THE MAINS THINKING ROOM
UPSC Mains practice questions
Read the question. Find the demand. Build an argument.
These are original practice questions, not official UPSC previous-year questions. Five selected questions on each paper page include illustrative answer approaches and model answers; they show one reasoned approach, not the only correct answer.
GENERAL STUDIES 1
History, society & geography
Explore the questions and five selected worked examples →
GENERAL STUDIES 2Polity, governance & international relations
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GENERAL STUDIES 3Economy, environment, science & security
Explore the questions and five selected worked examples →
GENERAL STUDIES 4Ethics, integrity & case studies
Explore the questions and five selected worked examples →
How to use these UPSC Mains practice questions
- Read the complete question.
- Identify the directive.
- Identify the exact demand.
- Brainstorm relevant dimensions.
- Select arguments and supporting evidence.
- Decide the structure and judgement.
- Practise planning or write a complete answer under timed conditions.
- Review whether you actually answered what was asked.
Use the answer planning guide before writing, the directive guide when the task is unclear, and the answer writing guide to develop the final response.