Analyzing the Best UPSC CSE 2020 Optional Subject: Why Anthropology Shone?

Introduction

The University Grants Commission (UGC) National Eligibility Test (NET) for Lecturer and Assistant Professorship, better known as the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Civil Services Examination (CSE), saw a surge in popularity for certain optional subjects in its 2020 edition. One of the most successful and scoring optional subjects was Anthropology. This article delves into the reasons behind its popularity and the strategic advantages it offered to aspirants.

The Popularity of Anthropology

During the 2020 UPSC CSE, candidates who opted for Anthropology generally reported higher scores in comparison to those who chose other subjects. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors:

Concise Syllabus: Anthropologyrsquo;s well-defined curriculum made it easier for aspirants to cover the entire syllabus in a structured manner. Relevance to General Studies Papers: The subjectrsquo;s extensive overlap with the General Studies (GS) papers contributed to its popularity, as it allowed candidates to prepare comprehensively. Syllabus Alignment: The syllabus closely aligned with the GS papers, reducing the need for extensive additional preparation.

Performing Well in Other Optional Subjects

While Anthropology was the standout choice, other subjects like Public Administration and Geography also performed well. However, Anthropologyrsquo;s scoring potential set it apart. Many successful candidates in the 2020 examination attributed their success, particularly in the Mains, to their strong performance in these optional subjects.

Strategic Importance of Choosing the Right Subject

For candidates planning to take the UPSC CSE, it is crucial to select an optional subject that not only aligns with their interests and strengths but also has a proven track record of good performance. The choice of a subject can significantly impact a candidatersquo;s overall performance and ranking.

Case Studies and Success Stories

Above the usual popularity, a few standout cases further cements the success of Anthropology. For instance, Nivrutti Ahvad, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) aspirant, first cracked the UPSC with Sociology as his optional subject in 2016. He then attempted the exam three more times in consecutive years (2017, 2018, and 2019) with Sociology but failed each time. In 2020, he changed his optional subject to Anthropology and emerged as Air 166. This case exemplifies the importance of adaptability and strategic decision-making in the UPSC CSE.

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all option that can be considered as the ldquo;bestrdquo; or ldquo;worstrdquo;. Every candidate should carefully assess their strengths, interests, and past success patterns to make the most informed choice.