Aditi Sinha
August 19, 2023 12:40
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Excel in UPSC with Psychology Optional. Understand human behavior theories & practical applications for exam success.
Psychology is an incredibly interesting subject requiring a well-planned strategy to excel in the UPSC Exam. Previous successful candidates have shown that one can excel in Psychology optional subjects with focused study and proper guidance. Following is an approach you can follow to excel in the subject. In this article, we have discussed the psychology optional syllabus in detail, providing a comprehensive overview of both Paper 1 and Paper 2 topics.
Psychology is the study of the human mind and its processes, especially how they affect behavior in different situations. It’s considered a social science, a natural science, and a subject in the field of life sciences.
The syllabus covers both theoretical and applied aspects of psychology. Those who choose psychology as an optional subject will find the course material engaging. Practicing psychologists may find this optional subject beneficial for their Mains Exam.
The Psychology Optional Syllabus is comparatively concise, allowing sufficient time for thorough preparation. The syllabus is divided into two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2, which is given below:
In Paper 1 of the Psychology Optional Syllabus, the focus is primarily on theoretical aspects. The topics covered include the Foundations of Psychology and contemporary issues and understanding in Psychology. Below is a syllabus breakdown with a detailed description of each topic.
Paper-I: Foundations Of Psychology
| 1. Introduction |
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| 2. Methods of Psychology |
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| 3. Research Methods |
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| 4. Development of Human Behaviour |
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| 5. Sensation, Attention, and Perception |
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| 6. Learning |
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| 7. Memory |
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| 8. Thinking and Problem Solving |
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| 9. Motivation and Emotion |
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| 10. Intelligence and Aptitude |
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| 11. Personality |
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| 12. Attitudes, Values and Interests |
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| 13. Language and Communication |
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| 14. Issues and Perspectives in Modern Contemporary Psychology |
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Paper 2 of the UPSC Psychology Syllabus is centered around applied psychology and its relevant issues. This paper explores topics such as work psychology and community psychology, which can greatly contribute to crafting well-rounded answers in the Ethics paper of the UPSC Mains exam. Find the detailed UPSC Psychology Syllabus for Paper 2 below.
Paper II Psychology : Issues and applications
| 1. Psychological Measurement of Individual Differences |
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| 2. Psychological well-being and Mental Disorders |
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| 3. Therapeutic Approaches |
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| 4. Work Psychology and Organisational Behaviour |
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| 5. Application of Psychology to the Educational Field |
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| 6. Community Psychology |
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| 7. Rehabilitation Psychology: |
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| 8. Application of Psychology to disadvantaged groups |
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| 9. Psychological Problems of social integration |
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| 10. Application of Psychology in Information Technology and Mass Media |
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| 11. Psychology and Economic Development |
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| 12. Application of Psychology to Environment and related fields |
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| 13. Application of psychology in other fields |
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| 14. Psychology of Gender |
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Analysing PYQs will help candidates to plan their preparation in a better way such that it will aid them in clearing the exam. The following table contains PYQs of Psychology Optional:
| UPSC CSE Psychology Optional PYQ 2023 | Paper 1: Psychology Optional |
| Paper 2: Psychology Optional | |
| UPSC CSE Psychology Optional PYQ 2022 | Paper 1: Psychology Optional |
| Paper 2: Psychology Optional | |
| UPSC CSE Psychology Optional PYQ 2021 | Paper 1: Psychology Optional |
| Paper 2: Psychology Optional | |
| UPSC CSE Psychology Optional PYQ 2020 | Paper 1: Psychology Optional |
| Paper 2: Psychology Optional |
Psychology Optional paper is divided into two papers i.e Paper I and Paper II. Each paper is allocated 250 marks. Both Paper I and Paper II are 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.
Selecting the correct study materials for Psychology optional is of utmost importance. It will help cover the entire syllabus and also give conceptual clarity. Here are some of the best books recommended for studying the entire UPSC Psychology optional subject:
| Paper 1 | Paper 2 |
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Choosing psychology as your optional subject for the UPSC exam can be a beneficial decision for several reasons. Here are some clear and simple explanations for why you should consider selecting psychology as your UPSC optional:
Preparing for the UPSC Psychology Optional subject requires a systematic and focused approach. Here are some clear and simple steps to help you prepare effectively:
Choosing psychology as an optional subject for the UPSC exam offers a deep understanding of human behaviour, an interdisciplinary approach, practical application in administrative roles, enhancement of analytical skills, a manageable syllabus, and availability of study resources.
These factors make psychology an attractive and rewarding choice for aspirants aiming to excel in the civil services examination. By following the above-mentioned steps and putting in dedicated effort, you can confidently prepare and perform well in the exam.
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