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  • UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper: Download PDF and Expert Analysis

    Are you preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination and looking for the UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper? You’ve come to the right place! This page provides you with the direct download link for the Essay Paper and offers expert insights to help you excel in your preparation.

    Why the Essay Paper Matters

    The Essay Paper in the UPSC Mains carries 250 marks, making it a crucial component of your overall score. It’s not just about showcasing your knowledge but also your ability to articulate thoughts, analyze issues critically, and present arguments coherently. A well-crafted essay can significantly boost your rank in the final merit list.

    Download UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper

    Access the official UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper by clicking the link below:

    Paper NameDownload Link
    Essay Paper 2024Download PDF

    Note: The download link provides the complete question paper as presented in the actual examination.

    Expert Insights and Analysis Video

    Understanding how to approach the essay topics is vital for scoring high marks. To assist you, we have an in-depth analysis video by seasoned educators:

    UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper Analysis

    https://youtu.be/vLgbBNVY098

    In this video, our experts dissect each essay topic, discuss potential approaches, and offer valuable tips on structuring your essays effectively.

    Link to All UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers

    Looking for other papers from the UPSC Mains 2024? Access the complete set here:

    This comprehensive resource includes General Studies papers, Optional subjects, and more, all available for download.

    How to Make the Most of the Essay Paper

    1. Review the Topics Carefully: Understand what each essay prompt is asking. Look for keywords and directives.
    2. Brainstorm and Outline: Spend 15-20 minutes planning your essay. Jot down key points, arguments, and examples.
    3. Write Clearly and Concisely: Maintain clarity in your writing. Avoid unnecessary jargon and keep sentences concise.
    4. Present Balanced Views: A good essay presents multiple perspectives before arriving at a well-reasoned conclusion.
    5. Use Relevant Examples: Support your arguments with pertinent examples, data, or quotes.
    6. Proofread Your Work: Allocate time to review your essay for any grammatical errors or inconsistencies.

    Tips for Excelling in the UPSC Essay Paper

    • Stay Updated: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and journals to stay informed about current affairs and trending topics.
    • Practice Regularly: Write at least one essay every week on diverse topics to build confidence and improve your writing skills.
    • Seek Feedback: Have your essays reviewed by mentors or peers to identify areas for improvement.
    • Work on Time Management: Practice completing essays within the allotted time to simulate exam conditions.
    • Enhance Vocabulary: A rich vocabulary helps in expressing ideas more effectively, but avoid overcomplicating sentences.

    Conclusion

    The Essay Paper is a significant opportunity to demonstrate your critical thinking and writing abilities. By accessing the UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper and utilizing our expert analysis, you can refine your preparation and enhance your chances of scoring high.

    Remember, consistent practice and a strategic approach are key to excelling in the essay paper. Utilize the resources provided, stay disciplined in your preparation, and keep honing your skills.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. Are the essay topics in UPSC predictable?

    While UPSC can sometimes include themes from current affairs, the topics are often broad and require a holistic understanding. It’s essential to prepare across a range of subjects.

    2. Can I choose to write the essay in Hindi or other regional languages?

    Yes, UPSC allows candidates to write the essay in any of the languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

    3. How is the essay paper evaluated?

    Examiners assess essays based on content richness, coherence, structure, originality of thought, and language proficiency.

    4. Is it advisable to use quotes and anecdotes?

    Using relevant quotes and anecdotes can enhance your essay, but they should be accurate and aptly placed.

    5. What are common mistakes to avoid in the essay paper?

    Avoid deviating from the topic, presenting biased views, overusing complex vocabulary, and neglecting to proofread your essay.

  • How Many Attempts for UPSC? For General, OBC, ST/SC

    UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Civils exam is much coveted in India by eligible graduates. It opens doorways to various bureaucrat services like IAS, IPS, IFS, and IRS. However, how many attempts for UPSC are allowed? Is it limited or unlimited? Is there any age relaxation for category-wise students? These are the most sought-after questions by aspirants in India. 

    Indeed, the UPSC attempt limit exists and depends on the category of a candidate. UPSC attempt limit for the general category is 6 and it is 9 for OBC candidates and unlimited for SC/ST aspirants. Keep reading to learn more about how many attempts for the UPSC India examination. 

    UPSC General Eligibility Criteria

    IAS Exam Age Limit21 to 32 years
    Age RelaxationApplicable As per category
    Educational Qualification for IASGraduation (Bachelor’s degree)
    NationalityIndian citizens only

    How Many Attempts for UPSC

    CategoryAge Limit (Years)Number of AttemptsAge Relaxation (Years)
    General21-3260
    OBC/Disabled Defence Services Personnel21-3593
    SC/ST/Ex-Servicemen21-37Unlimited up-to-age limit5
    PwBD21-42910

    UPSC Attempts for General

    UPSC has set the age limit for general category candidates at 32 with a zero age-relaxation norm. So, the number of UPSC attempts allowed for them is only 6. Moreover, they can’t attempt the UPSC exam after 32 years of age, even if they don’t utilise one of their UPSC maximum attempts. It is advised to utilise the maximum UPSC attempt limit for the general category.

    Number of UPSC Attempts for GeneralIAS Age Limit
    632

    UPSC Attempts for OBC

    Based on the general age limit, UPSC maximum attempts are 6 for general-category students. But OBC students have a 3-year age relaxation due to their reservation, which makes the maximum number of UPSC attempts for OBC 9. They can appear for the Civils exam until they’re 35, as opposed to the 32 for general category people. However, the educational qualifications remain the same.

    Number of UPSC Attempts for OBCIAS Age Limit
    935

    UPSC Attempts for SC/ST

    How many attempts in UPSC Civils for SC/ST? SC or Scheduled castes always have more reservations about Government-related jobs. The same goes for UPSC. The UPSC maximum attempts for SC candidates stands at 5, thanks to the age relaxation limit of 5 years. The educational qualifications and other eligibility criteria remain the same.

    Number of UPSC Attempts for SC/STIAS Age Limit
    Unlimited till the age limit37

    UPSC Eligibility Criteria: At a Glance

    Nationality for IAS Exam:

    • Must be a citizen of India, a person of Indian origin, or a subject of Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibet settled in India before 1st January 1962.

    Education Qualification:

    • Must have a Graduate Degree from a recognized university.

    Age Limit for IAS Exam:

    • Must be at least 21 years old and not older than 32 years.

    Age Relaxation & Maximum Attempts:

    • General & EWS: 32 years, 6 attempts.
    • OBC (with certificate): 32 + 3 years, 9 attempts.
    • SC/ST: 32 + 5 years, unlimited attempts.
    • Physically Disabled: 32 + 10 years.
      • General/OBC/EWS: 9 attempts, SC/ST: unlimited attempts.
    • J&K Domicile: 32 + 5 years (+3 years for OBC, +5 years for SC/ST). Attempts based on category.
    • Disabled/Discharged Defence Personnel: 32 + 3 years (+3 years for OBC, +5 years for SC/ST).
    • Ex-Servicemen Commission Officer: 32 + 5 years (+3 years for OBC, +5 years for SC/ST).

    IAS Age Limit 2025 Category-Wise

    1. SC/ST candidates: Age relaxation of up to 5 years.
    2. OBC candidates: Age relaxation of up to 3 years.
    3. Defense personnel disabled in combat with a foreign enemy or in a disturbed area get up to 3 years of age relaxation.
    4. Ex-servicemen, Commissioned Officers, ECO/SSCO: After 5 years of military service, you receive a 5-year age relaxation. This applies if service ends within a year of August 1, 2024, except for discharge due to inefficiency or misconduct, or injury from military service.
    5. ECO/SSCO: If you’ve completed 5 years of military service by August 1, 2024, and your assignment is extended, you still get a 5-year relaxation. The Ministry of Defence will issue a certificate allowing you to apply for civil jobs and leave on 3 months’ notice if selected.
    6. PwBD candidates (deaf-mute, blind, orthopedically handicapped): Relaxation to 10 years of age.

    Special Cases for IAS Age Limit

    Indian UPSC has mentioned special cases in case of the UPSC age limit for OBC/SC/ST and related candidates.

    1. If you belong to both ST/SC/OBC and another category like ex-servicemen or PwBD (blind, deaf-mute, orthopedically handicapped, etc.), you can receive cumulative age relaxation for both categories.
    2. For age relaxation based on physical disability, you must meet the government’s medical and physical standards for PwBD. A disability certificate from the government or a valid appointing authority is required.
    3. The term “ex-servicemen” refers to individuals defined under the Ex-Servicemen (Re-employment in Civil Services and Posts) Rules, 1979, with any updates.

    Can I Crack UPSC Civils in the first Attempt?

    While UPSC Civils is one of the toughest exams in India, it is not impossible to clear the UPSC examination in the first attempt. The best way to accomplish that is by starting preparation while you’re pursuing graduation. You should dedicate extra time to prepare for UPSC subjects right from the state of your graduation to internalise the knowledge and make it easy for you. In fact, it works by taking the load off you at the time of writing the examination.

    Otherwise, it could be difficult to crack the exam in the first attempt with preparation done at once in a year. But even now, you can make it happen by developing a consistent study schedule, taking guidance from IAS toppers, preferring coaching and sticking religiously to your goal of passing through the exam. 

    Conclusion

    While getting to realise “how many attempts for UPSC” much more clearly, you shouldn’t stop there. It’s imperative to consider the quality of each attempt. Aspirants should view each attempt as an opportunity to refine their approach and knowledge. Developing a strategic study plan, analysing previous years’ question papers, and focusing on core subjects can significantly improve performance. Remember, success in UPSC isn’t just about the number of attempts, but how effectively you utilise each one to grow and learn.

    FAQs

    What is the UPSC general age limit?

    The UPSC age limit for general category students lies between 21-32 years. The minimum age of general candidates appearing for the UPSC examination should be 21 years and a maximum of 32 years.

    What is the UPSC attempt limit for the general category?

    General category students get to write the UPSC exam a maximum of 6 times within the UPSC age limits of 21-32 years. After that, they can’t write the UPSC exam even if they skip one of their attempts. 

    What if I cross the UPSC maximum limit?

    Once a candidate crosses the maximum limit to attempt the UPSC examination set for their category, it is not possible to apply anymore, even if they don’t utilise one of their eligible attempts. So it is advised to exhaust all of the eligible attempts for the respective category of students. 

    Is it possible to increase my UPSC exam age limit?

    Increasing the UPSC exam age limit isn’t possible for individuals. Age limits are set by the government and apply uniformly. However, some categories like SC/ST and OBC have higher age limits, given their backward status in the constitution of India.

    Does my economic background matter in the UPSC exam?

    Economic background doesn’t directly impact UPSC exam evaluation. However, it may affect preparation resources. The exam is merit-based, but there are reservation quotas for certain categories. Financial assistance programs exist for eligible candidates.

  • UPSC Optional Subjects List for IAS

    When you’re preparing for UPSC, optional subjects are a great way to maximise scoring. While there are seven papers in the UPSC mains, the last two papers are dedicated to UPSC optional subjects. You can choose from 48 optional subjects, based on what can fetch a maximum score for you. Irrespective of your education background, there’s flexibility in selecting one optional subject. However, you must not do so with whom, but with careful consideration. Let’s discover the list of UPSC optional subjects in the following discussion.

    UPSC Mains Exam: At a Glance

    UPSC mains exam consists of seven papers in total. Papers VI & VII are dedicated to exams on a chosen optional subject. They carry 500 marks out of 1750 in the UPSC mains.

    UPSC Mains Exam Pattern

    PaperTypeMarks
    Paper AIndian Language300
    Paper BEnglish300
    Paper IEssay250
    Paper IIGS 1250
    Paper IIIGS 2250
    Paper IVGS 3250
    Paper VGS 4250
    Paper VI & VIIOptional Subject500
    Total1750

    UPSC Optional Subject List 2024

    1. Agriculture
    2. Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
    3. Anthropology
    4. Botany
    5. Chemistry
    6. Civil Engineering
    7. Commerce and Accountancy
    8. Economics
    9. Electrical Engineering
    10. Geography
    11. Geology
    12. History
    13. Law
    14. Management
    15. Mathematics
    16. Mechanical Engineering
    17. Medical Science
    18. Philosophy
    19. Physics
    20. Political Science and International Relations
    21. Psychology
    22. Public Administration
    23. Sociology
    24. Statistics
    25. Zoology

    UPSC Optional Subjects Literature

    In addition to the 25 UPSC optional subjects given above, you can choose a literature subject from any of the languages below as optional. All of them are Indian languages except English:

    Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and English.

    Significance of UPSC CSE Optional Subjects

    • When you look at UPSC mains scores of two-three years, the average score of GS mains toppers is only 475-525 out of 1000. 
    • But the toppers of UPSC optional subjects have scored 350-370 out of 500–more than 70% of marks.

    So, taking advantage of UPSC optional subjects is the only way to secure a high score in UPSC. It also indicates the toughness of the exam, where the optional subject comes to your rescue towards success.

    • Choosing the wrong Civils optional subject can make a big difference in clearing UPSC Mains. While GS Mains scores for serious candidates may differ by 10-15 marks, the gap in optional subject scores can be as much as 40-60 marks.
    • UPSC doesn’t use scaling for optional subjects, unlike State PSC Exams. Instead, UPSC uses moderation, where marks are reviewed and adjusted by the chief examiner if needed.

    Most Preferred UPSC Optional List

    Though there are 48 subjects to choose from, UPSC allows only for choice for each candidate. So, it becomes crucial to pick the best one. In that connection, given below are the most chosen ones.

    • Geography: Covers physical, human, and environmental geography. Links well with General Studies papers.
    • History: Focuses on Indian and world history. You need to understand historical events and timelines.
    • Public Administration: Suitable if you’re interested in governance and government systems. Related to General Studies.
    • Sociology: Studies society and its issues and helps understand social problems.
    • Political Science and International Relations: For those into politics and world affairs.
    • Literature (English, Hindi, etc.) for literature lovers.
    • Anthropology: Studies human societies, cultures, and evolution.
    • Psychology: Focuses on human behaviour and mental processes. Covers personality and learning.

    Best Optional Subjects in Civils 2019 as per Success Rates

    Given below is the information related to the success rate of various UPSC optional subjects in 2019. It provides a clue into how you can maximise your Civils score.

    UPSC Optional SubjectsNo. of Candidates AppearedNo. of Candidates RecommendedSuccess Rate in Percentage
    Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science16318.80%
    Management54611.10%
    Commerce & Accountancy1832010.90%
    Economics2432610.70%
    Agriculture1241310.50%
    Medical Science2472610.50%
    Civil Engineering1461510.30%
    Law1861910.20%
    Sociology126312610.00%
    Anthropology11891089.10%
    Zoology4449.10%
    Psychology164159.10%
    Chemistry156138.30%
    Mathematics539458.30%
    Public Administration705588.20%
    Political Science & International Relations16621378.20%
    Electrical Engineering200168.00%
    Physics165127.30%
    Botany2827.10%
    History751516.80%
    Philosophy439276.20%
    Mechanical Engineering213125.60%
    Geography19161055.50%
    Geology3000.00%
    Statistics200.00%

    Choosing the Right UPSC Optional Paper

    As might seem, choosing UPSC optional subjects should not be guided by whim, but with thought and deliberation. UPSC optional subjects are an opportunity if you already have expertise in one of those subjects. By selecting such a subject, you can maximise your score with little effort, given the vast syllabus of UPSC. So, evaluate the below factors before selecting one of the UPSC optional subjects.

    • Assess your academic background and choose a subject you’ve studied extensively.
    • Consider your interests and select a topic you genuinely enjoy learning about.
    • Evaluate syllabus overlap with General Studies to maximise preparation efficiency.
    • Check past years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and type of questions asked.
    • Analyse scoring trends to gauge which subjects consistently yield high marks.
    • Review available study resources to ensure adequate material for thorough preparation.
    • Consult successful candidates for guidance on their selection of UPSC optional subjects.

    Conclusion

    UPSC optional subjects carry huge weightage and potential in helping aspirants gain maximum marks in the exam. So, paying attention and doing enough research is important before going to choose one. Making the right and strategic choice can put you ahead of the competition very easily.

    FAQs

    What is an optional subject in UPSC?

    UPSC mains consists of seven papers for a total of 1750 marks. While the first five papers are about General studies, the choice of subject in the last two papers (VI & VII) is left to candidates. It is known as the optional subject in UPSC. Choosing the best optional can make a huge difference to the final score.

    How many optional subjects are there in UPSC?

    As per the official notification of 2025, there are 48 UPSC optional subjects to choose from.

    What are the 26 optional subjects in UPSC?

    The 26 optional subjects are Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Commerce and Accountancy, Economics, Electrical Engineering, Geography, Geology, History, Law, Management, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science and International Relations, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology, Statistics, Zoology.

    Can I choose a UPSC optional subject different from my education background?

    Yes, you can choose a UPSC optional subject different from your educational background. The selection should be based on your interests, strengths, and the subject’s potential to score well.

  • UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers: Download All Papers Here

    UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers: Download All Papers Here

    Are you preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination and looking for the UPSC Mains 2024 question papers? You’ve come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive collection of all the ongoing UPSC Mains 2024 exam papers available for download. Stay ahead in your preparation by accessing the latest question papers, and get insights into the exam pattern, question trends, and more.

    Why Accessing UPSC Mains Question Papers is Crucial

    The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts one of the most prestigious examinations in India. The Civil Services Examination is not just a test of knowledge but also of aptitude, analytical skills, and writing ability. Accessing the latest question papers can help aspirants:

    • Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure and format of the questions.
    • Identify Important Topics: Spot recurring themes and subjects that are frequently tested.
    • Enhance Answer Writing Skills: Practice writing precise and effective answers within the word limit.
    • Manage Time Efficiently: Develop strategies to allocate time appropriately across different sections.

    Download UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers

    Below is a table containing all the available UPSC Mains 2024 question papers. Some papers are already available for download, while others will be uploaded soon. Keep checking this page for the latest updates.

    Table: UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers

    S.NoPaperDownload LinkStatus
    1.Essay PaperDownload NowAvailable
    2.General Studies Paper IDownload NowAvailable
    3.General Studies Paper IIDownload NowAvailable
    4.General Studies Paper IIIDownload NowAvailable
    5.General Studies Paper IVDownload NowAvailable
    6.Indian Language Question Paper 2024Download NowAvailable
    7.English Question Paper 2024Download NowAvailable

    Note: The download links for the available papers will redirect you to a PDF file of the respective question paper.

    UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers Download

    Access and download all the UPSC Mains 2024 question papers to boost your exam preparation and practice effectively for the upcoming exams.

    UPSC Mains Essay Question Paper 2024

    Find out the essay topics from the UPSC Mains 2024 exam and enhance your preparation for the upcoming attempt.

    UPSC Mains Essay Question Paper 2024 PDF

    UPSC Mains GS1 Question Paper 2024

    Review the important questions from General Studies Paper 2 in the 2024 UPSC Mains exam.

    UPSC Mains GS1 Question Paper 2024 PDF

    UPSC Mains GS2 Question Paper 2024

    Review the important questions from General Studies Paper 2 in the 2024 UPSC Mains exam.

    UPSC Mains GS2 Question Paper 2024 PDF

    UPSC Mains Optional Question Papers 2024

    Here is the list of all UPSC Mains Optional 1 Question Papers 2024

    UPSC PSIR Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Civil Engineering Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Chemistry Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Public Administration Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Optional Anthropology Paper 2024

    UPSC Geography Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC History Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Sociology Optional Paper 2024

    UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers Video Analysis:

    To aid your preparation further, we’ve included detailed analysis videos of the UPSC Mains 2024 question papers. These videos provide expert insights into the questions, discuss possible answers, and offer tips on how to approach similar questions in the future.

    UPSC Mains 2024 Essay Paper Analysis

    https://www.youtube.com/live/vLgbBNVY098

    UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper I Discussion

    https://www.youtube.com/live/AHARZRUtJe4

    UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper II Breakdown

    https://www.youtube.com/live/r96kkU8WE-A

    UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper III Discussion

    https://www.youtube.com/live/Nn7xJIT60kk?feature=shared

    UPSC Mains GS Paper IV Discussion

    https://www.youtube.com/live/y3mEl5GhgsY?feature=shared

    Tips for Using the UPSC Mains 2024 Question Papers Effectively

    • Simulate Exam Conditions: Attempt the papers in a timed environment to build exam stamina.
    • Self-Evaluate Your Answers: Compare your responses with standard answers to identify areas of improvement.
    • Focus on Presentation: Pay attention to the structure, clarity, and coherence of your answers.
    • Stay Updated: Incorporate current affairs and recent developments into your answers where relevant.
    • Seek Feedback: Discuss your answers with mentors or peers to gain different perspectives.

    Conclusion

    Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination requires dedication, strategic planning, and access to the right resources. By utilizing the UPSC Mains 2024 question papers and accompanying analysis videos, you can enhance your preparation and approach the exam with confidence.

    Don’t forget to check back regularly for new uploads and updates. We wish you the very best in your UPSC journey!

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. When will the remaining UPSC Mains 2024 question papers be available for download?

    We are in the process of uploading all the UPSC Mains 2024 question papers. The remaining papers will be available soon after the exams are conducted. Please bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates.

    2. How can these question papers help in my preparation?

    These question papers provide a real-time insight into the types of questions asked in the exam. By practicing with them, you can gauge the difficulty level, improve your time management skills, and refine your answer-writing techniques.

    3. Are the question papers available in both English and Hindi?

    Yes, UPSC question papers are available in both English and Hindi. We will provide download links for both versions where applicable.

    4. Can I access previous years’ UPSC question papers on this site?

    Absolutely! We have a repository of previous years’ UPSC question papers available for download. Access them here to enhance your preparation further.

    5. Do you provide answer keys or solutions to these question papers?

    We provide detailed analysis and discussions through our video embeds. While official answer keys for the Mains are not released by UPSC, our expert faculty discusses possible approaches and answers in the videos.

    6. How often is this page updated with new content?

    We update this page regularly, especially during the UPSC examination period. New question papers and resources are added as soon as they become available.

    7. Can I share these question papers with my peers?

    Yes, you are welcome to share the download links with fellow aspirants to help them in their preparation.