Mains PYQs · 2013

UPSC Mains 2013 Essay, every question.

The 2013 Essay paper in full, in paper order: marks, word limit and directive for each question, with a link to write it against the clock.

By Gaurav Singh and Aditya Tiwari·Published ·Questions: UPSC Civil Services (Main) papers·Updated

What the 2013 paper asked

The 2013 Essay paper set 4 topics; candidates write two, one from each section, 125 marks and about 1,000–1,200 words each.

Essay paper covers two essays, one from each section of four topics. For how long a scoring answer runs at each mark, see how long toppers actually write.

All 4 topics

Q1 · 250 marks · 2500 words

Be the change you want to see in others – Gandhiji.

Q2 · 250 marks · 2500 words

Is the Colonial mentality hindering India’s success?

Q3 · 250 marks · 2500 words

GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the well-being of a country.

Q4 · 250 marks · 2500 words

Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation.

All Essay years · 2014 →

Other 2013 papers: GS1 · GS2 · GS3 · GS4 Ethics.

Questions

How many questions were in UPSC Mains 2013 Essay paper?

4 topics, of which candidates write two essays of 125 marks each.

Where can I practise the 2013 Essay questions?

In the practice bank, with a timer set to exam pace. Writing is free with no sign-in; checking an answer against topper answers uses an evaluation (1 free).

Write one, then get it checked.

Write by hand against the clock in the practice bank, then photograph the page: writeupsc puts it beside real topper answers. 1 free evaluation.

Practise Essay questions
Check your answer on Telegram. Send a photo of your handwritten answer to @WriteUPSCbot for marks in about a minute, or join the group for a Mains question every morning.