Question : Overlap For The IAS Mains Optional Subject With General Studies: Is This The Right Strategy?

Answer :

• Selecting an overlapping optional with General Studies is a good strategy, as the time required to study an optional subject not mentioned as per GS syllabus can be saved. This case not universally applicable though. Take the case of Rachat Raj, UPSC 2013 Rank 3, who scored exceptionally well with Zoology optional. There are also many who made it to the top with optional subjects like Medical Science or Law. None of these overlaps with GS syllabus as subjects like History or Geography do.
• Never take an optional just for the sole reason of GS overlap. Also, never take an optional just based on advice from coaching institute gurus. You need to understand that each and every optional subject is scoring. Due to the scaling effects, some optional might not turn high-scoring in some years, but there is no universal trend or theory. Your requirement is to score maximum marks for the optional subject as well as in GS. Availability of time, effort required, and the possibility of maximum marks are three crucial factors to consider before you select the optional.
• A scoring, overlapping optional subject, though which might require substantial preparation due to the vast nature of the syllabus can be adopted, if you have – background/ previous exposure in the subject, or if there is adequate time left. If you are running short of time, select an optional paper which requires less time for a decent level of preparation.
• If 1-2 years is available before Mains exam, a hardworking candidate might be able to finish standard textbooks of almost any optional subject. But, compromising GS marks for Optional preparation can also turn critical, and hence not advised as per the latest pattern of exam.