GS Answer writing strategy. Post #1

GS Answer writing strategy. Post #1

1. First have a good(not very good) theoretical understanding of the topics mentioned in the syllabus. Know and remember the syllabus.

2. You should have notes on each and every topic mentioned in the syllabus and notes on major themes repeated in previous year questions. Also have the good introduction and conclusion ready for major topics. Make your own unique notes.

3. Extensively Review the toppers copies in individual GS papers. Give it some time.

4. Now start by writing answers to previous years questions.

5. Interlink various topics mentioned in the syllabus. This is how we bring multidimensionality in answers. This is a skill and needs time to develop so don't panic.

6. Keep on practicing. It took me 6-8 months of continuous writing to improve my answers quality.

7. In the initial stages Don't worry about how many marks you are getting and if you are not able to complete paper.

8. Structuring of the answers is the most important part. Give headings, subheadings, examples, data, cases, diagrams etc.  Also underline, make boxes etc. whenever needed. Make it look pleasing to the eyes. Presentation matters a lot.

9. Write short and crisp points when you know the answers. But when you don't know the answers then you have to beat around the bush and generate points like chatgpt does. This is also a skill and will develop over a period of time. Have patience.

10. Always substantiate your points to make it credible. Quote govt sources like economic survey, judgements , data, examples etc.

11.  Initially, If you are having problems then  you can read answers first or prepare answers first and then write and take as much time as you want..just write a good answer...this will create a mental model for answers..

Slowly slowly you will improve.

12. Be regular and consistent. Good luck.