OPTIONALS Courses

Importance of Optional Subjects in UPSC & OPSC CSE ✅ 1. Weightage in Final Selection UPSC CSE: 2 Optional Papers (Paper VI & VII): 250 marks each = 500 marks total Out of 1750 marks in the Mains written exam, optional subject contributes ~28.5%. A well-chosen optional can significantly improve rank and service allocation (like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc.) OPSC OCSE: Also includes 2 Optional Papers (Paper VIII & IX), 250 marks each = 500 marks total Out of 1750 marks in the Mains, optional papers contribute the same 28.5%. Since competition is state-specific, a strong optional often determines whether you get into Group A services like OAS, OFS, OPS, ORS, etc. ✅ 2. Role in Final Merit In both exams, only marks from the Main written exam (including optional) and Interview are counted in the final merit list. Qualifying papers (Language) are not counted, but failure in them disqualifies candidates. ✅ 3. Scoring Potential Certain optional subjects have shown a consistent trend of high scores, especially when they: Overlap with GS papers (e.g. PSIR, Sociology, Geography) Are conceptually easier to master with limited resources Are supported by strong faculty or coaching (e.g. SRIAS for PSIR) 4. Optional Can Be a Rank Booster or Rank Killer Many top rankers credit their success to smart preparation in optional papers. Even strong performance in GS and Essay can be offset by poor optional marks, and vice versa. 5. Optional in Interview Preparation The Interview Board often asks questions from your optional subject, assuming it's your area of interest or expertise. A strong grip on your optional subject can boost your confidence and performance in the personality test. 📚 Popular Optionals at UPSC & OPSC PSIR (Political Science & International Relations) Sociology Geography History Anthropology Odia Literature (very popular in OPSC) Public Administration Philosophy 🏫 Relevance of Coaching (like at SRIAS) Institutions like SRIAS provide optional subject mentorship, notes, test series, and expert guidance, especially for high-performing subjects like PSIR. Structured coaching helps in: Answer writing practice Understanding syllabus boundaries Avoiding common mistakes Timely syllabus completion