Which Optional Should I Choose for UPSC?

Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most critical decisions that can significantly impact your overall performance and chances of success. With a plethora of options available, it can be challenging to make the right choice. In this blog, we will delve into the factors to consider while selecting an optional subject, and why Anthropology stands out as a top choice. We will also highlight the success stories of top performers who have excelled with Anthropology as their optional subject, particularly under the guidance of NP Kishore Sir at Vijetha IAS Academy.

Understanding the Importance of Choosing the Right Optional

The optional subject carries 500 marks in the Mains examination, making it a significant component of the overall score. Therefore, choosing an optional subject wisely is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Interest and Background: Your interest and academic background play a vital role. If you have a prior understanding or a keen interest in a subject, it will make the preparation journey smoother.
  2. Syllabus Length: Some subjects have a more extensive syllabus than others. It’s essential to evaluate the syllabus and see if it is manageable within the given time frame.
  3. Availability of Resources: Consider the availability of study materials, books, and guidance for the subject.
  4. Scoring Potential: Analyze the scoring trends of the optional subject in previous years.
  5. Overlap with General Studies: Some optional subjects have a considerable overlap with the General Studies papers, which can be advantageous.

Why Choose Anthropology as Your Optional Subject?

Anthropology has emerged as a popular choice among UPSC aspirants for several reasons:

  1. Concise Syllabus: The Anthropology optional syllabus is relatively concise and can be covered thoroughly within a limited time.
  2. Scoring Potential: Anthropology has been known for its scoring potential, with many toppers securing high marks in this subject.
  3. Availability of Resources: Quality study materials, notes, and books are readily available.
  4. Overlap with General Studies: Topics in Anthropology often overlap with GS papers, especially in areas like society, culture, and human evolution.
  5. Interesting and Engaging: The subject matter is intriguing, covering human evolution, social structures, and cultural diversity, which keeps the preparation engaging.

Top Anthropology Optional Coaching in India

For those considering Anthropology as their optional subject, choosing the right coaching institute can make a significant difference. Vijetha IAS Academy stands out as the best Anthropology optional coaching in India. Here’s why:

  • Expert Guidance: NP Kishore Sir is renowned for his expertise in Anthropology and has guided numerous students to success.
  • Comprehensive Study Material: The academy provides well-structured study material that covers the entire syllabus comprehensively.
  • Test Series and Mentorship: Vijetha IAS Academy conducts regular test series and mentorship programs to help students gauge their preparation and improve continuously.
  • Support for General Studies: We at Vijetha have a dedicated team of professionals handling various other General Studies modules and helping students to realize their ambition and pursue civil services preparation.

Success Stories from Vijetha IAS Academy

The success stories of our students speak volumes about the quality of guidance and training provided at Vijetha IAS Academy. Here are some of our top performers from the UPSC CSE 2022 and 2023 batches:

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)

Ranking of Top 10 UPSC Optional Subjects

Based on various factors such as syllabus length, scoring potential, and availability of resources, here is a ranking of the top 10 UPSC optional subjects, with Anthropology taking the top spot:

  1. Anthropology: Due to its concise syllabus, high scoring potential, and interesting subject matter, Anthropology remains a top choice for many aspirants.
  2. Geography: Popular for its overlap with General Studies and availability of extensive resources.
  3. Public Administration: Known for its scoring potential and relevance to the UPSC syllabus.
  4. Sociology: Offers a concise syllabus and significant overlap with GS papers.
  5. History: Although the syllabus is vast, it’s a preferred choice for its relevance and overlap with GS.
  6. Political Science & International Relations (PSIR): High scoring potential and relevance to GS papers.
  7. Philosophy: Compact syllabus and high scoring nature make it a preferred choice for many.
  8. Psychology: Increasingly popular due to its concise syllabus and scoring potential.
  9. Literature of any language: Opted by candidates with a strong background in a particular language.
  10. Law: Preferred by candidates with a law background due to its overlap with the GS paper on polity.

How to Prepare for Anthropology Optional

Preparation for the Anthropology optional requires a well-planned strategy. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

  1. Understand the Syllabus: Start by thoroughly understanding the Anthropology optional syllabus. Break it down into manageable sections and create a study plan.
  2. Refer to Standard Books: Use standard textbooks and reference books to build a strong foundation. Some recommended books include “Physical Anthropology” by P. Nath and “Social-Cultural Anthropology” by N. K. Vaid.
  3. Make Notes: Create concise and comprehensive notes for each topic. This will help in quick revisions before the exam.
  4. Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous years’ question papers will give you an idea of the exam pattern and the types of questions asked.
  5. Join a Coaching Institute: Enrolling in a reputable coaching institute like Vijetha IAS Academy can provide you with the right guidance and resources.
  6. Regular Revision: Regularly revise the topics you have studied to ensure retention.
  7. Test Series and Mock Tests: Participate in test series and mock tests to evaluate your preparation and improve your answer writing skills.

Why Choose Vijetha IAS Academy for Anthropology Optional Coaching?

  • Experienced Faculty: NP Kishore Sir is one of the best Anthropology optional teachers in India, known for his exceptional teaching skills and deep knowledge of the subject.
  • Comprehensive Course Structure: The course is designed to cover the entire Anthropology optional syllabus for UPSC in a systematic manner.
  • Regular Test Series: Regular test series and daily answer writing sessions help students assess their preparation and improve their writing skills.
  • Personalized Mentorship: Individual attention and personalized mentorship are provided to address each student’s unique needs and queries.
  • Affordable Coaching: Vijetha IAS Academy offers affordable UPSC coaching with flexible payment options and scholarships for deserving candidates.

Additional Support for UPSC Aspirants

At Vijetha IAS Academy, we provide comprehensive support not just for the Anthropology optional but also for other aspects of the UPSC preparation. Our dedicated team of professionals handles various General Studies modules, helping students to realize their ambition and pursue civil services preparation effectively. We also conduct a robust test series programme for Prelims, Mains, and daily answer writing sessions to ensure thorough preparation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right optional subject for UPSC is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. Anthropology stands out as a promising choice due to its concise syllabus, scoring potential, and interesting subject matter. For those looking for the best Anthropology optional coaching in India, Vijetha IAS Academy offers unparalleled guidance under the expert mentorship of NP Kishore Sir. With our comprehensive study materials, regular test series, and personalized mentorship, we are committed to helping you achieve your UPSC dreams.

If you are preparing for the UPSC examination and considering Anthropology as your optional subject, join us at Vijetha IAS Academy