Choosing the Right Optional Subject for UPSC Mains as a BSc Graduate

When preparing for the UPSC Mains exam as a BSc graduate, choosing the right optional subject can make a significant difference in your preparation and eventual success. In this guide, we'll explore what factors to consider and how to select the best optional subject based on your background, interests, and preparation abilities.

Introduction

As a BSc graduate, you bring a unique set of knowledge and skills to the table. However, the UPSC Mains requires more than just the basic knowledge of your undergraduate subject. Instead, it demands a deeper understanding and a broader perspective. This guide, compiled from expert advice and personal experience, will help you make an informed decision on your optional subject.

Factors to Consider

Interest and Comfort Level: The optional subject is your personal choice, so it's crucial to select something you are passionate about and feel comfortable with. If you have already started preparing and find one subject more approachable than the others, it's a good sign. Consider which subject you can understand and retain with minimal effort, as you will have to complete the optional subject alongside your GS papers.

Syllabus Analysis: Thoroughly analyze the syllabus of each optional subject. Pay attention to the depth of content, the amount of reading material, and the clarity of the concepts. Subjects like Public Administration, Anthropology, and Sociology require a good understanding of theory and application, while Mathematics and Physics expect in-depth problem-solving skills.

Career Perspective: Consider your career aspirations. Some subjects like Public Administration can be directly relevant to your future government service, while others like Economics, Geography, and History might offer a more theoretical or policy-focused perspective.

Expert Guidance

One of the best ways to make an informed choice is to consult with top performers in the UPSC exam. For instance, an Air Force 5 holder shared a method that can help you narrow down your options. Here are the steps:

Look through the syllabus of all possible optional subjects. Write down all the subjects that interest you. Cross out subjects that you don't like or feel you can't keep up with. Go through the remaining subjects and cross out again, ensuring that no subject of interest is left out. Finally, go through the remaining subjects with a deep focus and select one that excites you the most.

It's crucial to follow this method and not solely rely on the advice of others. If someone recommends a subject based on their experience but you feel it's not your passion, then consider switching to a subject that aligns better with your interests.

Personal Accounts and Examples

A candidate once followed this method and was eventually left with a few subjects: Geography, History, Political Science, International Relations, Physics, and Public Administration. After deep analysis, they chose History as their optional subject, which they found the most interesting after reading the books.

Don't shy away from subjects like Physics or History, as they might seem daunting initially. However, they can be very scoring and give you an edge in the UPSC Mains. The key is to approach each subject with dedication and the right mindset.

Remember, the optional subject is a part of the larger UPSC Mains preparation, which involves reading a wide range of subjects. Therefore, selecting the right optional subject is not an additional task but an integral part of your overall preparation.

Conclusion

Ultimately, your optional subject choice should be guided by your passion, comfort level, and career aspirations. By following a structured approach, such as the one outlined by an Air Force 5 holder, you can make a well-informed decision. Don't hesitate to evaluate multiple subjects and choose the one that resonates most with you.

Take the time to analyze yourself, your preparation, and your goals. This will help you choose the right optional subject and increase your chances of success in the UPSC Mains.