UPSC Mains Subject Wise Weightage
If you are preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, you must be aware of the importance of the Mains exam. The Mains exam is the second stage of the UPSC CSE and is considered to be the most challenging part of the entire selection process.
The Mains exam consists of nine papers, out of which seven are considered for the final ranking. These seven papers are divided into two categories — compulsory and optional. The compulsory papers include Essay, General Studies I, II, III, and IV, while the optional papers include two papers from the chosen subject.
In this article, we will get to know the UPSC Mains subject-wise weightage and provide you with a study plan and exam tips to help you ace the Mains exam.
Understanding the UPSC Mains Subject Wise Weightage
Before we dive into the subject-wise weightage, it is essential to understand the overall weightage of the Mains exam. The total marks for the Mains exam are 1750, out of which the compulsory papers carry 1750 marks, and the optional papers carry 500 marks.
Now, let’s take a look at the subject-wise weightage for the compulsory papers:
Essay — 250 Marks
The essay paper is considered to be the highest-scoring paper in the Mains exam. It is also the only paper where you can express your thoughts and opinions freely. The essay paper carries 250 marks, and you are required to write two essays, each carrying 125 marks.
General Studies I — 250 Marks
General Studies I is a broad paper that covers topics like Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society. This paper carries 250 marks and is considered to be one of the most challenging papers in the Mains exam.
General Studies II — 250 Marks
General Studies II covers topics like Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations. This paper also carries 250 marks and is considered to be relatively easier than General Studies I.
General Studies III — 250 Marks
General Studies III covers topics like Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management. This paper carries 250 marks and is considered to be the most dynamic paper in the Mains exam.
General Studies IV — 250 Marks
General Studies IV covers topics like Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude. This paper carries 250 marks and is considered to be the most scoring paper in the Mains exam.
Optional Papers — 500 Marks
The optional papers carry a total of 500 marks, with each paper carrying 250 marks. You are required to choose one subject from the list of optional subjects provided by the UPSC. The subject wise weightage for the optional papers varies, and it is essential to choose a subject that you are comfortable with and have a good understanding of.
Study Plan for UPSC Mains
Now that you have a better understanding of the subject wise weightage for the Mains exam, let’s take a look at a study plan that can help you prepare for the exam effectively.
Start Early
The key to success in the UPSC CSE is to start early. The Mains exam is held in September, and it is recommended to start your preparation at least a year in advance. This will give you enough time to cover the vast syllabus and revise multiple times.
Understand the Syllabus
Before you start your preparation, it is essential to understand the syllabus for each paper thoroughly. This will help you create a study plan and focus on the topics that carry more weightage.
Read Newspapers and Magazines
Newspapers and magazines are a great source of current affairs and can help you prepare for the General Studies papers. Make it a habit to read at least one newspaper daily and make notes of important events and issues.
Refer to NCERT Books
NCERT books are considered to be the foundation for the UPSC CSE preparation. They provide a basic understanding of various topics and are a great source for building your concepts.
Practice Answer Writing
Answer writing is a crucial aspect of the Mains exam. It is essential to practice writing answers regularly to improve your writing skills and time management. You can also join a UPSC mains test series to get feedback on your answers and improve further. Engaging in a test series provides you with an opportunity to simulate exam conditions, receive constructive criticism, and identify areas for improvement. This structured approach not only enhances your answer-writing skills but also boosts your confidence and readiness for the actual examination. So, don’t hesitate to enroll in a UPSC mains test series and take your preparation to the next level.
Revise Regularly
Revision is the key to retaining information. Make sure to revise your notes and important topics regularly to ensure that you don’t forget what you have studied.
Exam Tips for UPSC Mains
Apart from following a study plan, it is essential to keep certain exam tips in mind while preparing for the Mains exam. These tips can help you improve your performance and score better in the exam.
Time Management
Time management is crucial for the Mains exam as you have to write nine papers in a span of five days. Make sure to allocate enough time for each paper and practice writing answers within the given time limit. Enrolling in a reputable UPSC coaching institute can provide you with valuable strategies and techniques to manage your time effectively during the exam. Their guidance and mock tests can help you streamline your approach, optimize your writing speed, and ensure that you make the most of the allotted time for each paper. So, consider joining a UPSC coaching institute to sharpen your time management skills and maximize your performance in the Mains exam.
Focus on Quality over Quantity
The UPSC is looking for quality answers, not lengthy ones. Make sure to focus on providing relevant and concise answers rather than writing long, irrelevant ones.
Use Diagrams and Flowcharts
Diagrams and flowcharts can help you present your answers in a more organized and visually appealing manner. They can also help you save time and convey information effectively.
Be Objective in Your Answers
The UPSC is looking for objective answers, not subjective ones. Make sure to back your answers with facts and figures rather than your personal opinions.
Summary
The UPSC Mains exam is a crucial stage in the UPSC CSE selection process, and it is essential to prepare for it effectively. By understanding the subject-wise weightage, following a study plan, and keeping exam tips in mind, you can improve your chances of scoring well in the Mains exam. Enrolling in an IAS foundation course can further enhance your preparation by providing comprehensive coverage of the syllabus, personalized guidance from experienced mentors, and access to study materials designed specifically for UPSC aspirants. With the combined efforts of structured coaching and diligent self-study, you can confidently tackle the challenges posed by the UPSC Mains exam and inch closer to your goal of becoming a civil servant.
Remember, consistency and dedication are the keys to success in the UPSC CSE. Keep working hard, and you will surely achieve your goal of becoming a civil servant.
