The essay paper in the UPSC Mains serves the purpose of evaluating a candidate’s writing skills, analytical ability, and depth of understanding on various issues. It assesses how effectively an aspirant can articulate thoughts in a structured manner, presenting varied perspectives on complex topics. This evaluation goes beyond mere factual knowledge, emphasizing the candidate’s ability to construct coherent arguments and convey nuanced insights. A well-written essay reflects critical thinking, making it a vital component of the Mains examination to gauge potential administrators’ communication capabilities.