Which is the easiest optional subject for IAS mains?
Optional subject for IAS mains: An intensely executed question that echoes in the minds of innumerable UPSC CSE aspirants, especially those starting out: “Which is the easiest optional subject for IAS Mains?” The aspirant’s interest in an easy run is apt considering the daunting nature of the exam. However, in reality, there is no optional subject that is easy for all.” The notion of “easiest’ is subjective and hinges entirely on the background. Aptitude, interest, and resources at the disposal of the person.
The Mains examination consists of two optional papers (Paper VI and Paper VII) of 250 marks each, summing up to a total of 500 marks. With such huge weightage given to the optional subject, deciding on an optional subject for IAS Mains becomes a very important decision that may even decide the final score and grade a rank. Therefore, instead of looking for that elusive “easy” subject, aspirants should look for the “right” one for themselves.
Selection Must-Have: Towards an Ideal Optional Subject for IAS Mains
Instead of thinking about ease, one ought to keep in mind these practical factors that usually culminate in a successful choice.
Interest and Aptitude:
Probably, this is the most important. You will have this subject for hundreds of hours, talking about it. If you truly have an interest in the subject and an aptitude for it, then learning will be fun and not boring at all; you will tend to remember a lot and do well. Forcing yourself to study a subject that you hate will only end in burnout and worse performance, just because it is considered “easy” or “scoring.”
Academic Background:
Your graduation subject usually offers a strong foundation. If you are deeply taught and do know the concepts from your undergraduate studies, then opting for that subject as your optional subject for IAS Mains will give you a head start. You are already familiar with the nomenclature, the key theories, and research methodologies, and hence, there will be hardly any initial learning time involved.
Syllabus Overlap with General Studies (GS):
Some optional subjects have majorly overlapping topics with the General Studies papers (GS Paper I, II, III, IV) and the Essay paper. For instance, History, Geography, Public Administration, Political Science & International Relations, and Sociology generally have huge common ground with GS papers. Choosing such an optional subject for IAS Mains can be highly efficient, as studying for one benefits the other, saving valuable time and effort.
Availability of Study Material and Coaching:
While it is, of course, possible to self-study, it helps greatly to have the availability of proper and comprehensive study material, previous years’ solved papers, and trustworthy coaching, especially for subjects which may require guidance in detail. Research whether your IAS Mains optional subject has study material available.
Scoring Potential:
Subjective in nature, some subjects are the arena where most candidates traditionally really do well. And this scoring potential can depend on factors such as the nature of the subject. From being very objective to very interpretative, consistency in evaluation, and the trend of scoring. However, one should risk none on perceived “scoring potential” without his/her own interest and aptitude. If others consider a subject to be scoring. that does not make it scoring for you if you don’t like it.
Importance of Coaching Institutes like Plutus IAS in the optional subject for IAS mains
Coaching institutes have assumed a paramount role for many aspirants, especially if they are confused about an optional subject or require structured guidance. Plutus IAS, being one of the major coaching centres, realises this problem and provides special coaching and guidance for various options for IAS Mains.
- Expert Faculty: They have eminent faculty teaching a variety of optional subjects, giving thorough subject knowledge and using very effective teaching methodologies.
- Counselling and Guidance: Counselling sessions are held at Plutus IAS, wherein the aspirant can discuss matters regarding their academic background, interests, and strengths with the expert counsellors to help make an informed decision regarding their Optional for IAS Mains.
- Study Material: Plutus IAS provides study material for optional subjects, which is well researched and concise, saving time for aspirants in hunting for sources.
- Test Series and Feedback: Continuous mock tests and personalised feedback on answer writing help aspirants to assess their preparation and improve in the selected optional.
Conclusion
The easiest subject, or so-called, is the one in which a person has an interest. It has some understanding and is willing to put in hard work to master it. It is some estimate of what it can score. Based on their dedication and understanding of the subject, not just some ease already there. The choice is yours, so give it your whole heart, and success will come.
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