Yes, it is beneficial to practice writing answers to previous years' questions during revision.




1. Enhances Understanding of the Subject Matter
- Practicing writing answers to previous years' questions helps in gaining a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
- It requires thorough research and analysis of the topic, which helps in clarifying concepts and strengthens knowledge.
- It aids in identifying any gaps in understanding and provides an opportunity to fill those gaps.




2. Familiarizes with the Exam Format and Question Types
- Practicing previous years' questions familiarizes the candidate with the exam format and question types.
- It helps in understanding the structure and style of the questions asked in the exam.
- By practicing a variety of questions, candidates can develop strategies to effectively approach different types of questions.




3. Improves Time Management Skills
- Answering previous years' questions within a specified time limit helps in improving time management skills.
- It allows candidates to gauge the amount of time they should allocate to each question.
- Practicing under timed conditions enables candidates to develop a rhythm and effectively complete the paper within the given time frame.




4. Enhances Writing and Communication Skills
- Regular practice in writing answers to previous years' questions improves writing and communication skills.
- It helps in structuring the answer in a clear and coherent manner.
- Candidates can learn how to effectively convey their thoughts and arguments, which is essential for scoring well in the exam.




5. Boosts Confidence
- Practicing previous years' questions gives candidates a sense of confidence and familiarity with the exam.
- It helps in reducing exam anxiety and nervousness by providing a platform to test their knowledge and skills.
- The more candidates practice, the more confident they become in their abilities to tackle any question in the exam.




In conclusion, practicing writing answers to previous years' questions during revision is highly beneficial. It enhances understanding, familiarizes with the exam format, improves time management and writing skills, and boosts confidence. By systematically practicing previous years' questions, candidates can significantly improve their chances of performing well in the UPSC exam.