To succeed in civil services exams like UPSC, BPSC and MPSC, not only your knowledge related preparation is important but answer writing skills are also of special importance. often candidates have the material but fail to present it correctly. let us know how to improve answer writing skills and how to practice it.
1. Understand the syllabus and have clarity of topics
Every question in civil services exams is related to the syllabus. therefore, the first step is to have a thorough
understanding of the syllabus. read every topic of the syllabus carefully and understand what type of questions can be asked from you. when you understand the syllabus properly, your answer is more relevant and accurate.
2. Learn to analyze questions
It is very important to understand the directive words given in the question like ‘review’, ‘analyze’, ‘review’. Based on these words, you have to decide the direction and style of the answer. for example, ‘review’ means that you have to give your opinion on the topic, while ‘analyze’ means discussing the deep causes and effects. So read the question properly and understand what it is asking for.
3. Pay attention to the structure
It is very important to have the right structure of the answer. the answer should be divided into three major parts:
Introduction: Start the answer with a short and concise introduction, which gives clarity to the issue of the question.
Body: The most important part of the answer is where you present your thoughts, facts, and arguments. If you are doing any analysis or comparative study, then write it in detail here.
Conclusion: The conclusion of the answer should always be positive. also ensure that the conclusion is brief and
summarizes your answer
4. Time Management
The biggest challenge in answer writing is to answer in limited time. In civil service exams, maximum information has to be presented in an effective manner in a limited time. for this, you have to practice answer writing regularly.
Practice writing each question in the given time. for example, set aside 7 – 8 minutes for a 150 – word question and 10 – 12 minutes for a 250 – word question. this will increase both your speed and accuracy.
5. Write factually and logically
Factual and logical answers are preferred in civil service exams. use facts, figures and reports in your answers. also, present your arguments with solid and certified data. for example, when you are writing on a social problem, mention relevant figures or government reports in it.
6. Practice previous years’ question papers
The best way to write answers is to study and practice previous years’ question papers. solving previous question
papers of UPSC, BPSC and MPSC will give you a better understanding of the pattern of the exam, the style of questions, and the expected answers. this will help you understand the process of writing answers to questions more effectively.
7. Use diagrams, charts, and maps
Use diagrams, charts, and maps in your answers as much as possible. especially in subjects like geography, economics, and environment, this makes the answer more attractive. for example, when you are writing on climate change or different agricultural regions of India, use the relevant map or chart.
8. Review and revision
It is very important to review your answer after writing the answer. see if there is any error in the answer or not. from time to time, get your answers checked by your teachers or peers so that you can know where you can improve. recognizing your weaknesses and improving them is the key to success.
9. Use effective vocabulary
Using effective and accurate vocabulary in answer writing makes your presentation even stronger. use simple, clear, and straightforward words instead of complex words in the answer. this will help the examiner understand your point easily.
10. Practice continuously
Answer writing skills cannot be learned in a day. it requires constant practice. try to answer at least two to three
questions daily. this will not only improve your writing ability but will also enable you to write fast and accurate
answers.
Conclusion
Answer writing in civil service exams like UPSC, BPSC and MPSC is an art, which requires in-depth knowledge, logic and relevance. by following the above tips, you can make your answer writing skills effective. remember that only constant practice and effort in the right direction will pave the way for your success