When preparing for the Essay paper in UPSC Mains, aspirants should focus on enhancing their writing skills and critical thinking. Key areas include understanding various essay formats, improving coherence and structure, and expressing ideas clearly. Familiarity with current affairs and contemporary issues is essential, as these topics often serve as essay prompts. Practicing under timed conditions helps candidates develop the ability to articulate their thoughts efficiently. Additionally, regularly reading quality literature can enhance vocabulary and knowledge, providing a richer context for essay writing.