Introduction: When aspirants start preparing for UPSC, the most dangerous trap isn’t GS or CSAT. It’s an optional subject. A wrong optional can drag your rank 300 places down. A smart optional? It can make a 10,000-rank aspirant get into the top 100. Yet, no coaching, no toppers, and no books tell you how to choose the right optional . Let’s break down a practical, proven, and strategic method to pick your optional, with no regrets later. Why Choosing the Right Optional is a Game-Changer 500 Marks — 25% of Your Fate Optional carries 500 marks in UPSC Mains. A consistent optional score of 280+ means you're in the top league. Toppers Made Their Rank with Optional Gaurav Agarwal (AIR 1, 2013) – Economics Jagrati Awasthi (AIR 2, 2020) – Sociology Their optional subjects played a key role in their final ranking. UPSC Optional: Step-by-Step Guide to Choose the Best One for YOU ✅ Step 1: Go Through the Syllabus (Don't Skip This!) Download the syllabus PDF from the o...
Mission UPSC Clear is your go-to UPSC preparation blog by aspirant Shubham Kothari. Get UPSC 2026 strategies, PYQ analysis, study plans, and exam tips. Clear UPSC with clarity and confidence.