How to attempt GS 4 Time division: 1 hr 35 minutes (max 1:40) | Shubham Kumar: Strategy and Notes for UPSC(CSE)

How to attempt GS 4

Time division: 1 hr 35 minutes (max 1:40) for case studies and 1:25 minutes for section A

Section A

1) Write 3-4 dimensions and give examples. Don’t forget to mention administrative dimension where ever possible. Write Ethical angle also as far as possible

2) Other important dimensions- global, environmental, historical, personality based, corporate, current affairs

3) Administrative dimension: Can frame examples- few best scenarios where many qualities are covered are riot control, disaster management, handling election (these departments directly come under DM)

4) Values mapping: Use words from syllabus like integrity, emotional intelligence etc

5) Link with GS 2 (governance): write Constitutional articles, DPSPs, FRs, Acts/Rules (Eg- Civil Services Conduct Rules), NITI, ARC2, Institutions
(true for case studies also)

6) Writing appropriate quotes in section A is rewarding

7) Make flow charts

Section B (Case studies)

1) Write good intro: come out of case study and give a broader perspective- (like the above case study pertains to classic debate between env vs development…)

2) Space management: give more focus on ‘what will you do/be your approach’ - (eg - in questions where it is asked what all options available and what you will do- write 2 extreme steps and then your own)

3) Write long and short term solutions (no need to mention as subheading though): not in all but where ever possible- write some specific and concrete steps

4) Explain ethical dilemmas/issues well - with help of short short paragraphs (don’t only mention it rather explain it)

5) Try to address smaller problems apart from main problem: Underline and mark on (1,2,3,4) the question paper (not answer booklet) and keep it in front of you while writing answers so that you don’t miss anything.

6) Think from all stakeholders: No need to mention, if it has not been asked exclusively, but thinking in lines with all stakeholders- makes answers comprehensive

(Eg if question came related to drug trafficking in state which share boundary with other nation……- answer should reflect not only control at drug, but other solutions related to problem arising out of being border state)

All the Best for tomorrow !!