by expanding its
amending power? 15(UPSC
2019)
Definition+Articles: What can
France learn from the Indian
Constitution’s approach to
secularism? 10(UPSC 2019)

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Indian Polity Most of the polity questions Context+Article:’Once a

a r e c e n t r e d a r o u n d Speaker, Always a Speaker’!
c o n t e m p o r a r y i s s u e s , Do you think this practice
o n e n e e d s t o p r e p a r e should be adopted to impart
relevant data,articles, objectivity to the office of the
observation of important Speaker of Lok Sabha? What
committees,judgments to could be its implications for
substantiate the context in the robust functioning of
introduction. parliamentary business in
India? 10 (UPSC 2020)
Data+Report: The
strengths and sustenance
of local institutions in
India has shifted from
their formative phase of
‘functions, functionaries
and funds’ to the
contemporary stage of
‘functionality’. Highlight
the critical challenges faced
by local institutions in
terms of their functionality
in recent years.

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GOVERNANCE Governance For static questions on E x p l a i n : “ I n s t i t u t i o n a l

constitutional and statutory quality is a crucial driver of
bodies relevant articles economic performance”. In
are important. However this context suggest reforms in
for dynamic questions civil services for strengthening
relevant observations from democracy.10 (UPSC 2020)
2nd ARC other important
Data: Hunger and Poverty
committees or any recent
are the biggest challenges
amendment needs to be
for good governance in India
incorporated. A data centric
still today. Evaluate how far
or explaining context would
successive governments
work based on the demand
have progressed in
of the question.
dealing with these
humongous problems.
Suggest measures for
improvement.15 (UPSC
2017)
SOCIAL JUSTICE Social Justice F o r q u e s t i o n s a r o u n d Data: “The incidence and
recent Act or amendment intensity of poverty are
or policy focus on the intent more important in determining
and need for the same. poverty based on income
Some questions centered alone”. In this context analyse
around poverty,hunger, the latest united nations multi
food security etc would dimensional poverty index.15
require data. (UPSC 2020)
General Introduction+
Need:Does the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities
Act, 2016 ensure effective
mechanism for empowerment
and inclusion of the intended
beneficiaries in the society?
Discus.

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INTERNATIONAL International Some questions would G e n e r a l I n t r o d u c t i o n :

RELATIONS Relations be centered around Quadrilateral security
major institutions like d i a l o g u e (QUAD) is
WHO,UN,WTO etc, you transforming itself into a trade
can incorporate the intent bloc from a military alliance,
of creation or their role and in present times-Discuss.15
responsibilities. Questions (UPSC 2020)
centered around groups General Introduction+Role:
like QUAD,SAARC etc you Critically examine the role
can briefly write about of WHO in providing global
them. In all the other health security during covid
types of questions explain 19 pandemic
the context. You can also
use quotes by experts for
introduction.

GS PAPER 3 SUB TOPICS APPROACH EXAMPLES

ECONOMICS Macroeconomics Most of the questions Definition: Define potential

and Economic asked here would be G D P and explain its
Development contemporary, a good d e t e r m i n a n t s . W h a t a r e
g r a s p o n d a t a f o r the factors that have been
economic indicators inhibiting India from realizing
like joblessness, FDI its potential GDP? 10 (UPSC
inflows, fiscal indicators 2020)
etc would help write a Data: Do you agree with
good introduction. You the view that steady GDP
can use definitions of growth and low inflation
important terms like have left the Indian economy
GDP,Inclusive growth in good shape? Give reasons
etc. in support of your argument.
10 (UPSC 2019)

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AGRICULTURE Indian Mostly the questions Data: What are the main
Agriculture asked are on issues constraints in transport
centered around and marketing of
logistics, f o o d agricultural produce in
processing, policies on India? 10 (UPSC 2020)
pricing, irrigation etc. A General Introduction:
data centric approach E l a b o r a t e t h e i m p a c t
w o u l d w o r k w e l l i n of National watershed
most questions. While p r o j e c t i n i n c r e a s i n g
preparing the topics on agricultural production
policy or projects focus from water -stressed areas.
on its need, questions 10 (UPSC 2019)
on National Watershed
Management, Integrated
farming, you can briefly
write about them.
ENVIRONMENT Environment & M o s t q u e s t i o n s a r e General Introduction:
Biodiversity centered around recent How does draft environment
reforms in some policy, i m p a c t Assessment
new Act or programme, (EIA) Notification, 2020
y o u s h o u l d b e a b l e differ from the existing
to briefly write about EIA Notification, 2006? 10
them. Definitions of (UPSC 2020)
t e r m s l i k e c a r r y i n g Definition: Define the
capacity,wetlands, concept of carrying
m a n g r o v e s e t c , i n capacity of an ecosystem as
q u e s t i o n s c e n t e r e d relevant to an environment.
around them should be Explain how understanding
added. this concept is vital while
planning for sustainable
development of a region.15
(UPSC 2019

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SECURITY Internal and M o s t l y c o n t e x t u a l Data+Report: Discuss

External security questions are asked different types of cyber
from this area so try c r i m e s a n d m e a s u r e s
explaining the context required to be taken to
adding recent facts, data fight the menace.10 (UPSC
or report in sync with the 2020)
context would suffice. Explain: Analyse internal
security threats and
transborder crimes along
myanmar, bangladesh and
pakistan borders including
Line of control (LoC). Also
discuss the role played by
various security forces in
this regard.15 (UPSC 2020)

SCIENCE AND Science and You can briefly write Data+Report: Describe the
TECHNOLOGY Technology about important terms, benefits of deriving electric
use data or explain energy from sunlight in
the context as the case contrast to the conventional
may be. Most of S&T energy generation. What
questions are context a r e t h e i n i t i a t i v e s b y
based so use any of our government for this
these approaches as purpose?
you deem fit. Definition: What do
you understand by
Nanotechnology and how
is it helping health sector?
10 (UPSC 2020)

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DISASTER Disaster Here also you would Explain: Discuss the

MANAGEMENT Management find UPSC asking recent measures initiated
mostly context based in disaster management
questions, so you by the Government of India
can follow any of the departing from the earlier
three approaches to reactive approach.15
introduction. (UPSC 2020)

Explain: Vulnerability is
an essential element for
defining disaster impacts
and its threat to people.
How and in what ways
can vulnerability to
disasters be characterised?
Discuss different types of
vulnerability with reference
to disasters.10 (UPSC 2019)

GS PAPER 4 SUB TOPICS APPROACH EXAMPLES

ETHICS Ethics In section A, most Definition: What are

ethics questions will the main components of
be centered around emotional intelligence (EI)
keywords, where ? Can they be learned?
you can follow a Discuss. 10 (UPSC 2020)
definitional approach
of introduction. You
can easily define Definition: A positive
attitude, aptitude, attitude is considered to be
Emotional intelligence an essential characteristic
etc. However questions of a civil servant who is
where context is often required to function
provided it’s better to under extreme stress.
explain the context for What contributes a positive
an introduction. attitude in person.?10
(UPSC 2020)

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Quote Based M ost q u o te ba sed Philosophy:” Condemn

questions would fall none: if you can stretch
under the purview out a helping hand do so. If
of an ethical concept not fold your hands, bless
you have read or you your brothers and let them
can relate them with go their own way.” -Swami
some philosophy, Vivekanand (Seva Parmo
try to identify and Dharma) (UPSC 2020)
bring it out in your
introduction. However
if this doesn't Context+Concept:
work, explain your “Anger and intolerance
understanding of the are the enemies of correct
quote, you should not understanding.”- Mahatma
take too much time Gandhi.(Emotional
resting it with some Intelligence) (UPSC 2018)
ethical concept you Explain:” A system of
are familiar with. morality which is based on
relative emotional values is
a mere illusion, a thoroughly
vulgar conception which
has nothing sound in it and
nothing true.” – Socrates.
10 (UPSC 2020)

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Governance Governance questions Explain: There is a view

would require that the Official Secrets
data,fact, report based Act is an obstacle to the
introductions, for implementation of Right
most topics in ethics to Information Act. Do
2nd ARC report would you agree with the view?
suffice. You can also Discuss. (UPSC 2019).
briefly write about
Data: Effective utilization
important terms like
of public funds is crucial
citizen charter, RTI
to meet development
etc
goals. Critically examine
the reasons for under-
utilization and mis-
utilization of public funds
and their implications.
(UPSC 2019)
Case Study In a case study
an introduction
should reflect your
understanding of the
case. You can identify
the ethical issues
and highlight them
along with the brief
outline of the case
study. You can also
provide an anecdotal
introduction for a case
study.

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Rule 6: Always make headings for different parts of the answer.

There are two benefits, it will help you reflect on the demand and give
sufficient emphasis on all parts so you won’t deviate, and it will make
the assessment for the evaluator relatively easy.

Example: The rise of the British in India was a mere accident rather than a
calculated motive of annexation. Critically examine this statement. (15 Marks
250 Words) (Maintorming 2021)

If you understand the discourse of the question it’s basically asserting that prior
to the battle of Plassey and Buxar the British course of action did not involve a motive
of annexation, and we do have ample evidence for it, however, this changed post the
battle of Plassey and Buxar and we can see a clear motive of annexation. So you need
to make two headings for this answer and justify it with shreds of evidence in support
of your view

Rule 7: Try to summarise your answer in conclusion, however, if the

question is centered on an issue or problem, try to write solutions.

As far as conclusions are concerned in a 10 marks question try to summarise your

answer in twenty to twenty-five words, if you identify that the question pertains to an
issue, you need to have an optimistic and solution-oriented approach for the conclusion.
However, in a 15 marks question centered on any issue try to provide a way forward,
here, you can include committee recommendations, observations of various reports, or
other solutions.

Rule 8: Wherever possible try to use diagrams and illustrations to present

a complex idea with the help of a schematic, a diagram, or a flow chart.

Illustrations help us simplify complex ideas which may be difficult to express in

12-15 words, they also help in breaking the monotony of the answer. For different GS
papers, you can have different approaches, like use of maps, diagrams, flow charts,
linear and circular diagrams, or hub and spokes model. We have included a separate
chapter on illustrations and diagrams where we have added practical examples of how
toppers use them.

So these are the eight important rules of answer writing, you can safely rely on them
for writing good answers. These eight rules encompass the fundamental aspects of a
good answer and will help you understand the basic demand of the question, the correct
way to structure and address all aspects of the question.
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5. HOW TO MAKE YOUR ANSWERS MORE VISIBLE?

With increasing competition each year it’s important to understand the value of that
0.5 to 1 mark per answer you can extract because that will have a cumulative impact
of 25-30 marks across all the four GS papers. The use of illustrations and diagrams
can help you gain that extra edge. In this chapter we will show practical examples from
various toppers copies on how to do this.

Illustrations and Diagrams:

Why Do We Need Diagrams and Illustrations in an answer:

1. Sometimes UPSC questions make it difficult to express a set of complex ideas
in 150/250 word limit, so it necessitates that some are illustrated.

2. Some questions you know, some you don’t, so it’s illogical to expect that you will
give them all at the same time. So illustrations help you balance this.

3. Many UPSC questions have 2-3 sub parts in a 10 marker and when you try to
address the demand of all in the given space and time, it becomes impractical,
here illustrations come to your rescue.

4. The Attention span of an evaluator is very less and you need to make sure your
content is visible and attractive.

How Can We Use Diagrams And Illustrations Across Various Papers:

GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1
# SUBJECT TYPES OF ILLUSTRATIONS
1 Physical For most topics, you can prepare diagrams like
Geography: illustrating a cyclone, showing subduction of plates.
2 Economic Maps showing distribution of resources etc would come
Geography: in handy here.
3 Society: You can make use of flow diagrams, hub and spokes
diagrams, etc, such as listing factors aggravating
communalism in India.

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4 Culture: Temple Architecture, types of shikhara, types of domes,

maps with locations of kingdoms/ temples etc. can be
diagrammatically represented.
5 Modern & Map of India and the world can be used here. Use
World History: of timelines and tables to express evolution and
comparison of events and personalities.

GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 2

# SUBJECT TYPES OF ILLUSTRATIONS
6 Polity & You can make use of Venn diagrams, hub and spokes
Governance: diagrams, flow charts. Various applications could be
showing separation of power, Listing functions etc Use of
timelines and tables to express evolution and comparison
of judgements, bill provisions etc.
7 Social Justice: Cause and effect relationships can be depicted through
cyclical diagrams (Hunger and Poverty), flow charts, hub
and spokes diagrams.
8 International Use maps of India and the world, important chokepoints,
Relations: important regions like SAARC nations, CPEC, etc.

GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 3

# SUBJECT TYPES OF ILLUSTRATIONS
9 Economy: Cyclical diagrams to represent any vicious cycle, linear
diagrams, hub and spokes diagrams to show components.
Graphs, Pie charts, data represented in tables.
10 Agriculture: Map giving info on Agro-climatic zones, irrigation capacity,
and types, etc along with other forms of illustration
discussed above.
11 Environment Use of maps to show climate hotspots, desertification,
mangroves. Use of circular diagrams
12 Disaster Hazard Maps, disaster-prone areas on a map, etc.
Management:
13 Science and Eg. Illustration of DNA, Blockchain technology, Components
Tech: of rockets etc.
14 Security: You can include a map of India, regions with security
threats, hub and spokes diagram, flow chart, etc.

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GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 4

# SUBJECT TYPES OF ILLUSTRATIONS
15 Ethics & We can use linear diagrams to show connection (greed-
Governance: >corruption->inequality),circular diagrams (ABC model
for attitude), hub and spoke model to list, Venn diagrams
( Ethical governance as a subset of good governance), etc

*A note of caution, as many students use illustrations for the main body which
requires sound explanation and proper substantiation, this is a bad approach.
Whenever you make a diagram or put an illustration, remember that it’s not a
substitute for the main body, it should add value to your answer, simultaneously
you should not overdo it.

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GS 1

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GS 2

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GS 3

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GS 4

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 6. WHAT ARE THE COMMON MISTAKES
STUDENTS MAKE?

SOME OF THE COMMON MISTAKES STUDENTS MAKE

# MISTAKES WHAT TO DO?

1 Writing what you know, not what Read the question properly, the
has been asked ? discourse, the directive and identify
all sub parts.
2 Writing extensively about the part Weigh the parts of the question, you
you know and neglecting other can proportionally address each part.
areas.
3 Writing what you learned when Updating your notes with the current
you started preparing without any context, contemporary facts and data
current context is very important.
4 Citing wrong sources or wrong Often students provide incorrect
value addition sources,data, or other forms of value
addition like judgements, articles.
Prepare notes on them.
5 Writing extremely complex content Often students write technical
that the evaluator cannot relate to answers in geography or use
(Writing optional centric content) optional subject jargons in society or
governance, this should be avoided.

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[Link]
[Link]

6 Explaining too little or too much Mains answer writing is both

about coverage and depth so
elaborating a single point in 25-
30 words is a flawed strategy, this
may provide depth but will restrict
coverage. Rather than explaining,
try substantiating with data, facts,
examples etc.
7 Not providing enough value Don't present layman assertions or
addition in answers general observations, you should try to
substantiate your points with credible
evidence.
8 Not introducing or concluding your Try to provide a valid introduction
answers well and conclusion in your answer, helps
you get that additional 1 mark per
question.
9 Cluttering your answers without Use headings and subheadings to
clearly establishing transition organise your answer, they create a
between parts or different demands good impression on examiners mind. It
of questions also ensures that you address all parts.
10 Overdoing or Irrelevant use of Do n ' t a d d irre le v a n t d ia g ra m s ,
diagram, schematics, charts maps schematics in your answer; they
should add value to your answer.
11 Spending so much time and When you lack sufficient content in a
content in bluffing your way question, break it in parts and address
through for questions you don't the parts you have some knowledge
know about.
12 Mixing up strategies of different What works for one topper may not
toppers and making a soup of it work for another, there is no one size
fits all solution, so be careful what you
pick and choose.

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[Link]
[Link]

13 Aspiring to achieve more than In pursuit of writing excellent answers,

what’s practical to achieve in a 3 students often fail to complete the
hour paper paper, practice writing good answers
in a time limit.
14 Writing a 10 marker like a 15 Always be vigilant of your word limit,
marker and vice versa often students unknowingly breach
word limit, this compromises time
management per answer and paper
completion.
15 Referring to and modelling on Even for toppers if you compare their
toppers copies from the year they first test with the last in any mock you
couldn’t secure their best ranks would see a huge difference in style
of writing, so when you are modelling
your answers on any year's topper you
should be able to judge if it was their
best attempt and from the year they
secured the rank.

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 7. TAKE A LOOK AT OUR TOPPERS COPIES

HOW TO MAKE USE OF TOPPERS COPIES ?

1. Write answers to the same questions and compare your answers with theirs,
you can use the comparison sheet provided in chapter 8.

2. Specifically observe and make a note of best practices followed across different
papers, by different rank holders.

3. The analysis from the sheet and a note of best practices should be tested by
attempting previous years CSE mains questions.

4. We will be uploading the rank holders copies across all four GS papers, you
can refer to them for strategies on approach, interpretation and organization of
your answer.

5. Always remember reading is easy, you should never confuse reading with learning,
unless you write and most importantly write within time limit, mere reading of
these answers will be a futile exercise.

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Yaksh Chaudhary SIADEL2190292_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2190292_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:58 AM
PM
Rank 6 CSE 2021
Yaksh Chaudhary SIADEL2190292_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2190292_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:58 AM
PM
Rank 6 CSE 2021
Yaksh Chaudhary SIADEL2190292_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2190292_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:58 AM
PM
Rank 6 CSE 2021
Yaksh Chaudhary SIADEL2190292_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2190292_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:58 AM
PM
Rank 6 CSE 2021
Yaksh Chaudhary SIADEL2190292_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2190292_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:58 AM
PM
Rank 6 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
02:41 AM
PM
Abhinav Jain
Rank 14 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
02:41 AM
PM
Abhinav Jain
Rank 14 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
02:41 AM
PM
Abhinav Jain
Rank 14 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
02:25 AM
PM
Abhinav Jain
Rank 14 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
02:25 AM
PM
Abhinav Jain
Rank 14 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:05 AM
PM
Avinash Rao
Rank 31 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:05 AM
PM
Avinash Rao
Rank 31 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:05 AM
PM
Avinash Rao
Rank 31 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
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88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
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03:00 AM
PM
Avinash Rao
Rank 31 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:00 AM
PM
Avinash Rao
Rank 31 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:36 AM
PM

SANJANA SIMHA
RANK 37 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:36 AM
PM

SANJANA SIMHA
RANK 37 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:36 AM
PM

SANJANA SIMHA
RANK 37 CSE 2021
 SIAAN2188811_TC521 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:44 AM
PM
SANJANA SIMHA
RANK 37 CSE 2021
 SIAAN2188811_TC521 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:44 AM
PM
SANJANA SIMHA
RANK 37 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:46 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:46 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:46 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:49 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:49 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:49 AM
PM
Kushal Jain
Rank 40 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:03 AM
PM
Shubham Shukla
Rank 43 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:03 AM
PM
Shubham Shukla
Rank 43 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:03 AM
PM
Shubham Shukla
Rank 43 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:02 AM
PM
Shubham Shukla
Rank 43 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:02 AM
PM
Shubham Shukla
Rank 43 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2192437_TC52100-00-0000
SIADEL2192437_TC52111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
02-06-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
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55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:40 AM
PM
Anjali Shrotriya
Rank 44 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2192437_TC52100-00-0000
SIADEL2192437_TC52111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
02-06-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
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55:55
66:66
77:77
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PM
Anjali Shrotriya
Rank 44 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2192437_TC52100-00-0000
SIADEL2192437_TC52111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
02-06-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:40 AM
PM
Anjali Shrotriya
Rank 44 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2192437_TC52100-00-0000
SIADEL2192437_TC52111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
02-06-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
01:40 AM
PM
Anjali Shrotriya
Rank 44 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:16 AM
PM

Divyansh Singh
Rank 49 CSE 2021
 Divyansh Singh 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:16 AM
PM
Rank 49 CSE 2021
 Divyansh Singh 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:16 AM
PM
Rank 49 CSE 2021
 Divyansh Singh SIAAN2034300_TC528 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:26 AM
PM
Rank 49 CSE 2021
 Divyansh Singh SIAAN2034300_TC528 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:26 AM
PM
Rank 49 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC57700-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC57711-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:39 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:33 AM
PM
Arpit Sangal
Rank 53 CSE 2021

Text
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:33 AM
PM
Arpit Sangal
Rank 53 CSE 2021
 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:33 AM
PM
Arpit Sangal
Rank 53 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2175826_TC52700-00-0000
SIADEL2175826_TC52711-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:35 AM
PM
Arpit Sangal
Rank 53 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2175826_TC52700-00-0000
SIADEL2175826_TC52711-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:35 AM
PM
Arpit Sangal
Rank 53 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:42 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:42 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC59100-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC59111-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:42 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC57700-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC57711-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:39 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 SIADEL2153568_TC57700-00-0000
SIADEL2153568_TC57711-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
00-00-0000 99:99
31-05-2022 00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:39 AM
PM

Divya Shakthi
Rank 58 CSE 2021
 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:59 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:59 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:59 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:52 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:52 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 Surbhi Singla 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
04:52 AM
PM

Rank 75 CSE 2021

 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:53 AM
PM

Swathi Shree
Rank 42 CSE 2021

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 00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
99-99-9999
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:53 AM
PM

Swathi Shree
Rank 42 CSE 2021

Scanned with CamScanner

 SIAAN2093168_TC522 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:56 AM
PM

Swathi Shree
Rank 42 CSE 2021

Scanned with CamScanner

 SIAAN2093168_TC522 99-99-9999
00-00-0000
11-11-1111
22-22-2222
33-33-3333
44-44-4444
55-55-5555
66-66-6666
77-77-7777
88-88-8888
31-05-2022 99:99
00:00
11:11
22:22
33:33
44:44
55:55
66:66
77:77
88:88
03:56 AM
PM

Swathi Shree
Rank 42 CSE 2021

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 DIVYA MISHRA
AIR 28 CSE 2020
(GS TOPPER: 455 MARKS)
RANK312 CSE 2019

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 DIVYA MISHRA
AIR 28 CSE 2020
(GS TOPPER: 455 MARKS)
RANK312 CSE 2019

Scanned by CamScanner
 DIVYA MISHRA
AIR 28 CSE 2020
(GS TOPPER: 455 MARKS)
RANK312 CSE 2019

Scanned by CamScanner
 DIVYA MISHRA
AIR 28 CSE 2020
(GS TOPPER: 455 MARKS)
RANK312 CSE 2019

Scanned by CamScanner
 DIVYA MISHRA
AIR 28 CSE 2020
(GS TOPPER: 455 MARKS)
RANK312 CSE 2019

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 JAYANT NAHATA
RANK 56 CSE 2020
RANK 298 CSE 2019
 JAYANT NAHATA
RANK 56 CSE 2020
RANK 298 CSE 2019
 JAYANT NAHATA
RANK 56 CSE 2020
RANK 298 CSE 2019
 JAYANT NAHATA
RANK 56 CSE 2020
RANK 298 CSE 2019
 JAYANT NAHATA
RANK 56 CSE 2020
RANK 298 CSE 2019
KISHAN KUMAR SINGH
RANK 24 CSE 2020
RANK 181 CSE 2019
KISHAN KUMAR SINGH
RANK 24 CSE 2020
RANK 181 CSE 2019
KISHAN KUMAR SINGH
RANK 24 CSE 2020
RANK 181 CSE 2019
KISHAN KUMAR SINGH
RANK 24 CSE 2020
RANK 181 CSE 2019
KISHAN KUMAR SINGH
RANK 24 CSE 2020
RANK 181 CSE 2019
 AHINSA JAIN
RANK 53 CSE 2020
RANK 164 CSE 2019

Text
 AHINSA JAIN
RANK 53 CSE 2020
RANK 164 CSE 2019
 AHINSA JAIN
RANK 53 CSE 2020
RANK 164 CSE 2019
 AHINSA JAIN
RANK 53 CSE 2020
RANK 164 CSE 2019
 AHINSA JAIN
RANK 53 CSE 2020
RANK 164 CSE 2019
NITESH KUMAR JAIN
RANK 22 CSE 2020
RANK 96 CSE 2018
NITESH KUMAR JAIN
RANK 22 CSE 2020
RANK 96 CSE 2018
NITESH KUMAR JAIN
RANK 22 CSE 2020
NITESH KUMAR JAIN
RANK 22 CSE 2020
RANK 96 CSE 2018
 WHAT CAN I UNDERSTAND FROM
LAST FEW YEARS UPSC PAPERS?
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1-4
CSE 2016-2020 TOPIC WISE WEIGHTAGE
SYLLABUS KEYWORD YEAR WISE WEIGHTAGE (MARKS)
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 1 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Indian Heritage and Culture, History
Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature and
1 10 50 10 35 10 20
Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the
present- significant events, personalities, issues, The Freedom Struggle - its
2 40 25 50 10 50 30
various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of
the country.
3 Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. 10 15 10
History of the world will include events from the 18th century such as industrial
revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization,
4 15 15 15 10 10
decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism
etc.- their forms and effect on the society.
Society
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India. Role of women and
women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and
5 developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Effects 75 75 75 75 80 60
of globalization on Indian society. Social empowerment, communalism,
regionalism & secularism.
Geography
Salient features of world’s physical geography. Distribution of key natural
resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian
subcontinent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and
tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India).
6 100 100 100 100 100 120
Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic
activity, cyclone etc., geographical features and their location- changes in
critical geographical features (including water bodies and ice-caps) and in flora
and fauna and the effects of such changes.
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 2 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
POLITY
Constitution, Polity: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution,
features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions
and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges
pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to
local levels and challenges therein. Separation of powers between various
organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Comparison of the
Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries Parliament and State
1 125 125 115 125 125 80
Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges
and issues arising out of these. Structure, organization and functioning of the
Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government;
pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act. Appointment to various
Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various
Constitutional Bodies. Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and
issues arising out of their design and implementation. Development processes
and the development industry- the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and
associations, donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders Welfare
schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States
2 40 55 35 40 35 40
and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and
Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable
sections. Issues relating to development and management of Social
Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Issues
relating to poverty and hunger.
GOVERNANCE
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-
governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential;
3 35 20 50 35 40 70
citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other
measures. Role of civil services in a democracy.
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
India and its neighborhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings
and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of
4 policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s 50 50 50 50 50 60
interests, Indian Diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies and
fora- their structure, mandate.
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 3 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources,
growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising
from it. Government Budgeting. Land reforms in India. Effects of liberalization
1 50 50 65 55 75 75
on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial
growth. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
Investment models.
AGRICULTURE
Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of
irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of
agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the
aid of farmers Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and
2 minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, 50 50 35 50 65 40
limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology
missions; economics of animal-rearing. Food processing and related
industries in India- scope and significance, location, upstream and
downstream requirements, supply chain management.
BIODIVERSITY AND ENVIRONMENT
Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact
3 35 35 25 50 25 15
assessment
DISASTER MANAGEMENT
4 Disaster and disaster management. 15 15 25 15 15 30
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Technology: Science and Technology- developments and their applications
and effects in everyday life . Achievements of Indians in science & technology;
5 indigenization of technology and developing new technology. Awareness in 50 50 50 25 20 30
the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology
and issues relating to intellectual property rights.
SECURITY MANAGEMENT
Linkages between development and spread of extremism. Role of external
state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.
Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media
6 and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber 50 50 50 50 50 60
security; money-laundering and its prevention Security challenges and their
management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate
GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 4 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, determinants and consequences of
Ethics in human actions; dimensions of ethics; ethics in private and public
relationships. Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great
leaders, reformers and administrators; role of family, society and educational
1 institutions in inculcating values. 10 40 10 20 30
Attitude: content, structure, function; its influence and relation with thought and
behaviour; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion.
Aptitude and foundational values for Civil Service , integrity, impartiality and
non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance
and compassion towards the weaker sections. Emotional intelligence-
2 concepts, and their utilities and application in administration and governance. 30 40 10 30 40 20
Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and world.
Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and
problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private
institutions; laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical
guidance; accountability and ethical governance; strengthening of ethical and
moral values in governance; ethical issues in international relations and
3 funding; corporate governance. 50 20 40 20 30 40
4 Quote Based Questions 30 30 30 40
Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity;
Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information,
Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality
5 of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption. 10 50 30 40 30
6 Case Studies 120 120 120 120 120 130
[Link]
[Link]
GOOD ANSWERS COMPARISON SHEET
# PARAMETER ANALYSIS OF APPROACH
TOPPERS LEARNINGS
A INTRODUCTION MY APPROACH
APPROACH
1. Approach to Introduction
2. Type of Value Addition
3. Types of Introduction
4. Paper wise variation
5. Extent of Introduction
TOPPERS
B BODY OF ANSWER MY APPROACH LEARNINGS
APPROACH
1. Addressing Demand
2. Question Mimicking in Headings/
Subheadings
3. Number of Dimensions
TAMILNADU | BENGALURU | DELHI | TRIVANDRUM
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[Link]
[Link]
4. Number of Points
5. Extent of Explanation
6. Use of Value Addition
7. Segregation of Parts
8. Visibility of Content
9. Schematics /Diagrams
TOPPERS
C CONCLUSION MY APPROACH LEARNINGS
APPROACH
1. Approach
2. Type of Value Addition
3. Paper wise Variation
4. Extent of Conclusion
ANY OTHER OBSERVATIONS
TAMILNADU | BENGALURU | DELHI | TRIVANDRUM
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[Link]
[Link]

CHAPTER 5

OUR QUESTIONS VIS À VIS CSE 2020 & 2021 MAINS

QUESTIONS
# UPSC QUESTION CSE 2020 & 2021 SHANKAR IAS MAINSTORMING QUESTION
1 The rock-cut architecture rep-resents Prehistoric rock paintings and other art forms
one of the most important sources of our are significant in the reconstruction of various
knowledge of early Indian art and history. facets of ancient history. Explain 10 ( INTERIM
Discuss (10 Marks 150 Words) (UPSC BATCH FT 1 Q5)
2020)
2 How will the melting of HimalaWyan Discuss the causes of depletion of glaciers and
glaciers have a far reach-ing impact on explain their impact on ecology and economy.
the water re-sources of India? (10 Marks (Batch V T2, Q7)
150 Words) (UPSC 2020)
3 Has caste lost its relevance in The major paradox of caste today is the rising
understanding the multicultural Indian caste groups/identities, de-clining caste system.
society? Elaborate your answers with Clarify your ar-gument on this paradox. (Batch
illustrations (10 Marks 150 Words) (UPSC L T1, Q14)
2020)
4 Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti Evaluate the contribution of Bhakti saints to
Literature and its contribution to Indian development of vernacular literature. (10 Marks
culture. (Answer in 150 words) 10 (UPSC 150 Words) Mainstroming-2021, T19, Q1
2021)
5 How have digital initiatives in India Recent pandemic has disrupted the traditional
contributed to the functioning of the education system and has resulted in the
education system of India. Elaborate your emergence of e-learning as a viable option.
answer (15 Marks 250 Words) (UPSC Discuss. (150 Words, 10 marks) BATCH L TEST
2020) 2 Q4

6 Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker'! Do The Speaker of Lok Sabha is placed very high
you think this practice should be adopted in the order of precedence. Do you think the
to impart objectivity to the office of the office of the speaker ‘can’ act impartially?
Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its Explain the controversy regarding the powers
implications for the robust functioning of the speaker with respect to deciding money
of parliamentary business in India? (10 bills and disqualification of members. BATCH L
Marks 150 Words) (UPSC 2020) TEST 2 Q 17
7 To what extent, in your view, the Parliament “Parliamentary control over the Ex-ecutive
is able to en-sure accountability of the ex- remains at best ineffective”- Critically analyse
ecutive in India? (Answer in 150 words) 10 Mainstroming-2021, T14, Q10
(UPSC 2021)

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8 Indian diaspora has a decisive role Indian diaspora policy has evolved from
to play in the politics and economy Nehruvian non-interference to active
of America and Euro-pean countries. engagement in recent times. However, this
Comment with examples. (10 Marks 150 engagement comes with its own challenges.
Words) (UPSC 2020) Critically ex-amine. (250 words, 15 marks)
Batch L T10 Q19
9 National educational policy 2020 Explain the salient features of the National
is in conformity with sus-tainable Education Policy, 2020. Do you think it is
development goal for (2030). It intends efficacious enough to resolve the long pending
to restruc-ture and reorient education issues in the education sector? (15 marks, 250
system in India. Critically ex-amine the words) OT T2 Q 16
statement. (15 Marks 250 Words) (UPSC
2020)
10 Can the vicious cycle of gender SHGs and women collectives are ideal systems
inequality, poverty and malnu-trition to build linkages with mainstream institutions
be broken through mi-crofinancing of to address livelihood issues and other dimen-
women SHGs? Explain with examples. sions of poverty. In this context ex-amine how
(Answer in 150 words) 10 (UPSC 2021) the netwrok of DAY-NRLM collectives may
help address multidimensional poverty. Main-
stroming, Full test-2, Q 18
11 Though the Human Rights Commissions The NHRC needs a complete over-haul for it to
have contributed immensely to the actually serve as a watchdog of human rights
protection of human rights in India, violations in the country. Discuss Mainstrom-
yet they have failed to assert them- ing, Full test-2, Q 4
selves against the mighty and powerful.
Analyzing their struc-tural and practical
limitations, suggest remedial measures.
(Answer in 250 words) 15 (UPSC 2021)
12 The newly tri-nation partner-ship How can the new AUKUS alliance up-set the
AUKUS is aimed at coun-tering China’s balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. What
ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is should be India’s role in securing shared
it going to supersede the existing part- interests in the region. Mainstroming, Full
nerships in the region? Discuss the test-2, Q 10
strenght and impact of AU-KUS in the
present scenario. (Answer in 250 words)
15 (UPSC 2021)

13 What do you understand by Why is nano-technology considered as the

Nanotechnology and how is it helping most promising technology in the world?
health sector? (10 Marks 150 Words) Critically evaluate their potential applications
(UPSC 2020) in the strategic sectors of India. (250 words, 15
marks). Batch L FT 3 Q 15

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14 What are the salient features of the Illustrate the key components of ‘Green
National Food Security Act, 2013? How Revolution – Krishonnati Yojana’ and evaluate
has the Food Security Bill helped in the perfor-mance of national food security act,
eliminat-ing hunger and malnutrition 2013. Mainstroming -2021, test 16, Q6
in India? (Answer in 250 words) (UPSC
2021)

15 Explain the rationale behind the goods Enumerate the concerns of the states with
and services tax (com-pensation to respect to GST taxation regime. How far
states) act of 2017. How has COVID-19 can GST compensa-tion cess address these
im-pacted the GST compensation fund concerns? Batch OT T3 Q1
and created new federal tensions? (15
Marks 250 Words) (UPSC 2020)

16 How did land reforms in some parts of Critically evaluate the land reform and its
the country help to improve the socio- impact in the post Independ-ence period.
economic conditions of marginal and
small farmers? (Answer in 150 words)
(UPSC 2021)
17 What are the determinants of left-wing Security as well as the development has to
extremism in Eastern part of India? run hand in hand to counter the left-wing
What strategy should Government of extremism in India. An-alyse. (10 Marks, 150
India, Civil administration and Securi-ty Words) Batch L T7 Q 9
forces adopt to counter the threat in the
affected areas? (15 Marks 250 Words)
(UPSC 2020)
18 Analyse internal security threats and India’s border management is sub-ject to
transborder crimes along myanmar, different challenges in differ-ent areas, some
bangladesh and pakistan borders more gruelling than others. What are the
including Line of control (LoC). Also dis- challenges which makes border management
cuss the role played by various security challenging in the Western and East-ern
forces in this regard. (15 Marks 250 Sector (15) Batch OT T3 Q19
Words) (UPSC 2020)
19 Distinguish between laws and rules. Explain the distinguishing features of morality
Discuss the role of ethics in formulating and how it differs from eti-quette & law? (150
them. (10 Marks 150 Words) (UPSC words, 10 marks). L-8, Q 3(A)
2020)
20 “Refugees should not be turned back "Duties to refugees are duties to our brothers
to the country where they would face and sisters in the human family.” Do you
prosecution or hu-man rights violation.” think that all nations have moral obligations
Examine the statement with reference to towards refu-gees? Why/Why not? (150 words,
the ethical dimension being violated by 10 marks) Batch L Test 4, Q5(a)
the nation claiming to be democratic with
an open society. (Answer in 150 words)
(UPSC 2021)

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 11. I DON’T THINK I AM CLEARING PRELIMS,
WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?

The biggest challenge in preparing for the civil services examination is creating an
effective plan for an entire year of preparation. One that’s meticulous, coherent and
effective in putting your preparation on the right track for the whole duration. Without
one ,you end up going in circles, doing the subjects you are comfortable with again and
again, neglecting the ones you don’t like, starting a topic and leaving it half way through,
constantly changing plans based on every new strategy you come across, etc. Some of
you read a topic as if you are studying to be a doctoral candidate on a subject, which is
not warranted for UPSC preparation.

The schedule of most aspirants will include reading newspapers for 2-3 hours,
making notes out of them for 1-2 hours and then spending the remaining time going
through the syllabus. This approach gives you the feeling of doing a lot of things yet not
producing any tangible results while solving tests or writing answers. When you have
countless portals summarising news into snippets/ notes/ videos, why do you want to
spend 4-5 hours doing it yourself?

You need a well thought out plan that divides the syllabus, to achieve deliverable
targets in a systematic way, with the oversight and guidance of mentors. You need
to make incremental progress by organising your content, writing good answers and
integrating your preparation in such a way that it meets the requirements of various
stages of the exam.

“Managing your time without setting priorities is like shooting

randomly and calling whatever you hit the target.”

Over the years we have realised no two students have the same journey, you don’t
have the same circumstances, you don’t have the same optionals or the same pace of

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learning. Some of you have been writing prelims multiple times over the years, some
of you are working and juggling your aspirations and professional life, some of you are
home makers aspiring to stake a claim on your biggest life goal, some of you are yet to
complete your graduation, some have completed extensive foundation programs,and
some are back from a break that you took after appearing for the exams previously.

Even though your journeys are not similar, the many challenges you face in the course
of your preparation are common ones, created due to the lack of a smart preparation
strategy. Some of you don’t have a plan, you don’t have an organised preparation strategy,
you don’t know whether you are on the right track due to absence of mentors to speak
to, whether there’s credible progress in your understanding of the syllabus, or even if
the sources you use to study the topics are updated. Being short of time , there is no
avenue to counter any of these problems through trial and error so as to come up with
your own unique approach to crack this exam.

“Failing to plan is planning to Fail”

Over the years, one common practice we have noticed among students who secured
a coveted rank in the civil service examination is that they don’t fail to plan and hence
succeed. When most of you spend endless hours and days calculating scores and
contemplating cutoffs, they start their preparation. They start revising their well crafted
notes, they decide on a schedule for a test plan, they make a timetable and judiciously
stick to it.

They practice, they revise and they consolidate their preparation. They make sure
that they write the tests that they enroll for, they review their answers for improvement,
they speak to people who know more than them and ensure that they have given their best.

Mainstorming 2022 is an innovative approach to ensure that your preparation is on

track, achieve incremental improvement from test to test, integrate mains preparation
with Preliminary etc. We have designed a plan that ensures that you will complete
the syllabus for both mains and preliminary perspective multiple times before the
actual examination.

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WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN A TEST SERIES ?

1. Among the various arguments in favour of joining a test series, the most compelling
one is the need to experiment with your answer writing approach.

2. Before you go for the actual exam, you need to see whether you will be able to
write 20 answers in 3 hours .

3. You need to develop an approach to express what you know in the best possible
way within the given time.

4. Find out how you will react, when you run short of time, so that you know what
to do when this happens in the examination hall.

5. Develop strategies to frame answers when the questions get tough or what to do
when you don’t know the question itself.

A UPSC topper once said that “the top 5000 candidates in this exam has the
similar levels of knowledge and understanding of the syllabus, and it’s the ones
who can package their answers in the most suitable and appropriate way end up
in the top 1000” If we had to use a quote to express this, it would be

“He who sweats more in training bleeds less in war.”

*You can download the detailed brochure of 2022 from our portal.

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ENDNOTE

CSE MAINS WRITTEN CUTOFF

YEAR GENERAL OBC EWS SC ST

2015 676 630 NA 622 617

2016 787 745 NA 739 730

2017 809 770 NA 756 749

2018 774 732 NA 719 719

2019 751 718 696 706 699

2020 736 698 687 680 682

2021 745 707 713 700 700

This is the CSE mains cutoff in the last 6 years, if you observe the data and go back to the
question in these years you we can draw two conclusions,
1. Specialized answer writing programmes have pushed the cutoff marks in mains.
2. UPSC is setting the benchmark really high with their questions and scoring is getting
relatively tough in recent years.

This data is a visible proof of the point we have been trying to make throughout this book. We
can say this with experience that best of guidance by faculties and subject experts don't
naturally translate into meaningful answer writing unless proper attention is given to hone this
skill.
Unless you start moving in the direction of progress you won't know what hurdles lie ahead of
you. This book is an attempt to kickstart your UPSC journey with a course correction. To all of
you who are beginning and those who need course correction, feel free to reach out to
ShankarIAS, we would be happy to help you.

This book is dedicated to all the selected candidates in the past and mostly to our CSE 2020
successful candidates. This book wouldn't have been possible without our CSE 2020 toppers
and we hope their answers, strategies and technique continue to inspire many more toppers in
years to come.

‘Progres mean ge in neare t th plac yo wan t b . An if

yo hav take wron tur , the t g forwar doe no ge yo
an near