Aniket Barua

UPSC ranks are determined based on the total marks obtained in the Mains (written exam) and Interview (Personality Test). Here’s how the ranking process works:

1. Exam Stages & Scoring

• Prelims: Qualifying stage (marks not counted for final ranking).
• Mains: 1750 marks (7 papers considered for ranking).
• Interview: 275 marks.
• Total Marks Considered: 2025 marks (Mains + Interview).

2. Merit List Formation

• Candidates are ranked based on their total score.
• Higher marks = better rank.
• The cut-off marks vary each year based on vacancies and difficulty level.

3. Service Allocation

• Top ranks (usually within 100) get IAS.
• Ranks up to 250-300 may qualify for IPS or IFS, depending on category and vacancies.
• Lower ranks may get IRS, IRTS, or other Group A services.

Here are some recommended books for Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as an optional subject for UPSC:

Paper I: Political Theory & Indian Government

1. Political Theory – Andrew Heywood
2. An Introduction to Political Theory – O.P. Gauba
3. Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth
4. Our Constitution – Subhash Kashyap
5. A History of Political Thought: Plato to Marx – Mukherjee & Ramaswamy
6. Western Political Thought – O.P. Gauba

Paper II: International Relations & Comparative Politics

1. Global Politics – Andrew Heywood
2. India’s Foreign Policy – V.P. Dutt
3. International Relations – Peu Ghosh
4. The Oxford Handbook of Indian Foreign Policy – David M. Malone, C. Raja Mohan, and Srinath Raghavan

Making self notes for UPSC preparation is crucial for effective revision and concept retention. Here’s a structured approach to help you create high-quality notes:

1. Read & Understand First

• Avoid making notes in the first reading. Focus on understanding concepts.
• On the second reading, jot down key points, facts, and analysis.

2. Use Bullet Points & Keywords

• Keep notes concise—avoid copying entire paragraphs.
• Use bullet points, flowcharts, and diagrams for better recall.

3. Integrate Current Affairs

• Link static topics with current affairs for a holistic understanding.
• Maintain a separate section for important government schemes, reports, and policies.

4. Make Subject-Wise Notes

• Divide notes into Prelims and Mains sections.
• Use mind maps for subjects like History, Polity, and Economy.

5. Keep Digital & Handwritten Notes

• Digital notes (OneNote, Evernote) help in quick searches.
• Handwritten notes improve memory retention.

6. Regularly Update & Revise

• Keep refining notes with new insights.
• Revise weekly to reinforce concepts.

History is a popular optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Mains exam, chosen by many aspirants due to its overlap with General Studies, rich content, and analytical depth. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:

Pros of Choosing History as an Optional Subject

1. Extensive Overlap with General Studies – Topics like Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History are already covered in GS papers.
2. Availability of Study Material – Plenty of books, coaching notes, and online resources make preparation easier.
3. Scoring Potential – Well-structured answers with factual accuracy and analysis can fetch good marks.
4. No Need for Prior Background – Unlike technical subjects, History can be mastered with dedicated study.
5. Helps in Essay Writing & Interview – Historical perspectives enhance analytical skills and argumentation.

Cons of Choosing History

1. Vast Syllabus – Covers Ancient, Medieval, Modern, and World History, requiring extensive reading.
2. Fact-Heavy Subject – Requires memorization of dates, events, and personalities.
3. Answer Writing Challenges – Answers must be analytical, not just descriptive.

Who Should Choose History?

• If you enjoy storytelling, analyzing events, and understanding societal changes.
• If you are comfortable with reading and retaining large amounts of information.
• If you want an optional subject that complements General Studies preparation.

Cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam requires a strategic approach, discipline, and consistency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you succeed:

1. Understand the Exam Structure

• The UPSC exam consists of Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
• Prelims: Objective-type questions (GS Paper I & CSAT).
• Mains: Descriptive papers, including General Studies, Essay, and Optional Subject.
• Interview: Personality test assessing analytical and leadership skills.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

• Start with NCERT books for History, Geography, Polity, and Economics.
• Read standard reference books like Laxmikanth for Polity, Spectrum for History, and Ramesh Singh for Economics.

3. Master Current Affairs

• Read The Hindu, Indian Express, and government reports.
• Follow PIB, Yojana, and Kurukshetra magazines.
• Maintain a daily notes system for important events.

4. Develop Answer Writing Skills

• Practice writing structured answers with introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Solve previous years’ papers and take mock tests.

5. Choose the Right Optional Subject

• Pick a subject based on interest, scoring potential, and availability of resources.
• Ensure deep conceptual clarity and regular practice.

6. Revise Regularly

• Make concise notes for quick revision.
• Revise static and current affairs topics multiple times.

7. Practice Mock Tests

• Attempt Prelims and Mains mock tests to improve accuracy and time management.
• Analyze mistakes and refine your strategy.

8. Prepare for the Interview

• Work on communication skills and personality development.
• Stay updated on current affairs and governance issues.
• Practice mock interviews with mentors.