Sociology has long been a preferred elective for UPSC candidates hoping to achieve a high score because it is the finest option. Given that it needs a reasonable level of understanding and strong writing abilities, sociology can be a useful optional. From the perspective of the UPSC CSE Mains, a number of Sociology Optional components show to be advantageous to the candidates and have a positive link with the overall marks.
Before developing a strategy for Sociology or starting the preparation, aspirants who are interested in selecting sociology as an optional should first read the complete sociology optional curriculum.
Strategy to Prepare Sociology Optional for UPSC
Paper I
It focuses on the subject’s foundational ideas. The majority of the subjects covered in this essay are static, such as sociological thinkers, religion and society, research methods, etc. Due to its theoretical character, this article is rather simple to understand and requires high recall skills.
Paper II
It focuses on how the topic might be applied to the Indian context. The subjects can be broadly categorized as an examination of Indian society with a focus on its social structure.
Important Links
Recognize the syllabus
A comprehensive study and comprehension of the UPSC syllabus is the first stage in preparing for any topic. Your studies would appear haphazard and extensive without the syllabus. So, keep in mind to examine the curriculum of the top UPSC optional before you start studying.
Become familiar with the topic.
If you don’t already have an experience in sociology, start your IAS preparation by learning what sociology is all about and what the sociology optional subject preparation process comprises.
You can read the NCERT Books for Class 11 and 12 to gain a basic understanding of the topic.
Reduce your sources; revision is essential
You should limit your sources for sociology, just like you should for other primary disciplines. The most effort should be put into reading and reviewing the bare minimum of necessary sources, followed by practicing composing answers. Numerous written notes that are readily available online on Amazon are often gathered by aspirants. However, due to their questionable quality and sincerity, vigilance should be exercised.
Mock exams
Any humanities discipline, including sociology, requires writing to be successful. It is crucial to take as many mock exams as you can for this top UPSC optional. This will not only strengthen your information but also make your presentation visually appealing.
Create Notes
Make a list of all the concepts and terms you come across. The richness and impact of your response will be enhanced by the use of technical jargon. Additionally, you can start your answer by defining these words in a few lines if they appear in the question.
Keep going
Drawing on recent data is always highly advantageous. For instance, while researching social movements, you can stay up with the newest and most well-liked movements occurring both in India and outside.
Link Your Knowledge
Be logical in your thinking and connect your studies. This is the finest optional subject for the UPSC because there is so much room for cross-references. Recognize these connections and include them in your answer writing.
Take advice
Taking coaching sessions for Sociology Optional would be very helpful in acquiring clarity and an in-depth comprehension of the concepts without wasting a lot of time on seeking for answers, particularly if you DO NOT come from a sociology-related academic background. It is crucial to seek the suitable mentor who can assist you in laying a solid basis for sociological principles.
Examine the test questions and solutions from past years.
Studying Sociology Optional question papers from prior years is another crucial step in concentrating your preparation and directing it toward the objective of passing the exam. You will learn valuable insights from this exercise regarding the themes to concentrate on, the frequency and degree of difficulty of questions from various topics, etc. As your preparation progresses, you can also begin composing solutions to these questions to create a natural approach to the sociology optional questions in the UPSC Mains.
Conclusion
In addition to being the top UPSC optional, sociology has also shown to be a high-scoring subject that continues to draw applicants. Instead of memorizing concepts, just concentrate on developing an interest in the material.
The support that sociology offers for the GS subjects and the essay paper makes it conceivable with such an approach to not only pass the Mains test but also earn more than 300 marks on your sociology paper and position yourself to receive a top ranking. Candidates must answer more questions from past UPSC exams as well as questions from practice tests in order to pass the UPSC Sociology exam.
