Tag: Ielts

Writing effective answers in exams like the UPSC Civil Services Examination

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By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Writing effective answers in exams like the UPSC Civil Services Examination requires a strategic approach. Here are some essential tips to enhance your answer-writing skills:

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1. Understand the Question

  • Read Carefully: Make sure you comprehend what is being asked. Look for keywords and specific instructions.
  • Identify the Demand: Determine if the question is asking for an explanation, analysis, comparison, or opinion.

2. Structure Your Answer

  • Introduction: Start with a brief introduction that outlines the key points you will discuss. This sets the context for your answer.
  • Body: Present your arguments and points systematically. Use subheadings or bullet points where appropriate for clarity.
  • Conclusion: End with a concise conclusion that summarizes your main points and, if applicable, provides a perspective or recommendation.

3. Be Concise and Relevant

  • Stick to the Point: Avoid unnecessary elaboration. Focus on the question and avoid tangents.
  • Use Clear Language: Write in simple and straightforward language. Avoid jargon unless necessary.

4. Incorporate Facts and Examples

  • Use Data and Statistics: Support your arguments with relevant facts, figures, and examples. This adds credibility to your answer.
  • Real-Life Examples: Referencing current events, historical instances, or case studies can illustrate your points effectively.

5. Practice Time Management

  • Plan Your Time: Allocate a specific amount of time for each question. Practice writing answers within the set time limits to build efficiency.
  • Review Your Answers: If time permits, quickly review your answers for clarity and completeness.

6. Develop Your Own Style

  • Practice Regularly: Write practice answers to previous years’ questions to improve your style and speed.
  • Seek Feedback: Share your answers with peers or mentors to get constructive feedback and improve.

7. Use Diagrams and Flowcharts

  • Visual Aids: Where applicable, use diagrams, flowcharts, or tables to summarize information. Visuals can make complex information easier to digest.

8. Be Objective and Analytical

  • Critical Thinking: Show your ability to analyze different viewpoints. Weigh pros and cons where necessary, demonstrating depth in your understanding.
  • Balanced Approach: If the question requires an opinion, present a balanced view rather than a one-sided argument.

9. Stay Updated on Current Affairs

  • Integrate Relevant Current Events: Relate your answers to current affairs when relevant. This shows your awareness of the world and how it relates to the topic.

10. Stay Calm and Focused

  • Maintain Composure: Manage exam stress with relaxation techniques. A calm mind enhances clarity and focus while writing.
  • Stay Positive: Believe in your preparation and skills. Confidence can greatly influence your performance.

Conclusion

Effective answer writing in UPSC exams is a skill that develops over time with practice and reflection. By following these tips and continuously honing your writing ability, you can enhance your chances of success in the examination.

References

Clayton, D. L. K., Rogers, S., & Stuifbergen, A. (1999). Answers to unasked questions: Writing in the margins. Research in Nursing & Health, 22(6), 512-522.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fundamentals of Research Writing and Uses of Research Methodologies. Edupedia Publications Pvt Ltd.

Dehalwar, K. (Ed.). (2024). Basics of Research Methodology-Writing and Publication. EduPedia Publications Pvt Ltd.

Hand, B., Prain, V., & Wallace, C. (2002). Influences of writing tasks on students’ answers to recall and higher-level test questions. Research in Science Education, 32, 19-34.

Rijlaarsdam, G., & Van den Bergh, H. (2013). The dynamics of composing—An agenda for research into an interactive compensatory model of writing: Many questions, some answers. In The science of writing (pp. 107-125). Routledge.

The Craze for going Abroad

Should I study in India or Abroad? This is the dilemma every youngster in India is facing nowadays. As we know India’s  education system is totally a mess. It is just theory based with zero practical knowledge given to students whereas in Western countries equal importance is given to practical knowledge along with theory. As soon as they pass out from their higher secondary school ,they start thinking about doing ILETS and going abroad as a study visa is one of the easiest ways to go abroad. The craze for going abroad started in the 80’s and it is still in Trend. However, earlier only rich and affluent families used to send their children abroad for study but nowadays middle class families with the help of some  scholarships are able to send their children to Abroad.

Do you know why they are crazy to go and study abroad? The reasons are obvious. India has failed to provide employment to its youth. According to a recent survey , India’s Unemployment rate is quite High. However there is also  no statistics available on the success rate of students going abroad . Unemployment and poverty are the main reasons why people choose to settle abroad. Good wealth and good basic facilities of living attract people from third world countries. Another reason which works as a bait for indian people to go abroad is their high standards of living. As the process of development started early in western countries so they developed early compared to the third world countries which are lacking behind. 

Along with high quality education they provide wide exposure to students which enhances their learning and understanding skills. With exposure students can implement what they have learnt in social science classes. Another thing which is good about studying in Abroad that students become independent there. They start earning and need not to depend on their parents for expenses and all which is not the case in third world countries like India.

Like a coin has two sides, so does it. after reading all above mentioned reasons of youth going and settling abroad, you all must be wondering about the drawbacks  of settling there . First of all  it is a one way street . Those  who go and study there hardly come back to their home town because high pay scale and good working facilities keep them bound there only. Students also go through emotional breakdown as they are studying all alone in a foreign country. Some degrees become useless as their home country might not give them recognition. 

In a nutshell, people are going crazy about going abroad and want to settle there only. One of the easiest and legal ways to go there is by getting a study Visa and then settling down there. But those who are not able to make it,  try other illegal ways to enter abroad and end up becoming illegal immigrants in an alien country.