Ananya Gupta
September 27, 2023 10:15
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UPSC History Optional Paper is comprised of two sections, Paper 1 and Paper 2. This comprehensive article aims to provide you with solutions, paper analysis, and past years papers for the UPSC History Optional Paper.
In the UPSC Mains exam, History optional subject consists of two papers, specifically Paper I and Paper II. Each of these papers carries a weightage of 250 marks, summing up to a total of 500 marks for this optional subject. Among the various optional subjects offered by UPSC, History is one of the 48 choices available to candidates.
UPSC History Optional Question Papers from 2018 to 2022 are readily available for aspirants seeking to enhance their preparation. We provide access to the UPSC History optional question papers in PDF format, an invaluable resource for your preparation.
| UPSC History Optional Previous Year Question Papers | |
|---|---|
| Year | UPSC History Optional Question Papers PDF Link |
| 2022 | UPSC History Optional Question Paper 1 |
| 2021 | UPSC History Optional Question Paper 1 |
| 2020 | UPSC History Optional Question Paper 1 |
| 2019 | UPSC History Optional Question Paper 1 |
| 2018 | UPSC History Optional Question Paper 1 |
Candidates appearing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination must make a thoughtful choice when selecting their optional subject, as it holds substantial weightage in the evaluation process. With a total of 500 marks allotted, the optional subject constitutes approximately 25% of the combined marks for both the written exam and the personality test. In the context of the 2023 UPSC Exam, one of the elective subjects available is History.
Within the UPSC Mains Exam, which consists of nine papers, candidates have the opportunity to choose two optional subjects, known as GS VI and GS VII. Below is an overview of these optional subjects:
The choice of optional subjects is a crucial decision that significantly influences a candidate’s merit scores in the UPSC examination. Therefore, candidates are advised to consider their strengths, interests, and level of preparedness before making their selection.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UPSC Civil Services Exam |
| Literature in UPSC Mains Exam | 2 Papers- Literature Paper and Literature Paper II |
| Total Subjects in the UPSC Exam |
48 Subjects |
| Optional Weightage | 25% of the total marks of the Written Exam and Personality Test |
| Total Marks in Literature | 500 Marks (250 marks each) |
The table below offers a comprehensive overview of the success rate achieved by candidates who opted for History during this period:
| UPSC History Optional Success Rate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Number of Candidates with History Optional | Number of Candidates Selected | Success Rate (%) |
| 2020 | 581 | 24 | 4.1% |
| 2019 | 751 | 51 | 6.8% |
| 2018 | 848 | 52 | 6.1% |
| 2017 | 1074 | 59 | 5.5% |
| 2016 | 1821 | 102 | 5.6% |
The preparation of History optional for the UPSC examination has been steadily increasing in difficulty and complexity over the last 10 years. The competition among aspirants is also on the rise as more and more candidates opt for this subject. Here are some trends and observations:
Shift Towards Modern Indian History: Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift in the focus of questions towards modern Indian history, particularly the period of colonial rule, Indian nationalism, and post-independence developments. Candidates should be well-prepared for topics like the freedom struggle, the partition of India, and post-independence consolidation.
Reduced Emphasis on Ancient and Medieval History: While ancient and medieval Indian history still remains a part of the syllabus, the number of questions from these periods has relatively decreased. Candidates are still expected to have a good grasp of important developments in these eras but may not need to delve as deep as they do in modern history.
World History and Art and Culture: Questions related to world history and Indian art and culture continue to be part of the syllabus. Topics such as the Industrial Revolution, the World Wars, and the impact of globalization have been asked in the world history section. In the art and culture section, a focus on architecture, sculptures, and cultural developments in ancient and medieval India has been observed.
Interdisciplinary Questions: UPSC has increasingly asked questions that require an interdisciplinary approach, where candidates need to integrate their knowledge of history with geography, economics, politics, and sociology. This trend emphasizes the importance of a holistic understanding of historical events and their broader implications.
Current Relevance: Questions in the history optional paper may also have a contemporary relevance component. Candidates are expected to analyze historical events and their relevance in the present context.
This highlights the need for a well-rounded perspective on historical issues. Although the history optional paper primarily deals with historical events, candidates should stay updated with contemporary developments, especially those related to historical debates, archaeological discoveries, and cultural heritage.
Focus on Historiography: In recent years, there has been an increased emphasis on historiography – the study of historical writing and methodology. Candidates should be familiar with the different schools of historical thought and the evolution of historical writing in India.
Balanced Preparation: While modern Indian history is a dominant theme, candidates should maintain a balanced approach and not neglect ancient, medieval, and world history. A comprehensive preparation strategy covering all aspects of the syllabus is essential.
In the 2020 UPSC Civil Services Examination, 581 candidates chose history as their optional subject for the mains. Out of this significant cohort, 24 candidates secured selection, resulting in a success rate of approximately 4.1%. This statistic offers assurance to aspiring candidates, suggesting that history as an optional subject in the IAS examination holds a promising potential for success.
It is important to recognize that the suitability of history as an optional subject for the civil services exam is not a matter of it being inherently good or bad. Rather, it hinges on an individual’s personal interests, strengths, and aptitude for the subject.
Therefore, the decision to opt for history as an optional should be guided by one’s passion and capabilities rather than solely by the success rate, as each candidate’s journey in the civil services examination is unique.
Opting for history as an optional subject in the IAS mains examination offers several advantages:
Scoring Potential: History is generally considered a scoring optional subject, as it often yields predictable and straightforward questions. A well-prepared candidate can secure good marks.
Subject Interest: If you have a genuine interest in history, studying it as an optional subject can be enjoyable and engaging. Your passion for the subject can motivate you to study more effectively.
Comprehensive Preparation: Preparing for history as an optional subject can also help you cover a significant portion of the general studies (GS) syllabus, particularly in topics related to history, culture, and heritage.
Interdisciplinary Insights: History has interdisciplinary aspects that can be useful in understanding various dimensions of society, politics, and culture. It can enhance your understanding of current affairs and societal issues.
Availability of Study Material: There is a wealth of study material, books, and resources available for history optional, making it easier to prepare for this subject.
UPSC Optional Paper Related Links
UPSC Public Administration Optional Paper
UPSC PSIR Optional Paper
UPSC Geography Optional Paper
UPSC Sociology Optional Paper
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