Essay

I enjoyed writing essays and found them to be a good break from all the studying. However, a little work to build some value addition material can be very helpful to finish 2 quality essays within the given time.

Value addition to essays

1. Quotes: the simplest and oft used way to begin or end essays. Create a quote bank for yourself made up of all your favourite quotes. This is going to be helpful even in GS4.
2. Books: We can put to use excerpts from good books such as Dr. Kalam's autobiography, Sapiens, Argumentative Indian etc. were my favourites. Next time you read a book, highlight the thesis that you can quote in your essays. Simple ideas, nothing fancy. (To understand how to use it in essay, you can refer to my mocks below)
3.  Scholars/Thinkers' opinions: Especially if you have studied them in your optional. Don't overdo them but can definitely use 1-2. 
4. Practice anecdotes: I find it hard to come up with impressive anecdotes in the exam hall. Suggest you put together anything you find interesting in newspapers or otherwise so that you have a ready framework to work with in the exam.
5. Stats, Reports, Indices: always a good idea to use them, wherever relevant.

Some pointers / tips for better presentation

• 10.5 pages in UPSC booklet. Keep this in mind while making the mind map in rough sheet.
• Your essay can be any of these - Descriptive/Argumentative/Persuasive/Analytical/Narrative
• Try to fit in as many dimensions as possible: Social, Political, Economic, Gender, Environmental, International etc.
• Brainstorm at local, national and international levels. Do add if you know any case studies.
• Bonus if you can add Constitutional dimensions.
• Heading in black / Caps
• Do not select topics that are too close to each other. I did this mistake and ended up repeating a few points in both essays. 
• You may allot one para per thesis / anti-thesis and elaborate it. Example: if you are arguing about the technology and environment, technology and social contract, dedicate separate paragraphs to them, add in an example and substantiate your point. In the end try to reiterate your main topic (either for or against it, whatever your stand).

Samples Essays

Essay 1
Essay 2
Essay 3
Essay 4
Essay 5

Everyone has inertia before they begin to write something. The only way to shed it is to actually write something, no matter how it turns out. Even if you are confident in your writing skills, try to practice a few essays beforehand to bring out better coherence and presentation.