Essay past papers at a glance
100 essay topics from 2013 to 2025. Essay paper covers two essays, one from each section of four topics. 1 have topper answers in the writeupsc bank.
Year wise
| Year | Topics | Directives used most |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 8 | – |
| 2024 | 8 | – |
| 2023 | 8 | – |
| 2022 | 8 | – |
| 2021 | 8 | – |
| 2020 | 8 | – |
| 2019 | 8 | – |
| 2018 | 8 | – |
| 2017 | 8 | – |
| 2016 | 8 | – |
| 2015 | 8 | – |
| 2014 | 8 | – |
| 2013 | 4 | – |
The 2025 paper
Truth knows no color.
The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.
Thought finds a world and creates one also.
Best lessons are learnt through bitter experiences.
Muddy water is best cleared by leaving it alone.
The years teach much which the days never know.
It is best to see life as a journey, not as a destination.
Contentment is natural wealth; luxury is artificial poverty.
Questions
How many Essay questions does UPSC set?
Eight topics in two sections of four; you write one essay from each.
Where can I practise Essay PYQs?
In the practice bank: every Essay question from 2013 to 2025, with an exam-pace timer. Free to write; 1 free evaluation against topper answers.
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.