Choosing the right optional subject is crucial for maximizing your UPSC Mains score. Here's a simple guide to help you decide:

1. Interest and Academic Background

Pick a subject you enjoy or have studied earlier. Interest sustains motivation through the long preparation journey.

2. Overlap with General Studies

Subjects like Geography, Public Administration, and Sociology have significant overlap with GS papers and can reduce overall workload.

3. Availability of Resources

Make sure there are enough quality books, coaching materials, and guidance available for your chosen subject.

4. Scoring Trends

While no subject is truly "low scoring," some subjects like Anthropology and Political Science have historically shown higher average scores. Check recent trends before deciding.

5. Past Success Stories

Talk to past toppers, read interviews, and analyze their strategies. Learn from their experiences but tailor the choice to your strengths.

6. Length of the Syllabus

A compact syllabus can make preparation and revision much easier. Subjects like Philosophy and Anthropology are often chosen for this reason.

Final Tip:
Don't follow the crowd. Your choice should be based on self-awareness, not popularity.