How to write Essay in UPSC Exam | 5 tips to write essay in UPSC | Types of essay
The Art and Science of Essay Writing
Essay writing is not only an art but science also. While it can satisfy the creative urge of a good writer, it also needs discipline of mind. It needs skill to organise the matter methodically. These are the following points should be kept in mind while writing an essay.
Introduction: The opening paragraph should introduce the topic and provide necessary background.
Body of the Essay: All points should be properly developed. Arguments in support of and against may be given in different paragraphs. Avoid long paragraphs.
Conclusion: Issues and arguments which have been used in the body of the essay should be rounded off nicely. The conclusion should be well supported by the data provided in the essay.
Simple Language: Simple language is the hallmark of a good essay. Appropriate words need to be used. Short sentences make pleasant reading. The chances of committing grammatical errors are also reduced if one avoids long sentences. Avoid slang and colloquial language.
Facts and figures: Facts and figures add punch and lend weight to the arguments. What is needed is that correct and relevant facts should be given in the essay. Do not give extreme views. The point of Views expressed in writing should be unbiased and unprejudiced.
Coherence: All the issues raised and arguments given in support thereof should be logical. Continuity should be maintained. Avoid haphazard approach. Be precise and clear.
Before starting the writing of the essay, note down all points, facts and figures. A good building needs a proper sketch. A good essay writing always needs to be properly planned & designed. Make proper plan and execute it well.
Different Types of Essays
(i) Descriptive Essays require precise knowledge on the part of the writer. Essays on Scientific, Educational, Political, Economic and Current topics should contain relevant facts and figures. For example, describing a historical monument would need the information about its geographical location, the year of its construction, the person who got it built, the details of its design and points of architectural beauty or weaknesses, and most important of all, the story or the legend behind its construction.
(ii) Biographical Essays involve knowledge of the major events in the life of the person whose biography is being described. In addition to that, In this essay the qualities or character of the 'hero' his achievements , his struggles and his principles should be mention.
(iii) Narrative Essays can be presented in the form of a story. In such essays the chronological arrangement of events is needed to write . Also the narration should be made as interesting as possible by making use of episodes which fit in the context. For example, the narration of the first propose day at college should mention some funny incidents. A journey by bike or traveller should include some exciting amd adventurous experiences.
(iv) Reflective Essays require deep thinking on the part of the writer. These essays are abstract in nature it demands imagination and capacity to express ideas in concrete terms.
(v) Idiomatic Essays need elaboration of the idiom, its relevance in everyday life, advantages that will accrue if the wisdom contained in the idiom is practised, limitations in its application, etc. Examples to illustrate the usefulness of the idiom should be quoted. While writing an idiomatic essay, care should be taken to understand the meaning of the idiom, otherwise the whole essay will go haywire.