Selecting the correct optional subject for the UPSC exam is crucial, as it significantly impacts your overall ranking and selection chances.

Delhi-based Aryendra Kumar selected geography due to his passion for its unique combination of fixed objectivity and conceptual depth.

Aryendra’s strategic choice and dedication culminated in scoring 251 marks in Geography (out of 500) and achieving an AIR of 527 in the 2024 UPSC CSE results.

The IPS officer shares six practical tips to excel in geography as an optional paper.

1) Choosing your optional subject Aryendra emphasises the importance of passion when selecting an optional subject. He says, “Interest is key; continued study without weariness is crucial in preparation. Geography was my choice due to its objectivity and overlap with general studies.”

2) Starting optional preparation Aryendra suggests integrating optional subject preparation with GS (General Studies) foundation as soon as UPSC preparation begins. Completing this early provides an advantage.

Aryendra explains, “Starting early led me to complete my optional subject in five months. I dedicated half of my 12-hour study day to it.”

3) Maintaining long study hours Aryendra would begin his day at five in the morning with a session of meditation. “I’d start studies from 6 am and continue till 9 pm. I’d divide slots of three hours, taking breaks for meals,” he says.

4) Employing active recalling Aryendra would practise active recalling by closing his eyes and mentally revisiting his studies. “This saves information in active memory. It boosts confidence in recalling concepts during exams,” he adds.

5) Using standard books For Geography Paper I, use Savindra Singh’s book for physical geography and Majid Husain’s for human geography. For Paper II, refer to DR Khullar for Indian geography.

6) Maintaining separate registers for maps Create topic-wise registers solely for maps as they’re crucial for optional and GS papers. Aryendra advises, “Include as many maps and examples to enrich answers.”