What Does UPSC/Examiner Wants From Aspirants?

/ATYR

Understanding the Expectations of an Examiner in UPSC Mains

Introduction

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Mains Examination is a highly competitive and crucial stage in the civil services examination process. Unlike the Preliminary Exam, which primarily tests the candidate's knowledge and understanding of a wide range of topics, the Mains Exam demands a deeper analysis and application of knowledge. To excel in this stage, candidates need to understand what the examiner expects from them. By analyzing the exam from the perspective of a prelims-level test taker has no relevance. Instead, understanding the needs and expectations of the examiner is crucial.

Predicting the Questions

Preparation Tips

• Reading the Hindu Vision Monthly Insights: Candidates should regularly read the Hindu Vision Monthly Insights to stay updated with the latest developments and current affairs related to the Indian society and politics. This can provide a solid foundation for identifying potential topics that might be asked in the Mains Exam.
• Making Paper-Wise and Topic-Wise Notes: Creating paper-specific and topic-specific notes can help candidates in organizing their study material and making it easier to revise. By integrating notes from three different sources, candidates can ensure that they cover a wide range of perspectives and interpretations.
• Focusing on Syllabus Terms: Candidates should focus on every term mentioned in the syllabus. Terms that might not have been asked in the last one or two years can become important for the following year. For instance, the term "tolerance" has been a part of the syllabus and has been asked in the GS-1 paper in the CSM 2017. Candidates should ensure they understand the context and relevance of these terms.
• Revising Multiple Times: Candidates should revise their notes at least five to six times to solidify their understanding and make their own luck in predicting the questions. The more times they revise, the better their chances of identifying the topics that are likely to be asked.
• Understanding Keywords and News Background: Candidates should focus on keywords, news background, Supreme Court case names, reports, and committee findings to quote them in their answers. This will strengthen their arguments and make their answers more credible.

What Does the Examiner Expect?

Structural Parameters

• Structure: Structure is crucial for answering questions in the Mains Exam. The examiner expects candidates to follow a structured approach that includes an introduction, news background, keywords, definitions, points, paper-specific keywords, diagrams, and a conclusion. This structure helps in organizing the thoughts and making the answer more coherent.
• Quality and Quantity of Points: Both the quality and quantity of points matter. Candidates should aim to write a sufficient number of points for questions that are marked accordingly. For example, if a question is worth 15 marks, candidates should aim to write at least 15 points.
• X-Factors: Candidates should not overlook x-factors such as diagrams, presentation, and paper-specific keywords, reports, and examples. These can significantly enhance the quality of their answers and make them more appealing to the examiner.
• Addressing Each Keyword and Part of the Question: Candidates should ensure that they address each keyword and part of the question in their answer. This helps in covering all aspects of the question and demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
• Breaking Down the Question: Candidates should break down the question into smaller parts and address each part systematically. This approach helps in organizing the thoughts and making the answer more coherent.

Example Question and Answer

CSM 2017 GS-1 Question

The spirit of tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society, from very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate. (250 words, 15 marks)

Answer:

1. Introduction: Begin by defining the keywords "tolerance" and "love" and giving a passing reference to other features of Indian society.
2. News Background: Provide a brief news background on tolerance/intolerance in India.
3. Explanation of Early Times: Explain the spirit of tolerance and love in the context of early Indian society.
4. Explanation of Present Times: Explain how tolerance and love are manifesting in the present Indian society.
5. Incorporating Keywords: Include keywords from the Indian Society syllabus, such as "tolerance," "love," and "Indian society."
6. Diagram and Conclusion: Use a diagram to illustrate the points and provide a concluding statement.

By following this structured approach, candidates can ensure that their answers are comprehensive, well-organized, and meet the expectations of the examiner.

Further Resources

Candidates can refer to the following resources for additional guidance and examples:

• Mains Strategy A2Z: This guide provides a comprehensive strategy for preparing for the Mains Exam.
• Mains: Break Down Question: This resource helps candidates in breaking down questions and organizing their answers systematically.
• My Answer Writing Strategy: This strategy provides tips on effective answer writing.
• Smart Work for CSE: This guide focuses on efficient study techniques and strategies for the Mains Exam.
• Diagrams for CSE Mains: This resource helps candidates in incorporating diagrams effectively into their answers.

Conclusion

The Union Public Service Commission Mains Exam requires candidates to understand the expectations of the examiner and prepare accordingly. By following the tips and strategies outlined above, candidates can enhance their chances of success in the exam. UPSC does not expect sacrifices from candidates but rather dedication and smart work. By putting in the effort and using the right strategies, candidates can optimize their performance and increase their chances of selection.