An understanding of political theory significantly contributes to candidates’ performance in the UPSC exams. This knowledge helps candidates dissect topics related to governance, public policy, and international relations, which are common in both prelims and mains. Candidates versed in political theory can critically engage with foundational concepts such as liberalism, marxism, and feminism, allowing them to apply these frameworks to contemporary issues. Additionally, logical reasoning skills derived from studying political philosophy improve clarity and coherence in essays and interviews, thus enhancing overall performance during assessments.