Effective strategies for essay writing in the UPSC mains involve a structured approach that includes a clear introduction, systematic argument development, and a concise conclusion. Candidates should focus on understanding the essay prompt, doing prior research to gather relevant facts, and presenting diverse viewpoints to enrich their essays. Maintaining a coherent flow and logical progression enhances readability. Additionally, practicing past essay topics can familiarize aspirants with the expected format and time constraints. Incorporating personal experiences or case studies makes the essay more relatable and impactful, potentially improving scores on this critical component of the examination.