-by Success in the UPSC examination depends on how well the candidate knows the subjects and how the examinee expresses it. The UPSC examination tests their ability to write well-structured answers in a limited time. The elements of writing good answers constitute the following: it is relevant to the question, concise and within the required word limit’ and written within time.
Our experts at Smart IAS Foundation have detailed some relevant tips for framing and writing good answers.
Candidates appearing in the UPSC exam should remember to present their knowledge effectively and understand the demand of the questions.
Some questions might be to discuss or analyze, while others end with examine or critically examine. Hence, it is crucial to read, digest and then answer the questions framing answers within the word limit.
Good answers # 1 Reading the Question.
Smart IAS Foundation suggests that candidates spend the first few minutes reading the question paper. Candidates can highlight the keywords in the question to clearly understand the question. Keywords like explain, analyze, elaborate, and determine the strategy of the answers.
Good answers # 2 Organize the answer.
The key to framing a good answer is its broad, well-laid-out structure and easy to read. Good answers start with a short introduction defined with relevant terms such as a recent report or some relevant facts. It is good to divide the main body with appropriate subheadings for each part of the question. Part of the content can be in point form to facilitate an easy read.
One should always end the answer with a well-structured conclusion or end on an optimistic note. Questions that deal with socio-economic or governance-related issues can conclude with practical solutions. Therefore, prepare a tentative outline of the answer in 30-50 seconds before writing.
Good answer # 3 Making the most of limited time.
The most common challenge that candidates encounter during the UPSC exam is writing short answers in a limited time. However, it might take between 15 and 25 minutes to answer a ten marks question in practice sessions. Therefore, during the UPSC exam, a candidate has to attempt a 250 marks question paper in 180 minutes, leaving one with 7.2 minutes for a ten marks question. Smart IAS Foundation experts and toppers suggest that the best way to tackle this problem is increasing one’s writing speed to answer a ten marks question in 7.2 minutes.
Good answer # 4 Creative presentation
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Creative presentation tools like flow charts and diagrams give a visual appeal and save time. Hence, practice and perfect the innovative use of flow charts during answer writing practice.
Good answers # 5 Remember your word Limits.
Just as it is crucial to show the examiner that you know the answer, it is also important to remember what not to write. Long answers and repeating phrases exceeding the word limit will not fetch more marks but cost you precious time leaving you limited time to answer the other questions on the paper.
Good answers # 6 Highlight keywords.
It is a good idea to keep a highlighter with you to underline keywords in the answer, including scholars’ names, key facts, government reports, and concepts. It creates distinct sections and gives good structure to the answers.
Good answer # 7 Regular writing Helps.
Practicing and developing a writing style is one of the most vital aspects of UPSC preparation. Also, learn to write complex answers in the most simple words for the benefit of the examiner. Hence, writing regularly and several full-length practice tests will help perfect the art of good writing.
Good answer # 8 Evaluating your writing.
Mentors at Smart IAS Foundation help aspirants evaluate their practice answers and provide valuable insights. Coaching sessions at Smart IAS Foundation help candidates benchmark against the answers written by previous years’ successful candidates. Expert tutors at Smart IAS Foundation are always ready to help correct shortcomings and guide you to success.
