Choosing the right UPSC optional subject is one of the most crucial decisions in your UPSC Civil Services Exam preparation journey. It can make or break your final score in the Mains exam. So, if you’re asking “Which optional subject is best for UPSC?”, or “How to choose optional subject for UPSC mains", you’re not alone it’s one of the most searched UPSC preparation questions every year.
📘 What is an Optional Subject in UPSC?
The UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam includes 9 papers, of which Paper VI and VII are from an optional subject of your choice. Each optional paper carries 250 marks, totaling 500 marks a significant chunk that can influence your final IAS/IPS/IFS rank.
🔍 How to Choose the Best Optional Subject for UPSC?
1. 🎓 Your Academic Background
If you already studied a subject in your graduation (like History, Sociology, Political Science, Engineering, etc.), and enjoyed it, consider it seriously.
2. 📚 Interest and Understanding
Choose a subject you genuinely enjoy reading. You’ll need to study it deeply for 6–8 months. Boring subjects = mental fatigue.
3. 📈 Scoring Potential
While all subjects are “scoring” with proper preparation, subjects like:
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- PSIR (Political Science and International Relations)
- Geography are popular due to better performance trends.
4. 📦 Availability of Resources
Ensure that the subject has:
- Good standard books
- Online coaching or guidance
- Previous year question papers with model answers
5. 🧑🏫 Coaching and Mentorship
If you need coaching, check if quality classes are available for that subject in Hindi/English (based on your comfort).
6. ⏳ Syllabus Overlap with GS Papers
Subjects like PSIR, Geography, Sociology, History overlap with GS Paper 1, 2, and Essay, giving you an advantage.
7. 📊 Optional Subject Success Rate
Check UPSC optional subject success rate reports published by UPSC (Anthropology, PSIR, Sociology have been consistent toppers).
🏆 Toppers’ Insights: What Optional Did They Choose?
| Year | Topper Name | Optional Subject |
|---|
| 2023 | Ishita Kishore | PSIR (Political Science & International Relations) |
| 2022 | Shruti Sharma | History |
| 2021 | Shubham Kumar | Anthropology |
| 2020 | Pradeep Singh | Public Administration |
✅ Most toppers choose subjects they are comfortable with and can revise multiple times before the exam.
📊 Most Popular Optional Subjects in UPSC (Based on Success Rate)
| Subject | Strengths |
|---|
| Sociology | Easy theory, short syllabus, useful for Essay & GS1 |
| PSIR | Popular choice, scoring, helpful in GS Paper 2 & Essay |
| Anthropology | High scoring potential, compact and easy-to-complete syllabus |
| Geography | Scientific approach, visual learning (maps/diagrams), overlaps with GS |
| History | Abundant study material, strong overlap with GS Paper 1 |
❌ Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing Optional
- Choosing based on friend’s choice or coaching popularity
- Choosing a new subject just for trend (without personal interest)
- Ignoring answer writing practice
- Choosing a subject with vast syllabus without preparation time
✅ Conclusion: What’s the Best Optional for You?
There is no single best optional subject in UPSC – the best one is what works for YOU. Match your interest, time, resources, and goal. Start with syllabus analysis, read a few chapters, and take a mock test if possible.
🎯 The optional subject is not just about marks – it’s about comfort, confidence, and consistency.
💬 Let’s Discuss:
Which optional subject are you thinking of choosing and why?
Are you facing confusion between two subjects?
Which optional do you think is better for Hindi-medium aspirants?
