UPSC Optional Subjects
Choose from 48+ optional subjects for UPSC Mains examination. Each subject has two papers of 250 marks each, contributing 500 marks to your total Mains score of 1750 marks.
How to Choose Your Optional Subject
Interest & Background
- • Choose subject you have genuine interest in
- • Consider your educational background
- • Prior knowledge gives competitive advantage
- • Passion helps in sustained preparation
Scoring Potential
- • Analyze previous years' toppers choices
- • Check average scores in different subjects
- • Consider examiner's marking patterns
- • Availability of quality study material
Overlap with GS
- • Choose subjects overlapping with GS papers
- • Reduces overall preparation burden
- • Examples: Geography, History, Public Administration
- • Efficient time management strategy
Literature & Humanities
Indian Languages Literature
Assamese
Literature from medieval period to modern times including drama, poetry, and prose.
Bengali
Rich literary tradition from Charyapada to contemporary writers like Tagore.
Hindi
Ancient to modern Hindi literature including Kabir, Tulsidas, Premchand era.
Tamil
Sangam literature to modern Tamil literary traditions and movements.
English
British, American, and Indian English literature across different periods.
Sanskrit
Vedic literature, classical Sanskrit poetry, drama, and philosophy.
Science & Technology
Mathematics
Pure and applied mathematics including calculus, algebra, and statistics.
Physics
Classical mechanics, quantum physics, thermodynamics, and modern physics.
Chemistry
Physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry with analytical methods.
Botany
Plant biology, ecology, genetics, and biotechnology applications.
Zoology
Animal biology, evolution, ecology, and conservation biology.
Medical Science
Human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and preventive medicine.
Engineering
Civil Engineering
Structural engineering, transportation, and construction management.
Mechanical Engineering
Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and design engineering.
Electrical Engineering
Power systems, electronics, and control systems.
Preparation Strategy
Study Plan
- • Start optional preparation early
- • Create comprehensive study schedule
- • Focus on basic concepts first
- • Regular revision cycles
- • Practice answer writing daily
Resource Selection
- • Choose standard reference books
- • Join test series for practice
- • Follow expert guidance
- • Use online resources wisely
- • Previous years' question analysis
Exam Strategy
- • Understand marking scheme
- • Practice time management
- • Develop answer presentation skills
- • Mock test performance analysis
- • Stay updated with current trends
Social Sciences
Geography
Physical and human geography, with focus on India and world geography.
History
Ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history plus world history.
Public Administration
Administrative theory, Indian administration, and governance issues.
Political Science & IR
Political theory, comparative politics, and international relations.
Economics
Microeconomics, macroeconomics, and development economics.
Sociology
Sociological theory, Indian society, and contemporary social issues.