| Dear Aspirants, This year’s UPSC Mains analysis revealed a mix of evolving patterns and continuing trends. One thing, however, is clear: cracking this exam goes far beyond memorising guidebooks or relying solely on handouts. What truly matters is what you read and more importantly, how you apply that knowledge under pressure. Over the past two weeks, we analysed four UPSC Mains papers in depth. Alongside this, our regular features — quizzes, special articles by subject experts, Mains answer-writing practice sets, current affairs pointers, Issue at a Glance, and dedicated pieces on essays and ethics are all designed to keep pace with the dynamic nature of the UPSC exam. As one of the most advanced and competitive exams in the country, the UPSC demands preparation strategies that are both flexible and informed. We are here to help you stay ahead of the curve. Here's everything that we covered last week for you: - The Indian Express’ UPSC Essentials magazine for August is out now! This month's edition features a compelling cover story on Chola history, expert articles, current affairs pointers, simplified guides for Essay and Ethics, quizzes, and more. Click here to read the August 2025 issue of the UPSC Essentials monthly magazine. (Only for IE UPSC Subscribers)
- UPSC Mains 2025 Paper Analysis:
1. Essay Paper Analysis: Aspirants quizzed on generic quotes they know by heart but find hard to elaborate in exam pressure. (Click here) 2. GS Paper 1 Analysis: UPSC asks aspirants to examine Akbar’s religious syncretism; echoes a Bihar PCS Mains question. Geography takes the spotlight (Click here) 3. GS Paper 2 Analysis: Why was this paper the most difficult so far? Why can’t one guidebook suffice? Here’s our review. (Click here) 4. GS Paper 3 Analysis: Economy took centre stage, security turned to Northeast, and science focused on Govt’s efforts. How this paper turned news headlines to exam lines? (Click here) - UPSC Issue at a Glance: The Smart City Index 2025 shows Swiss cities leading, but where are Indian cities placed? This brings India’s Smart Cities Mission into focus. Beyond urban areas, the concept of ‘Smart and Intelligent Villages’ is also gaining attention. Roshni Yadav explains. (Click here)
- The world this week:
Japan targets 10 trillion yen ($67.9 billion) investment in India, with special emphasis on small and medium enterprises and startups. As 50 per cent US tariffs kick in, India reassures its exporters that it stands firmly behind them. While US allies seek to recognise Palestine as a state at the UN next month, Iran faces return of sweeping sanctions – here is the weekly roundup of key global news by Ashiya Parveen. (Click here) -
UPSC Current Affairs Pointers: Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), Monsoon session of Parliament, Sperm Whale vomit, and more — here are some must-read UPSC Current Affairs, compiled by Khushboo Kumari, for your prelims and mains preparation that you shouldn't miss for UPSC, state PSCs, and other competitive examinations. (Click here) - In last week's UPSC Special articles, subject experts provided in-depth answers to key questions:
What is the legacy of Brahmi in modern languages? (Click here) How has the idea of marriage evolved over time? (Click here) In what ways can the integration of legal enforcement, behavioral change, and waste governance help India achieve its commitments and serve as a model for sustainable ecological stewardship? (Click here) How can we build cities that embrace migrants? (Click here) What are the advanced alternatives to ethanol? (Click here) - Brush up your current affairs knowledge and consolidate your UPSC CSE Prelims preparation with this week's top 10 questions in our UPSC Weekly Current Affairs Quiz curated by Nitendra Pal Singh. (Click here)
- Check out our daily subject-wise quizzes by Nitendra Pal Singh. (Click here)
- Practice Mains Answer writing by following our thought process. Nitendra Pal Singh continues to provide clues from the news for your Mains answer writing. (Click here)
UPSC Key: Exclusive for Subscribers Have you considered how this week's top headlines can be relevant for your exams? You can learn more through our UPSC Key by Khushboo Kumari and Roshni Yadav. Click here to check it out! Aspirants, success in the UPSC Mains isn’t just about hard work. It is about smart adaptation. As the exam continues to evolve, so must your approach. Recognising patterns, staying curious, thinking critically, and applying knowledge contextually are now non-negotiable skills. Whether you are a first-time aspirant or a seasoned candidate, staying aligned with the changing demands of the exam is key. At every step, we will be here to help you decode, adapt, and excel.
How do you feel about this year’s UPSC Mains papers? Did the questions surprise you, challenge you, or align with your expectations? Share your thoughts—we will love to hear how you are interpreting the changing pulse of the exam. Reach out anytime at manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com. Think Smart Work Hard Conquer Your Goal! Until next week, Manas Srivastava |
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