How to Choose the Best Optional Paper for UPSC CSE
Introduction
Selecting the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is crucial. It's like choosing the best partner for your dream, for you might get attracted to several options, but only one might be right for you. Any wrong choice could undermine your efforts and increase the number of attempts needed to succeed. Proper subject selection is fundamental to your UPSC journey and can significantly impact your chances of success. This article offers a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best optional subject for UPSC CSE, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Your Optional
1. Scan the Syllabus Thoroughly
Thoroughly examine the syllabus for each optional subject offered by UPSC. Deconstruct it into subtopics to gain a comprehensive understanding of the subject's scope and depth. Be prepared to challenge any preconceived notions you might have. For example, while you might think Geography is all about deciphering minds and body language, it entails complex topics such as geomorphology, climatology, and urban planning. Understanding the depth and breadth of each subtopic can help you assess your comfort level and suitability for the subject.
2. DO a SWOT Analysis
Perform a comprehensive self-evaluation by taking into account your strengths, weaknesses, and areas of interest. Reflect on your educational background, professional experience, and personal hobbies. Identify subjects that resonate with your strengths and passions. Consider the scope and length of the syllabus, but personal interest is paramount. If you have a background in Economics, you might consider it as your optional subject, leveraging your prior knowledge to understand complex economic concepts more quickly.
3. Study Material Availability
Research the availability of study materials, including books, online resources, and coaching institutes for each subject. Ensure you have access to comprehensive and reliable study materials to facilitate your preparation. For instance, if you are interested in Philosophy, check for books and resources on both Indian and Western Philosophy. You might also visit a book shop or photocopy shop and ask for class notes on the subject to understand the material better. Scanning these notes for an hour or two can help you decide if the subject is interesting and the whole syllabus is well-covered.
4. Seek Guidance and Feedback
Speak to mentors and experienced aspirants about the intricacies and challenges of each subject. Leverage their experience and insights to make informed decisions. Be mindful of the influence of random success; some aspirants might be lucky to choose an optional subject that performs well in a specific year, but may struggle later. Use their achievements and mistakes as valuable references. Additionally, seek guidance from peers or subject experts to gain valuable feedback on your progress and areas for improvement.
5. Test the Waters
Consider attending trial classes or watching YouTube videos on your shortlisted optional subjects. This can help you gauge your interest and aptitude for each subject. If you are interested in Mathematics, for example, you might realize you struggle with complex mathematical problems. This can lead you to reconsider and opt for a different subject better suited to your strengths. Be open to short-term investments of time to evaluate each subject thoroughly.
6. Compatibility with General Studies
Although not an essential factor, having an optional subject that overlaps with General Studies can be beneficial. It may make your preparation easier and optimize your overall score. Subjects like History, Geography, Political Science, International Studies, and Public Administration often have a higher overlap with General Studies, making them ideal choices. However, some subjects may have minimal overlap, which is perfectly fine, as many toppers have achieved success with less overlap.
7. Time Commitment and Preparation Strategy
Calculate the amount of time you can realistically allocate to studying the optional subject alongside your General Studies preparation. Be realistic about the time required for each subject. Humanities optional subjects generally take 3-5 months, while science stream optional subjects typically take 6-10 months. For instance, Mathematics can realistically take around a year. Choose the subject that aligns with your time commitment and preparation strategy, ensuring you have a balanced approach.
8. Mock Tests and Previous Papers
Review UPSC previous year question papers and take mock tests for your shortlisted optional subjects. This will help you understand the kind of questions asked and the level of depth required in each subject. For example, if you find that you struggle with complex mathematical problems during a mock test for Mathematics, you may reconsider and choose a different subject where your strengths lie. Mock tests and previous papers can provide invaluable insights into the subject's difficulty and your readiness.
9. Google the Performance of Toppers
Research the historical performance of candidates in your prospective optional subjects. Check patterns in success rates, average scores, and the distribution of marks to assess the subject's potential for achieving high scores. This can provide a surface-level analysis to help you decide. However, remember that everyone is different, and some subjects may perform better in certain years. Choose an optional subject that aligns with your interests and strengths, as you might enjoy the process no matter the outcome.
10. Commitment and Patience
Understand that UPSC preparation is a long-term commitment. Be patient and stay dedicated to your chosen subject. If you choose a subject like Literature of a Language, you may need to prepare extensively for reading and interpretation. Patience and persistence are crucial for excelling in such subjects. Stay committed to your preparation, no matter the challenges.
11. Language Proficiency
Assess your proficiency in the language in which you are writing your optional subject. If you are more comfortable with Hindi, opt for a Hindi literature subject. Language proficiency plays a significant role in your preparation, as it impacts your ability to express ideas effectively. Ensure you choose a language in which you can comfortably study and present your ideas.
12. Backup Subject
Consider this as your last resort. If you are totally disinterested in the optional subject you have taken but still want to become an IAS officer, having a backup subject can be a wise decision. For instance, if you are passionate about Psychology, having Sociology as a backup ensures you have an alternative if you encounter difficulties in Psychology. This strategy provides a safety net in case you decide to switch subjects mid-way.
Conclusion
Follow the detailed stepwise strategy provided in this article to choose the best optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination. Your choice should align with your individual strengths, interests, and maximize your scoring potential. With thorough research, self-evaluation, and a well-thought-out preparation strategy, you can significantly enhance your chances of success in the examination.