For candidates hoping to pass the Civil Services Examination, choosing the appropriate optional subject for the UPSC examination is essential. The two optional papers that candidates must select from among the nine overall UPSC CSE papers are crucial in deciding the final score and rank.

Currently, 47 subjects are offered, spanning both technical and non-technical specialties as well as literature in a number of other languages. Out of the 2025 marks available in the UPSC Mains test, the optional papers are for a total of 500 marks.

Optional subjects that are well-chosen can not only enhance the score but also give an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge in certain areas, which may lead to a successful career in public service.

Here's a guide to choosing the best UPSC optional subject:

1. THINK ABOUT OVERLAYING THE SYLLABUS AND PREPARATION TIME.

Some optional courses, like as history, political science and international relations, sociology, geography, economics, and public administration, have syllabuses that overlap with the GS curriculum in both the UPSC Prelims and Mains.

Choosing an optional subject with overlapping information might help students save time and focus on other areas of the test.

2. EVALUATE THE SYLLABUS LENGTH

With four general studies examinations and an essay paper already demanding attention, it is best to select an optional course with a digestible curriculum.

Choosing a subject that may be easily covered in the allotted time can reduce stress and aid in good preparation.

3. TAKE COMPETITION LEVEL AND COMPREHENSIBILITY INTO ACCOUNT

While past candidates' success percentages may indicate the popularity of an optional subject, it is critical to select a subject that the applicant is comfortable with and understands well.

Finally, evaluators evaluate responses based on comprehensibility, thus selecting a subject that corresponds with the candidate's abilities is critical.

4. RESOURCE AVAILABILITY

When selecting an optional subject, it is critical to evaluate the availability of resources such as educators, study materials, and related literature.

Candidates should consider the availability and accessibility of resources for their selected topic, particularly in light of the expansion of online education, which provides additional resources from the comfort of one's own home.

5. KNOWLEDGE OF AND INTEREST IN THE SUBJECT

Understanding and remembering knowledge may be greatly aided by familiarity with a subject. Candidates who have previously studied a subject as part of their graduate or post-graduation might think about including it as an optional.

Alternatively, choosing a subject of personal interest and the capacity to study continuously without losing interest is critical for long-term commitment and successful preparation.

6. FACTORS TO CONSIDER ADDITIONALLY

Other elements that might impact the decision-making process include the subject's relevance to the civil services job position, its constancy as a popular option among top rankers, score potential, and personal comfortability.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the issue of what is the greatest UPSC optional topic. Because of the objectivity of replies, technical disciplines such as mathematics might be highly scored.

Non-technical courses, on the other hand, especially those that overlap with the general studies syllabus, give extra study time and reading material, which, if studied attentively, can increase the total UPSC Mains score.

Candidates should evaluate the syllabus, preparation time, prior knowledge, overlap with General Studies, availability of study material and tutoring, and personal motivation and enthusiasm for the subject before deciding on an optional course.