The significance of previous years' question papers in UPSC preparation lies in their ability to guide aspirants on the exam's structure, style, and emphasis on topics. They serve as a blueprint for understanding the type of knowledge required and the expected depth of responses. Analyzing these papers helps candidates identify strengths and weaknesses in their subject comprehension. Moreover, they instill confidence through familiarity with questioning patterns, thus reducing exam anxiety. Consistent practice with these papers enhances both accuracy and speed while answering questions during the actual examination.