Sunday, May 1, 2011

Choosing Optional Subjects for UPSC Civil Services


Selection of optional subject for the UPSC exam needs a lot of thought. Some of the most common questions that come from students are:
* Should I choose the subject from my graduation course
* I want to choose a subject X but I am not sure if it has a high success ratio
* Should I use two different or similar subjects as optionals

Here are a few things to consider while selecting a subject for the UPSC Civil Services
  • Choose a subject that YOU are comfortable with. Understanding of concepts in different subjects takes time and effort. If you pick a subject that you are comfortable with, it will automatically increase your efficiency.
  • Check the availability of resources while choosing a subject. This even more important while selecting the optional language.
  • If books, guidance, and support is available for the course then you save a lot of time.
  • Test your knowledge level in different subjects while settling upon one. Anthropology, and Sociology might seem very similar till you get into the details. Take a test and see if you like way questions are asked in a subject and what are the expectations from the examinee.
  • Ideally, one should choose a subject that you have studied for your college education. However, if you believe that for some reason, you are more comfortable with a different subject, go for it. However, ask yourself, “Do I know this subject better than the one I studied in college”?
Popular questions:
Q. What are the easy subjects for UPSC?
Well, the honest answer is, we are yet to find one.

Civil Services if a very competitive exam. You have to be the 'best of the best' to go through it. If a subject is easy, its easy for all and hence tougher the competition

Q. Which subject has the maximum selections / selection percentage / success ratio
I will put in a separate report on the selections and success ratios for different subjects and languages. However, these ratios should not be the only criteria for selecting a subject. Your level of comfort and level of knowledge is more important.
Preparing for the UPSC exam calls for a lot of determination, dedication , time management, patience, and planning. Apart from the daily preparation , one needs to do a self assessment by taking individual tests related to the topics.

What lies behind us and what lies before us are not as important as what lies within us.
Believe in yourself and your capabilities to become more confident. So take charge of your mind and think positive. Remember, you are what you think.

If you believe in yourself, you can do it !!


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