Introduction
The Essay Writing section in the IFSCA Grade A Phase II Descriptive Paper is a high-impact component of the exam. With just 270 words to write a focused, informative, and structured essay, many aspirants either over-elaborate or underdeliver. The key lies in mastering the essay format, writing style, and understanding what the examiner expects.
This article from Bank Whizz provides you with a detailed breakdown of the ideal essay format, important dos and don’ts, and real examples based on trending topics relevant to IFSCA.
IFSCA Grade A Essay Section Overview
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Marks Allotted | 30 |
| Word Limit | ~270 words |
| Time Suggested | 20 minutes |
| Evaluation Basis | Structure, relevance, grammar, flow, vocabulary, originality |
Essays typically appear from topics related to:
- Finance and economy
- International financial markets
- Digital innovation
- Sustainable development
- Regulatory challenges
- Current national/global events
Ideal Format for Essay Writing in IFSCA Grade A
Following a structure makes your essay easier to read and score.
1. Introduction (40-50 words)
- Briefly introduce the topic
- Define key terms if required
- Set the context or tone of the essay
2. Body (150-170 words)
- 2 to 3 paragraphs explaining different aspects
- Each paragraph should contain a distinct idea
- Use examples, data, or facts to support arguments
3. Conclusion (45-55 words)
- Summarize the key points
- Give a forward-looking statement, suggestion, or policy implication
Total Word Count: ~270 words
Tips to Master the Essay Format
- Stick to the Word Limit
- Essays beyond 290 words are likely to be penalized.
- Practice writing within the limit with clarity.
- Use Simple, Formal English
- Avoid jargon unless the topic demands it (like CBDC, ESG, etc.)
- Avoid Bullet Points
- Use paragraphs. Examiners look for structured writing, not lists.
- No Personal Opinions
- Frame views using “it can be observed,” “this suggests,” etc.
- Support with Real-world Data
- Quote RBI, SEBI, or IFSCA reports where relevant. One data point adds value.
High-Scoring Essay Structure Template
Topic: The Role of Green Finance in India’s Economic Growth
Introduction
Green finance refers to financial investments flowing into sustainable development projects, including clean energy, pollution control, and resource conservation. In recent years, India has shifted its focus toward green economic practices to tackle climate change and drive long-term growth.
Body
Green bonds have become a popular mechanism to fund renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure. India’s sovereign green bond issuance in 2023 attracted global attention, highlighting its commitment to ESG standards. Financial regulators like RBI and IFSCA are promoting sustainability-linked disclosures and climate risk assessment in financial institutions. Moreover, green finance is expected to play a central role in achieving India’s net-zero target by 2070. Despite progress, challenges such as greenwashing, lack of ESG transparency, and a narrow investor base persist.
Conclusion
Green finance presents a strategic opportunity for India to align economic growth with environmental responsibility. With appropriate policy frameworks and investor education, it can become a pillar of sustainable development.
Top 5 Do’s for Essay Writing in IFSCA Exam
- Choose the Topic You Know Best
If options are given, select the one you’re confident about. Relevance trumps popularity. - Write in Logical Flow
The examiner should be able to follow your argument without jumping between unrelated points. - Use Examples Sparingly But Effectively
A small reference to GIFT City, RBI, or an international example (like MAS Singapore) shows awareness. - Include Both Challenges and Solutions
Essays that discuss only positives or only negatives feel one-sided. - Maintain a Neutral Tone
This is a professional exam. Avoid extreme statements or personal views.
Top 5 Don’ts for Essay Writing
- Don’t Copy Phrases from Current Affairs Notes
Paraphrase ideas in your own language. - Don’t Ignore Grammar and Punctuation
Incorrect syntax reduces readability and marks. - Don’t Forget to Proofread
Always leave 2 minutes at the end to fix minor errors. - Don’t Use Slang or Informal Phrases
Use words like “therefore,” “moreover,” “consequently,” not “kind of,” or “stuff.” - Don’t Exceed Word Limit by a Large Margin
Brevity with clarity shows mastery.
IFSCA-Relevant Essay Examples (With Opening Sentences)
Here are some sample opening lines and main points you can practice expanding into full essays:
1. Topic: Role of IFSCA in Making India a Global Financial Hub
Intro:
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) is a unified regulator aimed at consolidating India’s presence in global financial markets through institutions like GIFT City.
Key Points:
- Regulatory clarity
- Offshore fund management
- Ease of doing business
- Cross-border financial innovation
2. Topic: Central Bank Digital Currency – Boon or Challenge?
Intro:
CBDC is a digital form of fiat currency, introduced by central banks to increase transparency, reduce cash dependence, and streamline payment systems.
Key Points:
- Financial inclusion
- Interoperability with UPI
- Risks of cybersecurity and privacy
- Impact on commercial banks
3. Topic: Fintech Disruption in Capital Markets
Intro:
Technology-led innovation in finance, commonly termed as ‘Fintech,’ is redefining how capital markets function, from trading to investment advisory.
Key Points:
- Algo trading and APIs
- Robo-advisory
- Regulatory sandboxes
- Investor protection
4. Topic: Climate Risk and Financial Stability
Intro:
Climate change poses a systemic threat to financial stability, as physical and transition risks affect asset valuation, insurance, and credit systems.
Key Points:
- RBI and SEBI climate frameworks
- Green stress testing
- Repricing of high-carbon assets
- Global collaboration (TCFD, NGFS)
Daily Practice Plan (15 Minutes)
- Choose one trending topic
- Write an essay outline (intro, 3 bullet points, conclusion)
- Expand into 270-word essay
- Time yourself
- Get feedback from Bank Whizz or peers
How to Evaluate Your Own Essay
| Criterion | Self-Check Questions |
|---|---|
| Structure | Is there a clear intro-body-conclusion format? |
| Relevance | Does each paragraph stick to the topic? |
| Grammar | Are sentence constructions and tenses correct? |
| Vocabulary | Is the language formal and professional? |
| Word Limit | Is it within the 270-word range? |
Give yourself 5 marks for each. Aim for 22+ out of 25 in mocks consistently.
Conclusion
Scoring high in the IFSCA Grade A Essay Section isn’t just about good English—it’s about writing in a format that showcases clarity, relevance, structure, and insight. A well-planned 200-word essay can fetch 25+ marks if you follow the format and strategy discussed above.
Master the basics, stay updated with financial and regulatory topics, and practice consistently with Bank Whizz’s descriptive mock series for expert evaluation.