The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is renowned for comprehensively evaluating candidates aspiring to become civil servants in India. Beyond assessing factual knowledge, the examination significantly emphasises the ability to think critically. Critical thinking is not just an academic skill but a key competency distinguishing successful candidates in the UPSC examination.

Dr Huma Hassan, in our expert talk today, answers many relevant questions about the relevance of critical thinking in the UPSC examination.

Question 1: What is critical thinking, and in which stages of the UPSC examination is it helpful? Dr Huma Hassan: Critical thinking is a cognitive skill and mental process that involves analysing, synthesising, and evaluating information, ideas, or arguments. It goes beyond simply acquiring and memorising information; instead, it focuses on actively engaging with that information in a thoughtful and reflective manner. It plays a pivotal role in the various stages of the UPSC examination and its significance is very much high in shaping the future administrative leaders of the country. The UPSC examination consists of three stages — Prelims, Main, and Interview. Each stage demands a distinct set of critical thinking skills.

To elaborate, the Prelims require candidates to navigate a vast array of MCQs that test factual knowledge and the ability to analyse and infer information. Critical thinking enables candidates to decipher complex questions, eliminate incorrect options, and make informed choices within a limited timeframe. For instance, some questions may be intentionally ambiguous or may have multiple correct answers. Critical thinking allows candidates to navigate such situations by evaluating the various possibilities and selecting the most appropriate response.

Essay writing, which is a significant component of the Mains examination, here candidates are evaluated on their ability to present coherent arguments, analyze multifaceted issues, and demonstrate a nuanced understanding of societal challenges with critical thinking aspirants can excel in articulating their thoughts with clarity, precision, and depth.

Also, subjects like General Studies require an interdisciplinary approach, and critical thinking aids candidates in making connections between diverse topics. It involves analysing historical events, understanding economic trends, and evaluating the implications of policies, fostering a holistic perspective.

The Ethics paper assesses candidates on their ethical decision-making abilities. Critical thinking is integral in evaluating ethical dilemmas, weighing competing values, and proposing principled solutions that align with the values of public service. Finally, in the interview phase evaluates candidates on their personality, communication skills, and analytical abilities. Critical thinking is showcased as candidates respond to situational questions, discuss contemporary issues, and exhibit a thoughtful approach to governance and policy matters.

Question 2: Why a critical outlook is crucial for success in the UPSC Civil Services Examination? Dr Huma Hassan: In the UPSC CSE, candidates are often required to analyze complex problems, evaluate policy options, and propose effective solutions. Developing strong analytical skills enables candidates to navigate the diverse and intricate issues presented in the examination. Civil servants are often faced with decision-making in complex and dynamic situations. A critical outlook helps candidates in assessing the implications of various decisions, considering different angles, and making informed choices. This is particularly crucial in the administrative and policymaking roles that successful candidates will assume. A critical outlook is essential for understanding the socio-political dynamics of a diverse and complex society like India. It involves questioning assumptions, recognizing biases, and appreciating the multifaceted nature of issues. This understanding is crucial for devising inclusive and effective policies. It enables candidates to adapt to changing circumstances, question traditional practices, and propose innovative solutions. Also, it helps candidates navigate ethical dilemmas, ensuring that their decisions align with principles of justice, fairness, and integrity.

Question 3 : Even though critical thinking is a foundational skill that significantly enhances a candidate’s performance in the UPSC, why is this skill not very much highlighted majorly in the upsc preparation? Dr Huma Hassan: Some aspirants may not fully understand the significance of critical thinking in the UPSC examination. They might perceive the preparation process as solely focused on memorizing facts, underestimating the value of analytical skills. At the same time, the vast syllabus of the UPSC examination, particularly in the Prelims, can create time constraints. Aspirants may feel pressured to cover a wide range of topics, leaving limited time for in-depth critical analysis. Commonly, critical thinking involves analyzing and interpreting information, which can be subjective. Aspirants might fear that their opinions might not align with the examiner’s perspective, leading them to avoid engaging in critical analysis. Aspirants might not receive adequate guidance on how to develop critical thinking skills. Without clear instructions or strategies, they may struggle to incorporate critical thinking into their study routines.Without sufficient practice in critical thinking, aspirants may not develop the confidence or skill set necessary to apply critical thinking to a variety of questions and scenarios in the examination.

Question 4 : It’s essential for aspirants to recognise the value of critical thinking in the UPSC examination and beyond. Can you suggest some specific strategies to develop it? Dr Huma Hassan: Developing critical thinking is a gradual process that involves honing various cognitive skills and adopting a mindset of inquiry and analysis. Following strategies aspirants can use to foster critical skills: ● Aspirants must Cultivate a habit of questioning. They must actively engage in conversations by listening attentively to others, also ,consider different perspectives and try to understand the underlying reasoning behind various opinions. ● Read a diverse range of materials, including articles, books, and academic papers. Take notes, underline key points, and ask yourself questions as you read. ● Practice expressing your thoughts in a clear and organized manner. Write essays, analyze arguments, and articulate your perspective on various issues. ● Seek out opinions and viewpoints that differ from your own. ● Engage in discussions with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. ● Assess the reliability and credibility of information sources. ● Be mindful of biases and consider the context in which information is presented. ● Regularly reflect on your own thoughts and decision-making processes. ● Engage in debates or discussions, either formally or informally. ● Defend your viewpoints and be open to having your ideas challenged. ● Encourage feedback from peers, mentors, or teachers on your thought processes. ● Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for improvement. ● Stay informed about current events and global issues. ● Analyze news articles, evaluate different perspectives, and form your own opinions.

Remember that developing critical thinking is an ongoing process, and patience and persistence are key. By consistently applying these strategies, one can enhance their ability to think critically and approach problems and situations with a more analytical and open-minded mindset.

Question 5 : Are there any particular optionals which can develop critical thinking? Dr Huma Hassan: See almost all social sciences optionals like Philosophy, Psychology, Political science, economics etc, these disciplines have laid their cornerstone in critical thinking, however, it is Sociology optional in my opinion which can develop critical thinking from the beginning in aspirants, it can be evaluated by sociology’s very much definition that is Sociology is a critical and scientific study of society. Basically, Sociology broadens understanding by questioning our own assumptions as well as others. It offers us a perspective to see the similar world with critical lenses. For Instance, sociological theories provide frameworks for understanding social phenomena, critical thinking is involved in evaluating these theories, comparing them, and applying them to real-world situations to analyze and interpret social phenomena.

In fact, sociology classes often involve discussions and debates on various social issues and engaging in these discussions requires critical thinking as students analyze different viewpoints, question assumptions, and contribute substantiated arguments to the discourse.

Concepts like race, gender, and class are social constructs that shape individuals’ experiences. Undoubtedly, sociology encourages a critical examination of these constructs, challenging assumptions and prompting students to consider how these categories impact people’s lives.