The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is characterized by its complexities and a comprehensive syllabus that a candidate must embrace. One of the most difficult choices that every aspirant has to make when preparing is the choice of the correct option for the UPSC Mains examination. Further, since this is a deal-making choice for performance, it should be exercised with great caution. Here, we suggest a simple approach to how to choose an optional subject for UPSC 2024.
Optional subjects, which include their own syllabus of up to 500 marks, are very important in the total score in UPSC Mains. So, it is prudent to select judiciously. Though a wider range of options is there to select from, one must keep in mind that not all of them are scoring or in demand by the aspirants. This interplay is very delicate and requires special skill and knowledge while choosing an option. Look at the academic background, your interest, resources on the subject, and its link with GS papers.
UPSC books have become the stock on many aspirants' shelves, while others have resorted to UPSC NCERT books for the same purpose. Preparation lies in these resources, so they have to be matched with the selected subject.
Review of the Educational Qualification
The specifics of your academic background make it easier for you to focus your options further. If you have mastered a certain subject well, picking such a subject as optional can practically work to your advantage. For example, if an individual possesses a qualification in geography or history, it may be wise for the person to choose either of the two as an option because, at best, they already have some basic background knowledge on the topic.
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In addition, the presence of UPSC previous year question papers for that particular subject will be useful in evaluating its history, trends, and the hypothetical difficulty of the subject in addition to assessing the level of ease you think you would have with the subject. The last of the two steps is also crucial if you are able to solve the UPSC prelims previous year question papers.
Another key factor to consider is the availability of resources like study material, coaching, and guidance with regard to the content area in question. While in certain subjects, resources of this nature are available in plenty, some may be devoid of such standard study materials that render preparatory activities a disservice. For instance, in learning subjects such as Sociology, History or Geography, most of the aspirants have no problems with the availability of many customs UPSC books, UPSC NCERT books & others.
Ensure that you confirm the availability of the UPSC previous year question papers for the subject since they are important in the preparation. Attempting the UPSC mock tests for that subject, too will help you in assessing the extent of your knowledge and enhance your answer-writing skills.
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For UPSC Online Previous Year Question Papers for the 2024 Exam – Click Here
One of the most important activities in preparing for the UPSC exam is selecting the right optional subject. With the proper evaluation of your academic background and area of interest, as well as the resources accessible, you shall be able to choose wisely. Continuous practice of taking the UPSC Mock test and going through the UPSC previous question papers will assist you in advancing your preparation.
