Which Optional Subject Yields the Highest Marks in UPSC Exam?
The optional subject with the highest average marks in the UPSC exam varies from year to year. Historically, certain subjects tend to show better performance, but there isn't a definitive answer as other factors can influence the results annually. Subjects like Public Administration, Geography, and literature-oriented subjects frequently perform well. However, after the 2013 main paper pattern change, Mathematics has become a standout performer.
Mathematics as a Top-Performing Optional Subject
Mathematics is an optional subject that can yield excellent scores, with candidates like Anubhav Singh, Atul Prakash, and Kanishka Kataria achieving an impressive 375/500 in 2017. Mathematics is considered a competitive subject due to its extensive syllabus and the need for rigorous practice. Here are reference marks for several years:
Reference Marks for Mathematics
2017 Anubhav Singh: 375/500, AIR 8 (Paper1: 181, Paper2: 194) 2017 Atul Prakash: 368/500, AIR 4 (Paper1: 165, Paper2: 203) 2018 Kanishka Kataria: 361/500, AIR 1 (Paper1: 170, Paper2: 191) 2014 Nitish K: 346/500, AIR 8 (Paper1: 173, Paper2: 173)While Mathematics can yield substantial marks, it requires substantial effort and strategization. Here are some key points to consider for Mathematics:
Key Points to Consider for Mathematics
Extensive Syllabus: Mathematics has a wide syllabus covering topics from advanced calculus, algebra, and geometry, which demands comprehensive understanding and practice. Rigorous Practice: Consistent and intensive practice is crucial to excel in Mathematics. Scaling Issues: Mathematics often faces issues with scaling, where highly proficient candidates might not receive full marks. Negative Marking: Be cautious of negative marking, as Mathematics is quite predictable, and getting a question wrong can impact the final score significantly. Time Management: Effective time management is essential during the examination to maximize the number of attempted and solved questions.Other High-Performing Optional Subjects
While Mathematics is a top performer, other subjects have also shown impressive results. Here are a few additional subjects that have been relatively high-performing:
Geography
Geography has consistently performed well in UPSC examinations. Here are some notable results:
2016 Saumya Pandey: 314, AIR 4 (Paper1: 156, Paper2: 158) 2016 Shweta Chauhan: 326, AIR 8 (Paper1: 171, Paper2: 155) 2017 Pratham Kaushik: 327, AIR 5 (Paper1: 166, Paper2: 161)Public Administration
Public Administration is another subject known for its predictability and substantial marks. Here are some examples:
2016 Abhilash Mishra: 334, AIR 5 (Paper1: 166, Paper2: 168) 2016 Suman Sourav Mohanty: 299, AIR 9 (Paper1: 155, Paper2: 144)Literature and Languages
Literature and Literature-based languages like Punjabi, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi have also shown significant improvements in recent years:
2015 Jasmeet Singh (Punjabi): 245, AIR 3 (Paper1: 120, Paper2: 125) 2016 Nandini K R (Kannada): 331, AIR 1 (Paper1: 164, Paper2: 167)Understanding the subject-specific strengths, weaknesses, and required effort is crucial for success in the UPSC examination. Candidates must balance their preparation based on their strengths and weaknesses and the subject difficulty.
Conclusion
While Mathematics has historically yielded the highest marks among optional subjects, it is essential for candidates to carefully consider their strengths, as other subjects like Geography, Public Administration, and Literature can also deliver strong performance. Each optional subject has its unique challenges and requires different levels of preparation and strategy. Careful planning, consistent practice, and a thorough understanding of the subject questions are key to achieving high marks in the UPSC exam.