{"id":50863,"date":"2026-06-20T09:09:23","date_gmt":"2026-06-20T09:09:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/?p=50863"},"modified":"2026-06-20T09:09:26","modified_gmt":"2026-06-20T09:09:26","slug":"how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Score 125+ Marks in UPSC Mains 2026 Essay Paper: Revolutionary Writing Technique"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>For UPSC Mains 2026 aspirants, the Essay paper remains one of the most unpredictable yet rewarding components of the Civil Services Examination.<\/strong> Every year, thousands of aspirants prepare extensively for General Studies, Current Affairs, and Optional subjects, yet struggle to cross the 100\u2013110 mark range in the Essay paper. The difference between an average score and a 125+ score often has little to do with vocabulary, quotations, or handwriting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to Shabbir Sir&#8217;s revolutionary essay writing approach for <strong>UPSC Mains 2026<\/strong>, the real differentiator is not writing\u2014it is thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc\/upsc-essay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/essay-msp-1320.jpg-2-1024x300.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-50783\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a383e692afef\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a383e692afef\"  \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#The_Biggest_Myth_About_Essay_Writing\" title=\"The Biggest Myth About Essay Writing\">The Biggest Myth About Essay Writing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Why_UPSC_Asks_Philosophical_Essay_Topics\" title=\"Why UPSC Asks Philosophical Essay Topics\">Why UPSC Asks Philosophical Essay Topics<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#The_Three_Levels_of_Essay_Thinking\" title=\"The Three Levels of Essay Thinking\">The Three Levels of Essay Thinking<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Level_1_Descriptive_Thinking\" title=\"Level 1: Descriptive Thinking\">Level 1: Descriptive Thinking<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Level_2_Analytical_Thinking\" title=\"Level 2: Analytical Thinking\">Level 2: Analytical Thinking<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Level_3_Philosophical_Thinking\" title=\"Level 3: Philosophical Thinking\">Level 3: Philosophical Thinking<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#What_Makes_a_High-Scoring_UPSC_Mains_2026_Essay\" title=\"What Makes a High-Scoring UPSC Mains 2026 Essay?\">What Makes a High-Scoring UPSC Mains 2026 Essay?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#1_Deep_Insights\" title=\"1. Deep Insights\">1. Deep Insights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#2_Analytical_Reasoning\" title=\"2. Analytical Reasoning\">2. Analytical Reasoning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#3_Understanding_of_Human_Nature\" title=\"3. Understanding of Human Nature\">3. Understanding of Human Nature<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Stop_Using_the_PESTLE_Formula_for_Every_Essay\" title=\"Stop Using the PESTLE Formula for Every Essay\">Stop Using the PESTLE Formula for Every Essay<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#The_Three_Invisible_Questions_Behind_Every_Essay_Topic\" title=\"The Three Invisible Questions Behind Every Essay Topic\">The Three Invisible Questions Behind Every Essay Topic<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#What_is_the_statement_really_telling_me\" title=\"What is the statement really telling me?\">What is the statement really telling me?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Why_is_it_true\" title=\"Why is it true?\">Why is it true?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Why_is_it_not_completely_true\" title=\"Why is it not completely true?\">Why is it not completely true?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#The_Thinking_Box_Framework\" title=\"The Thinking Box Framework\">The Thinking Box Framework<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Meaning_Questions\" title=\"Meaning Questions\">Meaning Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Why_Questions\" title=\"Why Questions\">Why Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Consequence_Questions\" title=\"Consequence Questions\">Consequence Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Counter_Questions\" title=\"Counter Questions\">Counter Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Philosophical_Questions\" title=\"Philosophical Questions\">Philosophical Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#The_Power_of_Paradoxes_in_Essay_Writing\" title=\"The Power of Paradoxes in Essay Writing\">The Power of Paradoxes in Essay Writing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Practice_Matters_More_Than_Talent\" title=\"Practice Matters More Than Talent\">Practice Matters More Than Talent<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Final_Takeaway\" title=\"Final Takeaway\">Final Takeaway<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/how-to-score-125-marks-in-upsc-mains-2026-essay-paper-revolutionary-writing-technique\/#Join_the_course_now\" title=\"Join the course now\">Join the course now<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Biggest_Myth_About_Essay_Writing\"><\/span>The Biggest Myth About Essay Writing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most aspirants believe that high-scoring essays require:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complex vocabulary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dozens of quotations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exceptional language skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fancy introductions and conclusions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>However, these factors contribute very little to a candidate&#8217;s final score.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A good essay is ultimately an examination of your thought process. It reflects your intellect, judgment, maturity, and ability to understand the deeper dimensions of a topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The examiner is not evaluating how many quotations you remember. The examiner is evaluating how deeply you can think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_UPSC_Asks_Philosophical_Essay_Topics\"><\/span>Why UPSC Asks Philosophical Essay Topics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A common pattern can be observed in recent UPSC Essay papers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Topics such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forests precede civilizations and deserts follow them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wisdom finds truth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reality does not conform to ideals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>are intentionally philosophical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because factual knowledge has already been tested through General Studies and Optional papers. The Essay paper is designed to assess something different: your ability to interpret, analyze, and generate original insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For <strong>UPSC Mains 2026<\/strong>, aspirants must understand that essay topics are not asking for information. They are asking for interpretation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Three_Levels_of_Essay_Thinking\"><\/span>The Three Levels of Essay Thinking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Shabbir Sir explains that most aspirants operate at the first level of thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Level_1_Descriptive_Thinking\"><\/span>Level 1: Descriptive Thinking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For the topic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&#8220;Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master.&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most students write:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Advantages of technology<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disadvantages of technology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This remains a surface-level discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Level_2_Analytical_Thinking\"><\/span>Level 2: Analytical Thinking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A stronger approach would be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why does technology create dependence?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why does convenience reduce capability?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How does technology influence human decision-making?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Now the essay moves beyond description and starts explaining causes and consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Level_3_Philosophical_Thinking\"><\/span>Level 3: Philosophical Thinking<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The highest level of thinking explores deeper truths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;Every tool expands human power but can simultaneously diminish human agency.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This transforms the discussion from technology alone to a broader reflection on human behavior, convenience, dependency, creativity, and freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where 125+ marks begin to emerge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Makes_a_High-Scoring_UPSC_Mains_2026_Essay\"><\/span>What Makes a High-Scoring UPSC Mains 2026 Essay?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A high-scoring essay generally demonstrates three qualities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Deep_Insights\"><\/span>1. Deep Insights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The essay should reveal layers beneath the obvious meaning of the topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Analytical_Reasoning\"><\/span>2. Analytical Reasoning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of merely describing events or examples, explain why things happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Understanding_of_Human_Nature\"><\/span>3. Understanding of Human Nature<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most philosophical essays are ultimately about people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Questions such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why do humans seek comfort?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do people resist change?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do societies repeat mistakes?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do individuals fear uncertainty?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>often form the core of great essays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more clearly you understand human behavior, the stronger your essay becomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stop_Using_the_PESTLE_Formula_for_Every_Essay\"><\/span>Stop Using the PESTLE Formula for Every Essay<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many aspirants mechanically divide essays into:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Political<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Economic<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Technological<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental dimensions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>While this approach may help generate content, it often destroys the philosophical depth of the essay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The examiner is looking for meaningful interpretation, not a checklist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For <strong>UPSC Mains 2026<\/strong>, candidates must move beyond formula-based writing and focus on idea-based writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Three_Invisible_Questions_Behind_Every_Essay_Topic\"><\/span>The Three Invisible Questions Behind Every Essay Topic<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before writing, ask yourself three questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_statement_really_telling_me\"><\/span>What is the statement really telling me?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Identify the central idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_it_true\"><\/span>Why is it true?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore arguments supporting the statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_it_not_completely_true\"><\/span>Why is it not completely true?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Examine limitations, contradictions, and alternative perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wisdom finds truth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why is it true?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wisdom promotes self-awareness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experience improves judgment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knowledge helps identify reality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Why is it not completely true?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Knowledge can be misused.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Truth can be subjective.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Intelligent people may rationalize unethical behavior.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This tension creates depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Thinking_Box_Framework\"><\/span>The Thinking Box Framework<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most practical tools shared by Shabbir Sir is the &#8220;Thinking Box&#8221; framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before writing any essay, brainstorm through five lenses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Meaning_Questions\"><\/span>Meaning Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What is the literal meaning?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is the hidden meaning?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What assumptions does the topic contain?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Questions\"><\/span>Why Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why does this happen?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why do people behave this way?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Why is this idea relevant?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consequence_Questions\"><\/span>Consequence Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What happens if this idea succeeds?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What happens if it fails?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How does it affect society?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Counter_Questions\"><\/span>Counter Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are there exceptions?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What limitations exist?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can the opposite also be true?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Philosophical_Questions\"><\/span>Philosophical Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What does this reveal about human nature?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is the deeper moral lesson?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What larger truth does the topic represent?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This framework helps aspirants think beyond generic content and produce richer essays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Power_of_Paradoxes_in_Essay_Writing\"><\/span>The Power of Paradoxes in Essay Writing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Another powerful technique discussed in the session is identifying paradoxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Paradoxes create intellectual tension and make essays more engaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider the topic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Life is long enough if we know how to use it.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Possible paradoxes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>People have more time-saving devices than ever, yet feel busier than ever.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Life expectancy has increased, yet people complain about a lack of time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Technology offers endless choices, yet many struggle to find purpose.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Such observations elevate the quality of discussion and demonstrate mature thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practice_Matters_More_Than_Talent\"><\/span>Practice Matters More Than Talent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most reassuring insights from the session is that essay writing is a skill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ability to identify themes, generate dimensions, and think philosophically improves with deliberate practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even practicing a few essays using the Thinking Box framework can significantly improve performance in <strong>UPSC Mains 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For aspirants looking for structured guidance, regular evaluation, brainstorming exercises, and mentorship, the <strong>Essay Support Program by Shabbir Sir<\/strong> provides a focused approach to developing these higher-order thinking skills required in the UPSC Essay paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Takeaway\"><\/span>Final Takeaway<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest lesson from this session is simple:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Great essays are not written. Great essays are thought.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The journey from 90 marks to 125+ marks is not about learning more quotations or memorizing more examples. It is about developing the ability to interpret topics deeply, identify hidden tensions, understand human nature, and communicate meaningful insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you prepare for <strong>UPSC Mains 2026<\/strong>, spend less time searching for perfect introductions and more time learning how to think about a topic from multiple perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because in the end, the Essay paper is not testing your writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is testing the quality of your thinking.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Join_the_course_now\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/upsc\/upsc-essay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Join the course now<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"\ud83d\udd34 LIVE Essay MSP 2026 | Revolutionary Essays Writing Technique | 125+ Marks Strategy by Shabbir Sir\" width=\"1170\" height=\"658\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/n-gjCCf2UzU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For UPSC Mains 2026 aspirants, the Essay paper remains one of the most unpredictable yet rewarding components of the Civil Services Examination. Every year, thousands of aspirants prepare extensively for&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-50863","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blogs"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50863","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=50863"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50863\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50864,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50863\/revisions\/50864"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=50863"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=50863"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edukemy.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=50863"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}