#psir optional for upsc

[plutusiasdelhi]

PSIR OPTIONAL FOR IAS COACHING IN DELHI

Join our UPSC CSE 2024-25 batch starting on October 13, 2023, at 12:00 PM at Plutus IAS Delhi for PSIR Optional. Elevate your preparation with expert guidance, comprehensive study materials, and a supportive community. Ace your UPSC journey with us. Enroll now!

[sleepyclasses1]

What is PSIR Optional

PSIR is an optional subject for students who wish to pursue a career in International Relations or a related field. The coursework covers a variety of topics including politics, history, and economics. It is designed to give students a well-rounded understanding of the world around them and how different countries interact with one another.

https://sleepyclasses.com/psir-for-upsc/

[civilsguru]

Get The Best Political Science And International Relations Optionals ( PSIR ) In Delhi Or Best Sociology Optionals In Delhi With The Civils Guru!

The right optional subject plays a crucial role in UPSC preparation. By doing so, you may have a better chance of succeeding in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. But do you know which is the best optional subject for UPSC? In The Civils Guru, civil service aspirants have access to a broad range of optional subjects. Let’s take a look at some,

#1. Best Political Science And International Relations Optionals ( PSIR ) In Delhi!

Political science plays a significant role in everyone’s daily lives. There are a number of reasons why this is an important civil service optional subject.

One of the highest-scoring options

A combination of static and current

It is helpful for the Essay Paper and the General Studies Paper-1.

There is a significant overlap with the General Studies Paper-2

It Covers the Indian Polity Section of Prelims as well Read more....

[joshtalksias]

KSG IAS Fees and Course Details

The Khan Study Group (KSG), founded in 2008 by the esteemed academician Dr. A R Khan, has emerged as one of the leading coaching platforms for the Civil Services Examination, particularly the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam. The institute, headquartered in Delhi, has expanded its reach with branches across the country, solidifying its reputation for providing quality education and a distinctive approach to UPSC exam preparation.

Background and Unique Methodology of KSG

The KSG Institute has gained prominence over the years due to its unique methodology and techniques for imparting knowledge to aspiring civil servants. Dr. A R Khan, the founder, has played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the institute. The focus on a systematic learning approach sets KSG apart, catering to the diverse needs of aspirants through various programs such as the Distance Learning Programme, Weekend Online Courses, and Offline batches.

Furthermore, KSG emphasizes specialized courses aimed at enhancing understanding, such as those dedicated to NCERT. The institute also provides guidance for Answer Writing in the Mains exam, along with separate courses for optional subjects like PSIR, Geography, and Sociology. The constant monitoring and mentoring of students contribute to their effective preparation for the challenging UPSC examination.

KSG's Commitment to Student Development

The faculty at KSG plays a crucial role in guiding students based on their unique requirements, needs, and study pace. The institute adopts a well-defined and structured study plan, encouraging students to actively participate, respond, and build confidence. This personalized approach ensures that each aspirant receives the necessary support to navigate the intricate UPSC syllabus and examination pattern.

Why Choose KSG? A Result-Oriented Approach

One of the key reasons to consider joining the Khan Study Group is its result-oriented approach. The institute is known for producing successful candidates who have excelled in the IAS examination. The commitment to achieving tangible results is evident in the teaching methodology, study materials, and guidance provided to students.

Quality Study Material and Regular Updates

KSG sets a high standard by offering study material that is not only comprehensive but also regularly updated. Keeping pace with the dynamic nature of the UPSC examination, the institute ensures that its students have access to the latest information and relevant study resources. This commitment to providing quality study material contributes significantly to the success of KSG's students.

Affordable Fee Structure

The affordability of the fee structure at KSG makes it accessible to a diverse range of aspirants. The institute understands the financial constraints that many students may face and strives to provide quality education at reasonable costs. This commitment to an affordable fee structure aligns with KSG's vision of making quality UPSC coaching accessible to a wider demographic.

Infrastructure and Technological Support

KSG boasts excellent infrastructural facilities and leverages technological support to enhance the learning experience. The institute understands the importance of creating a conducive environment for students, both physically and technologically. State-of-the-art classrooms, well-equipped libraries, and online resources contribute to a holistic learning environment at KSG.

Nationwide Presence - Branches Across India

With branches in Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Patna, Bengaluru, Bhopal, and Ranchi, KSG ensures its widespread presence across the country. This geographical diversity allows aspirants from various regions to access the institute's renowned coaching services without the constraint of location. The availability of KSG's coaching in multiple cities reinforces its commitment to reaching out to a broader audience.

KSG IAS Fees Structure

A critical aspect for aspirants considering joining any coaching institute is the fee structure. KSG offers various courses with different fee structures, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of UPSC aspirants. Here is an overview of the KSG IAS Fees Structure:

- Foundation Course: Rs 1,57,000/-

- Advanced Foundation Course: Rs 2,24,000/-

- Advance Foundation Online Course: Rs 1,85,000/-

- Optional Course: Rs 40,000/-

- P.T Test Series: Rs 12,000/-

- Mains Test Series: Rs 18,000/-

- Distance Learning and Mentoring Programme (DLP) (General Studies): Rs 35,000/-

- Essay Module: Rs 7,000/-

- KSG Online Learning (KOL): Rs 1,00,000/-

The diverse range of courses offered by KSG, along with their corresponding fees, reflects the institute's commitment to providing flexibility and tailored options for aspirants at different stages of their preparation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Khan Study Group (KSG) has established itself as a formidable force in the realm of IAS coaching. The institute's commitment to a unique methodology, result-oriented approach, quality study material, affordable fees, excellent infrastructure, and a nationwide presence makes it an attractive choice for UPSC aspirants.

The KSG IAS Fees Structure further adds to the appeal, offering a variety of courses to suit the individual needs of aspirants. The success stories of candidates who have benefited from KSG's coaching underscore its effectiveness in preparing students for the challenges of the UPSC examination.

For those aspiring to pursue a career in civil services and aiming for success in the IAS examination, KSG stands out as a reliable and commendable choice, providing not just coaching but a holistic learning experience that empowers aspirants to achieve their goals.

[iashubcivil]

IAS academy in KeralaChampioning Dreams: A Closer Look at IAS HUB, the Top IAS Academy in Trivandrum

With a history that dates back to 1992, IAS HUB, located in the thriving city of Trivandrum, Kerala, stands tall as a symbol of optimism for those aspiring to the Civil Service. IAS HUB was established with the visionary leadership of the late C.K. Kochukoshy IAS (Rtd.) and H. H. Mar Thoma Mathews II Catholicos of MOC. Since then, it has grown continuously to fulfill the ever-changing requirements of Civil Service exams.

Founders’ Vision- A Journey of Transformation

The noble goal of IAS HUB’s conception was to develop youthful talent into competent civil officials. Inspired by a visionary zeal, the founders established the groundwork for an establishment to create responsible and capable individuals rather than just teaching knowledge. IAS HUB stands to be the IAS academy in Kerala, which has always been true to this goal of influencing candidates’ paths in the exciting world of civil services.

Interior of the Premier Residential Hub: A Contemporary Learning Oasis

IAS HUB MGOCSM CSA, located in Kerala’s first residential hub, is a testament to contemporary educational facilities committed to creating the best possible learning environment. The institute is proud of its cutting-edge facilities, which include multimedia classrooms, a luxurious conference room, and private reading areas. This pledge perfectly aligns with IAS HUB’s objective to give students the best possible assistance to achieve academic success.

Academic Prominence: Initiators of Comprehensive Education

A key component of IAS HUB’s successes is its dynamic faculty, a group of instructors unique in their backgrounds, depth of knowledge, and unshakable commitment to molding the future generation of civil servants. The teachers, who come from different parts of the world, guarantee education beyond traditional limits and provide a modern and all-encompassing education.

Creating Success: A dedication to outcomes

IAS HUB sets itself apart with goal-oriented programs that are painstakingly designed to give aspirant success a top priority. Fundamentally, the school embraces a student-centered mindset that recognizes each applicant’s journey. By utilizing an array of instructional resources that include auditory, visual, and kinesthetic approaches, IAS HUB guarantees a customized and stimulating learning experience.

Programs Linked with Varying Pathways

Start the Prelims Cum Mains Odyssey, a program designed to provide a thorough approach that will lead to success. Take advantage of comprehensive preparation methods, visually stimulating and informative learning materials, and orientation sessions to gain clarity. The Online Endeavor offers a flexible learning platform to working professionals, enabling them to pursue thorough syllabus coverage. Additionally, this program provides individualized mentorship to help participants manage their exam preparation and work obligations.

Optional Subjects Personalized for Goals

Recognizing the wide range of options available to candidates, IAS HUB provides focused mentoring programs for elective courses in Public Administration, Sociology, Law, Malayalam, Political Science, and International Relations (PSIR).

Choosing IAS HUB: A Decision for Success

Learn from seasoned instructors and UPSC alums to understand the subtleties of the CSAT. You will also gain from a thorough approach to exam preparation that covers every aspect of the course in detail. Expert programs provide effective preparation, fostering confidence for preliminary and main exams. Become a part of a community of accomplished individuals and gain access to proven tactics. Get reasonably priced, high-quality preparation to guarantee success without going over budget.

Additional Insights into IAS HUB

The top IAS academy in Kerala, IAS HUB, goes above and beyond conventional teaching approaches. The institution offers cutting-edge learning platforms to keep applicants ahead of the curve, including online resources, interactive tests, and live discussions. IAS HUB also hosts guest lectures by well-known professionals, offering insightful viewpoints on current events.

By actively participating in the community, the academy inspires future leaders to positively impact society. Students are thoroughly prepared for the interview stage through mock interviews and personality development programs, which improves overall preparation. The sharing of success stories encourages the present generation to aim higher by showcasing past IAS HUB candidates’ varied origins and accomplishments. IAS HUB essentially creates an environment that supports holistic development and success in the field of civil services in addition to dispensing knowledge.

Creative Learning Platforms: Online resources, interactive tests, and real-time discussions are just a few of the creative learning platforms IAS HUB uses to stay ahead of the curve.

Guest Lectures by Renowned Professionals: Expand your knowledge by attending guest lectures by distinguished professionals who offer insightful viewpoints on current events and related subjects.

Initiatives for Community Engagement: IAS HUB encourages candidates to participate in social initiatives involving the community and advancing societal development.

Mock Interviews and Personality Development: Enhance your overall preparedness for the final selection process by thoroughly preparing for the interview stage through the use of mock interviews and personality development programs.

Publication of Success Stories: Take inspiration from the past IAS HUB candidates’ inspiring tales, which highlight a variety of backgrounds and accomplishments.

Conclusion

Within the complex fabric of Kerala’s civil service coaching, IAS HUB functions not only as an organization but also as a mentor, helping candidates achieve their goals. IAS HUB extends an invitation to prospective civil servants to start a life-changing road toward achievement. It has a rich history, a vibrant faculty, and programs designed for various career options. Select IAS HUB, and let IAS Academy in Kerala stand as a colorful scenery to inspire your dreams of being a civil servant. HUB, and let your Civil Service aspirations take flight in the vibrant landscapes of Kerala.

[cooldefendortidalwave]

How to study optional? - Chanakya Mandal Pariwar

Are you looking for UPSC Classes to prepare for UPSC Optional? Choose from a variety of courses in Anthropology, History, Sociology and PSIR. Find the right course to crack the UPSC exam and get assistance from our experienced faculty.

How to Choose Optional Subject? The selection of a proper and better optional subject for the Civil Service Exam is a difficult problem for the aspirants of Civil Service in the present competitive scenario. It could be decided only on the basis of proper information regarding the subject. Many students are usually confused between various subjects of humanities background like Political Science and International Relations, History, Sociology, Anthropology, Geography, Public Administration, etc.

You can follow the methodology given below for selecting your optional subject : Step 1: Go through the list of all 26 optional subjects. The list is mentioned in UPSC notification. Step 2: Shortlist at least 3–4 optional subjects which you feel like opting. Step 3: You can think about your degree subject as an optional subject or any other subject you find interesting. Step 4: Read one good basic book of a shortlisted optional subject. Step 5: Finalise your optional subject on the basis of what you like and what you understand.

[perfectcollectiontalesaarikaknow]

pros and cons of political science as an optional in UPSC exam

pros and cons of political science as an optional in UPSC exam

Dear candidate, the answer to your question about the advantages and disadvantages of taking PSIR as an optional subject for the civil service exam can be found here. Merits: Because everyone is familiar with this topic, the candidate has a foundation for it. Note:- If you are looking to have Best IAS Coaching for UPSC CSE Prelims or mains do Check  Ranking by Edu News Instituterank.com at  ->…

[sleepyclassesupsc]

PSIR Optional Booklist By Toppers

Get the best PSIR Course for UPSC 2023. Prerna Madam’s courses are known for being extremely comprehensive and ensure conceptual and analytical understanding of PSIR and Polity to aid students in tackling any question that may come their way. Under her guidance, a number of aspirants have secured ranks in UPSC through PSIR Optional including Aditya Raj (AIR 225- 2021), Anurag Nayan (AIR 279-2021), Raghvendra Sharma (AIR 340-2021), Preeti Panchal (AIR 449-2021), Anjali Birla (2019), Ravinderpreet Kaur (AIR 389- 2018), Rupesh Kumar (AIR 487- 2018) and more.

[sleepyclasses1]

Previous Year Papers – Sociology (Paper 1)

Previous Year Papers - Sociology (Topic-wise Segregated)

“History repeats itself, first as tragedy, then as farce.”  – Karl Marx

With the intention of knowing and understanding sociology’s history, we bring to you this small booklet. It contains previous year questions for sociology optional (2013-2021).

The PYQs have been segregated chapter-wise for you to solve and raise the level of your preparation.

Sociology Downloads

Let’s write, revise and analyse.

This is just a small gift from us at Sleepy Classes to the entire student community.

This is to help you make your present ‘sharp’ and future ‘bright’. May you make the most of it. With you in your UPSC journey always!

Team Sleepy Classes

Paper 1 Part 1

Chapter 1

Sociology the Discipline

a)     Modernity and social changes in Europe and the emergence of sociology.

How did the Intellectual forces lead to the emergence of Sociology? Discuss (20/I/1a/10)

Discuss the historical antecedents of the emergence of sociology as a discipline. (19/I/1a/10)

“Sociology is pre-eminently study of modern society.” Discuss (16/I/2c/10)

How had enlightenment contributed to the emergence of Sociology? (15/I/3c/10)

Write short answer of the following in about 150 words: How did the emergence of industrial society change the family life in Western Europe? (14/I/1b/10)

“Sociology emerged in Europe and flourished to begin with on social reformist orientation in the U.S.A.” -Comment. (150 Words) (13/I/1a/10)

Europe was the first and the only place where modernity emerged. Comment

What aspects of Enlightenment do you think paved way for the emergence of sociology? Elaborate. 20 (2a/ 2022)

b)    Scope of the subject and comparison with other social sciences.

In the Context of globalization, has the scope of Sociology been changing in India? Comment (20/I/5a/10)

The sociological imagination enables us to grasp history and biography and the relationship between the two in a society. C.W. Mills. Explain. (18/I/8a/20)

Explain how sociology has emerged as a distinct discipline based on rationality and scientific temper. (17/I/1a/10)

Discuss the changing equations of discipline of Sociology with other social sciences. (17/1/2a/20)

Write Short answer of the following in about 150 words: How is Sociology approach to human actions different from that of psychological approach? (14/I/1c/10)

Compare and contrast Sociology with Anthropology. (150 Words) (13/I/1b/10)

From the viewpoint of growing importance of multidisciplinary, how do you relate sociology to other social sciences? (2021)

Delimit the scope of Sociology in relation to other social sciences. 10 marks (1a/2022)

c)     Sociology and common sense

Discuss the importance and source of hypothesis in social research. (20/I/5b/10)

Explain the probability sampling strategies with examples. (19/I/1e/10).

Illustrate with example the significance of variables in sociological research. (17/I/1c/10)

How can one resolve the issue of reliability and validity in the context of sociological research on inequality? (17/I/4c/10)

“Hypothesis is a statement of the relationship between two or more variables.” Elucidate by giving examples of poverty and illiteracy. (16/I/3c/10)

What are variables? Discuss their role in experimental research. (15/I/1c/10)

Examine the Problems of maintaining objectivity and value neutrality in Social Science research. (15/1/2b/20)

Why is random sampling said to have more reliability and validity in research? (15/I/3a/20)

The difference between information and data in social science is subtle. Comment. (1c/ 2022)

Explain the different types of non-probability sampling techniques. Bring out the conditions of their usage with appropriate examples. 20 (2 b/ 2022)

Suggest measures to minimize the influence of the researcher in the process of collecting data through focus group discussion. (3c/2022)

What is reliability? Explain the different tests available to social science researchers to establish reliability. 10 (4c/ 2022)   

➡️UPSC 2023 General Studies Course: https://sleepyclasses.com/general-studies-for-upsc/

➡️Sociology Optional for UPSC : https://sleepyclasses.com/sociology-for-upsc/

➡️Political Science and IR for UPSC: https://sleepyclasses.com/psir-for-upsc/

➡️Signup here – https://sleepyclasses.com/

Have any query related to UPSC preparation: 📞Contact Us ► Toll-Free: 1800 890 3043 ► Mobile: 6280133177 ► Email: Sleepy.Classes@gmail.com ► WhatsApp: 6280133177

[civilsguru]

Find The Best Sociology Optionals In Delhi Or The Best Geography Optionals In Delhi With The Civils Guru!

Have trouble choosing the right optionals for your Civil Service preparation? The Civils Guru offers a wide variety of optional courses for aspirants. The Civils Guru’s optional courses are described in this article. The Civils Guru provides the best public administration optional IAS coaching in Delhi as well as the best geography optional in Delhi. The choice is yours. Which one do you want?

Choose the best Sociology Optionals in Delhi!

The selection of sociology as an optional subject for civil service examinations has been growing in popularity recently. Aspirants have been searching for the best Sociology Optional in Delhi for the past 5 to 6 years. Choosing sociology as an optional is helpful since it is a scoring subject, and at the same time, having sociology as an optional gives you an advantage when writing essays. On average, 80-240 candidates get selected every year. A generalized subject strengthens your ability to answer all four gs papers well. If you wish to choose the best Sociology Optionals in Delhi, The Civils Guru is your best option. Read more...

[shubhraranjan1]

Best coaching Political Science, Prelims Test Series, PSIR Answer Writing, Study Material, Postal Notes, Essay Test Series, GS2 Test Series, Current Affairs for Political Science and International Relations optional subject for UPSC IAS exam in Delhi - NCR by Shubhra Ranjan

[iashubcivil]

Championing Dreams: A Closer Look at IAS HUB, the Top IAS Academy in Trivandrum

With a history that dates back to 1992, IAS HUB, located in the thriving city of Trivandrum, Kerala, stands tall as a symbol of optimism for those aspiring to the Civil Service. IAS HUB was established with the visionary leadership of the late C.K. Kochukoshy IAS (Rtd.) and H. H. Mar Thoma Mathews II Catholicos of MOC. Since then, it has grown continuously to fulfill the ever-changing requirements of Civil Service exams.

Founders’ Vision- A Journey of Transformation

The noble goal of IAS HUB’s conception was to develop youthful talent into competent civil officials. Inspired by a visionary zeal, the founders established the groundwork for an establishment to create responsible and capable individuals rather than just teaching knowledge. IAS HUB stands to be the IAS academy in Kerala, which has always been true to this goal of influencing candidates’ paths in the exciting world of civil services.

Interior of the Premier Residential Hub: A Contemporary Learning Oasis

IAS HUB MGOCSM CSA, located in Kerala’s first residential hub, is a testament to contemporary educational facilities committed to creating the best possible learning environment. The institute is proud of its cutting-edge facilities, which include multimedia classrooms, a luxurious conference room, and private reading areas. This pledge perfectly aligns with IAS HUB’s objective to give students the best possible assistance to achieve academic success.

Academic Prominence: Initiators of Comprehensive Education

A key component of IAS HUB’s successes is its dynamic faculty, a group of instructors unique in their backgrounds, depth of knowledge, and unshakable commitment to molding the future generation of civil servants. The teachers, who come from different parts of the world, guarantee education beyond traditional limits and provide a modern and all-encompassing education.

Creating Success: A dedication to outcomes

IAS HUB sets itself apart with goal-oriented programs that are painstakingly designed to give aspirant success a top priority. Fundamentally, the school embraces a student-centered mindset that recognizes each applicant’s journey. By utilizing an array of instructional resources that include auditory, visual, and kinesthetic approaches, IAS HUB guarantees a customized and stimulating learning experience.

Programs Linked with Varying Pathways

Start the Prelims Cum Mains Odyssey, a program designed to provide a thorough approach that will lead to success. Take advantage of comprehensive preparation methods, visually stimulating and informative learning materials, and orientation sessions to gain clarity. The Online Endeavor offers a flexible learning platform to working professionals, enabling them to pursue thorough syllabus coverage. Additionally, this program provides individualized mentorship to help participants manage their exam preparation and work obligations.

Optional Subjects Personalized for Goals

Recognizing the wide range of options available to candidates, IAS HUB provides focused mentoring programs for elective courses in Public Administration, Sociology, Law, Malayalam, Political Science, and International Relations (PSIR).

Choosing IAS HUB: A Decision for Success

Learn from seasoned instructors and UPSC alums to understand the subtleties of the CSAT. You will also gain from a thorough approach to exam preparation that covers every aspect of the course in detail. Expert programs provide effective preparation, fostering confidence for preliminary and main exams. Become a part of a community of accomplished individuals and gain access to proven tactics. Get reasonably priced, high-quality preparation to guarantee success without going over budget.

Additional Insights into IAS HUB

The top IAS academy in Kerala, IAS HUB, goes above and beyond conventional teaching approaches. The institution offers cutting-edge learning platforms to keep applicants ahead of the curve, including online resources, interactive tests, and live discussions. IAS HUB also hosts guest lectures by well-known professionals, offering insightful viewpoints on current events.

By actively participating in the community, the academy inspires future leaders to positively impact society. Students are thoroughly prepared for the interview stage through mock interviews and personality development programs, which improves overall preparation. The sharing of success stories encourages the present generation to aim higher by showcasing past IAS HUB candidates’ varied origins and accomplishments. IAS HUB essentially creates an environment that supports holistic development and success in the field of civil services in addition to dispensing knowledge.

Creative Learning Platforms: Online resources, interactive tests, and real-time discussions are just a few of the creative learning platforms IAS HUB uses to stay ahead of the curve.

Guest Lectures by Renowned Professionals: Expand your knowledge by attending guest lectures by distinguished professionals who offer insightful viewpoints on current events and related subjects.

Initiatives for Community Engagement: IAS HUB encourages candidates to participate in social initiatives involving the community and advancing societal development.

Mock Interviews and Personality Development: Enhance your overall preparedness for the final selection process by thoroughly preparing for the interview stage through the use of mock interviews and personality development programs.

Publication of Success Stories: Take inspiration from the past IAS HUB candidates’ inspiring tales, which highlight a variety of backgrounds and accomplishments.

Conclusion

Within the complex fabric of Kerala’s civil service coaching, IAS HUB functions not only as an organization but also as a mentor, helping candidates achieve their goals. IAS HUB extends an invitation to prospective civil servants to start a life-changing road toward achievement. It has a rich history, a vibrant faculty, and programs designed for various career options. Select IAS HUB, and let IAS Academy in Kerala stand as a colorful scenery to inspire your dreams of being a civil servant. HUB, and let your Civil Service aspirations take flight in the vibrant landscapes of Kerala.

[naveenkumarchandra]

I have received multiple requests, thus, here it is, a comprehensive topic wise book list and strategy to prepare PSIR.

Hope it helps, Good Luck!

Now, let me first begin with congratulating you guys on your decision to prepare for this exam. Although it is definitely just an exam but I am sure that many of you must have taken some very tough decisions and sacrificed a lot to begin this.

Let me give a very brief introduction, my name is Naveen Kumar Chandra, did my graduation from IIT Roorkee, passed out in 2015, I will be joining the IAS through CSE 2017. I am already in service, that is civil service, the IRPS through CSE 2016. My optional is PSIR, I got a very decent 153 in paper 1 last year but my marks in paper 2 disappointed me, a lowly 93, this also led to a great slide in my rank and I missed the IAS. This year, I improved a lot in Paper 2, securing a good score of 150, it is an improvement of 55 marks, which could’ve given me IAS last year itself, but I took Paper 1 very lightly, not even read the entire thing once completely, my soccer thus, came down to 130, this again made me miss the top 100.

So, the first lesson is, NEVER IGNORE ANYTHING, EVEN YOUR STRONG POINTS.

I have over 2 years, come to develop a comprehensive way to study PSIR, which led me to score good scores in both the papers.

But, first things first. If you have opted for PSIR, I guess it must be due to some underlying reasons, like:

Interest

Background

Overlap with GS

Scoring Nature

Now, if your reasons are first 2, then great. But, if your reasons are the bottom 2, let me clear a few doubts and bust a few myths. There is indeed a huge overlap with GS and it is also true that you might not need to study a lot of topics owing to your studying them for your optional. But, the answers demand different things, this was my mistake the first time around, as I didn’t join any test series, out of over confidence, of either mains or prelims, I didn’t realize that my optional answers and GS polity answers were similar, too deep for GS.

Then, if you have are in due to the scoring nature and the recent good results, then, this is never ever a surety. The results of a particular optional can go up or down but yes, a good student is rewarded even in a bad year of his optional.

Let us now come to some generic tips which will help you in your entire optional preparation:

Don’t end up doing a research project, stick to your syllabus and UPSC demands, you don’t have that much time and neither is it required.

Too many books, too much trouble, just pick one book and follow it religiously.

Make your own notes if you have time, you will end up memorizing a lot of it.

Always practice answer writing, daily, without fail.

Don’t try to impress strangers, by buying books with fancy names, and becoming a collector. Even if you love books, I know it can be a temptation sometimes, it was with me, but you will have time later to read them.

I will now cover the syllabus, as comprehensively as possible:

PAPER 1 PART A:

Although there are 10 topics to be covered in this part, they can all be clubbed under 2 main headings,

Political theories and Ideologies: This would include the theory of power, equality, justice, state, democracy etc

Political Thought: This would include, both, western and Indian political thought.

First and foremost, let me be very honest, I would recommend you guys to get Shubhra Ranjan’s Notes, not that they are sufficient enough to score well but, they are a very good foundation, especially if you have never ever read the subject. The process would thus be, go through the topics from the notes, you are now good to add to your knowledge, fill the gaps and complete your preparation. You might feel a bit weird about this, but as I mentioned, your goal here is to clear the exam and not to write a PhD thesis.

Once you have thus read the first part(a) as mentioned above, then, you have to refer to the respective chapters in the book, ‘Introduction to Political Theory by O.P. Gauba’. You don’t have to read the entire book, as many topics have indeed been covered quite comprehensively by Shubhra maam. The areas you need to focus on are, theory of state, justice(apart from rawls, especially his criticism), equality and affirmative action amd concept of legitimacy and authority.

You have to make additions to the notes or you can either decide to take up the topic from zero. I would suggest that, even if you are using Shubhra Ranjan’s notes, you would need to add a lot to them, thus, it is better that you make your own notes, in the process you will memorize a lot by writing.

Now, for part (b), western political thought has been covered beautifully by her. You would only need to read a book to get a new perspective and add a few scholars and their views but even if you don’t want to, you can do that. The book I would recommend is, ‘Western Political thought by Brian Nelson. It’s a beautiful book, I love it and its not that heavy a read either, if time permits, you must read it and fill in the gaps in these areas, J.S. Mill, Bentham, Rousseau and Marx.

Now, for Indian Political thought, you must read, V. R. Mehta, reason being Indian Political thought is not that well covered by her.

Also, you must develop a way to correlate certain thinkers from the same and opposite parts of the world, example, Machiavelli and Kautilya, Gandhi and Marx, Gandhi and Ambedkar, Ambedkar and Marx, Plato and Aristotle, Socrates and Plato, Hobbes and Locke, Bentham and Mill etc. Must make a note of the similarities and differences in their core philosophy.

PAPER 1 PART B

This part is again divided into 11 topics, I would again like you to club them into 3:

Indian Constitution and Government

Indian Polity

Institutions

For, 1st topic, you must get P.M. Bakshi, it is the bare text of the constitution, develop a habit of carrying it with you and reading it whenever you get a chance. Then, other very small but useful book to get a head start is S.C. Kashyap’s OUR CONSTITUTION.

After that, you can go through Shubra Ranjan maam’s notes, once you are done, you can add and fill gaps by referring to B.L. Fadia.

For the next part, which is mainly about the peculiarities of Indian Political system, like caste, communalism, regionalism, ethnicity etc, you can rely on her notes, she has covered it quite extensively, after that, you can buy Oxford Handbook. It has some beautifully written chapters, on these areas.

This paper, the first one, is more of what we call a static nature, that is, it contains mainly things and concepts which might not change. What you have to make sure is that you get the views of some contemporary as well as some classical commentators and experts.

PAPER 2 PART A

The second paper, part A is divided into 11 topics, I clubbed them into 3 major ones:

Comparitive politics

Theory of International Relations

Major Groupings

The first topic here is the most neglected one by Shubra Ranjan maam, maybe she took it lightly or maybe she has covered others better, whatever be the reason, you can’t rely only on her. For this part, the best source is IGNOU BA study material. Quite surprisingly, they cover the topics exactly as given by UPSC in its syllabus. One very great book that I would recommend you must read is Global politics by Heywood, it is an excellent work and would supplement the entire syllabus beautifully, don’t read all the chapters though, stick to the syllabus.

For the second topic, you can rely completely on her notes, she has done a great job in covering them. But for one topic in particular, the changing nature of international political order, you will again have to refer IGNOU material.

For the third topic, you will again have to go through both the notes and the IGNOU material, especially for SAARC, ASEAN, NAFTA, UN, NIEO and CMEA in particular.

PAPER 2 PART B

This is again a part with 8 points, divided by me into 2:

Foreign Policy

International Relations

This is perhaps the most dynamic of all the 4 parts. You will have to make sure that not only are you going to refer the standard books but some innovative mediums as well. Some very excellent sources are, apart from following foreign policy commentators and columnists in the Express and the Hindu, the website of MEA, you get some brilliant lectures and videos there and RSTV’S India’ World.

For the 1st topic here, you can read, apart from her notes, ‘Does the elephant dance’ by Malone.

For the 2nd topic, you will have to more heavily rely on her notes and the artices in the newspapers, you can also read one or two issues of foreign policy magazines. Although here, you will make, note of some country and region specific scholars and commentators, like retired ambassadors, UN representatives, Foreign Secretaries etc.

This is the entire book and material wise strategy. You must make sure that you have at least 10-15 scholars on your tips, for the entire syllabus, many of them, classical ones like Gandhi, Ambedkar and Nehru are very useful in Paper 1 Part A, while many contemporary ones like P.B. Mehta, C. RajaMohan, Suhas Palshikhar, Shashi Tharoor etc have written on a variety of subjects and thus can be used very intelligently in the entirety of the syllabus.

Again, you must also make it a point that theoretically static answers cover the core points first and the periphery is indeed the periphery, not the centre.

It must also be kept in mind that your answer must be a very healthy mix of static and dynamic.

Now, a few tips on how to approach answer writing, here, you must concentrate on the following points:

Be precise and to the point

Quote scholars

Write in paragraphs

Try to write in a good hand writing and underline important points

Make it a point to include the recent events wherever possible, especially in IR

I would now like to conclude, it’s a great subject and would fetch you great marks, some would say that they read it for 3 months only, that too only Shubra Ranjan maam’s notes and they succeeded, that might be even true but it’s an exception and their sheer good luck, there is no guarantee that they would even get a 100 marks if they wrote again, same is true for this approach as well but it surely does one thing, it minimizes your risk and you should always try to be sure then sorry.

I wish you luck, if you guys still wanna ask something, you can on quora, I write there regularly.

Thank You