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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. With a vast syllabus and stiff competition, aspirants must carefully strategize their preparation. One critical element of this preparation is the optional subject that candidates choose for the Mains stage of the exam. This optional subject plays a significant role in determining the candidate’s rank and overall score.
Why Are Optional Subjects Important?
The UPSC exam is divided into three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. While the Prelims exam is objective in nature, the Mains examination is subjective and includes nine papers. Two of these papers are dedicated to the optional subject chosen by the candidate. This makes the optional subject crucial because:
1. Scoring Potential: The optional subject accounts for 500 marks in the Mains exam (250 marks for each paper), out of a total of 1750 marks. The right choice can significantly boost a candidate’s score and improve their rank.
2. Specialization: Optional subjects allow candidates to showcase their expertise in a specific area. Some candidates choose subjects they are familiar with from their academic background, while others opt for subjects they are passionate about or find easier to score in.
3. Balance Between GS Papers and Optional: The General Studies (GS) papers cover a vast range of topics, and balancing the preparation of GS and the optional subject can be challenging. Choosing an optional subject that complements the GS papers can make preparation easier and more efficient.
4. Influence on the Interview: The optional subject can also play a role in the interview stage of the UPSC exam. The interview panel often asks questions related to the optional subject, so it’s important for candidates to choose a subject they are comfortable with and confident about.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optional Subject
Choosing the right optional subject requires a strategic approach. Here are some factors to consider:
- Interest and Familiarity: It is crucial to select a subject that aligns with your interests or academic background. A subject you are passionate about will make the study process more enjoyable and engaging.
- Availability of Study Material: Some optional subjects have extensive resources available in the form of books, coaching material, and online resources. Choose a subject for which you can easily access study material and guidance.
- Scoring Trends: Review the past performance of different optional subjects. Some subjects consistently yield higher scores for candidates.
- Overlap with GS Papers: Optional subjects like History, Political Science & International Relations (PSIR), and Anthropology have significant overlap with the General Studies syllabus, which can save time and effort in preparation.
Eden IAS Prayagraj: Offering Specialized Optional Subjects
For aspirants seeking to excel in their optional subjects, Eden IAS Prayagraj is a renowned coaching institute that provides excellent guidance for various optional subjects. Under the mentorship of Apoorva Mam, Eden IAS offers high-quality teaching in optional subjects like Ancient History, along with PSIR, History, and Anthropology.
- Ancient History: Taught by Apoorva Mam herself, this optional is popular among candidates with an interest in history and those looking to leverage its overlap with GS Paper I.
- PSIR (Political Science & International Relations): Known for its conceptual clarity and relevance to current affairs, PSIR is a popular choice for aspirants who are passionate about politics and international diplomacy.
- History: With a vast syllabus covering both ancient and modern aspects, History remains a scoring subject for many aspirants. Eden IAS provides comprehensive coverage, including maps and critical analysis.
- Anthropology: As a subject with relatively concise syllabus and high scoring potential, Anthropology is gaining popularity among UPSC aspirants. The guidance at Eden IAS ensures students have a clear understanding of the concepts and scoring techniques.
Course Details at Eden IAS Prayagraj
- Course Duration: The optional subjects are taught over a period of 4-6 months, allowing ample time for revision and practice.
- Fees: The fee for the optional subjects at Eden IAS is ₹40,000, making it an affordable choice for quality coaching.
*Special Sunday Test Series*
Eden IAS also offers a special test series every Sunday, allowing students to evaluate their preparation and receive detailed feedback. What’s even better? You can attempt the test for just ₹1. The test series comes with special guidance to help students improve their writing skills, answer presentation, and overall performance.
In conclusion, the optional subject plays a decisive role in the UPSC exam. Choosing the right optional, getting proper guidance, and regularly practicing through test series are key to success in this competitive exam. With Eden IAS Prayagraj offering specialized courses for optional subjects like Ancient History, PSIR, History, and Anthropology, aspirants can confidently prepare and increase their chances of success.
For those looking for expert guidance and a well-rounded approach to optional subject preparation, Eden IAS Prayagraj stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of UPSC coaching. Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your preparation with the ₹1 test series every Sunday and start your journey towards success!
