History is an optional subject the candidate chose in the UPSC scheme. It is the most data consisting course but easy to understand; When compared to some conceptual Subjects, they do not contain complicated formulas and big abstracts to learn, candidates can enjoy it.
Because of the massive overlapping of History with the UPSC prelims and GS, the candidate can cover the vast portion of the IAS syllabus with this History Optional Preparation Strategy for UPSC. IAS candidates cannot get rid of history reading, which is the most valued reason for choosing History.
There are two sections in the UPSC examination, the Civil Services Main Exam and the Civil Services Mains Paper 1 (Paper 2) Examination- History and Political Science. The students who have not opted history as an optional subject are concerned about how to prepare this paper. While there are some tips to score good marks in history, there are also some important strategies that can help you score good marks even if you haven’t read up much on history or don’t know much about it at all.
Strategy For History Optional
History is easy to understand as compared to other subjects like psychology and political science. There is no big deal to understand and remember history events , you can watch videos and also read materials but the most important thing is a strategic plan to cover it.
Divide syllabus and Make Notes
It’s a very easy step, you just have to divide the whole syllabus, as we know that history becomes easier to remember when you divide it into parts, as for Indian history it’s already divided into ancient, mediaeval and modern times. You can also make a timeline for each event.
It’s difficult to answer indirect questions, so you have to write main points along with subheadings, for intense, causes, significance, success and failure etc.
Reading Indian History Books
Indian History is a vast and complicated subject, making it one of the best optional subjects to choose for the UPSC examination. A smart way to go about preparing for this optional would be to first understand which areas of Indian History you are weakest in. Once you have identified your weak points, focus on reading books that cover those topics in-depth. Additionally, make sure to take practice quizzes and test yourself often to ensure that you are retaining the information you are reading.
Repetition
The best strategy for the History optional in the UPSC examination is to study smart and not hard. This means that you should focus on understanding the concepts and not memorising them. You should also create a study schedule and stick to it. Additionally, make sure to take practice tests so that you can get an idea of what to expect on the actual exam. Finally, don’t forget to relax and stay positive throughout the entire process!
Improving Concentration Span
When it comes to preparing for the UPSC examination, one of the best strategies you can adopt is to improve your concentration span. This means making a concerted effort to focus on your studies for extended periods of time, without letting your mind wander. Additionally, try to break up your study sessions into smaller chunks so that you can retain information more effectively. Finally, don’t forget to take breaks and give yourself time to relax – overworking yourself will only lead to burnout.
Travellers History
To know about travellers who have visited India can help you to write up about what they have observed and what they have left us to learn, so you have to read about travellers It is superior to take the information from visitors and narrate the points they have taken from the travellers about the economy, society, and state.
Analysing Questions Asked in Previous Papers
The best way to prepare for the History optional is to analyse the questions asked in previous papers. And Legacy IAS Academy are providing best all optional booklist this coaching is one the Best UPSC Coaching in Bangalore. This will give you a good idea of the topics that are commonly tested and help you focus your studies. Additionally, make sure to brush up on your essay writing skills as this will be a large component of the exam.
Practising Questions Asked in Previous Papers
It is always a good idea to start by practising questions that have been asked in previous papers. This will give you a feel for the types of questions that are likely to be asked, and help you focus your studying. Plus, it’s a great way to get started on your revision.
As we know that most of the questions are repeated ones , so you have to look at past papers too just to understand the area of interest. You should make the proper notes and note down the essential parts of the syllabus.
Booklist for history optional
- History of Modern India – Bipan Chandra
- India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra
- India’s Ancient Past – RS Sharma
- The Wonder that was India – Al Basham
- Ashoka and the Decline of the Mauryas – Romila Thapar
- Mediaeval India: From Sultanate to Mughals – 1 – Satish Chandra
- Mediaeval India: From Sultanate to Mughals – 2 – Satish Chandra
- History of the World – Arjun Dev
- Mastering Modern World History – Norman Lowe
- NCERT History Books
- Indian Art and Culture – Nitin Singhania
- Historical Atlas of India
- A History of Ancient and Early Mediaeval India: From the Stone Age to the 12th Century – Upinder Singh
Conclusion
History optional is a famous subject among UPSC aspirants. But most of the students try to avoid history optional but the reality is, if you have a good strategic plan about how to cover the syllabus then you can prepare yourself within a few weeks. So the only thing that matters is that you must have a good strategic plan to prepare for it.
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