Anthropology Optional Strategy for UPSC Mains 2024
The Anthropology Optional Strategy for UPSC Mains 2024 emphasizes timely syllabus coverage and revision. Read on to find out the Anthropology Optional Strategy for UPSC Mains.
Deeksha Dixit24 Jul, 2024
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Anthropology Optional Strategy : Anthropology has become an increasingly popular choice among UPSC aspirants due to its concise syllabus, scoring potential, and overlap with General Studies. In 2017, three toppers were in the top 10 list, with Anthropology optional.
Each had a dedicated Anthropology Optional Strategy that helped them ace the exam. Over the years, it has become evident that developing a robust Anthropology Optional Strategy for UPSC Mains 2024 is crucial to maximizing your performance in this subject. A comprehensive approach to tackle the Anthropology optional is discussed here.Why Should You Choose Anthropology Optional?
Choosing the right optional subject is crucial to score well in the UPSC Mains. Anthropology offers a scientific and objective approach, which can be appealing for aspirants with a background in science or social sciences. Over the years, many toppers have opted for this subject despite not having an academic background in Anthropology. Also, this subject overlaps with a few topics of General Studies, particularly in areas like society, culture, and tribal issues, providing a dual advantage in preparation.Booklist for Anthropology Optional
A well-curated booklist is central to your Anthropology Optional Strategy. It ensures that you cover the syllabus comprehensively while avoiding unnecessary resources. Here is the list of Anthropology books for UPSC Mains :| Anthropology books for UPSC Mains | |
| Books | Author |
| Physical Anthropology | P Nath |
| Anthropology Simplified | Vivek Bhasme |
| Anthropology | Ember and Ember |
| Indian Anthropology | Nadeem Hasnain |
| Tribal India | Nadeem Hasnain |
| The Tribal Culture of India | LP Vidyarthi |
| Xaxa Tribal Committee Report | XaXa Committee |
| Yojana – Tribal and Marginalized Communities | Government of India |
Step By Step Anthropology Optional Strategy
As you begin your preparation, familiarize yourself with the Anthropology syllabus for UPSC Mains. Then make a study plan that focuses on conceptual clarity. Remember an effective Anthropology Optional Strategy requires a solid plan. Here is a step-by-step guide to Anthropology Optional preparation:Understanding the Syllabus
Start by thoroughly understanding the Anthropology syllabus for UPSC Mains . Make a list of all the topics and sub-topics in both papers. Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and start allocating time accordingly. For example, you can allocate the first few weeks to foundational concepts and gradually move to more complex topics.Focus Conceptual Clarity
Beginners should prioritize understanding fundamental concepts rather than merely covering the syllabus. This foundational knowledge will be crucial for answering application-based questions later. Do not hesitate to seek guidance from experts as optional carries a weightage of 500 marks.| Enroll in the Anthropology Optional Course | |
| Course Title | Registration Link |
| UPSC Optional Anthropology (HINGLISH) | Click Here |
Interlinking Topics
As you study, look for connections between different topics. For instance, understanding kinship in social anthropology can enhance your grasp of cultural practices in specific tribes. Similarly, interlink Paper 1 and Paper 2 topics. This helps in writing comprehensive answers and enhances your understanding.Making Notes for Revision
Create structured, topic-wise notes that summarise key concepts, theories, and case studies. Use bullet points, headings, and diagrams to make your notes easy to revise later. However, avoid writing everything in notes. Remember, the purpose of making notes is to make the revision process simpler.Solve Anthropology Previous Year Papers
Solving previous year's papers is an integral part of the Anthropology Optional Strategy. It helps you understand the pattern of questions that are asked in Anthropology Optional papers and the level of difficulty. Analyze these papers to identify frequently asked topics and focus on them during your preparation.Integrate Current Affairs
Stay updated with the latest developments in the field of Anthropology by reading newspapers like ‘The Hindu’ and following PW OnlyIAS current affairs . This includes new discoveries, government schemes related to tribal welfare, and contemporary issues. Incorporate these updates into your answers to make them more relevant and dynamic.Anthropology Optional Strategy for Answer Writing
Effective answer writing is crucial for success in the Anthropology optional for UPSC Mains. To excel, candidates should focus on clarity, structure, and relevance in their answers. Here is the Anthropology Optional Strategy to enhance your answer writing skills:- Regular Practice: Write daily to improve your answer writing skills. A good practice is to solve PYQs after completing the relevant section.
- Structured Answers: Write answers in a structured manner with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions.
- Use of Diagrams: Incorporate diagrams wherever possible to make your answers visually appealing and easier to understand.
- Examples and Case Studies: Use relevant examples and case studies to support your arguments. This adds depth to your answers and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject.
- Scholarly Approach: M ention the works of renowned anthropologists, their publications, and the specific tribes or concepts they studied. This shows that you have a deep understanding of the subject.
- Contemporary Relevance : Relate your answers to current affairs and recent developments in Anthropology such as new fossil discoveries. This makes your answers more relevant and up-to-date.
- Critically Analyze: Provide critical analysis and multiple perspectives on a topic. This demonstrates a well-rounded understanding of the subject.
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| UPSC Mains Answer Sheet | Newspaper for UPSC | UPSC Books |
| UPSC Study Material | Time Management for UPSC Mains | UPSC Course |
Anthropology Optional Strategy FAQs
How to approach Anthropology Optional?
Start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus, focus on conceptual clarity, and create structured notes for revision.
What are the strategies for answer writing in Anthropology Optional?
Regularly practice writing, use a clear structure, incorporate diagrams, examples, and case studies, and provide critical analysis with contemporary relevance.
Can I complete Anthropology Optional in 1 month?
Completing the syllabus in 1 month is challenging. Aim for a minimum of 3-4 months for thorough preparation and effective revision.
How can I improve my analytical skills for Anthropology Optional?
Engage in regular practice, solve previous year's papers, interlink topics, and stay updated with current developments in Anthropology.
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