However, the decision of selecting optional subject is confusing one. Usually aspirants opt for the subject they have done graduation in but it is not applicable in many cases. For ex, there is no computer science optional subject in UPSC. Hence, aspirants having done B.Tech in CS will anyway have to opt for a totally new subject. Even in cases where one is not comfortable with graduation subject, he/she should opt for a new subject.
Steps to be followed to select an optional subject
· Know the subjects: Check list of optional subjects available and their syllabus from UPSC Notification
· Previous Knowledge: Whether the subject is from your graduation. In this case, it will reduce your preparation time and effort. However. If you are not that much comfortable in the subject, it is advisable to follow a new subject.
· Interest: This is the most important thing while selecting an optional subject as you have to carry and study the optional for around a year. Interest will make the journey easier and will yield good results.
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Overlap with GS Syllabus: Optional subjects like Political Science, Public Administration, Geography etc have a lot of overlap with GS Syllabus and thus reduce the preparation time for GS. Political Science for example easily takes care of GS Paper 2 as well as Essay to a certain extent. Similarly, different subjects have different overlap with GS. However, Subjects like Mathematics, Electrical Engineering have less overlap but are scoring in nature.
· Time required for Preparation: Some subjects like Anthropology can be covered within 3 months whereas some subjects like Mathematics or Engineering specific may take around a year to cover if you do not possess expert knowledge.
· Guidance Available: Few optional subjects which are uncommon may be having limited number of teachers and study material available. For people living in rural areas, this might be an issue. It is advisable for them to visit Delhi once to arrange the necessary reading material.
· Make your own choice: This is the most important step. Just follow your interest. Everything will be perfect if you’re interested in the subject. You will get necessary guidance from internet or coaching center. Just need to figure out about your interest.
PROCESS TO FIND INTEREST:
· Shortlist 2-3 subjects based on above criteria
· Start reading the concerned NCERT books of class X-XII.
· Arrange notes from market. Study them for 7-10 days and try to find your interest.
I hope above steps help you in finding the right optional subject. Ultimately it boils down to your interest and dedication. There are successful candidates who opted for different optional subject after frequent failures and there are others who cleared in first attempt. Hence, there is no one way to success.
I am from Computer Science Engineering background. I opted for Political Science and International Relations Optional Subject. I was actually confused in the beginning and studied Anthropology, Geography and Political Science for around 20 days. I fortunately found Political Science as the most interesting one and could clear the exam in first attempt. My marks were 151 in Paper 1 and 144 in Paper 2. I will be sharing my strategy for the subject soon.
All the best!!