In the context of the UPSC Main Examination, 'general studies' refers to a set of papers that cover a wide range of subjects like history, geography, political science, and social issues. These papers aim to assess candidates' overall awareness and understanding of the socio-economic and political landscape, both nationally and internationally. General studies papers play a crucial role in evaluating the aspirant's analytical abilities, critical thinking, and ability to integrate various fields of knowledge, which are essential for effective governance.