Tools and Techniques for Essays | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

Introduction

• Essays can serve various purposes, and while they share some common characteristics, their specific structures vary depending on the type of essay you are writing. Whether you're presenting an argument or explaining a process, the basic format is usually similar. By following a few simple steps, you'll find that the essay almost writes itself. Your main task is to provide ideas, which are the fundamental building blocks of the essay. Many people feel anxious about starting to write, but with the right approach, it can be much easier.
• There are some straightforward tools and techniques that can assist you in the essay writing process.

The steps are:

1. Choose a topic for your essay.
2. Develop a broad or general idea or outline.
3. Write a clear thesis statement.
4. Draft the body section of the essay.
5. Identify the main points you want to make.
6. Break down these points into subpoints.
7. Provide detailed explanations for each subpoint.
8. Write the introduction of the essay.
9. Conclude the essay with a strong conclusion.
10. Wrap up the entire essay.

Choose a Topic

Topic Has Been Assigned

• When given a topic, first determine whether you need to write a general overview or a detailed analysis.
• If it's an overview, you can proceed without narrowing down the topic.
• For a detailed analysis, ensure the topic is specific enough.

Examples of Topic Refinement

• Broad topics like "Japan" are suitable for overviews but too vague for detailed analysis.
• Narrow it down to specific aspects like "Politics in Japan" or "Culture of Japan" for focused analysis.

Topic Has Not Been Assigned

• If you have the freedom to choose a topic, consider what interests you the most.
• Think about subjects you are passionate about or curious to explore further.

Define Your Purpose

• Before selecting a topic, clarify the purpose of your essay.
• Determine whether you aim to explain, persuade, or educate about a person, place, object, or idea.
• Ensure that your chosen topic aligns with this purpose for a more focused and effective essay.

Brainstorm Subjects of Interest

• After defining your essay's purpose, brainstorm a list of topics that genuinely interest you.
• If you're finding it challenging to come up with ideas, look around your environment for inspiration.
• Consider what occupies most of your time or attention in your daily life; these could be potential topics.
• At this stage, focus on jotting down any ideas that come to mind without judging their suitability.

Evaluate Each Potential Topic

• Take time to evaluate each potential topic from your brainstormed list.
• Reflect on your feelings towards each topic.
• If you're considering an educational subject, ensure it's an area where you have a good understanding.
• For persuasive topics, choose something you feel passionate about.
• The key is to have plenty of ideas to work with.
• If none of the topics seem particularly appealing, pick the one you think will be easiest to handle; it might turn out to be a better choice than you expect.
• Before you start writing, give your chosen topic one last review to ensure it feels right.

Organise Your Ideas

• Making an outline or diagram helps you organise your thoughts about the topic clearly on paper.
• Remember, these plans can be changed later, so don’t worry too much about getting it perfect now.
• Pick the format that suits you best, whether it’s a simple outline or a more flexible diagram.
• If one format doesn’t work for you, feel free to switch to another.

Diagram

• Start by drawing a shape like a circle or a line in the centre of the page.
• Write your topic inside the shape or on the line.
• Draw three or four lines outwards from the centre.
• At the end of each line, draw another shape and write down your main ideas or points you want to cover.
• From each main idea, draw more lines and add supporting facts or information. This will give you a basic structure for your essay.