The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination consists of nine papers, out of which two papers are from the optional subject, carrying a total of 500 marks. Choosing the right optional subject is crucial as it can significantly impact your final ranking. Many aspirants struggle with this decision, often selecting subjects based on popularity rather than personal strengths and interests.
A well-chosen optional subject can help you score high and reduce your study burden, while a wrong choice can make preparation difficult. To make the best decision, consider various factors such as interest in the subject, syllabus length, overlap with General Studies, and availability of resources.
Factors to Consider While Choosing an Optional Subject
1. Interest in the Subject
• Choose a subject that genuinely interests you because you will study it in-depth for a long time.
• The subject should not feel boring or burdensome.
• If you enjoy reading and analyzing the subject, you are more likely to retain concepts.
• Avoid choosing a subject just because it is scoring or popular.
2. Understanding and Background Knowledge
• If you have studied a subject during graduation or school, it can be easier to grasp.
• Some subjects like Mathematics, Engineering, and Medical Science require strong technical knowledge.
• If you have never studied a subject before, check if you can understand its concepts quickly.
3. Availability of Study Materials and Resources
• Some optional subjects have more books, coaching support, and online resources than others.
• Subjects like Political Science, History, Geography, and Public Administration have abundant study materials.
• Technical subjects like Physics, Mathematics, and Engineering have limited guidance and study materials.
4. Overlapping with General Studies (GS) Papers
• Some optional subjects help in both Prelims and Mains preparation, reducing your study burden.
• History, Geography, Political Science, Public Administration, Sociology, and Economics have a significant overlap with General Studies.
• Choosing an overlapping subject saves time and effort in preparation.
5. Syllabus Length and Manageability
• Some subjects have a short and manageable syllabus, while others are vast and require extensive study.
• Anthropology, Philosophy, and Sociology have shorter syllabi, making them easier to complete.
• History, Political Science, and Law have longer syllabi, requiring more time and effort.
6. Scoring Potential and Previous Trends
• Some subjects have higher scoring potential due to objective answers and straightforward marking schemes.
• Anthropology, Political Science, Public Administration, and Sociology have been considered high-scoring in previous years.
• Subjects like History and Law are considered low-scoring because of lengthy answers and subjective marking.
7. Writing Ability and Subjective Nature
• Subjects like Political Science, Philosophy, and Sociology require strong analytical and writing skills.
• If you are good at structured answer writing, choose a subject that allows explanation and analysis.
• If you prefer factual and direct answers, subjects like Geography and Science-based optionals are better.
8. Coaching Support and Test Series Availability
• If you need coaching, check if good teachers and test series are available for the subject.
• Some subjects like History, Geography, and PSIR have many coaching options.
• Technical subjects like Physics and Engineering have very few coaching centers and test series.
9. Time Available for Preparation
• If you are a working professional or have limited time, choose a subject with a concise syllabus.
• If you have more time, you can go for a theory-heavy subject like History or Law.
• Consider how much time you can dedicate to optional subject preparation daily.
10. Past Performance of the Subject in UPSC
• Check previous years’ success rates for different optional subjects.
• Some subjects have consistently performed well, while others fluctuate.
• Avoid blindly following trends, as UPSC patterns change frequently.
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Popular Optional Subjects for UPSC Mains
1. Political Science & International Relations (PSIR)
• Overlaps with GS Paper II and International Relations.
• Analytical and conceptual subject, good for candidates with strong writing skills.
• Frequently chosen by UPSC toppers.
2. History
• Helps in GS Paper I and Essay Writing.
• Requires memorization of facts, events, and timelines.
• Syllabus is vast but interesting for candidates who love reading historical events.
3. Geography
• Overlaps with GS Paper I (Physical and Human Geography) and GS Paper III (Environment and Disaster Management).
• Scoring subject with maps, diagrams, and factual content.
• Requires strong conceptual clarity in physical geography concepts.
4. Sociology
• Overlaps with GS Paper I (Indian Society) and GS Paper II (Social Issues).
• High success rate due to short syllabus and scoring potential.
• Ideal for candidates with good writing and analytical skills.
5. Anthropology
• Small syllabus and scientific approach.
• High-scoring subject with diagram-based answers.
• Popular among candidates from science backgrounds.
6. Public Administration
• Overlaps with GS Paper II (Governance and Public Policy).
• Useful for candidates aiming for IAS and administrative roles.
• Requires good understanding of theoretical and administrative concepts.
7. Philosophy
• Smallest syllabus among all optional subjects.
• Theoretical subject, requires deep thinking and analysis.
• Good for candidates who enjoy logical reasoning and abstract concepts.
8. Economics
• Overlaps with GS Paper III (Indian Economy).
• Requires basic knowledge of macroeconomics and current economic trends.
• High-scoring subject but demands numerical and analytical skills.
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Steps to Choose the Best Optional Subject
1. List down 3-4 subjects that interest you.
2. Read the syllabus and previous year questions for each subject.
3. Check the availability of books, notes, and coaching support.
4. Test yourself by reading a few chapters from each subject.
5. Assess how much time you can dedicate to the optional subject.
6. Talk to seniors or mentors who have taken the same optional.
7. Make a final decision and stick to it (frequent changes waste time).
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the right optional subject is a personal decision that depends on your interest, strength, and preparation style. Avoid blindly following trends or selecting based on popularity.
• If you prefer analytical and conceptual subjects, go for PSIR, Sociology, or Public Administration.
• If you like facts and structured subjects, choose History or Geography.
• If you are from a technical background, consider Mathematics, Economics, or Engineering.
Select wisely, prepare with dedication, and stay consistent in your UPSC journey. The right optional subject can give you a competitive advantage and boost your chances of success.
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