---
title: "Directive Map Definition and Use | Model Diplomat"
description: "A directive map is an answer-writing technique for exams like UPSC, helping candidates decode questions and plan structured responses."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/directive-map"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- A directive map is an answer-writing technique whereby a candidate first decodes the question's directive verb to plan the structure, depth, and treatment the examiner demands before drafting.
- How does a directive map differ from a content map in answer writing?
- Why do 'discuss', 'examine', and 'critically examine' demand different treatments?
- Which UPSC papers most directly reward directive-mapping skill?
- What is the commonest mistake the directive map prevents?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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Example

In the UPSC Civil Services Mains 2022 GS-II paper, candidates were asked to "critically examine" the role of the Governor; scripts that merely described the Governor's powers without weighing federal merits and demerits lost the evaluative marks the directive demanded.

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[Anatomy Of A Good Answer Intro Body Conclusion](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/exam-answer-writing-anatomy-of-a-good-answer-intro-body-conclusion)

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