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Common mistakes committed by the candidates in Conventional Papers(Notified by UPSC)

Here are the officially notified common mistakes by UPSC that candidates make in Conventional (Main) papers, taken from UPSC’s own website:

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📝 UPSC-Listed Main Exam Mistakes

1. Writing irrelevant content on the answer booklet
   (e.g., slogans, personal notes, doodles) — this is strictly prohibited.
2. Disclosing identifying information
   Candidates must not reveal their identity (name, roll no., signature) anywhere on the answer sheets.
3. Mixing languages
   Answers must be written entirely in the chosen medium; avoid shifting languages within a paper.
4. Using both pen & pencil in one answer
   Stick to either pen or pencil consistently.
5. Appealing to the examiner
   Lines like "please consider" or "it's my last attempt" are discouraged and penalised.
6. Illegible handwriting
   Difficult-to-read handwriting can cost marks — clarity and readability matter.
7. Not following instructions
   Write answers in designated spaces, follow word limits and question instructions precisely.
8. Doodling/sketching
   Any irrelevant markings are discouraged and may lead to mark reductions.

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✅ Additional Common Errors (From Experts & Aspirants)

While not on UPSC’s official list, these are frequently cited pitfalls seen across conventional papers:

• Poor time management – Failing to plan answers leads to incomplete or rushed responses.
• Insufficient answer planning – Jumping into writing without outlining results in disorganized arguments.
• Unstructured or verbose answers – Long-winded, unfocused answers dilute your argument’s impact.
• Inadequate use of current affairs examples – Not incorporating relevant current events weakens your answers.
• Weak introduction and conclusion – Intros and conclusions should be concise yet meaningful.
• Not addressing the question fully – Overlooking parts of the question or writing beyond its scope.
• Skipping diagrams, flowcharts, or maps – Visual tools enhance clarity when used appropriately.
• Overcomplicated language – Fancy vocabulary can obscure intent; clarity is key.
• Neglecting revision and practice – Lack of regular mock tests or writing drills harms performance.

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🎯 How to Avoid These Mistakes

Aspect	Common Error	Fix
Writing Style	Illegible or unstructured writing	Keep answers tidy, well-spaced, and follow structure
Content Coverage	Missing question parts or irrelevant additions	Parse Qs carefully; use introduction, body, conclusion
Presentation	Doodles, appeals to examiner, mixing languages	Strictly follow rules; no personal notes or identity leak
Time Management	Rushing or leaving answers incomplete	Allocate time per question; draft outline before writing
Use of Resources	No current affairs, diagrams, or PYQ usage	Bring in relevant examples, visuals, past trends
Practice	Not writing enough answers in test conditions	Regular mock writing, peer/expert feedback, timed sessions

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📌 Final Takeaway

• Stick strictly to UPSC’s official instructions: Avoid identity markings, doodles, mixed usage of languages, appeals, pen/pencil switches, or illegible handwriting.
• Structure your answers: Practice crafting intros, logical bodies, and balanced conclusions.
• Integrate quality content: Use current affairs, diagrams, and case studies where relevant.
• Simulate real exam conditions: Practice with mocks, analyze mistakes, and revise consistently.

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Let me know if you’d like help practicing answer outlines, or if you'd like a mock answer evaluation based on these criteria!

Common mistakes committed by the candidates in Conventional Papers(Notified by UPSC)