If you want to crack UPSC Mains 2026, mastering the art of essay writing is essential for you aspirant. The essay paper is one of the most scoring and underrated sections in the Civil Services Mains Examination. With two essays carrying 125 marks each (totaling 250), it gives aspirants a golden chance to showcase their depth of understanding, clarity of thought, and ability to connect topics across disciplines.
So how can one write a high-scoring essay that leaves an impact on the examiner? Let’s explore expert-backed strategies from Bajirao IAS Academy, considered among the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi.
1. Understand What UPSC Wants in an Essay
UPSC doesn’t look for flowery language or creative fiction but it expects:
- Logical structure and clarity,
- Balanced arguments,
- Socio-political-economic-cultural understanding,
- Real-life examples,
- Quotes, data, and constitutional provisions (where relevant)
In essence, your essay should reflect your maturity and administrative mindset.
2. Choose Your Topic Wisely
The UPSC essay paper usually provides 8 topics, 4 in each section. Topics range from philosophical quotes to contemporary issues. Pick the one you are most comfortable with, not necessarily the most popular one. Before choosing, analyse carefully and you can consider these aspects:
- Can I write 1200–1300 balanced, logical words on this?
- Can I include diverse perspectives?
- Do I have enough examples or case studies?
If the answer is yes, go ahead confidently.
3. Structure Is King: Follow the Classic Framework
To crack UPSC Mains 2026, structure is your savior means structure your essay wisely. You can use this format:
- Introduction: Start with a quote, anecdote, or definition. Keep it brief and captivating.
- Body Paragraphs:
- Historical background (if relevant)
- Current relevance
- Arguments in favor
- Counter Arguments or concerns
- Sub-themes (social, political, economic, ethical, environmental)
- Conclusion: Be optimistic and solution-oriented. You can end with a quote or suggest a visionary path forward.
At Bajirao IAS Academy, our faculty emphasizes practicing this structure through regular mock essays and feedback sessions.
4. Diversify Your Thoughts
A good essay stands out when it offers multidimensional perspectives. Try to bring insights from:
- History (e.g., freedom struggle, constitution-makers)
- Indian and global governance
- Environmental debates
- Ethics and philosophy
- Technology and innovation
- Economic policy
- Current affairs
This not only shows your knowledge but also your ability to think like an administrator, a key trait to crack UPSC Mains 2026.
5. Practice Regularly with Feedback
Writing essays once a week should be a non-negotiable part of your preparation. At Bajirao IAS Academy, we run a focused Essay Writing Program with:
- Weekly essay topics (including abstract, philosophical, and current affairs),
- Individual feedback and scoring,
- Peer review discussions,
- Model answers and breakdowns.
Remember, only regular writing and feedback can help you refine your language, reduce mistakes, and improve your presentation. You have to maintain a consistency while
6. Improve Language, But Keep It Simple
You don’t need Shakespearean vocabulary to impress UPSC. Use simple, clear, and correct English. Focus on:
- Short and coherent sentences,
- Avoid jargon or excessive technical terms,
- Logical flow from one paragraph to another,
- Linking words and connectors.
This clarity improves readability and ensures you keep the examiner engaged with your quality content.
7. Read and Learn from Topper Copies
Learning from successful candidates is always a smart move. At Bajirao IAS Academy, we provide access to topper essay booklets so you can:
- Observe their structure,
- See how they integrate quotes and examples,
- Note how they balance argument and counter-argument.
This gives you a benchmark to aim for and guide you to prepare more informative answers.
8. Build a Quote and Data Bank
Start collecting:
- Quotes by thinkers like Gandhi, Ambedkar, Tagore, Mandela
- Constitution references (like Articles, DPSPs, Preamble)
- NITI Aayog, World Bank, UNDP data
- Government report highlights (Economic Survey, NCRB, etc.)
This adds credibility and weight to your essays.
Why Bajirao IAS Academy for Essay Writing?
Being the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi, Bajirao IAS Academy understands the evolving demand of the UPSC Essay Paper. Our dedicated essay sessions help aspirants:
- Develop analytical writing skills,
- Structure thoughts logically,
- Connect static and dynamic knowledge,
- Get personalized evaluation for every essay.
Our mentorship ensures that every aspirant can crack UPSC Mains 2026 with confidence.
Conclusion
Essay writing is a test of your personality, not just your knowledge. To excel, you must think critically, write clearly, and present ideas coherently. With focused preparation, feedback-driven improvement, and expert support, you can turn the Essay Paper into a scoring advantage. Join Bajirao IAS Academy today, your partner in turning dreams into success. Let our expert guidance help you master the art of essay writing and crack one of the toughest exams in India to achieve your dream of becoming a civil servant.