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UPSC Interview and the Importance of English
Dalip feb 21, 2025
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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) interview, officially known as the Personality Test, is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE). It is a crucial step in the selection process, as it evaluates not only a candidate’s knowledge but also their personality, decision-making ability, and communication skills. One important aspect that plays a significant role in the interview is the candidate's proficiency in English.
The UPSC Interview: An Overview
The UPSC interview is conducted by a panel of experts, including senior bureaucrats, academicians, and psychologists. The interview aims to assess a candidate’s suitability for a career in the civil services based on various parameters, such as:
Mental alertness
Critical thinking ability
Clarity of thought and expression
Leadership qualities
Ethical integrity
Knowledge of current affairs
Confidence and communication skills
Candidates can choose to appear for the interview in English or any other language mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. However, English often emerges as a preferred language due to its widespread usage in official communication and governance.
Importance of English in the UPSC Interview
1. Communication Clarity and Confidence
English is a global language and a primary medium of instruction in higher education and administration in India. Many candidates find that expressing their thoughts clearly and confidently in English gives them an edge during the interview. While content is paramount, effective communication in English can make a positive impression on the interview panel. Expressing yourself is more important than a good vocubalary.
2. Access to Study Material and Current Affairs
A vast majority of UPSC preparation materials, including newspapers, journals, and government reports, are available in English. Newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and The Economic Times publish insightful editorials and articles that help aspirants develop a balanced opinion on important issues. A good command of English allows candidates to understand complex topics and articulate their perspectives effectively. It is important to express your views more often instead of just reading by participanting in english meetups.
3. Professional and Administrative Relevance
English is the primary language used in Indian governance, legislation, judiciary, and international diplomacy. Civil servants are required to draft official documents, reports, and correspondence in English. Hence, fluency in English prepares candidates for their future roles, ensuring effective communication with colleagues, higher authorities, and international delegates.
4. Handling Situational Questions
The UPSC interview panel often presents candidates with hypothetical situations that test their problem-solving abilities. A candidate who can articulate their responses well in English is likely to convey their thoughts more persuasively, demonstrating clarity of thought and confidence.
Students’ Interview Snippets
Ravi Sharma (UPSC 2023 Rank 42): "I chose to give my interview in English because I was comfortable with the language. It helped me explain my answers concisely and confidently. The panel appreciated my clarity of thought."
Priya Verma (UPSC 2022 Rank 78): "Although I was hesitant at first, I practiced speaking in English daily before my interview. This practice improved my confidence, and I was able to present my views logically."
Amit Singh (UPSC 2021 Rank 112): "I opted for Hindi in my interview, but I ensured my English proficiency was good enough to understand and respond to any unexpected questions in the language. It helped me tackle diverse topics effectively."
Should You Appear for the UPSC Interview in English?
While proficiency in English is beneficial, it is not mandatory for success in the UPSC interview. Candidates can choose their preferred language based on comfort and fluency. The panel assesses the content and quality of responses rather than just the language proficiency. However, since many official duties require English proficiency, it is advisable for aspirants to work on improving their communication skills in the language.
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अगर आप एक छात्र हैं जो अंग्रेजी बोलने में हिचकिचाते हैं और दोस्तों व सहकर्मियों से बातचीत नहीं करते हैं, तो हम आपकी मदद कर सकते हैं।