Optional subjects form an important aspect of the Civil Services Mains exam.  A candidate carefully needs to assess various factors while choosing an optional subject including preparation time, scoring potential, background knowledge, ease of learning, interest, etc. 

Mathematics is a good subject to choose if a candidate is a graduate in the same or related subject/s and is genuinely interested in it. Otherwise, the preparation may prove tedious.

In this post, we’ll discuss the Mathematics syllabus, strategy, and tips for preparation, the pros, and cons of choosing mathematics as an optional subject. 

Let’s begin.

There are two optional papers in the Mains exam carrying 250 marks each. 

Syllabus for Mathematics papers

PAPER – I	PAPER – II
Linear Algebra	Algebra
Calculus	Real Analysis
Analytic Geometry	Complex Analysis
Ordinary Differential Equations	Linear Programming
Dynamics & Statics	Partial differential equations
	Numerical Analysis and Computer programming
	Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics

Pros and Cons of taking Maths as an optional

Benefits 

• Ease of Scoring

Maths is a scoring subject. Given the fact that there is no subjective-based answer module, deriving the right answer using the apt process makes it easier for candidates to score full marks. 

• Ease of Answering

The UPSC Mathematics optional paper generally includes questions from the textbooks generally instead of case-study based questions. As a result, any mathematics graduate who has a good grasp of the subject doesn’t find it difficult to answer the questions.

• Less Competition

Unlike commonly selected subjects like sociology, history or geography, the competition is limited in Maths.

• Ease of self-assessment 

Unlike subjects like sociology, political science or philosophy involving an element of subjectivity, Mathematics allow a candidate to do self-assessment easily. Taking Mathematics eliminates the risk of the same answer being judged differently by two examiners as the answers involve an absolute truth.

• Static Syllabus

A candidate opting for Maths as an optional paper doesn’t need to keep an update on a regular basis of the current affairs including the events of national and international importance. In fact, the time needed to prepare case-study based questions including theoretical concepts and their application in the current scenario get eliminated. Once an aspirant is through with the syllabus, all he/she needs to do is to revise the same concepts and not devote any time to dynamic aspects. 

Disadvantages

• Time-taking subject

As compared to other optional subjects, preparing Maths may take more time as a candidate needs to be thorough with every concept and practice it. At the same time, an aspirant needs to revise the concepts time and again so that he/she doesn’t lose track of it.

• Unrelated subjects 

Preparation for Maths is based on a completely unrelated syllabus. The topics covered do not contribute to the preparation for general studies syllabus in either way. SO, it could be a tedious task for aspirants to prepare for Maths separately along with four GS papers for the UPSC Mains exam.

• No marks for attempting

Mathematics being an objective subject only has right or wrong answers. As the element of subjectivity doesn’t exist, therefore, the chances of getting marks for attempting do not exist. 

How to prepare?

• Regular practice is the key

Mathematics is a subject requiring intense preparation as a candidate not only needs to be through the simple but complex concepts. And as popularly said, “practice makes it perfect”. This is the ultimate truth for Mathematics wherein the more you practice, the more accuracy, speed, and clarity you tend to develop.

• Be careful and attentive 

Avoid making silly mistakes. Read the signs and understand the question carefully. Think about the most appropriate method and derive the answer.

• Neat presentation of answers - complex questions may involve a rigorous process. Ensure that you provide clear-cut neat answers.

• Memorizing the solutions don’t work in Mathematics. Try to understand the topic and get a grasp of it with thorough practice. 

• For easy time-saving revision, prepare a formula sheet at one of the most frequently visited corners of your room or place of study. 

General Tips

• Know your syllabus thoroughly. Prepare a study plan.
• Don’t forget to get a hold of previous year question papers.
• Get reference material from different sources. Do take mock tests.

Thumbs up for your preparation!!

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