How to Choose an Optional Subject for UPSC
Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a crucial decision that can significantly influence your overall performance and final ranking. With 500 marks allocated to the optional subject out of the total 1750 marks in the UPSC Mains, selecting a subject that aligns with your strengths and interests is vital. This blog will guide you through the process of choosing the best optional subject for UPSC, with a special emphasis on Anthropology. Additionally, we will highlight the top 10 optional subjects and share success stories from Vijetha IAS Academy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optional Subject
1. Interest and Background
Choosing a subject that interests you and aligns with your academic background can make preparation more manageable and enjoyable. Passion for the subject will keep you motivated and focused throughout your preparation journey.
2. Syllabus and Content
Consider the length and complexity of the syllabus. Some subjects have a concise and well-structured syllabus, making it easier to cover comprehensively. A manageable syllabus allows you to allocate time efficiently across all subjects.
3. Scoring Potential
Some subjects have a higher scoring potential due to their objective nature and straightforward evaluation patterns. Reviewing past trends and analyzing the performance of top rankers can provide insights into scoring trends.
4. Overlap with General Studies
Subjects that overlap with General Studies papers can reduce your overall preparation burden. This overlap allows you to prepare for multiple papers simultaneously, optimizing your study time.
5. Availability of Study Materials and Guidance
Ensure that there are sufficient study materials, books, and guidance available for your chosen subject. Access to quality resources and expert guidance can significantly enhance your preparation.
6. Coaching and Mentorship
Consider the availability of specialized coaching and mentorship for the subject. Institutes like Vijetha IAS Academy, with experienced faculty like NP Kishore Sir, offer tailored coaching programs that can provide a competitive edge.
Ranking of Top 10 UPSC Optional Subjects
Based on the above factors, here are the top 10 UPSC optional subjects that are considered scoring and strategically advantageous:
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Public Administration
- Geography
- History
- Political Science and International Relations
- Psychology
- Literature of any Language (like Hindi, English, etc.)
- Philosophy
- Law
Why Anthropology is the Best Optional Subject
Anthropology consistently ranks as one of the best optional subjects for UPSC Mains due to its high scoring potential and strategic advantages. Here’s why Anthropology stands out:
1. High Scoring Potential
Anthropology is known for its high scoring potential. Many toppers have achieved excellent marks in this subject, making it a popular choice among aspirants.
2. Concise and Structured Syllabus
The syllabus of Anthropology is well-defined and concise, making it easier to cover comprehensively. The topics are straightforward and can be prepared systematically.
3. Interesting Subject Matter
Anthropology deals with human societies, cultures, and evolution, which many students find engaging and easier to grasp. The subject’s relevance to understanding societal dynamics adds to its appeal.
4. Overlap with General Studies
There is significant overlap with topics in General Studies, especially in areas like society, culture, and ethics. This overlap allows aspirants to prepare for multiple papers simultaneously, optimizing their study time.
5. Availability of Resources
There are ample resources, including notes, books, and coaching available for Anthropology. Institutes like Vijetha IAS Academy offer specialized coaching and mentorship for Anthropology.
Success Stories from Vijetha IAS Academy
At Vijetha IAS Academy, we take immense pride in our track record of success in the UPSC CSE. Our dedicated team of professionals handles various General Studies modules and assists students in realizing their ambition and pursuing civil services preparation. We also conduct test series programs for Prelims, Mains, and daily answer writing sessions. Here are some of our top performers:
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)
Anthropology at Vijetha IAS Academy
Vijetha IAS Academy is renowned for providing the best Anthropology optional coaching in India. Under the expert guidance of NP Kishore Sir, students receive top-notch instruction that helps them excel in their exams. Our comprehensive coaching program includes:
- Anthropology Optional Syllabus: Detailed coverage of all topics in the syllabus with regular updates.
- Anthropology Optional Notes: Well-prepared notes that simplify complex concepts.
- Anthropology Optional Books: Recommended books and resources for thorough preparation.
- Anthropology Optional Strategy: Tailored strategies to help students maximize their scores.
- Test Series and Mentorship Program: Rigorous test series and personalized mentorship to track progress and provide feedback.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Mains can significantly impact your preparation and final ranking. Anthropology stands out as one of the most scoring and strategically advantageous optional subjects due to its well-defined syllabus, high scoring potential, and overlap with General Studies. With the expert guidance of NP Kishore Sir at Vijetha IAS Academy, Anthropology can be the key to your success in the UPSC CSE.
At Vijetha IAS Academy, we are committed to providing the best coaching and resources to help you achieve your dream of becoming a civil servant.