What Kind of Arguments Make an Essay Stand Out?

The Essay Paper in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination is not just about writing; it's about presenting well-structured, coherent, and impactful arguments. A strong essay can significantly boost your overall score, making it a key area for aspirants to focus on.

In this article, we'll explore the type of arguments that make an essay stand out, focusing on clarity, depth, balance, and relevance—the pillars of a high-scoring essay.

1. Clarity of Thought: The Foundation of Strong Arguments

Key Point:

Arguments should be clear, concise, and logically presented.

Avoid ambiguity or overcomplication; simplicity enhances understanding.

How to Achieve This:

Define key terms: If the essay topic involves complex ideas (e.g., “Globalization” or “Sustainability”), start by defining them clearly.

Use structured reasoning: Present arguments in a logical sequence: Introduction → Body (with distinct points) → Conclusion.

Example:

Instead of saying, "Globalization is bad for developing countries," say, "While globalization fosters economic growth through trade, it often exacerbates income inequality in developing nations due to unequal distribution of benefits."

2. Depth of Analysis: Moving Beyond the Surface

Key Point:

Superficial arguments are easily spotted. To stand out, delve into the “why” and “how” of issues.

How to Achieve This:

Incorporate multiple perspectives: For example, while discussing climate change, present arguments from scientific, economic, and social perspectives.

Use case studies and real-world examples: Referencing global events (like the COVID-19 pandemic) or Indian examples (like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan) adds credibility.

Example:

Instead of just stating "Digital India has improved governance," explain how it has reduced corruption through e-Governance initiatives and increased transparency in public service delivery.

3. Balanced Arguments: The Art of Objectivity

Key Point:

One-sided arguments can seem biased. A balanced essay acknowledges both pros and cons, demonstrating critical thinking.

How to Achieve This:

Use "both/and" structures: Discuss benefits and challenges before concluding.

Avoid extreme language: Words like “completely,” “always,” or “never” reduce credibility.

Example:

When writing about "The Role of Technology in Education", mention how digital platforms increase accessibility but also highlight issues like digital divides and reduced interpersonal interactions.

4. Relevance to the Topic: Staying on Track

Key Point:

Irrelevant arguments dilute the impact. Every paragraph should align with the essay’s central theme.

How to Achieve This:

Stick to the topic: Regularly refer back to the essay prompt.

Use topic sentences: Each paragraph should begin with a sentence that clearly states its relevance.

Example:

For the essay topic "Women Empowerment in India," focus on issues like education, employment, and gender parity, avoiding unrelated topics like global climate policies unless directly connected.

5. Logical Flow and Coherence: Creating a Narrative

Key Point:

A good essay is like a well-told story—each argument flows naturally into the next.

How to Achieve This:

Use transition words: Phrases like "Furthermore," "On the other hand," "Consequently," help maintain flow.

Group related ideas: Cluster similar arguments under thematic subheadings if possible.

Example:

In an essay on "The Impact of Social Media on Society," you might structure arguments under "Positive Impacts" (like global connectivity) and "Negative Impacts" (like mental health issues) before concluding.

6. Use of Data, Facts, and Case Studies

Key Point:

Empirical evidence strengthens arguments. Use statistics, reports, and real-world examples to support claims.

How to Achieve This:

Cite credible sources: Refer to government reports, international organizations, or academic studies.

Present data effectively: Use facts sparingly; too many numbers can overwhelm the reader.

Example:

When discussing "Poverty Alleviation in India," mention the NREGA scheme’s impact using data on employment generation and rural income improvements.

7. Originality of Thought: Avoiding Clichés

Key Point:

Fresh perspectives set high-scoring essays apart from the rest. Avoid repetitive ideas seen in standard answer keys.

How to Achieve This:

Critically evaluate popular ideas: Offer new insights or challenge conventional views.

Personal reflections: If relevant, add thoughtful observations from current events or personal experiences.

Example:

In an essay on "The Role of Youth in Nation Building," instead of generic points, discuss how young entrepreneurs are driving India’s startup ecosystem.