Everyone loves to read answers which is well presents, has a systematic flow of ideas, and the right grammar-syntax. IAS Exam is no exceptions. But if you want to get your answers the best, here are a few helpful insights.

Follow the Basic Rules of Formal English

There is always a tendency to Write answers in colloquial language because English is not our First language. IAS exam has no regard for this common error. A conscious effort is necessary to follow the Basic rules of formal English. IAS exam know for being exceptionally competitive, average language skills cannot help to stand in the competition. Thus, along with strong command over the English Language, adhering to the rules while writing answers is highly essential to be at the forefront of success.

Here are a few must-know basic rules of formal English: 

Rule#1: Before any Abbreviation give the Full Form

Like any other writing, IAS answers need to follow the basic rule of providing the complete context of an abbreviation. The full form should be accompanied by the abbreviation within the brackets. Here is an example:

#Wrong: IAS is the most sought offices in Indian government.

#Right:  Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is the most sought offices in Indian government. 

Rule#2: Avoid using shortened or informal words

IAS answers have no place for shortened words or informal words which we are used to conversing in the text messages over the social media. Make your words refined and suited to the formal grammar rules.

Here are a few examples: 

Rule#3: Avoid Random Capitalization

As per the syntax of writing any sentences, capitalization starts at the beginning word of a sentence, the use of “I”, and on proper nouns. It is an error to capitalize each word of the sentence or as per the whims in IAS answers.

Here is an example: 

#Wrong: “Honesty Is The Best Policy.”

#Right:  “Honesty is the best policy.”

Here the word “Honesty” needs to be capitalized.

Rule#4: Avoid Verbose and Passive Language

The use of passive language lengthens the sentences. It shows verbosity. Hence, IAS answers should be bereft of Verbosity and the constant use of Passive language.

Here is an example:

 #Poor: Primary motive for this is the fact that humans are irrational sometimes.

#Better:  Primary motive is humans are irrational sometimes. 

Rule#5: Subject Verb Agreement/Use of Plural Terms

Make sure to put the right verbs in the sentences.

Here is an example:

#Wrong: None of the factors is relevant.

#Right:  None of the factors are relevant. 

Rule#6: Section and Article

If you are writing about the constitution use ‘Article’. For instance: Article 21 of the Indian Constitution says, “No person…..”

If you are citing from a Law, use ‘Section’. For instance: Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) declares… 

How to Write Introduction to IAS Mains Questions?

The introduction is the first impression which gives to the invigilator. A poor introduction sets off the reader, no matter how much worthy the other pages have. Here are 3 steps to get the best introduction to your answers to Ias Mains Questions: 

Step1: Introduction through Definition

Here are a few examples:

1. Q. Discuss the rationale for introducing Good and Services Tax in India.

Your Answer: Introduction: [Definition] Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a destination-based indirect tax on consumption.

Begin your answer with the Definition.

Step2: Introduction through Origin

Here is an example:

1. Should there be a time limit specified for the president to accept/reject the petitions for commuting death sentences? Analyze

Your Answer: Introduction: (Origin) Article 72 of the Constitution empowers the President of India to grant pardons to convicted persons. 

Step3: Introduction through Data

Here is an example:

1. Q. Critically examine whether a growing population is the cause of poverty in India or vice versa.

Your answer: (Data) India is home to over 120 billion people, 23% who live below the poverty line or India is Home to one-sixth of humanity. 

How to write the Body of the answer to IAS Mains Questions?

The next part of the exposition of the answer consists of the body of the answer. Depending upon the type of question, you can split the body of the answer:

• Write the Background-Historic Origin/Present Circumstance/ Future Roadmap
• Write the Nature of Problem/Action Taken/Further reforms
• Write the Positive-Pro arguments/Negative-Anti-arguments.
• Write through Direct bullets points/list items

How to write the Conclusion to IAS Mains Questions?

Not many cares to write the Conclusion well. Just like the introduction, or the body of the answer, the conclusion has its own importance. Here is an outline on how to write the conclusion to IAS Mains Questions.

2. If the question has the Keywords like discuss, narrate, describe, elaborate, chronological, elucidate, substantiate, enumerate, outline, compare-contrast, distinguish- the conclusion just need to be a summary of the ideas expressed in the body of the answer.
3. If the question has the keywords like, justify, reason, explain, discuss critically, comment, examine, evaluate, analyze, the critically analyze-the conclusion should be a finding of the elements of positive, negative, agree or disagree.