Introduction

In the UPSC Mains examination, the marks distribution for each paper varies depending on the subject. The Mains examination consists of nine papers, out of which two are qualifying in nature and the remaining seven are considered for merit calculation. Each paper carries a specific weightage, which determines its importance in the overall assessment.

Breakdown of Marks Distribution

1. Qualifying Papers: There are two qualifying papers in the UPSC Mains examination - English and a language paper. These papers are only of qualifying nature and the marks obtained in these papers are not considered for merit calculation.

2. Essay Paper: The Essay paper carries a total of 250 marks. Candidates are required to write two essays, each consisting of 1000-1200 words. The essay paper evaluates a candidate's ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and coherently.

3. General Studies Papers: There are four General Studies papers in the UPSC Mains examination - GS Paper I, GS Paper II, GS Paper III, and GS Paper IV. Each of these papers carries a weightage of 250 marks, making the total marks for General Studies papers 1000.

4. Optional Subject Paper I and Paper II: Candidates have the option to choose an optional subject for the Mains examination. The optional subject consists of two papers, each carrying 250 marks. Therefore, the total marks for the optional subject papers are 500.

5. Total Marks: The total marks for the seven papers considered for merit calculation in the UPSC Mains examination are 1750 (Essay - 250, General Studies - 1000, Optional Subject - 500). These marks are crucial in determining a candidate's rank in the final merit list.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the UPSC Mains examination consists of nine papers, out of which seven are considered for merit calculation. The marks distribution for each paper varies, with the qualifying papers being of qualifying nature only. The Essay paper carries 250 marks, the General Studies papers carry 1000 marks, and the optional subject papers carry 500 marks. The total marks for the seven papers considered for merit calculation are 1750, which play a significant role in determining a candidate's rank in the UPSC examination.