Introduction:
When preparing for the UPSC exam, it is essential to have a well-rounded approach that includes both revising notes and practicing answer writing. Both these activities are crucial for effective preparation and success in Paper I.

Revising Notes:
Revising notes is an important part of the preparation process as it helps in consolidating the information learned during the study phase. Here are some reasons why revising notes should be prioritized:

1. Retaining knowledge: Revising notes helps in reinforcing the concepts and facts in your memory, making them easier to recall during the exam. Regular revision ensures that the information is retained for a longer period.

2. Identifying gaps: While revising, you may come across concepts or topics that you haven't fully understood or missed during the initial study phase. This allows you to identify and fill any knowledge gaps, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.

3. Improving understanding: Revisiting your notes helps in deepening your understanding of the subject. As you revise, you may encounter new perspectives or connections between different topics, leading to a more holistic understanding of the subject matter.

4. Building confidence: Regular revision builds confidence as you become more familiar with the content. It helps in reducing exam anxiety and enhances performance during the actual exam.

Practicing Answer Writing:
Answer writing practice is equally important as it helps in developing the necessary skills to effectively communicate your knowledge and ideas within the given time constraints. Here are the reasons why practicing answer writing should be given due importance:

1. Time management: Answer writing practice ensures that you can effectively manage your time during the exam. It helps in developing the skill of writing concise and well-structured answers within the stipulated time frame.

2. Understanding question patterns: Regular practice of answer writing exposes you to different types of questions that can be asked in the exam. This helps in understanding the question patterns and enables you to tailor your answers accordingly.

3. Improving articulation: Answer writing practice enhances your ability to articulate your thoughts and ideas clearly. It helps in organizing your response in a logical and coherent manner, thus improving the overall quality of your answers.

4. Enhancing exam strategy: Practicing answer writing allows you to experiment with different writing styles, formats, and approaches. This helps in developing an effective exam strategy that maximizes your chances of scoring well.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, both revising notes and practicing answer writing are crucial for UPSC Paper I preparation. While revising notes helps in consolidating knowledge and improving understanding, practicing answer writing enhances time management, articulation, and exam strategy. Hence, it is important to strike a balance between the two and prioritize them based on your individual needs and weaknesses.