
CSE essay paper: Get expert suggestions
Aspiring civil servants who are preparing for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the UPSC often struggle with the essay paper. The CSE essay paper carries 250 marks and is crucial in determining one’s overall rank in the examination. Therefore, to score well on an essay paper, aspirants need to have a clear understanding of the exam pattern. Also, the syllabus, and the art of essay writing. Explore here for some expert suggestions for civil services aspirants to excel in the UPSC essay paper.
How to excel in CSE essay paper
CSE essay paper # 1 Understand the Syllabus and pattern
Before you start preparing for the essay paper, it is essential to understand the syllabus and exam pattern. The essay paper consists of two sections – Section A and Section B. Section A has four topics, and candidates have to write an essay on one of them. Section B has four topics, and candidates have to write an essay on one of them as well. The syllabus of the essay paper includes topics from various fields such as science and technology, social issues, economy, polity, international relations, and ethics.
CSE essay paper # 2 Understanding of the Topics
One of the keys to writing an excellent essay is to have a holistic understanding of the topic. It is essential to read and comprehend the topic thoroughly before starting to write the essay. Candidates should read extensively and from a variety of sources such as newspapers, magazines, journals, and books to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Developing a deep understanding of the topic will help in creating a well-structured essay that showcases the candidate’s knowledge and analytical skills.
CSE essay paper # 3 Practice essays regularly
Practice is the key to success in the essay paper. Candidates should make it a habit to write essays regularly and time themselves while doing so. Writing essays under exam conditions will help in improving speed, time management, and writing skills. Additionally, candidates should also seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers to improve their writing skills.
UPSC essay paper # 4 Structure the essay effectively
A well-structured essay is easy to read and understand. Candidates should follow a basic structure for their essay, which includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should provide a brief overview of the topic, and the thesis statement should be included. The body of the essay should provide evidence to support the thesis statement, and the conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement.
CSE essay paper # 5 Use simple language
The language used in the essay should be simple, precise, and effective. Candidates should avoid using complex words and sentences that are difficult to understand. The use of jargon should also be avoided unless it is necessary to explain a concept. Candidates should aim to convey their thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely.
How current affairs knowledge helps in essay paper
Developing a well-informed perspective
Essays require candidates to have an informed opinion on the topic. Current affairs knowledge helps in developing a well-informed perspective by providing relevant and up-to-date information about the issue at hand. This helps in presenting a balanced and nuanced view of the topic.
Providing examples and illustrations
Essays require candidates to provide examples and illustrations to support their arguments. Current affairs knowledge provides candidates with a wide range of examples and illustrations from different fields that can be used to support their argument.
Improving analytical skills
Current affairs knowledge helps in improving analytical skills by providing candidates with a better understanding of the complexities and nuances of different issues. This helps in analyzing the issue from different angles and presenting a well-reasoned argument.
Staying relevant
The UPSC examination requires candidates to be aware of the latest developments in different fields. Good current affairs knowledge helps in staying relevant by providing candidates with the latest information and updates on different issues.
Enhancing writing skills
Comprehensive current affairs knowledge helps in enhancing writing skills by providing candidates with a wide range of topics and issues to write about. This helps in developing a diverse and well-rounded perspective and improves the quality of writing.
Conclusion
The essay paper is an integral part of the CSE, and candidates must prepare well to score high marks in this section. By following the expert suggestions mentioned above, candidates can improve their essay writing skills and score well on the essay paper. A holistic understanding of the topics, regular practice, effective structuring, and simple language are some of the key elements to writing an excellent essay. With dedication and hard work, aspirants can excel in the essay paper and secure a top rank in the CSE.