Which 2 Optional Subjects are Best for UPSC?
Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a critical decision that can significantly impact your overall score and rank. Among the plethora of options available, two subjects consistently stand out due to their scoring potential, manageable syllabus, and popularity among aspirants: Anthropology and Sociology. In this blog post, we'll delve into why these two subjects are favoured by many, with a particular emphasis on why Anthropology is often considered the best and easiest optional for UPSC.
Why Optional Subjects Matter in UPSC
The optional subject papers, Paper VI and Paper VII, together carry 500 marks out of the total 2025 marks in the UPSC exam. This chooses optional subject a crucial one, as it can make a significant difference to your final rank. Therefore, selecting a subject that aligns with your interests, has a concise syllabus, and is scoring can give you an edge in the examination.
Anthropology: The Best and Easiest Optional for UPSC
Comprehensive and Scoring Syllabus
One of the primary reasons why Anthropology is considered the best optional subject is its comprehensive yet manageable syllabus. The subject covers a wide range of topics, including human evolution, socio-cultural anthropology, and biological anthropology. These topics are not only interesting but also relatively straightforward, making them easier to understand and retain.
High Scoring Potential
Anthropology has a high scoring potential due to its scientific approach and the objective nature of its questions. Many toppers have consistently scored high marks in this subject, making it a preferred choice among aspirants. The structured nature of the subject allows candidates to prepare well-defined answers, which can fetch high marks in the exam.
Overlapping Syllabus with General Studies
Another advantage of choosing Anthropology is its significant overlap with the General Studies papers, particularly GS Paper I (Indian Heritage and Culture) and GS Paper II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations). This overlap helps in reducing the overall preparation time and effort.
Expert Guidance from Vijetha IAS Academy
For those considering Anthropology, Vijetha IAS Academy stands out as the premier institute for coaching in this subject. Under the expert guidance of Kishore sir, who has a Double Masters from the UK and extensive experience as a scientist, students receive top-notch coaching that includes detailed study materials, comprehensive test series, and personalized mentorship. His unique teaching methodology and focus on anthropology case studies for UPSC make the learning process engaging and effective.
Enroll in the best Anthropology courses at Vijetha IAS Academy
Success Stories and Testimonials
The success stories of many toppers who have been mentored by Kishore sir at Vijetha IAS Academy further attest to the effectiveness of the program. These toppers have not only excelled in the Anthropology optional but have also performed exceptionally well in the overall examination, securing top ranks.
Sociology: A Close Contender
Sociological Insights and Current Relevance
Sociology, the study of society, social institutions, and social relationships, is another popular optional subject for UPSC. The subject provides deep insights into societal structures and issues, which are highly relevant in the context of current affairs and governance.
Overlapping Syllabus with General Studies
Like Anthropology, Sociology also has a significant overlap with the General Studies syllabus, particularly GS Paper I and GS Paper II. Topics such as social justice, social movements, and Indian society are common to both Sociology and General Studies papers, aiding in integrated preparation.
Manageable Syllabus and High Scoring Potential
The syllabus of Sociology is relatively concise and well-defined, making it manageable within the preparation timeline. The subject is also known for its high scoring potential, with many aspirants achieving excellent scores in the Sociology optional papers.
Lack of Specialized Coaching
However, compared to Anthropology, specialized coaching for Sociology is relatively less prominent. While several good institutes are offering Sociology coaching, the focused and expert guidance available for Anthropology, particularly at Vijetha IAS Academy, gives it an edge.
Fee And Course Details Anthropology optional at Vijetha ias academy
Conclusion
Both Anthropology and Sociology are excellent optional subjects for UPSC, each with its own set of advantages. However, Anthropology stands out as the best and easiest optional due to its comprehensive yet manageable syllabus, high-scoring potential, significant overlap with General Studies, and the availability of expert guidance from Vijetha IAS Academy. Under the mentorship of Kishore sir, with his extensive experience and unique teaching methodology, students can achieve exceptional results in the UPSC examination.
If you are considering Anthropology as your optional subject, Vijetha IAS Academy offers unparalleled coaching and support. Their focus on anthropology case studies for UPSC and comprehensive test series can significantly boost your preparation and help you secure a top rank in the examination.
Enroll in the best Anthropology courses at Vijetha IAS Academy