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ToggleThe UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 officially began on 22nd August 2025 with the Essay Paper (Paper I). Carrying 250 marks, this paper is one of the most decisive stages in the journey to becoming a civil servant.
Unlike General Studies or Optional Papers, the Essay Paper goes beyond factual knowledge. It assesses an aspirant’s ability to:
Think critically and creatively
Build logical and coherent arguments
Showcase multi-dimensional perspectives
Express ideas with clarity and originality
Scoring high in the essay can make the crucial difference in ranks, as many toppers have consistently highlighted.
खण्ड – A / SECTION – A (Choose One)
खण्ड – B / SECTION – B (Choose One)

The UPSC has once again chosen deeply philosophical topics that test abstract thinking rather than direct current affairs.
Takeaway: Candidates who prepared only factual/current affairs-based content may have struggled. Those who practiced idea generation, quote interpretation, and philosophical writing will have had an edge.
The UPSC Mains 2025 Essay Paper continues the trend of abstract, philosophical topics that demand depth of thought and multidimensional exploration. Success in this paper depends not just on knowledge but on the ability to think, connect, and express with originality.
At InclusiveIAS, our goal is to ensure aspirants understand this demand and are trained to deliver impactful, high-scoring essays.
📢 Stay connected for the UPSC Essay Paper 2025 PDF, detailed analysis, model essays, and expert mentorship.
✨ Wishing all aspirants the very best in their Mains 2025 journey!
Q. How many essays are to be written in UPSC Mains Essay Paper?
A. Two essays – one from Section A and one from Section B. Each carries 125 marks.
Q. What is the marking scheme of the Essay Paper?
A. The paper carries 250 marks in total. Both essays are equally weighted.
Q. Are essay topics based on current affairs?
A. Not necessarily. In recent years, most topics have been philosophical or abstract. However, linking them to current affairs enriches the essay.
Q. Why is the Essay Paper so important?
A. Even a small margin (10–15 marks) can drastically affect rank. Many toppers stress that essay performance often decides the final outcome.
Q. How should aspirants prepare for philosophical essays?
A. By reading widely (philosophy, sociology, history, literature), practicing idea-generation, and writing mock essays on abstract topics.