Structuring and Answering in GS 1 , GS 2 , GS 3 and GS 4

Structuring and Answering in GS -

"IBC framework (Introduction-Body-Conclusion) is one of the best approaches to attempt a question. I followed the same structure in my answers.

Introduction: It should be brief, to the point, and aligned with the question's demand, around 30 words.

Body: This is where the essence of the question lies. The body should follow the directive attached to the question. Multiple subparts should be mentioned in the answer to fulfill the question's demand.

Conclusion: Different strategies for concluding the answers depend on the question and body. Generally, I provide a futuristic and optimistic end to the answer in around 30 words.

Every paper in the mains exam has its own content demands. Below are the paper-wise essentials shared by Shubham Kumar sir:

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GS1

1 History/World History/Art and Culture: Ample scope to include maps, diagrams like Ashokan pillar, Stupa, Temples.

2 Geography: Include diagrams in most questions. Micro (Small) diagrams are also effective.

3 Society: It's important to define key terms (like poverty, caste), mention policy, and apply the life cycle approach (e.g., women - child, adolescent, old age).

GS2

1 Analytical: Use small paragraphs in some questions. Properly explaining statements is important, with examples and analysis.

2 Ethical dimension: Incorporate ethical considerations in governance if possible.

3 International Relations: Political diagrams are essential, along with historical dimensions and key terms usage (e.g., track 2 diplomacy), G20.

4 Use of ARC2/Articles/SC Judgments/Budget, NCRWC, LCI, Commission (Sarkaria/Punchhi).

5 Linking Static with Current Affairs (applies to GS3 as well).

GS3

1 Use of Graphs/pie charts (prepared beforehand) and statistics: Economists value stats/data.

2 Disaster Management: Utilize diagrams, maps, and highlight best practices.

3 Security: Incorporate bodies/Acts/Institutions.

4a) Value addition: Include Budget/Economic Survey/NITI Aayog/SDGs.

4b) Env and Security: Cover summits and agreements.

5 Time management is crucial; accuracy in answering is key.

GS 4

Time division: 1 hr 35 minutes (max 1:40) for case studies and 1:25 minutes for section A.

Section A

1 Write 3-4 dimensions and provide examples. Don’t forget to mention the administrative dimension wherever possible. Also, include the Ethical angle.

2 Other important dimensions include global, environmental, historical, personality-based, corporate, and current affairs.

3 Administrative dimension: Provide examples, such as riot control, disaster management, handling elections.

4 Values mapping: Use words from the syllabus like integrity, emotional intelligence, etc.

5 Link with GS 2 (governance): Incorporate Constitutional articles, DPSPs, FRs, Acts/Rules, NITI, ARC2, Institutions (applies to case studies too).

6 Using appropriate quotes in section A is rewarding.

7 Make flow charts.

Section B (Case studies)

1 Write a good introduction: Offer a broader perspective beyond the case study.

2 Space management: Focus more on 'what will you do/your approach.'

3 Provide long and short-term solutions; don't need to mention them as subheadings.

4 Explain ethical dilemmas/issues well, with short paragraphs.

5 Address smaller problems apart from the main problem.

6 Consider all stakeholders while answering."

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