Which is the Toughest Optional in UPSC?

The Civil Services Examination (CSE), conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is one of India's most prestigious and challenging assessments. Selecting the appropriate optional subject is an important stage in the UPSC preparation process. Some subjects are considered easy, while others are seen as more challenging owing to a variety of factors. This blog delves into the most difficult UPSC optional subject, Political Science and International Relations (PSIR), and explains why anthropology is regarded as the easiest option, particularly with guidance from N P Kishore Sir at Vijetha IAS Academy, which is known for providing the best anthropology coaching in India.

Understanding the Criteria for the Toughest Optional Subject

Several factors contribute to the toughness of an optional subject in UPSC:

  1. Syllabus Size and Depth: Subjects with vast and in-depth syllabi are often considered tough.
  2. Conceptual Difficulty: Subjects that require a deep understanding of complex theories and concepts.
  3. Resource Availability: Limited availability of quality study materials and resources can add to the difficulty.
  4. Scoring Potential: Subjects with unpredictable marking trends or low scoring potential are often deemed tough.
  5. Overlap with General Studies: Lack of overlap with the General Studies syllabus can make preparation more challenging.

Top 10 Toughest UPSC Optional Subjects

Based on these criteria, here is a ranking of the top 10 toughest UPSC optional subjects, with PSIR at the top due to its comprehensive syllabus and conceptual depth.

  1. Political Science and International Relations (PSIR)
  2. Mathematics
  3. Medical Science
  4. Physics
  5. Chemistry
  6. Law
  7. Economics
  8. Geology
  9. Engineering Subjects (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
  10. Philosophy

Why PSIR is Considered the Toughest Optional Subject

Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) stands out as the toughest optional for several reasons:

  • Vast Syllabus: The PSIR syllabus is extensive, covering both political theories and international relations comprehensively.
  • Conceptual Depth: Requires a deep understanding of political ideologies, theories, and current global affairs.
  • Dynamic Nature: The subject demands staying updated with current events and global political developments.
  • High Competition: PSIR is a popular choice among aspirants, leading to intense competition and high benchmarks.

Why Anthropology is Considered the Easiest Optional Subject

On the other hand, anthropology is widely regarded as one of the easiest optional subjects due to the following reasons:

  • Concise Syllabus: Anthropology has a relatively smaller and well-defined syllabus compared to other subjects.
  • Scoring Potential: With the right preparation, anthropology is known for fetching high scores.
  • Overlap with General Studies: There is considerable overlap with topics in General Studies, aiding overall preparation.
  • Structured Content: The subject matter is straightforward and easier to understand compared to complex theoretical subjects.
  • Availability of Resources: Quality resources and coaching are readily available, especially at Vijetha IAS Academy.

The Role of Coaching in Simplifying Anthropology Optional

Effective coaching can significantly simplify the preparation for anthropology optional. Vijetha IAS Academy, under the mentorship of N P Kishore Sir, offers:

  • Expert Guidance: N P Kishore Sir’s expertise helps students grasp complex concepts with ease.
  • Structured Curriculum: A well-structured program covering the entire anthropology optional syllabus.
  • Regular Test Series: Regular tests and answer writing practice help in continuous self-assessment and improvement.
  • Comprehensive Study Material: Access to meticulously prepared notes and resources.
  • Personalized Mentorship: Tailored guidance to address individual queries and needs.

Why Choose Anthropology at Vijetha IAS Academy?

Choosing the right coaching institute is crucial for maximizing the benefits of an optional subject. Here’s why Vijetha IAS Academy is the best choice for anthropology optional coaching:

  1. Proven Track Record: The academy has consistently produced top rankers. For instance, in UPSC CSE 2022, students like Prateek Singh (AIR 93), Mehta Keval (AIR 206), and many others secured top ranks.
  2. Comprehensive Programs: They offer classroom programs, test series, and mentorship programs tailored to meet the needs of every aspirant.
  3. Dedicated Team: Apart from anthropology, Vijetha IAS Academy has a dedicated team handling various General Studies modules, aiding students in holistic preparation.
  4. Affordable Coaching: Known for being the most affordable UPSC coaching, they ensure quality education is accessible to all.
  5. Online Resources: For those unable to attend in person, they offer anthropology optional online coaching, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

Testimonials and Success Stories

Success stories from past students highlight the effectiveness of the coaching at Vijetha IAS Academy:

  • Prateek Singh (AIR 93, UPSC CSE 2022): “The guidance from N P Kishore Sir was instrumental in my success. The structured approach and regular tests made all the difference.”
  • Ayushi Pradhan (AIR 36, UPSC CSE 2023): “The mentorship and test series at Vijetha were key to my high score in anthropology.”

Tips to Prepare for Anthropology Optional Without Coaching

While coaching significantly boosts preparation, some aspirants may prefer self-study. Here are some tips for those opting to prepare anthropology optional without coaching:

  1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the anthropology optional syllabus thoroughly.
  2. Study Standard Books: Refer to standard textbooks and sources.
  3. Online Resources: Utilize free online resources and notes.
  4. Regular Practice: Practice writing answers regularly and evaluate them critically.
  5. Join Online Forums: Engage with peers in online forums and discussion groups for exchange of ideas and resources.

Our UPSC CSE 2022 and 2023 Anthropology and GS Foundation Results

Vijetha IAS Academy takes pride in the achievements of its students. 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)

For more information on our courses, visit our Anthropology Courses page. Explore our Test Series and Online Courses for flexible learning options.

Conclusion

Choosing the toughest optional subject for UPSC is a subjective decision that depends on an individual’s background, interests, and strengths. Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) stands out as the toughest optional subject due to its vast syllabus and conceptual depth. However, anthropology is widely regarded as the easiest optional subject due to its concise syllabus and high scoring potential.

With the right guidance from experts like N P Kishore Sir at Vijetha IAS Academy, known for being the best anthropology optional coaching institute, aspirants can navigate the complexities of the subject with ease and confidence. At Vijetha IAS Academy, we are committed to helping students realize their ambition of joining the civil services. Our dedicated team of professionals not only handles various General Studies modules but also conducts a comprehensive test series program for Prelims, Mains, and daily answer writing sessions. Our proven track record, affordable coaching options, and personalized mentorship make us the best choice for anthropology optional preparation.