by Today, 22 August 2025, thousands of aspirants appeared for the UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025. This paper marks the beginning of the Mains examination and is one of the most important steps in the journey to becoming an IAS officer. The essay paper tests your ability to think clearly, express ideas effectively, and connect different perspectives in a structured manner.
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025
The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 was conducted today, 22 August 2025, marking the beginning of the Civil Services Mains examination. Carrying 250 marks, the paper required candidates to write two essays, one from each section, within a 3-hour duration. This paper is crucial as it tests not just knowledge but also clarity of thought, logical flow, and the ability to present ideas in a structured and impactful way.
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 Overview
The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 was held on 22 August 2025 as the first paper of the Civil Services Mains Examination. It carries 250 marks and requires candidates to write two essays that reflect analytical ability, clarity of thought, and effective presentation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Paper Name | UPSC Essay Paper 2025 |
| Total Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Sections | 2 (A & B) |
| Topics per Section | 4 |
| Essays to be Written | 2 |
| Word Limit | 1000–1200 per essay |
UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF Link
The UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF is available on the official UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) as the UPSC Mains Essay Exam 2025 has already been counducted. Since the paper was conducted today (22 August 2025), the Essay Paper PDF download link has been shared below for UPSC Aspirants preparing for upcoming UPSC Exam.
Download UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF Link
Steps to Download UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF
Candidates who appeared for the exam or wish to practice with the official paper can download the UPSC Essay Paper PDF once it is uploaded on the UPSC website. Follow these steps:
-
Visit the official UPSC website: upsc.gov.in
-
Go to the Examinations section.
-
Click on Previous Question Papers.
-
Select Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025.
-
Choose Essay Paper and click on the download link.
-
The PDF will open, which you can save for future reference.
How to Write a Good Essay in UPSC Mains Exam?
1. Start with a Strong Introduction
Begin with a quote, a real-life example, or a short story. This creates interest and sets the tone.
2. Structure Your Essay
Divide the essay into three parts:
-
Introduction – define the theme.
-
Body – explain with arguments, examples, and multiple perspectives.
-
Conclusion – end on a positive and futuristic note.
3. Use Simple and Clear Language
Avoid complicated sentences. Write in a way that even a common reader can understand.
4. Add Examples and Quotes
Use quotes from leaders like Gandhi, Ambedkar, or Lincoln. Add case studies, government schemes, and real-world events.
5. Maintain Balance
Don’t make the essay too factual or too philosophical. A balanced approach works best.
UPSC Essay Paper Pattern 2025
The UPSC Essay Paper Pattern 2025 remains the same as previous years:
-
Section A usually has abstract or philosophical essays.
-
Section B often contains social, political, or governance-related topics.
-
The marking is based on clarity, originality, examples, and logical structure.
Importance of Solving UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025
-
Understanding Exam Trends – Solving past papers helps aspirants identify recurring themes, the balance between philosophical and current affairs-based topics, and the overall expectations of UPSC.
-
Improving Writing Skills – Regular practice enhances writing speed, clarity of expression, and the ability to build logical arguments within the time limit.
-
Building Content Richness – Reviewing previous papers allows candidates to connect diverse examples from history, society, economy, and international relations, making essays more holistic.
-
Mastering Time Management – Practicing under exam-like conditions trains aspirants to divide time between brainstorming, structuring, and writing two essays effectively in three hours.
-
Boosting Confidence – Familiarity with paper patterns reduces anxiety and helps aspirants feel more prepared and composed on the exam day.
-
Self-Evaluation & Improvement – Writing and analyzing past papers allows candidates to identify weak areas such as poor introductions, lack of flow, or weak conclusions, and work on them in advance.
How to Score Highest in UPSC Mains Essay Paper
-
Choose the Right Topic – Select a topic that you are most comfortable with, where you can generate maximum ideas and maintain balance between philosophy, facts, and analysis.
-
Spend Time on Brainstorming – Before writing, list out key points, examples, case studies, and quotations. A clear structure ensures better flow and avoids repetition.
-
Follow a Structured Format – Always write with a proper introduction, body, and conclusion. Start with a thought-provoking idea, build arguments with balance, and end with a positive, futuristic note.
-
Use Diverse Dimensions – Cover social, political, economic, cultural, historical, ethical, and international aspects. This multi-dimensional approach impresses examiners.
-
Incorporate Real Examples – Use current affairs, government schemes, constitutional provisions, historical events, and global examples to enrich your essay.
-
Maintain Clarity and Simplicity – Avoid jargon or overly complex language. Write in simple, crisp sentences so that the examiner grasps your ideas easily.
-
Balance Between Creativity and Facts – While data and facts are important, essays must also reflect original thinking, analysis, and creativity in presentation.
-
Practice Regularly – Write at least one essay every week before the exam. Get it evaluated by mentors or peers to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
-
Work on Presentation – Use sub-headings, flowcharts, or diagrams where appropriate. Neat handwriting and good spacing make the essay more readable.
-
End with Optimism – A positive and visionary conclusion leaves a lasting impression and helps secure higher marks.
FAQs on UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025
Q1. What is the total marks of UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025?
The Essay Paper carries 250 marks and is an important part of the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination.
Q2. How many essays do I need to write in the paper?
Candidates have to write two essays, one from Section A and one from Section B, each carrying 125 marks.
Q3. What is the duration of the Essay Paper?
The total duration of the paper is 3 hours.
Q4. When was the UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 conducted?
The Essay Paper was conducted on 22 August 2025, as the first paper of the Civil Services Mains Examination.
Q5. What type of topics are asked in the UPSC Essay Paper?
Topics can be philosophical, abstract, or current affairs-based, often requiring a mix of creativity, analysis, and factual knowledge.
Q6. How can I prepare effectively for the Essay Paper?
Regular practice of previous year papers, reading editorials, collecting diverse examples, and writing mock essays under time limits are the best strategies.
Q7. Where can I download the UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025 PDF?
The official PDF will be available soon on the UPSC website (upsc.gov.in) under the “Previous Question Papers” section.
