Tips for Mains Answer Writing

 By Avinash Sir. 

MAINS ANSWER WRITING: GENERAL TIPS for finishing paper on time while writing reasonably good answers

1. Time duration: for 10 Marks question, take 7 minutes. For 15 marks question, take 11 minutes.

2. Write in a bigger font size.

3. Wherever possible, write in points.

4. Wherever possible, try to depict information through diagrams/maps etc rather than writing long paragraphs. It will take less time while filling more space. At the same time, this will make the presentation visually more appealing.

5. Good margin on both sides of the vertical line (fills space)

6. Good margin between two written lines (Visually appealing)

7. Margin between parts and subparts of questions (for easy readability of the examiner). Give separate headings and sub-headings. It gives an impression that all parts of the question have been addressed.

8. Start with the answers that you know the best. Write them well. Then shift to other questions. However, always keep the time limit in mind.

9. Make sure you answer each part of the question under a different and clear sub-heading.

10. Introduction: start by defining the key term in the question. Then connect it with the relevant data/context/recent event/constitutional article/legal provisions etc.

11. Body:

• Follow the directives

• Address all parts and subparts.

• Give counter-view as well, for increasing the number of points and showcasing an informed opinion.

• Thinking from different dimensions—Social, cultural, economic, political, environmental, IR, historical, geographical, social justice, Governance and administrative, security, technological (especially the new buzzwords like AI, IoT, Blockchain etc), ethical. Just remind yourself of all the subjects in GS and you'll come up with some relevant points to write in the context of the question.

12. Conclusion: should show optimism/take govt stand/give solution in one line/reflect constitutional values/be visionary in approach.

13. How many points in one answer? There is no hard and fast rule as such. In general, 8-10 points (including all parts) for 10 marks question. Similarly 12-15 points for 15 marks question. If you are drawing diagrams, then you may manage with lesser number of points.

However, do remember that it will take some practice and then only you will be in a position to finish your paper on time while writing reasonably good answers.