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Choosing the Best scoring optional subject for UPSC exam is a critical decision for aspirants. Selecting a Highest scoring optional subject for UPSC exam is a strategic move that can significantly boost your chances of success. In this article, we will delve into the Most scoring subject in UPSC optional that have consistently yielded impressive scores for UPSC aspirants.
The optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination helps students to perform well in the two optional papers in the Civil Services Exam, each worth 250 marks. It should be noted that the optional subject in the UPSC Mains is 500 marks out of the maximum of 1750. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-informed about the High scoring optional subject for UPSC.
👁 Best scoring optional subject for UPSC
This page will provide candidates with data on the success rate of each optional topic in the UPSC exam over the years, which will be useful for candidates while selecting the Easiest and scoring optional subject for UPSC.
Table of Content
Selecting a beneficial optional subject can significantly boost an aspirant's overall UPSC score. While aspiring candidates must thoroughly cover the extensive UPSC syllabus, the choice of a preferred optional subject can allow them to focus their efforts and avoid areas they might find challenging.
After careful consideration of the aforementioned factors, coupled with the latest UPSC Results, a compilation of the top 10 optional subjects for the IAS Exam 2024 has been made, which is as follows:
Over the past 21 years, UPSC toppers have chosen a diverse range of optional subjects that align with their strengths, interests and backgrounds. The following table provides insight into the optional subjects selected by the top-ranked candidates in their respective years:
Lets explore some most scoring Optional Subjects that have consistently been favoured by successful UPSC candidates. Over the course of time, certain optional subjects have consistently gathered the attention of a significant portion of successful UPSC candidates. This preference for the most opted optional subjects can be attributed to their syllabus alignment with various aspects of the IAS exam, including UPSC Prelims, GS I, II, III or IV, as well as the essay paper.
Optional Subject | (Approx) Number of Aspirants | Scoring For Different UPSC Papers |
|---|---|---|
History |
3500 | Prelims, GS I |
Geography |
3500 | Prelims, GS I, GS II |
Public Administration |
3000 | Prelims, GS II |
Political Science |
1800 | Prelims, GS II |
Sociology |
1800 | GS I, GS II, Essay |
Philosophy |
1000 | GS IV, Essay |
When it comes to strategies for the UPSC exam, opting for an optional subject that has some degree of overlap with General Studies (GS) is a common approach. Nevertheless, it's essential to acknowledge that many candidates diverge from these popular choices. Their decisions may be influenced by a greater interest in or familiarity with alternative subjects. Additionally, candidates often contend that achieving high scores in well-liked optional subjects can be challenging due to heightened competition.
Several UPSC optional subjects show significant overlap with the General Studies (GS) subjects or other segments of the UPSC examination. This overlap improves candidates' overall preparation and the consistency of their knowledge across different sections. Given below are some popular UPSC optional subjects known for their alignment with GS or other parts of the UPSC exam:
The below table highlights that Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science have emerged as the most favourable subject for UPSC, with the highest success rate of 18.8%.
👁 Highest scoring optional subject for UPSC
Therefore, the choice of optional subjects plays a key role in candidates' success rates, with Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science showcasing the highest rate of accomplishment.
For candidates possessing a strong command over literature subjects, considering them as optional subjects can be a strategic choice. Among the literature-based optional subjects for UPSC, Sindhi (Devanagari) Language emerges as the best optional subject for UPSC, with a remarkable success rate of 50%.
A comprehensive assessment of the IAS Mains 2019 data analysis showcases the success rates for various literature optional subjects, as given in the table below:
👁 High scoring optional subject in UPSC English medium
In order to identify the most suitable optional subject for UPSC, careful consideration of the following factors is important. The selection process of the best optional subject for UPSC should include the following:
Evaluate the extent of the subject's syllabus. A comprehensive syllabus might require more time and effort for thorough preparation.
Assess whether you possess sufficient time to adequately prepare for the chosen subject. Adequate preparation time is helpful in achieving a strong grasp of the material.
See whether you have previously studied the subject at the graduation or post-graduation level. A prior familiarity with the subject matter can provide a valuable advantage.
Examine whether the syllabus of the chosen subject intersects with the General Studies (GS) portion of both Prelims and Mains. Overlapping content can simplify your overall preparation.
Examine previous year question papers for the shortlisted subjects. Highlight questions you feel confident about answering. This assessment reflects your compatibility with each subject and provides insights into potential strengths.
Ascertain whether there are sufficient study resources accessible for the selected subject. Sufficient study materials facilitate effective and thorough preparation.
Literature subjects, especially in native languages, have demonstrated success in UPSC. If you possess a strong command of your native language, choosing a literature subject can be advantageous.
Further, it is also important to consider the following in order to choose the best optional subject for UPSC:
Choosing the best scoring optional subject for the UPSC exam depends on individual strengths and interests. However, some popular and high-scoring options include Geography, Public Administration, Sociology, Political Science & International Relations, History, Anthropology, Medical Science, and Law. It's essential to select a subject that aligns with your interests, background, and the availability of study materials. Your passion and comfort with the subject are key to scoring well.
Given below is a Best Optional Subjects for UPSC Examination Civil Services Examination (Mains), for candidates to choose the best optional subject for UPSC:
UPSC offers a range of literature options in various languages for candidates to choose as their optional subjects for the UPSC Mains examination. Aspiring candidates can select the language as per their proficiency and interest, thereby enhancing their preparation and performance in the examination.
The available literature languages for optional subjects in the UPSC Mains exam are:
What are the best optional subjects for UPSC in 2024?
The best optional subject varies for each candidate, depending on their academic background, interest, and the subject's success rate. Popular choices include Geography, Sociology, Public Administration, and History.
Which optional subject has the highest success rate in UPSC?
Subjects like Geography, Sociology, and Public Administration often have high success rates. However, it's important to choose a subject that aligns with your strengths and interests.
Can I choose my graduation subject as an optional in UPSC?
Yes, many candidates choose their graduation subject as their optional as it gives them an edge due to their familiarity with the subject.
What are the best optional subjects for UPSC for engineering students?
Engineering students often opt for subjects like Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, or Civil Engineering. However, some also choose subjects from humanities due to their scoring potential.
Is there any change in the optional subjects list for UPSC 2024?
As of now, there are no announced changes in the list of optional subjects for UPSC 2024. Candidates should check the official UPSC notification for the most accurate information.
How should I choose my optional subject for UPSC?
Choose based on your interest, academic background, overlap with General Studies, availability of coaching and study material, and previous years' question paper analysis.
Are there any optional subjects specifically beneficial for UPSC IFS (Indian Forest Service)?
For UPSC IFS, subjects like Forestry, Agriculture, Botany, and Zoology are beneficial due to their relevance to the service.
What are some recommended books for UPSC optional subjects?
Recommended books vary for each optional subject. Generally, it's advised to refer to NCERT books, standard reference books, and previous years' question papers for preparation.
Can I choose a language as an optional subject in UPSC?
Yes, candidates can choose literature of any language listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution as an optional subject.
What is the role of the optional subject in the final ranking of UPSC?
The optional subject plays a crucial role in the final ranking as it comprises two papers of 250 marks each in the UPSC Mains examination.
Choosing the Best scoring optional subject for UPSC is a strategic decision that can significantly impact your UPSC journey. Successful candidates have often leveraged subjects with Best and scoring optional subject for UPSC, manageable syllabi, and alignment with the GS paper. While these are some popular choices, it's essential to remember that the best optional subject for you depends on your individual strengths, interests, and prior knowledge.
Before making your choice, thoroughly research the syllabus and past question papers of your preferred High scoring optional subject for UPSC. Seek guidance from mentors and experts to make an informed decision. Ultimately, your dedication and preparation will play a pivotal role in achieving success in the UPSC exam.