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In UPSC GS Paper IV (Ethics), case studies are designed to test your values, reasoning, and decision-making, not your perfection. Many aspirants get stuck thinking:
“What if I genuinely don’t know the best course of action?”
Good news: You don’t need a perfect solution. What matters most is how you think through the problem, even in uncertainty.
When unsure, follow this proven strategy:
List who is directly or indirectly affected.
This shows you understand the ethical depth of the situation.
????️ Example: “The affected stakeholders include the villagers, my subordinates, the environment, and the public trust in administration.”
Even if you’re unsure of the decision, write what values are clashing.
????️ Example: “This situation presents a conflict between public interest and personal integrity, and between rule compliance and human empathy.”
Even if you don’t know the best option, list multiple logical options, each with:
Pros
Cons
Ethical implications
Option 1: Follow orders despite ethical concerns
Option 2: Refuse and escalate the issue
Option 3: Follow orders but document the incident to protect integrity
Pick the least harmful, most ethical and sustainable option.
Even if you’re unsure, justify your choice with reasoning, not fear.
????️ Example: “Though option 2 might appear disobedient, it upholds public accountability and long-term institutional integrity.”
This shows maturity and practical thinking.
✍️ What You Should Still Include, Even When Unsure:
|
Element |
Purpose |
|---|---|
|
Stakeholders |
Shows empathy and ethical awareness |
|
Dilemmas |
Proves clarity of moral challenges |
|
Multiple options |
Reflects administrative thinking |
|
Reasoned choice |
Displays decision-making ability |
|
Safeguards/follow-up |
Reflects maturity and responsibility |
????️ “I will document my decision, consult seniors for clarity, and also suggest training reforms to prevent such dilemmas in future.”
???? Golden Rule: Reasoning > Perfection
Even if you’re unsure of what to do:
Don’t panic
Don’t leave the answer blank
Don’t bluff—explain your confusion with logical alternatives
The board rewards structured thinking, moral clarity, and humane judgment, even if the answer is not “ideal.”
Being unsure is natural. Writing with honesty, structure, and balanced reasoning is what makes you stand out.
Your answer doesn't need to be flawless—it needs to show that if you were in the field tomorrow, you'd act with thoughtfulness, integrity, and responsibility.
