How to Write Answers for UPSC IAS Mains Exam?

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1. Components of an Answer: 

Introduction: Setting the context and demonstrating comprehension of the question. Body: Addressing the question's demand and carrying the highest marks. Conclusion: Summarizing and justifying the answer while providing closure. Flow: Ensuring logical arrangement of points.

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2. Understanding the Exam and Its Pattern: 

Analyzing previous year's questions (PYQs) to identify recurring themes. Focusing on important topics and their specific dimensions mentioned in the syllabus.

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3. Understanding the Question: 

Reading the question multiple times to grasp its demand. Identifying directive words to determine the required approach.

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4. Macrostructure of the Answer: 

Framing a structure with introduction, body, and conclusion. Writing a context-setting introduction that showcases understanding. Developing relevant headings, argumentative points, and multidimensional perspectives in the body.

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5. Value Addition: 

Incorporating data, facts, constitutional articles, court judgments, and quotations. Including case studies, government policies, and the way forward when relevant.

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6. Flow and Presentation: 

Ensuring a logical flow of points in the answer. Using diagrams, flow charts, tables, and boxed headings for better presentation. Underlining key points and starting sentences with keywords for visibility.

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7. Learning the Answer Writing Skills: 

Selecting a topic, studying PYQs, understanding the content, and solving related questions. Seeking evaluation and feedback from mentors.

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8. Laws of Answer Writing: 

Addressing the question's demand with arguments and substantiation. Adhering to the word limit and ensuring visibility of keywords and concepts.

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9. Making Answer Writing Easier and Faster: 

Developing pre-prepared templates for frequently asked themes, introductions, and conclusions. Creating advance diagrams, flow charts, and tables for specific topics.

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