Are you preparing for the APSC Mains? Wondering what the Essay paper demands from you?
This blog covers everything about the APSC Mains Essay Syllabus, including expected themes, paper structure, and expert tips to help you ace this important section of the Mains examination.
Introduction: What is the APSC Essay Paper?
The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) introduced the Essay paper as part of its revamped Civil Services Mains Examination pattern in line with the UPSC format.
- It is one of the compulsory papers in the Mains stage.
- The paper tests a candidate’s ability to express ideas clearly and coherently, and to critically analyze a topic from multiple perspectives.
- Unlike GS or Optional papers, the Essay demands original thought, clarity of expression, and a structured flow.
APSC Essay Paper – Basic Pattern
Here’s what you need to know about the Essay paper structure:
| Paper | Essay |
|---|---|
| Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Word Limit | approx. 1000–1200 words |
| Questions | Candidates have to write 2 essays, one from each section |
Note: While APSC does not prescribe a strict syllabus, the trend closely mirrors the UPSC Essay Paper format.
APSC Essay Syllabus – Themes You Should Prepare
Although the official syllabus does not specify topics, the essays are generally drawn from the following broad areas:
1. Society & Culture
- Women empowerment
- Social justice and inequality
- Education and youth issues
- Regionalism and identity
- Role of culture in development
2. Politics & Governance
- Democracy and its challenges
- Cooperative federalism
- Public policy and ethics
- Role of civil services
3. Economy
- Unemployment and job creation
- Inclusive growth
- Sustainable development
- Agricultural reforms
4. Science, Tech & Environment
- Climate change and its impact
- Space missions and India’s aspirations
- Artificial Intelligence – challenges & ethics
- Role of technology in rural development
5. Philosophy & Ethics
- Morality in public life
- Happiness and life purpose
- Truth, non-violence, and Gandhian thought
- Ethics vs. Expediency
6. Assam-Specific Issues (APSC-centric)
- Floods and ecological challenges
- Ethnic diversity and integration
- Role of women in Assam’s development
- Contribution of Assam’s leaders in nation-building
Previous Year Questions
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the APSC essay paper is to analyse the previous year topics to identify recurring themes and areas of focus. Below is a list of essay topics that have been asked in the past APSC exams.
APSC 2023
SECTION-A
- Addiction is a compulsive disorder rather than a criminal act
- Obesity: A new-age disorder
- The Indian Joint Family: An institution of interdependence and cooperation
- Live-in relationship : Rights and responsibilities
SECTION-B
- The future of Assamese Language
- Open-book examination
- Presence of life in the cosmos
- Rise in divorce cases in Assam
APSC 2022
SECTION-A
- Prejudice is the child of ignorance
- The wearer best knows where the shoe pinches
- If necessity is the mother of invention, discontent is the father of progress
- Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s need, but not every man’s greed
SECTION-B
- Impact of ‘Work from Home (WFH)’ on family life
- ChatGPT: boon or bane
- Think globally, act locally
- Economy is the method by which we prepare today to afford the improvements
of tomorrow
APSC 2020
SECTION-A
- A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge
- Being a leader is great, but being a good follower is greater still
- No man is an island
- Knowledge is its own reward
SECTION-B
- The National Education Policy, 2020: Its merits and demerits
- Problems of industrial development in Assam
- Role of women in the socio-economic development of India’s North-East
Click on the given link to download PDF: APSC Mains Essay 2023 | APSC Mains Essay 2022 | APSC Mains Essay 2020
Official APSC Resources : Sample Question Cum Answer Booklet provided by APSC
How to Prepare for the APSC Essay Paper?
1. Read & Reflect
- Read editorials from The Hindu, Assam Tribune, and Indian Express.
- Reflect on abstract themes like freedom, justice, identity, etc.
2. Practice Writing Regularly
- Start with 500-word essays and gradually move to 1000+ words.
- Practice both factual and philosophical topics.
3. Focus on Structure
Each essay must have:
- Introduction (define, contextualize)
- Body (multi-dimensional approach: social, economic, political, ethical)
- Conclusion (visionary, balanced, and hopeful)
4. Use Examples
- Use recent events, Assam-specific references, government schemes, and quotes to enrich your essay.
5. Get Feedback
- Join a test series or peer group to get your essays evaluated.
Sample Essay Topics for APSC Preparation
To help you get started, here are a few APSC-relevant essay topics:
- “Empowering the Northeast – A roadmap for inclusive development”
- “Ethics and leadership in public administration”
- “Role of women in Assam’s socio-economic transformation”
- “Disaster management in Assam – Beyond floods and relief”
- “Technology – A bridge or a barrier in rural India?”
FAQs
Ans:- For detailed Syllabus of APSC CCE check the given link below: APSC CCE syllabus
Ans:- If you’re planning to tackle APSC Prelims in three months, it’s important to adopt a strategic and organized approach. With such a broad and challenging syllabus, having a solid plan will make your preparation more manageable and enjoyable!
HOW TO CRACK APSC PRELIMS IN THREE MONTHS: A STRATEGIC GUIDE
Ans:- Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World. Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. Topics such as Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, and Social Sector Initiatives. Focus on concepts not requiring subject specialisation.
ESSENTIAL STUDY PLAN FOR EVERY APSC ASPIRANT: UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL!
Ans:- Whether the APSC exam is tough or not largely depends on a candidate’s level of preparation, understanding of the syllabus, and consistency. Like any other competitive exam, APSC demands a thorough grasp of current affairs, conceptual clarity in subjects like History, Polity, Economy, and Geography, and strong writing skills for the Mains and Interview stages. For candidates who start early, follow a structured study plan, and stay updated with Assam-specific developments, the exam becomes manageable. However, the competition is high, and success requires smart strategy, regular revision, and practice with previous year papers. Check the blog given in the link for a step-by-step guide to APSC preparation: HOW TO START PREPARING FOR APSC: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
