Geography is an exceptionally well-known discretionary subject in the UPSC mains test. It is particularly famous with competitors with a science or design foundation due to the idea of the actual subject. It is a science, and this makes it appealing for such up-and-comers. It is likewise famous on account of the cross-over with the schedule for UPSC. We examine, and the sky is the limit from there, including a technique for Topography discretionary in this article.
This article has provided all the UPSC Geography Optional Preparation strategy that might prove to be helpful for the candidates in cracking the examination.
How To Prepare For UPSC Geography optional strategy Prelims and Mains
Geography is a fundamental and vital subject for studying for the UPSC CSE. It is included in all three test stages, so it is key to study it thoroughly. Since several topics are the same in the Prelims and Mains, it is essential to comprehend it comprehensively. Here is a foolproof strategy to initiate geography preparation for the UPSC:
Read NCERTs: Begin your preparation by studying geography NCERTs from 8th to 12th grade. This will give you a strong base. Additionally, questions directly from the NCERTs are included on the exam, so it is essential to start with these materials.
Atlas by your side: When studying for this optional, you must have an atlas. This will assist you in understanding the static and dynamic sections, as you’ll be able to picture what you’re reading. This will help you comprehend the concepts better and aid in better memory retention. For instance, when you are studying the geopolitics of the Indian Ocean region, an atlas will help you to identify the countries and islands which are significant to the issue.
Note making: Taking notes is essential while studying, especially when dealing with a wide-ranging subject such as geography. Ensure to make notes only for topics on which textbooks don’t offer clear information. Anything else would be a waste of time. Do not take notes for every single topic. Note-taking is especially beneficial when it comes to recent events. Sources for notes could be newspapers, magazines like Down to Earth, government reports, Economic Survey, etc. Supplement your notes with diagrams and charts.
Previous year papers: Afterwards, attempt to work through the questions from the previous year’s exams. Doing so will assist you in recognizing the topics that should be studied and re-studied thoroughly.
Maps: It is highly recommended to study maps thoroughly, as this will help you earn high marks on the questions. Make sure to study region-specific maps from reliable textbooks covering physical features, terrain, soil, rivers, agriculture, monsoons, industries, resources, drainage, and more.
UPSC Geography Optional Strategy- Answer writing
- Diagrams are beneficial as they allow you to explain ideas using fewer words. Adding diagrams to your answers can save time and even gain more marks. For instance, if you are asked to discuss the intensity of the energy crisis worldwide, you could construct a map with regions of low, moderate, and intense crises.
- Attempt to integrate elements of both physical and human geography in your responses. Also, make sure to address the human perspective. This will give your answers a more comprehensive viewpoint. When discussing the contrast between the Himalayan and Peninsular drainage systems, you can also mention the differences in agricultural practices.
UPSC Geography Optional Strategy- Tackling the huge syllabus
It is essential to carefully examine the syllabus before commencing the study. Generally, the syllabus can be broken down into three sections.
- Physical Geography
- Human Geography
- Indian Geography
The initial two parts belong to Exam I and Indian Geography is included in Exam II. When you study, make an effort to connect Exam I and Exam II. Subjects like population, regional growth, climatology, settlement geography, and so on can be used for both exams. Examples from one part can be used to make your responses for the other section more pertinent.
Geography Optional Coaching
Aspirants can sign up for IAS coaching classes in a physical classroom or through geography optional online classes, where they can receive assistance from the finest teachers for geography optional.
Geography Books for UPSC
Books for Paper I
- Physical Geography – Savindra Singh
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography – GC Leong
- Human Geography – Majid Hussain
- Rupa Made Simple Economic and Social Geography
- Models and Theories in Geography – K Siddhartha and S Mukherjee
- Climatology by Lal
Books for Paper II
- Geography of India – Majid Hussain
- India A Comprehensive Geography – Khuller
- Map Entries in Geography – K Siddhartha
- Orient Blackswan/Oxford Atlas
- Class XI and XII NCERT Books
UPSC Geography Optional Strategy: FAQs
You should focus on the Physical, Human, and Indian Geography sections.
You can do well on the exam if you follow the abovementioned procedures.
Yes, it can assist you in staying on track and not deviating.
You can pass the test in two months if you follow the above instructions.
You must have an atlas with you when studying for this optional.