Selecting the appropriate optional subject for the UPSC Mains is a crucial choice that can greatly affect your exam performance. Considering that the optional papers carry a total of 500 marks, selecting the appropriate selection might raise your exam score and increase your chances of passing. Here’s how to choose UPSC Mains’ best optional subject:
Personal Interest: Your level of interest in the topic is the most crucial component. The UPSC study process is lengthy and rigorous, and it will be hard to stay motivated if you find the material uninteresting or too difficult. Select a topic that interests and maintains your attention.
Academic foundation: It might be a good idea to choose a subject as an optional if you have a solid academic foundation in it. Time can be saved and advantages can be gained from having prior understanding of the subject
Availability of Resources: Verify that there is an adequate supply of books, study guides, and tutoring for the subject. A shortage of resources can make it harder for you to prepare and disadvantage you.
Overlap with GS Papers: There is a great deal of overlap between several subjects and the General Studies papers, including public administration, geography, and sociology. This can lighten your workload and improve your performance in both areas
Scoring Trends: Look at the trends of past UPSC results. Some subjects tend to score higher than others. Analyze these trends to understand which subjects have a better scoring potential.
Consult with Experts: Get advice from mentors, teachers, and past winners. They can assist you in making an informed choice by offering insightful information about the performance of various disciplines.
You can select an optional subject that best suits your strengths and increases your chances of passing UPSC Mains by carefully weighing these considerations
Choosing the right optional subject for UPSC Mains is a critical decision that can significantly impact your success in the exam. With a total of 500 marks allotted to the optional papers, making the right choice can boost your overall score and improve your chances of clearing the exam. Here’s how to select the best optional subject for UPSC Mains:
1 – Personal Interest: The most important factor is your interest in the subject. Studying for UPSC is a long and intense process, and if you find the subject boring or too challenging, it will become difficult to stay motivated. Choose a subject that excites you and keeps you engaged.
2 – Academic Background: If you have a strong academic background in a particular subject, it might be wise to select it as your optional. Familiarity with the subject can save you time, and your existing knowledge can give you an advantage
3 – Availability of Resources: Ensure that sufficient study material, books, and coaching are available for the subject. Lack of resources can hamper your preparation and put you at a disadvantage.
4 – Overlap with GS Papers: Some subjects like Public Administration, Geography, and Sociology have significant overlap with the General Studies papers. This can reduce your study burden and help you perform better in both areas.
5 – Scoring Trends: Look at the trends of past UPSC results. Some subjects tend to score higher than others. Analyze these trends to understand which subjects have a better scoring potential.
6 – Consult with Experts: Speak to previous toppers, mentors, and teachers. They can provide valuable insights into how different subjects perform and help you make an informed decision.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose an optional subject that aligns with your strengths and maximizes your chances of success in UPSC Mains.
