The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2025 began on 24th August 2025, and one of the most crucial papers for aspirants was General Studies Paper IV – Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude.

Known as the “rank-booster” paper, GS-4 plays a decisive role in final selections. While knowledge-based GS papers test content, Ethics tests your personality, values, and decision-making. With practice, aspirants can turn Ethics into a high-scoring advantage.

In this blog, Aura IAS Academy brings you the complete UPSC Mains 2025 GS Paper 4 Question Paper with a direct PDF download link.

Why GS-4 (Ethics) Matters?

• Scoring Potential – Many toppers score 120–140+ marks here.

• Personality Reflection – Tests honesty, probity, and values of future administrators.

• Case Study Edge – Practical application makes this paper unique.

• Rank Booster – Ethics can compensate for lower marks in GS-2 or GS-3.

UPSC Mains 2025 GS Paper IV – Question Paper Pattern

📌 Section A – Theoretical Questions (125 Marks)
Covers definitions, thinkers, moral philosophy, governance values, and emotional intelligence.

📌 Section B – Case Studies (125 Marks)
Tests real-world decision-making with ethical dilemmas.

Aura IAS Insights on Ethics 2025

• Questions were application-oriented, testing conceptual clarity.

• Case studies reflected real administrative dilemmas like disaster management, corporate governance, political pressure, and law & order challenges.

• Candidates with daily answer writing practice would have had a strong advantage.

How to Prepare for Ethics 2026 with Aura IAS?

• Daily Answer Writing – Practice 2–3 questions every day.

• Case Study Workshops – Learn structured approaches to ethical dilemmas.

• PYQ Analysis (2013–2025) – Identify trends and recurring themes.

• One-to-One Mentorship – Get personalized feedback from Raghu Ram Gowda Sir.

Conclusion

The UPSC GS Paper 4 – Ethics 2025 once again highlighted that success in Mains requires not just knowledge, but also clarity of thought and ethical judgment.

📌 For Ethics Preparation 2026, join Aura IAS Foundation + Test Series Program. With structured practice, mentorship, and PYQ coverage, we help you target 150+ marks in Ethics.

🔗 Visit: https://auraias.in | 📞 +91 93103 64056