How to Choose an Optional for UPSC CSE

Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a pivotal decision that can significantly influence your final ranking. This blog aims to guide you through the process of selecting the best optional subject, with a special focus on why Anthropology, especially under the guidance of NP Kishore at Vijetha IAS Academy, is an excellent choice.

Importance of the Optional Subject

The optional subject carries 500 marks out of the total 1750 marks in the UPSC Mains examination. Thus, it plays a crucial role in your final ranking. A well-chosen optional subject can be the key differentiator in securing a top rank.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optional Subject

1. Interest and Background: Your interest in the subject is paramount. A genuine interest will keep you motivated throughout your preparation. Additionally, a background in the subject can give you an edge.

2. Syllabus: Analyze the syllabus of potential optional subjects. Choose a subject with a syllabus that you find manageable and interesting.

3. Availability of Study Materials: Ensure that there are ample resources available for your chosen subject. This includes books, notes, and online content.

4. Coaching and Guidance: Quality coaching can provide a structured preparation approach. Enrolling in a reputed coaching institute like Vijetha IAS Academy, known for the best anthropology optional coaching in India, can be highly beneficial.

5. Previous Year Trends: Look at the success rate of the subject in previous years. This includes analyzing the scoring pattern and the nature of questions asked.

Why Choose Anthropology?

1. High Scoring Potential

Anthropology is known for its high scoring potential. The subject allows for concise and direct answers, which can fetch good marks.

2. Concise Syllabus

Compared to other optional subjects, Anthropology has a relatively short and well-defined syllabus, making it easier to cover thoroughly.

3. Overlap with General Studies

Many topics in Anthropology overlap with General Studies, particularly in the areas of society and culture. This overlap can provide dual benefits.

4. Interesting Subject Matter

Anthropology studies human societies, cultures, and biological aspects, making it an inherently fascinating subject that can sustain your interest throughout the preparation.

Top 10 UPSC Optional Subjects

1. Anthropology: High scoring potential, concise syllabus, and significant overlap with General Studies.
2. Geography: Popular for its scientific approach and ample availability of resources.
3. Public Administration: Short syllabus and relevance to General Studies and Essay papers.
4. History: Comprehensive coverage of Indian history, crucial for General Studies.
5. Sociology: Overlap with General Studies and a relatively short syllabus.
6. Political Science & International Relations: Direct relevance to General Studies and dynamic nature.
7. Philosophy: Short syllabus and philosophical thinking can aid in Essay and Ethics papers.
8. Psychology: Interesting subject with a concise syllabus.
9. Economics: Relevant for both Prelims and Mains, though it requires a strong grasp of concepts.
10. Literature of Any Language: High scoring potential if you have a strong command over the language.

Why Vijetha IAS Academy?

The Best Anthropology Optional Coaching in India

Vijetha IAS Academy stands out as the best anthropology optional coaching in India. Under the expert guidance of NP Kishore, who is renowned for his deep understanding of the subject and excellent teaching methods, students are well-prepared to excel in the Anthropology optional paper.

Proven Results

Our results speak for themselves. Here are some of our toppers from UPSC CSE 2022 and 2023:

UPSC CSE 2022 Toppers:

• Prateek Singh (AIR 93)
• Mehta Keval (AIR 206)
• Manan Bhat (AIR 231)
• Rishabh Singh (AIR 294)
• Ayushi Pradhan (AIR 234)
• Aakanksha Singh (AIR 339)
• Omkar R Gundage (AIR 380)
• Chanakya Vudayagiri (AIR 459)
• Chaudhary S V (AIR 544)
• V Soilenthang V (AIR 619)
• Kamal Chaudhary (AIR 656)
• Pusuluru R Kiran (AIR 694)
• Pallavi Vijaywanshi (AIR 730)

UPSC CSE 2023 Toppers:

• Ayushi Pradhan (AIR 36) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Manan Bhatt (AIR 88) - Anthropology Classroom Programme
• Taruna Kamal (AIR 203) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Tejas Kulkarni (AIR 243) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Ajay Yadav (AIR 290) - Anthropology Classroom Programme
• Devesh Chaturvedi (AIR 305) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Aparajita Aaryan (AIR 381) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Ajink Kumar (AIR 456) - Anthropology Classroom Programme
• Dhotre Sumit (AIR 750) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme
• Bibhanshu Kumar Ray (AIR 772) - Anthropology Test Series & Mentorship Programme

Note: We do not promote Interview Guidance Program Toppers at Vijetha IAS.

Comprehensive Coaching Programs

At Vijetha IAS Academy, we offer a range of programs to cater to your needs:

• Anthropology Optional: Our Anthropology optional course is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and understanding of the subject. The course includes comprehensive coverage of the syllabus, regular tests, and personalized mentorship.

• General Studies Modules: We have a dedicated team of professionals handling various General Studies modules. This holistic approach ensures that you are well-prepared for all aspects of the UPSC exam.

• Test Series Programmes: Our test series for Prelims, Mains, and daily answer writing sessions help you practice extensively and improve your answer writing skills.

Making the Final Decision

Choosing the right optional subject for UPSC involves careful consideration of various factors. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you make the decision:

1. Self-Assessment: Reflect on your interests, strengths, and academic background.
2. Syllabus Review: Go through the syllabus of potential optional subjects to understand the topics covered.
3. Resource Availability: Check the availability of study materials, books, and online resources.
4. Coaching and Guidance: Consider the quality of coaching available for the subject. Enrolling in a reputed institute like Vijetha IAS Academy can make a significant difference.
5. Previous Year Papers: Analyze previous year question papers to understand the nature of questions asked.
6. Success Stories: Look at the success rate of the subject and testimonials from successful candidates.

Why Anthropology is a Top Choice

Interest and Engagement

Anthropology is a subject that naturally evokes curiosity. It delves into the intricacies of human societies, cultures, and biological evolution, making it a fascinating subject to study. This inherent interest can sustain your motivation throughout the preparation process.

Concise and Manageable Syllabus

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Anthropology as an optional is its concise and well-structured syllabus. Unlike other subjects that might have vast and overlapping topics, Anthropology's syllabus is straightforward, making it easier to cover comprehensively within a limited time frame.

Overlap with General Studies

The topics covered in Anthropology often overlap with those in the General Studies papers, particularly in the areas of society and culture. This overlap means that your preparation for the optional paper will also aid your General Studies preparation, providing a dual benefit.

Scoring Potential

Anthropology is known for its high scoring potential. The nature of the subject allows for precise and concise answers, which can help you score well. Additionally, the subject's objective and scientific approach reduce the scope for subjective marking.

Availability of Resources and Guidance

With the growing popularity of Anthropology as an optional subject, there are ample resources available, including books, notes, and online content. More importantly, quality coaching is readily available, particularly at Vijetha IAS Academy, which is renowned for its best anthropology optional coaching in India.

Expert Guidance at Vijetha IAS Academy

Under the mentorship of NP Kishore, students receive top-notch guidance and support. NP Kishore's deep understanding of the subject and his excellent teaching methods ensure that students are well-prepared to tackle the Anthropology optional paper. At Vijetha IAS Academy, we provide a comprehensive Anthropology optional course that covers the entire syllabus, includes regular tests, and offers personalized mentorship to address individual student needs.

Comprehensive Preparation with Vijetha IAS Academy

Holistic Approach

At Vijetha IAS Academy, we adopt a holistic approach to UPSC preparation. Our coaching programs are designed to cater to the diverse needs of UPSC aspirants, ensuring that they are well-prepared for all aspects of the exam.

Dedicated General Studies Modules

Our dedicated team of professionals handles various General Studies modules, providing in-depth coverage of the syllabus. This ensures that students are well-prepared for the General Studies papers, which form a significant part of the UPSC Mains examination.

Test Series Programmes

We conduct extensive test series programmes for Prelims, Mains, and daily answer writing sessions. These test series help students practice extensively, improve their answer writing skills, and develop the confidence needed to excel in the exam.

Conclusion

Choosing the right optional subject for UPSC CSE is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. Anthropology, with its high scoring potential, concise syllabus, and inherent interest, emerges as a top choice for many aspirants. Under the expert guidance