It can be difficult for many aspirants to choose which papers to do as optional and which to do as compulsory in the UPSC Mains exam. Let me organize my advice into common questions to help you manage these sections well.
Why is it Important to Balance Optional and Compulsory Papers in UPSC Mains?
There are nine papers in the UPSC Mains and two of them are optional, while seven are compulsory (Essay, GS I-IV and Language Papers). Optional papers may increase your score, but mandatory papers determine if you are qualified. Either of these areas should not be overlooked, as it can be very expensive.
A good plan for studying makes sure that:
• Similar results in all the papers
• Less anxiety about exams
• Improving how we manage our time
More opportunities to do well in the overall score
How Much Time Should Be Allotted to Optional vs. Compulsory Papers?
Ideal time management depends on each person, but in general, you should spend about 60% of your time on the main subject and the rest on the optional subject.
|
Paper Type |
Daily Hours (Recommended) |
Focus Area |
|
Optional Paper |
3 to 4 hours |
Concept mastery, answer writing |
|
Compulsory Papers |
4 to 5 hours |
GS revision, current affairs |
|
Essay Practice |
1 to 2 hours (alternate days) |
Structuring arguments and flow |
What is the Best Strategy to Manage Both Simultaneously?
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Integrated Planning: Don’t treat optional and GS papers separately. Use a monthly schedule to sync topics. For example, if your optional is History, sync it with GS Paper I.
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Consistent Answer Writing: Practice answer writing for both sections. Include questions from UPSC MCQ book to revise objective and factual data.
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Use Quality Sources: Stick to standard sources. For GS, focus on NCERTs and a solid polity book for UPSC for GS-II. For optional, follow your syllabus and previous year questions.
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Mock Tests: Give sectional tests for both optional and GS regularly. This helps maintain equal grip.
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Weekend Optional Days: Dedicate weekends primarily to optional subjects to deep-dive into theories and improve answer structure.
Should Optional Subject Be Given More Priority Than GS?
Optional papers are worth 500 marks and GS is worth 1000 marks (excluding the Essay and Language papers). So, GS is given more importance. However, your optional subject can be very important, since it has a high chance of getting a good score. Make decisions by focusing on what you do best.
How Do Books Affect the Balance Between Optional and Compulsory Papers?
Using helpful study resources makes it easier to get ready for the test. Reading a good history book for UPSC can help you succeed in both GS and History optional. Using a thorough UPSC books list is also useful for avoiding the repetition of ideas and conserving time and effort.
Use a UPSC MCQ book that covers both GS and Optional facts in your revision. Ensure that your UPSC MCQ book helps in revising facts that appear in both GS and Optional.
Final Tip: How to Maintain Consistency Without Burnout?
Burnout is common. To avoid it:
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Mix topics (1 GS + 1 Optional per day)
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Revise weekly
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Take one day off for relaxation
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Maintain a study journal
By following these balanced techniques and using quality UPSC books, you’ll be better prepared to tackle both parts of the UPSC Mains confidently and strategically.
