Mains - Essay
Q. How can one effectively manage time while writing an essay in the UPSC Mains examination?
A.
Spend equal time on all sections.
B.
Outline the essay before writing.
C.
Write as quickly as possible.
D.
Focus only on the introduction.
Show solution
Solution
Outlining the essay before writing helps in organizing thoughts and managing time effectively, ensuring all sections are adequately addressed.
Correct Answer: B — Outline the essay before writing.
Learn More →
Q. How important is the conclusion in an essay for the UPSC Mains examination?
A.
It is the least important part.
B.
It summarizes the main points only.
C.
It should introduce new ideas.
D.
It reinforces the thesis and leaves a lasting impression.
Show solution
Solution
The conclusion is crucial as it reinforces the main arguments and provides a final perspective, leaving a lasting impression on the examiner.
Correct Answer: D — It reinforces the thesis and leaves a lasting impression.
Learn More →
Q. In the context of essay writing for UPSC Mains, which of the following approaches is most effective for structuring an argument?
A.
Chronological order
B.
Problem-solution format
C.
Random thoughts
D.
Descriptive narrative
Show solution
Solution
The problem-solution format allows for a clear presentation of issues and potential resolutions, making the argument more persuasive.
Correct Answer: B — Problem-solution format
Learn More →
Q. In the context of essay writing, what is the significance of a well-defined thesis statement?
A.
It is optional and can be omitted.
B.
It serves as a roadmap for the essay.
C.
It limits the scope of discussion.
D.
It should be vague to allow flexibility.
Show solution
Solution
A well-defined thesis statement serves as a roadmap, guiding the structure and focus of the essay, ensuring coherence.
Correct Answer: B — It serves as a roadmap for the essay.
Learn More →
Q. In which year did Karl Marx publish 'The Communist Manifesto', a foundational text for modern socialist movements?
A.
A. 1848
B.
B. 1867
C.
C. 1871
D.
D. 1883
Show solution
Solution
'The Communist Manifesto' was published in 1848, outlining the principles of Marxism and advocating for class struggle.
Correct Answer: A — A. 1848
Learn More →
Q. The 'Great Leap Forward' was an economic campaign initiated in which country? (1958)
A.
India
B.
China
C.
Soviet Union
D.
United States
Show solution
Solution
The 'Great Leap Forward' was an economic campaign initiated by the Chinese Communist Party aimed at rapidly transforming China from an agrarian society into a socialist society through rapid industrialization.
Correct Answer: B — China
Learn More →
Q. The 'Opium Wars' were fought between China and which of the following countries?
A.
United States
B.
France
C.
Britain
D.
Japan
Show solution
Solution
The Opium Wars were fought between China and Britain, primarily over trade disputes and the opium trade.
Correct Answer: C — Britain
Learn More →
Q. The 'Salt March' led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 was a protest against which of the following? (1930)
A.
British taxation on salt
B.
British land revenue policies
C.
British education policies
D.
British trade restrictions
Show solution
Solution
The Salt March was a direct action campaign against the British salt tax, symbolizing the broader struggle for independence.
Correct Answer: A — British taxation on salt
Learn More →
Q. The architectural style of the Indo-Islamic period is best exemplified by which of the following monuments?
A.
Qutub Minar
B.
Ajanta Caves
C.
Hampi
D.
Khajuraho Temples
Show solution
Solution
Qutub Minar is a prime example of Indo-Islamic architecture, showcasing the blend of Islamic and Indian styles.
Correct Answer: A — Qutub Minar
Learn More →
Q. The Berlin Conference of 1884-85 is significant for which of the following reasons?
A.
It marked the end of the Cold War.
B.
It regulated European colonization and trade in Africa.
C.
It established the United Nations.
D.
It initiated the process of decolonization.
Show solution
Solution
The Berlin Conference regulated European colonization and trade in Africa, leading to the 'Scramble for Africa'.
Correct Answer: B — It regulated European colonization and trade in Africa.
Learn More →
Q. The concept of 'Nirvana' in Buddhism primarily refers to which of the following?
A.
A. A state of eternal bliss
B.
B. The cessation of suffering
C.
C. A form of enlightenment
D.
D. A philosophical doctrine
Show solution
Solution
'Nirvana' signifies the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism.
Correct Answer: B — B. The cessation of suffering
Learn More →
Q. The concept of 'Satyagraha' was first introduced by Mahatma Gandhi during which movement? (1917)
A.
Champaran Movement
B.
Kheda Satyagraha
C.
Non-Cooperation Movement
D.
Civil Disobedience Movement
Show solution
Solution
Mahatma Gandhi introduced the concept of 'Satyagraha' during the Champaran Movement in 1917 to address the grievances of indigo farmers.
Correct Answer: A — Champaran Movement
Learn More →
Q. The concept of 'Satyagraha' was first introduced by which leader in the Indian independence movement? (1915)
A.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak
B.
Mahatma Gandhi
C.
Jawaharlal Nehru
D.
Subhas Chandra Bose
Show solution
Solution
Mahatma Gandhi introduced the concept of 'Satyagraha' as a non-violent method of protest against injustice.
Correct Answer: B — Mahatma Gandhi
Learn More →
Q. The philosophical concept of 'Utilitarianism' is primarily associated with which of the following thinkers?
A.
A. John Stuart Mill
B.
B. Immanuel Kant
C.
C. Friedrich Nietzsche
D.
D. David Hume
Show solution
Solution
Utilitarianism is most closely associated with John Stuart Mill, who expanded on Jeremy Bentham's ideas about maximizing happiness.
Correct Answer: A — A. John Stuart Mill
Learn More →
Q. The philosophical idea of 'Allegory of the Cave' is presented in which of Plato's works?
A.
A. The Republic
B.
B. Phaedrus
C.
C. Symposium
D.
D. Timaeus
Show solution
Solution
The 'Allegory of the Cave' is found in 'The Republic', illustrating the difference between the world of appearances and the world of reality.
Correct Answer: A — A. The Republic
Learn More →
Q. The philosophical idea of 'Tabula Rasa' suggests that individuals are born as:
A.
A. Blank slates
B.
B. Innately good
C.
C. Sinful beings
D.
D. Rational creatures
Show solution
Solution
'Tabula Rasa' is the theory that individuals are born as blank slates, with knowledge and personality shaped by experience.
Correct Answer: A — A. Blank slates
Learn More →
Q. The Rowlatt Act of 1919 was enacted in India primarily to curb which of the following? (1919)
A.
Civil liberties
B.
Economic exploitation
C.
Cultural rights
D.
Political representation
Show solution
Solution
The Rowlatt Act was enacted to curb civil liberties and suppress dissent against British rule, leading to widespread protests.
Correct Answer: A — Civil liberties
Learn More →
Q. The Treaty of Versailles (1919) primarily aimed to address the consequences of which major event? (1919)
A.
World War I
B.
World War II
C.
The Cold War
D.
The Great Depression
Show solution
Solution
The Treaty of Versailles was signed to formally end World War I and impose penalties on Germany.
Correct Answer: A — World War I
Learn More →
Q. What is the impact of using diverse viewpoints in an essay for the UPSC Mains?
A.
It confuses the reader.
B.
It enriches the discussion.
C.
It makes the essay longer.
D.
It is unnecessary.
Show solution
Solution
Using diverse viewpoints enriches the discussion by presenting a balanced perspective, which is crucial for analytical essays.
Correct Answer: B — It enriches the discussion.
Learn More →
Q. What role does current affairs play in essay writing for the UPSC Mains examination?
A.
It is irrelevant to the essay topic.
B.
It provides examples to support arguments.
C.
It distracts from the main topic.
D.
It is only useful for the introduction.
Show solution
Solution
Current affairs provide relevant examples and case studies that can enhance the arguments made in the essay, making it more relatable and grounded.
Correct Answer: B — It provides examples to support arguments.
Learn More →
Q. Which ancient Greek philosopher is known for his method of questioning to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas?
A.
A. Plato
B.
B. Aristotle
C.
C. Socrates
D.
D. Epicurus
Show solution
Solution
Socrates is renowned for the Socratic method, which involves asking a series of questions to challenge assumptions.
Correct Answer: C — C. Socrates
Learn More →
Q. Which event marked the beginning of the Indian National Movement?
A.
The Revolt of 1857
B.
Formation of the Indian National Congress
C.
The Partition of Bengal
D.
The Non-Cooperation Movement
Show solution
Solution
The formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885 is considered the beginning of the organized Indian National Movement.
Correct Answer: B — Formation of the Indian National Congress
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following best describes the philosophical approach of Stoicism?
A.
A. Pursuit of pleasure
B.
B. Acceptance of fate
C.
C. Emphasis on reason
D.
D. Both B and C
Show solution
Solution
Stoicism teaches acceptance of fate and emphasizes the use of reason to navigate life's challenges.
Correct Answer: D — D. Both B and C
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following elements is essential for maintaining a formal tone in UPSC Mains essays?
A.
Use of colloquial language
B.
Inclusion of humor
C.
Avoiding contractions
D.
Personal opinions without basis
Show solution
Solution
Avoiding contractions helps maintain a formal tone, which is essential for academic writing in the UPSC Mains essays.
Correct Answer: C — Avoiding contractions
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following empires is known for its extensive road network and postal system in ancient times?
A.
Maurya Empire
B.
Gupta Empire
C.
Roman Empire
D.
Persian Empire
Show solution
Solution
The Roman Empire is renowned for its extensive road network and efficient postal system, facilitating trade and communication.
Correct Answer: C — Roman Empire
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following events marked the beginning of the modern Indian freedom struggle?
A.
The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857
B.
The formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885
C.
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919
D.
The Quit India Movement of 1942
Show solution
Solution
The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 is often considered the first major revolt against British rule, marking the beginning of the modern Indian freedom struggle.
Correct Answer: A — The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following factors is most critical in determining the success of an essay in the UPSC Mains examination?
A.
Clarity of thought
B.
Length of the essay
C.
Use of complex vocabulary
D.
Number of references
Show solution
Solution
Clarity of thought is essential as it ensures that the ideas are communicated effectively, making the essay coherent and impactful.
Correct Answer: A — Clarity of thought
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following is a common pitfall to avoid when writing an essay for the UPSC Mains?
A.
Using personal anecdotes
B.
Overgeneralizing arguments
C.
Incorporating diverse viewpoints
D.
Maintaining a formal tone
Show solution
Solution
Overgeneralizing arguments can weaken the essay by making it less specific and failing to address the nuances of the topic.
Correct Answer: B — Overgeneralizing arguments
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following movements is associated with the idea of 'Social Contract' as a basis for political legitimacy?
A.
A. Enlightenment
B.
B. Romanticism
C.
C. Realism
D.
D. Modernism
Show solution
Solution
The Enlightenment period is closely associated with the concept of the 'Social Contract', particularly in the works of philosophers like Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau.
Correct Answer: A — A. Enlightenment
Learn More →
Q. Which of the following movements was initiated by the Indian National Congress to oppose the British rule during World War I? (1920)
A.
Non-Cooperation Movement
B.
Civil Disobedience Movement
C.
Quit India Movement
D.
Home Rule Movement
Show solution
Solution
The Non-Cooperation Movement was initiated by the Indian National Congress in response to the repressive measures taken by the British during World War I.
Correct Answer: A — Non-Cooperation Movement
Learn More →
Showing 1 to 30 of 40 (2 Pages)