UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Syllabus: Download PDF

Visakha Prashar August 20, 2023 08:52 9650 0

Learn the intricate details of the UPSC commerce and accounting optional subjects. Boost your chances of success and prepare yourself better.

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Syllabus: Download PDF

While preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination, choosing the right optional subject is a critical decision that has a direct impact on one’s chances of success in the exam. Among the various options available in the given list of UPSC optional subject list. Commerce & Accountancy stands out as a popular choice for aspirants with a background or interest in commerce, finance, and accounting. In this article we will try to explore various dimensions of Commerce & Accountancy optional and analyse its syllabus, question papers, and resources that can help in preparation.

Commerce & Accountancy Optional for UPSC Mains

Out of 48 subjects mentioned in the list of UPSC Mains Optional subject Commerce and Accountancy is one of the preferred subjects who have educational background of Commerce and Accountancy. Candidates choosing Commerce and Accountancy as their optional subjects need to have a strong hold of accounting principles, financial management techniques, economic theories, business laws, and taxation policies. Candidates are expected to be proficient in critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

Paper Pattern Of Commerce & Accountancy Optional in UPSC Mains

The Commere & Accountancy Optional Paper generally consists of two papers – Paper I and Paper II. Both papers are designed to assess the candidate’s understanding of concepts and their analytical abilities. Paper I is mostly numerical based and Paper II is more theoretical. Each paper is allocated 250 marks. Paper I is asked in two sections. 

Both sections have four questions. Question 1 from section 1 and Question 5 from section 2 are compulsory. Out of the remaining 6 questions, candidates are allowed to choose their questions. Here, Candidates have to apply their strategy by picking the most mark-fetching questions where they feel they can write the best answer. Here is the exam pattern for Commerce & Accountancy optional UPSC: 

UPSC Commerce and Accountancy Optional Exam Pattern
Particular Details
Total Papers Two, Paper I and Paper II
Total Marks 500 (250 Each)
Time allowed 3 Hours for each paper
Sections Section A and Section B
Questions Total 8 questions with subparts
Compulsory Question Question No. 1 and 5
Marks Distribution 10, 15, and 20 marker questions

Commerce & Accountancy Optional Syllabus for UPSC: Paper 1 and Paper 2 Explained

The Commerce & Accountancy optional syllabus for UPSC is structured to test candidates’ understanding of fundamental concepts and their ability to apply them in real-world scenarios. The syllabus covers a wide range of topics spanning various aspects of commerce, finance, and accounting. Here we will analyse the syllabus of Paper 1 and Paper 2 respectively.

Accounting and Finance Syllabus: Paper 1

UPSC Commerce and Accountancy Optional Paper 1 syllabus is mentioned below.

Accounting, Taxation & Auditing
1. Financing Accounting :  
  • Accounting as a financial information system; Impact of behavioural sciences. Accounting Standards e.g., accounting for Depreciation, Inventories, Research and Development  Costs, Long-term Construction Contracts, Revenue Recognition, Fixed Assets, Contingencies, Foreign Exchange.
  • Transactions, Investments and Government Grants, Cash Flow Statement, Earnings per Share.  Accounting for Share Capital Transactions including Bonus Shares, Right Shares.  
  • Emplyees Stock Option and Buy-Back of Securities. 
  • Preparation and Presentation of Company Final Accounts. 
  • Amalgamations, Absorption and Reconstruction of Companies. 
2. Cost Accounting :
  • Nature and functions of cost accounting. Installation of Cost Accounting System. Cost Concepts related to Income Measurement, Profit Planning, Cost Control and Decision Making. 
  • Methods of Costing: Job Costing, Process Costing, Activity Based Costing. 
  • Volume-cost-Profit Relationship as a tool of Profit Planning. 
  • Incremental Analysis/Differential Costing as a Tool of Pricing Decisions, Product Decisions, Make or Buy Decisions, Shut-Down Decisions etc.  
  • Techniques of Cost Control and Cost Reduction : Budgeting as a Tool of Planning and Control. Standard Costing and Variance Analysis. 
  • Responsibility Accounting and Divisional Performance Measurement. 
3. Taxation
  • Income Tax: Definitions. Basis of charge; Incomes  which do not form part of total income. Simple problems of computation of income (of individuals only)  under various heads, i.e., salaries, income from house property, profits and gains from business or profession, capital gains, income from other sources, Income of other persons included in assessee’s total income. 
  • Set-off and Carry forward of Loss. 
  • Deductions from gross Total Income. 
  • Salient Features/Provisions Related to VAT and Services Tax. 
4. Auditing : 
  • Company Audit: Audit related to Divisible Profits, Dividends, Special investigations, Tax audit. 
  • Audit of banking, Insurance, societies/Trusts/Organizations.

Financial Management, Financial Institutions and Markets 

1. Financial Management : and Charitable
  • Finance Function : Nature, Scope and Objectives of Financial Management : Risk and Return relationship. 
  • Tools of Financial Analysis: Ratio Analysis, Funds-Flow and Cash-Flow Statement. 
  • Capital Budgeting Decisions: Process, Procedures and Appraisal Methods. Risk and Uncertainty Anlysis and Methods.  
  • Cost of Capital : concept, Computation of Specific Costs and Weighted Average Cost of Capital. CAPM as aTool of Determining Cost of Equity Capital. Financing Decisions: Theories of Capital Structure—Net Income (NI) Approach. 
  • Net Operating Income (NOI) Approach, MM Approach and Traditional Approach. Designing  of Capital structure: Types of Leverages (Operating, Financial and Combined), EBIT-EPS Analysis, and other Factors. 
  • Dividend Decisions and Valuation of Firm : Walter’s Model, MM Thesis, Gordan’s Model Lintner’s Model. Factors Affecting Dividend Policy. 
  • Working Capital Management: Planning of Working Capital. Determinants of Working Capital. Components of Working Capital—Cash, Inventory and Receivables. 
  • Corporate Restructuring with focus on Mergers and Acquisitions (Financial aspect only). 
2. Financial Markets and Institutions :
  • Indian Financial System: An Overview  
  • Money Markets: Participants, Structure and Instruments. Commercial Banks. Reforms in Banking Sector. Monetary and Credit Policy of RBI. RBI as a Regulator. 
  • Capital Market : Primary and Secondary Market. Financial Market Instruments and Innovative Debt Instruments; SEBI as a Regulator. 
  • Financial Services : Mutual Funds, Venture Capital, Credit Rating Agencies, Insurance and IRDA. 

Organisation Theory and Behaviours, Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations Syllabus: Paper 2 

UPSC Commerce and Accountancy Optional Paper 2 syllabus is mentioned below.

Organisation Theory and Behaviour 
1. Organisation Theory 
  • Nature and Concept of Organisation; External Environment of Organisation—Technological, Social, Political, Economical and Legal; Organizational Goals Primary and Secondary Goals, Single and Multiple Goals; Management by Objectives. 
  • Evolution of Organisation theory : Classical Neo-classical and system approach. 
  • Modern Concepts of Organisation Theory : Organisational Design, Organisational Structure and Organisational Culture. 
  • Organisational Design—Basic Challenges; Differentiation and Integration Process; Centralization and Decentralization Process; Standardization/Formalization and Mutual Adjustment. Coordinating Formal and Informal Organizations. Mechanistic and Organic Structures. 
  • Designing Organizational structures—Authority and Control; Line and Staff Functions, Specialization and Coordination. Types of Organization Structure—Functional. Matrix Structure, Project Structure. Nature and Basis of Power, Sources of Power, Power Structure and Politics. Impact of Information Technology on Organizational Design and Structure.  
  • Managing Organizational Culture. 
2. Organisation Behaviour 
  • Meaning and Concept; Individual in organization: Personality, Theories, and Determinants; Pereception Meaning and Process. 
  • Motivation : Concepts, Theories and Applications. Leadership—Theories and Styles. Quality of Work Life (QWL): Meaning and its impact on Performance, Ways of its Enhancement. Quality Circles (QC)— Meaning and their Importance. Management of Conflicts in Organizations. Transactional Analysis, Organizational Effectiveness, Management of Change. 
Human Resources Management and Industrial Relations 
1. Human Resources Management (HRM) 
  • Meaning Nature and Scope of HRM, Human Resource Planning, Job Analysis, Job Description, Job Specification, Recruitment Process, Selection Process, Orientational and Placement, Training and Development Process, Performance Appraisal and 360° Feedback, Salary and Wage Administration, Job Evaluation, Employee Welfare, Promotions, Transfers and Separations. 
2. Industrial Relations (IR)
  • Meaning, Nature, Importance and Scope of IR, Formation of Trade Union, Trade Union Legislation, Trade Union Movement in India. Recognition of Trade Unions, Problems of Trade Unions in India. Impact of Liberalization on Trade Union Movement. 
  • Nature of Industrial Disputes: Strikes and Lockouts, Causes of Disputes, Prevention and Settlement of Disputes.  
  • Worker’s Participation in Management: Philosophy, Rationale, Present Day Status and Future Prospects.  
  • Adjudication and Collective Bargaining.  
  • Industrial Relations in Public Enterprises Absenteeism and Labour Turnover in Indian Industries and their Causes and Remedies. 
  • ILO and its Functions. 

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper

Understanding the pattern and types of questions asked in the UPSC Commerce & Accountancy optional paper is crucial for effective preparation. The question paper typically consists of a mix of theoretical and application-based questions, aiming to assess candidates’ conceptual clarity and analytical skills. Aspirants can expect questions ranging from accounting principles to economic theories and their practical implications in business and governance.

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Previous Year Question Papers

Previous year questions serve as invaluable resources for understanding exam patterns, identifying recurring topics, and gauging the level of difficulty. Solving PYQs helps familiarize candidates with the exam format and enhances their problem-solving skills. We’ll discuss the significance of PYQs and offer tips for incorporating them into your study routine.

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Previous Year Question Papers
Year UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Papers PDF Link
2023 UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 1 2023

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 2 2023

2022 UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 1 2022

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 2 2022

2021 UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 1 2021

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 2 2021

2020 UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 1 2020

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 2 2020

2019 UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 1 2019

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Question Paper 2 2019

Best Books for Commerce & Accountancy Optional

Selecting the right study materials is crucial for success in Commerce and Accountancy optional exams. We’ll recommend a curated list of textbooks, reference guides, and supplementary resources tailored to the syllabus requirements. These books cover fundamental concepts, advanced topics, and practice exercises to aid comprehensive preparation.

Paper I Paper II
  • Corporate Accounting by Naseem Ahmed
  • Accounting Standards by D. S. Rawat
  • Auditing: A Practical Approach by M.P. Vijaykumar
  • Taxation (Income Tax, Service Tax & VAT) by Vinod Kumar and S. P. Gupta
  • Cost Accounting; Theory & Problems by S. N. Maheshwari and S. K. Mittal
  • Fundamentals of Corporate Accounting -J.R. Monga
  • Fundamentals of Management Accounting – Anthony & Welsch
  • Student’s Guide to Auditing – Aruna Jha (Taxmann Publishers)
  • Financial Management; Text & Problems – Khan & Jain
  • Indian Financial System – M.Y. Khan
  • Organisation Theory & Behaviour – B.P. Singh & T.N. Chabra
  • Management of Organisational Behaviour – Paul Hersey & Ken Blanchard
  • Organizational Behaviour – Stephen P. Robbins
  • Human Resource Management – C.B. Gupta
  • Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
  • Business Organisation by V. P. Agarwal
  • Marketing Management by Philip Kotler
  • Industrial Relations and Labour Laws by C.B. Gupta
  • Human Resource Management by Aswathappa

Is Commerce & Accountancy a Good Optional Subject for UPSC?

Commerce & Accountancy can be a favorable optional subject for UPSC for individuals with a background or interest in commerce-related fields. It offers scoring potential due to its structured syllabus and the ability to leverage existing knowledge. Candidates who enjoy topics like financial management, accounting principles, and business laws may find studying this subject both engaging and rewarding. Although almost every subject has some advantages and disadvantages, let us see the various aspects of Commerce and Accountancy optional subjects.

Advantages Disadvantages
  • Scoring Potential: Commerce and Accountancy is a technical subject with a significant portion dedicated to numericals. These can be practiced and mastered, leading to potentially high marks compared to essay-heavy optionals.
  • Limited Overlap: The syllabus has minimal overlap with General Studies papers, allowing focused preparation without redundancy.
  • Subject Familiarity: Candidates with a background in Commerce or Accounting have a significant head start due to their existing knowledge base.
  • Less Syllabus- As compared to other optional subjects mentioned in UPSC optional subject list Commerce and Accountancy have less syllabus.
  • Limited Study Material: There might be a shortage of readily available, comprehensive study materials compared to popular humanities optionals. You may need to compile resources from various sources.
  • Technical Expertise: This optional is not for everyone. It requires a strong foundation in accounting principles and a comfort level with calculations.
  • Unpredictable Numericals: While there are numericals, the nature of the problems can vary greatly year to year. This can be risky if you haven’t practiced solving a wide variety of problems.

Strategies of Commerce & Accountancy Optional Toppers in UPSC Exams

Analyzing the strategies of previous toppers can offer valuable insights into effective preparation techniques. Studying the topper copies provides aspirants with a roadmap to success, highlighting the key areas to focus on, time management strategies, and recommended resources.

Notes and Resources for Commerce & Accountancy Optional in UPSC Preparation

To master in the Commerce & Accountancy optional paper, aspirants need access to high-quality study materials and notes. Several resources, including textbooks, online courses, and coaching institutes, offer comprehensive study materials tailored to the UPSC syllabus. Additionally, candidates can benefit from creating their own notes, summarizing key concepts, formulas, and case studies for quick revision.

Commerce & Accountancy Optional Success Rate in UPSC Civil Services Mains (2013-2021)

Over the span of six years, from 2013 to 2021,  more than 10000 dedicated aspirants chose Commerce & Accountancy as their optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Mains examination. The table below offers a comprehensive overview of the success rate achieved by candidates who opted for Commerce & Accountancy during this period:

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Success Rate
Year Number of Candidates with Commerce & Accountancy Optional Number of Candidates Selected Success Rate (%)
2021 202 22 10.8%
2020 210 27 12.90%
2019 183 20 10.90%
2018 186 27 14.50%
2017 224 28 12.50%
2016 229 19 8.30%

List of Topper of Commerce & Accountancy  Optional

Name Year  Marks Rank
Garima Lohia 2022 275 2
Anshika Jain 2022 255 306
Shreyansh Surana 2020 264 269
Raunak Agrawal 2019 301 13
Muskan Jindal 2019 262 87

UPSC Commerce & Accountancy Optional Preparation Strategy

Preparing for the Commerce & Accountancy optional subject for the UPSC exam requires a structured approach and diligent effort. Here’s a concise preparation strategy:

  • Understand the Syllabus- Begin by thoroughly understanding the UPSC syllabus for Commerce & Accountancy. Divide it into manageable sections and prioritize topics based on your familiarity and the weightage of each topic in previous years’ question papers.
  • Study Material Selection- Choose reliable study materials such as standard textbooks, reference books, and online resources that cover the entire syllabus comprehensively. Some recommended books include NCERT textbooks, Indian Accounting Standards, and reference books by renowned authors in commerce and accountancy.
  • Create a Study Plan- Develop a realistic study plan that allocates sufficient time to cover each topic systematically. Include regular revisions, practice sessions, and mock tests in your schedule to reinforce learning and track your progress.
  • Practice Questions- Solve previous years’ question papers and sample papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, question types, and time management. Additionally, attempt mock tests to simulate exam conditions and assess your preparation level.
  • Revision and Consolidation- Regularly revise key concepts, formulas, and case studies to reinforce learning and improve retention. Create concise notes summarizing important points to aid in quick revision before the exam.
  • Seek Guidance- Consider joining coaching institutes or online platforms that offer specialized guidance and resources for Commerce & Accountancy optional preparation. Engage with peers, mentors, and subject matter experts to clarify doubts and gain additional insights.

By following this preparation strategy diligently and staying focused, candidates can enhance their chances of performing well in the Commerce & Accountancy optional subject in the UPSC exam.

Conclusion

Choosing the right optional subject is a significant step towards achieving success in the UPSC examination. Whether opting for Commerce & Accountancy or exploring alternatives like Zoology, thorough preparation, and a deep understanding of the syllabus are essential for cracking the exam. With dedication, strategic planning, and the right resources, aspirants can confidently navigate the UPSC optional and realize their dream of serving the nation.

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers UPSC Test Series 2024

 

UPSC Commerce and Accountancy Syllabus FAQs

It is advisable to choose that subject as an otional in which you have interest and have good command of the syllabus.

No, the subject is tough and easy. It is the availability of resources, guidance and most important interest in a subject decides the toughness and easiness of any subject.

Considering the comprehensive understanding of the subjects discussed in both papers and the objective nature of the content, Commerce and Accounting can prove to be highly favorable subjects for commerce graduate students to achieve high scores.

Candidates with a background or interest in commerce, accounting, finance, or related fields often choose Commerce and Accountancy as an optional subject. It is particularly beneficial for candidates aspiring for finance, auditing, taxation, or accountancy careers.
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