Guidance on Selecting Optional Subjects for UPPCS Mains

The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) conducts the Combined State/Upper Subordinate Services Examination, popularly known as UPPCS, for administrative roles within the state government. One critical aspect of this examination is choosing the right optional subject for the Mains. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the optional papers, recent changes, and tips for selecting an appropriate subject.

Overview of UPPCS Optional Papers

UPPSC candidates can opt for one of several optional subjects during the Mains phase of the examination. Traditionally, the options included a wide range of disciplines such as Agriculture, Anthropology, Botany, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, and more. However, recent changes in 2023 have seen the removal of one optional paper, which has been replaced by two special UPPS Pradeesh (UPPSC) papers. This move aims to standardize the exam level, ensuring a fair playing field for all candidates.

Current List of Optional Subjects for UPPCS Mains

Agriculture Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science Anthropology Botany Chemistry Civil Engineering Commerce and Accountancy Economics Electrical Engineering Geography Geology Hindi Literature (Minimal option, subject to changes) History Law Management Mathematics Mechanical Engineering Microbiology Medical Science Philosophy Political Science and International Relations Psychology Public Administration Sociology Statistics Zoology

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optional Subject

Interest and Familiarity: Your interest in the subject and previous exposure to it are crucial. A subject you are passionate about will be easier to prepare for, and if you have a background in a particular field, it can make your preparation more effective. Scoring Potential: Consider subjects that have historically performed well in the UPPSC exams. Previous question papers and analysis of toppers' strategies can provide valuable insights. Popular choices include Public Administration, History, Geography, and Political Science. Availability of Resources: Ensure that sufficient study material and resources are available. Reliable study materials and guidance from experts or coaching institutes can be immensely helpful. Notably, Physics Wallah and other coaching institutes offer affordable courses and crash courses to assist candidates.

Popular Optional Subjects and Trends

Based on the performance of top performers, certain subjects have emerged as favorites. Traditionally, subjects like Public Administration, History, Political Science, and Sociology have been consistently popular. Additionally, engineering and technical backgrounds have led many candidates to choose subjects such as Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Business and management backgrounds often lead candidates to opt for Commerce and Accountancy or Management.

Strategies and Recommendations

Ultimately, the choice of an optional subject should align with your strengths, interests, and the availability of resources. It's important to choose a subject where you can confidently perform well. Blindly following others is not advisable.

Success in the UPPSC examination depends on hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Stay focused on your goals and work consistently towards them.

Additional Resources

Physics Wallah: Offers affordable courses and study materials. SAKSHAM and AGNIPANKH Batches: These courses, especially the AGNIPANKH prelims crash course, can be particularly helpful as they are almost free and start in February 2023, completing by April 10th.