Anthropology or Law which is better optional for UPSC CSE mains exam
Meta Description: Confused between Anthropology and Law as your optional subject for UPSC CSE? This detailed comparison covers syllabus, scoring trends, background suitability, and top resources to help you make the right choice.
Introduction
Choosing the right optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) can significantly affect your overall performance in Mains. Two highly reputed yet distinct optionals are Anthropology and Law. Both subjects have produced top rankers, but they differ in syllabus nature, overlap with General Studies, and suitability depending on a candidate’s academic background. In this article, we will do a comprehensive comparison of Anthropology vs Law optional for UPSC CSE.
1. Syllabus and Subject Nature
- Anthropology deals with the scientific study of human evolution, society, and cultures. The syllabus includes biological anthropology, archaeology, and tribal studies, making it a balanced blend of science and humanities.
- Law is a technical subject focusing on legal concepts such as Constitutional Law, International Law, Administrative Law, and Jurisprudence. The syllabus is vast and requires a strong grip over legal terminology and case laws.
Verdict: Anthropology has a more concise and manageable syllabus compared to Law.
2. Scoring Pattern and Trend
- Anthropology is considered a high-scoring optional with many candidates scoring above 280+ with the right presentation (diagrams and case studies).
- Law can also be rewarding but only if one has excellent command over legal interpretation, answer writing, and recent judgments.
Verdict: Anthropology offers a better scoring potential for aspirants from non-law backgrounds.
3. Suitability and Background Advantage
- Anthropology is suitable for both science and arts background candidates. Biology students benefit in Paper I.
- Law is best suited for law graduates or those with a strong interest and familiarity with legal language and structure.
Verdict: Choose Law only if you have a law background; otherwise, Anthropology is more beginner-friendly.
4. Overlap with General Studies (GS) and Essay
- Anthropology overlaps with topics in GS Paper I (Indian Society, Tribal issues), GS Paper II (Welfare schemes), and GS Paper IV (Ethics).
- Law has excellent overlap with GS Paper II (Polity, Constitution, Governance) and also contributes to GS Paper IV.
Verdict: Both have valuable GS overlap, but Law gives an edge in GS Paper II for law graduates.
5. Availability of Study Material and Guidance
Both subjects have good resources, but Anthropology has more streamlined material and test series available.
Explore this curated list of best Anthropology coaching for UPSC and top Law optional coaching institutes compiled by experts.
6. Success Rate and Toppers’ Preference
Anthropology has been a top choice for many toppers like Anudeep Durishetty (AIR 1, 2017). Law optional has also helped candidates from law backgrounds secure top ranks, but the success rate is relatively low due to its demanding nature.
7. Availability of Teachers and Mentorship
Quality mentorship makes a big difference. Platforms like TheHinduZone offer personal guidance from experienced faculties for both Anthropology and Law optional.
8. Previous Year Questions and Paper Analysis
To understand the nature and difficulty of both subjects, go through the official UPSC previous year question papers.
Anthropology vs Law: At a Glance
| Aspect | Anthropology | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Syllabus Size | Concise and structured | Vast and technical |
| Scoring Potential | High (with diagrams) | Moderate to High (if from law background) |
| GS Overlap | GS I, II, IV | GS II, IV |
| Background Required | Science/Humanities | Law background preferred |
| Resources Available | Ample notes and test series | Available, but fewer institutes |
Final Thoughts
If you have a law background and enjoy reading legal case studies, constitutional analysis, and jurisprudence, then Law optional could be a great choice. However, if you’re from a non-law background and want a scoring, diagram-oriented subject with simpler concepts, Anthropology is a safer and smarter bet.
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