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Optional forms an important part of UPSC civil services exam. Choosing and preparing for the right optional subject is an important part of UPSC Civil Services Mains. The optional papers in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination can either get you a great rank or you may not be even able to clear the exam.. Out of 1750 marks of Mains, 500 marks come from the two optional papers. Many toppers have gained a substantial edge through strategic optional paper preparation. Whether you’re a beginner or repeat aspirant, a well-crafted UPSC IAS optional strategy is important for maximizing scores and improving your overall rank.

Also Read: UPSC Exam Syllabus

UPSC IAS Optional Subject Basics

Each aspirant has to select one optional subject from a list of 48 choices.

Also Read: Books for UPSC Mains

What Makes a Strong UPSC IAS Optional Strategy?

You can also follow these suggestions steps:

The will to do continuous hard work along with a good mentorship is the key to a strong UPSC IAS Strategy.

Also Read: Sociology optional syllabus

Most Chosen UPSC IAS Optional Subjects

Optional subject popularity changes with success trends and coaching availability.

• PSIR still remains the most chosen optional due to overlap with GS and essay papers.
• Anthropology’s popularity increased after multiple toppers chose it.
• Geography saw a decline due to poor marks post-2018.
• Sociology stays popular for its scoring potential and easy availability of notes.

How to Choose the Right Optional Subject

There is no universally “best” optional. Your choice shall depend on:

• Academic background (e.g., doctors choosing Medical Science)
• Intersection with GS Papers (e.g., PSIR, History, Sociology)
• Interest and aptitude (very important for sustained motivation)
• Availability of resources and guidance
• Length and complexity of syllabus
• Performance trends in recent years

Also Read: Geography optional Syllabus

Easiest UPSC IAS Optional Subject to Prepare

There’s no officially “easy” optional, but the following are considered manageable for common aspirants:

• Sociology: Short syllabus, conceptual clarity, high overlap with GS1 and Essay
• Anthropology: Compact syllabus, scoring nature, clear diagrams, scientific base
• Philosophy: Shortest syllabus, but needs strong abstract thinking
• PSIR: High GS overlap, but vast content

These subjects require fewer diagrams or formulas and are less technical.

Most Difficult UPSC IAS Optional Subjects

Subjects assumed to be tough include:

• Mathematics: High accuracy and time-intensive; rewards precision
• Law: Vast content; demands strong conceptual clarity
• Physics/Chemistry: Lengthy, tough numerical parts; rarely chosen
• Literature: Demands fluency in classical texts and literary interpretation

These require strong academic grounding and deep interest.

Also Read: Chemistry optional syllabus

Also Read: Mechanical engineering optional Syllabus

How to Prepare Optional Subjects for UPSC?

Follow this structured strategy whether it’s your first attempt or a repeat:

How Much Time Does It Take to Prepare for UPSC Optional?

A Beginner-Friendly Plan:

Weekly Plan Example (Non-academic background):

Consistency is more important than speed. Avoid switching subjects mid-way.

How to Score High Marks in UPSC IAS Optional

Scoring 300+ is achievable with:

• Structured answers: Use headings, subheadings, intro-body-conclusion
• Inclusion of keywords from syllabus
• Timely paper completion (250 words in 7 minutes)
• Relevant thinkers, examples, and quotes
• Test series feedback integration

Toppers Who Scored High in Optional:

Highest scorer ever in optional:
Kanishak Kataria (Mathematics) – 364/500 in 2018

Optional Subject or GS Papers: What’s More Scoring?

Optional paper is often the rank booster, as GS scores are competitive but closely packed.

A good optional score can give a 100+ mark edge over others.

How to Prepare Optional Subject for UPSC Mains (Tips for Repeaters)

• Identify what didn’t work last time: Was it theory, lack of tests, poor answer structure?
• Update notes with new thinkers, examples
• Join a test series (if not done before)
• Practice time-bound writing every 2 days
• Don’t keep changing sources
• Track past mistakes in feedback journals

Final UPSC IAS Optional Strategy Checklist

• Understand your subject completely
• Complete syllabus with one standard source per topic
• Practice answer writing weekly
• Join test series if guidance is needed
• Revise weekly and simulate Mains conditions
• Be consistent and avoid burnout

Your optional subject is not just another part of the Mains exam—it is your most powerful weapon to secure a top rank. With the right UPSC IAS Optional Strategy, focused preparation, and smart revision, scoring 300+ is possible.

UPSC IAS Optional Strategy FAQs

Q1. What is the best UPSC IAS optional strategy for beginners?

The best strategy is to choose a subject aligned with your interest and educational background. Understand the syllabus thoroughly. Make concise notes, and start practicing answer writing early. Regular revision and test series help build confidence and accuracy.

Q2. How to prepare optional for UPSC without coaching?

Without coaching, aspirants should rely on standard textbooks, previous year questions, and topper answer sheets. Make structured notes, practice writing consistently. Use online platforms for peer review and feedback. Self-discipline and regular evaluation are key to success.

Q3. How much time does it take to prepare for the UPSC optional subject?

On average, optional subject preparation takes 6–9 months. Candidates with prior background might complete it in 4–6 months. Repeaters usually need 3–4 months of focused revision, answer practice, and test-based evaluation to improve overall performance.

Q4. What is the easiest optional subject to prepare for UPSC Mains?

Sociology, Anthropology, and Philosophy are considered the easiest due to short syllabus, straightforward concepts, and GS overlap. However, ease is subjective. The best optional is the one you find most engaging, manageable, and suitable for consistent long-term preparation.

Q5. What is the most difficult optional subject in UPSC?

Subjects like Mathematics, Law, Physics, and Engineering disciplines are seen as most difficult because they demand in-depth technical knowledge, extensive problem-solving skills, and regular practice. Choose them only if you have a strong academic foundation and interest in the subject.

Q6. Which is the most chosen optional subject in UPSC Mains?

Public Administration, Sociology, Political Science, and Geography are among the most chosen optionals. Their popularity is driven by overlap with General Studies, structured syllabus, and abundant resources. But, selection should still depend on personal aptitude and preparation strategy.

Q7. How to score high marks in optional subjects in UPSC?

One can get high marks from complete syllabus coverage, strong conceptual clarity, and excellent answer writing. Use keywords, relevant examples, and structured presentation. Regular revision, mock tests, and feedback-driven assessment help you write faster, more relevant, and scoring answers in the exam.