Many candidates consider Mathematics but hesitate because of doubts about its difficulty level, syllabus length, scoring potential, and suitability.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of:
• Who should choose the Mathematics Optional?
• Its importance in the UPSC journey.
• Advantages and disadvantages.
• Scaling issues, and.
• How it can help you secure a Top Rank in UPSC.
1. Who Can Take the Mathematics Optional?
Mathematics is not for everyone. But if you have the right background and interest, it can be one of the best choices.
Eligible backgrounds:
• Engineering graduates (B.Tech/BE) – Around 50–60% of the UPSC syllabus overlaps with Engineering Maths. While the difficulty level of questions is different, the familiarity gives engineers an edge.
• B.Sc. Mathematics (Honours/General) – For Honours students, almost 100% of the syllabus is covered. For PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) students, about 50–60% overlap.
• B.Sc. Physics Honours / Physical Sciences – Around 60% of the syllabus matches.
• B.Sc. Computer Science – Substantial overlap in certain parts of the syllabus.
Special case: Only Class 11th–12th Maths background
If you’ve studied Maths only till school level, then UPSC Mathematics Optional is not advisable unless:
• You have a deep personal interest in Mathematics,
• You can dedicate 1.5–2 years (not just 7–8 months), and
• You enjoy solving problems for hours without losing focus.
In short, if Maths does not excite you naturally, you should avoid it.
2. Importance of Optional in UPSC
Every aspirant must understand how crucial the Optional subject is:
• The UPSC Mains has:
• GS I, GS II, GS III, GS IV (1000 Marks total)
• Essay (250 Marks)
• Interview (275 Marks)
• Optional Paper I & II (500 Marks)
• Selection cut-off (general category): Around 960 Marks.
• Top 50 ranks (IAS/IPS/IFS level): Require about 1050 Marks.
• That’s a difference of ~100 Marks between simply getting selected and getting IAS.
Since GS + Essay + Interview usually yield 740–750 Marks, the remaining 300+ Marks must come from the Optional.
Thus, Optional becomes the rank-deciding factor.
3. Advantages of the Mathematics Optional
3.1 Objectivity
• Unlike subjects such as History or Sociology, where answers are subjective, Maths answers are either right or wrong.
• A 10-mark problem solved correctly = 10/10 marks (though scaling may adjust slightly).
3.2 High Scoring Potential
• Well-prepared candidates can score 325+ Marks consistently.
• Exceptional scores of 360–390 Marks have been achieved.
• Even 350+ is achievable with sincerity and structured preparation.
3.3 Step Marking
• Every correct step fetches partial marks.
• Even if you don’t reach the final answer, writing steps clearly ensures you don’t lose everything.
3.4 Repetition of Previous Year Questions
• Unlike GS subjects, Maths questions often repeat in the exam.
• Practicing PYQs gives a direct scoring advantage.
3.5 Static Syllabus
• The Maths syllabus is fixed.
• It does not depend on Current Affairs or recent trends, unlike GS subjects.
3.6 Break from GS
• Constant GS preparation can become monotonous.
• Maths provides a refreshing change, keeping your preparation balanced.
4. Disadvantages of the Mathematics Optional
4.1 Lengthy Syllabus
• It is true – Maths has a long syllabus.
• First-time preparation requires at least 350+ hours (7–8 months).
• However, once completed, revision is much faster in later attempts.
4.2 No Overlap with GS
• Subjects like History or Geography overlap with GS, giving a small advantage.
• Maths does not overlap.
• But note: The overlap benefit in GS is usually just 10–15 Marks, while the Maths advantage in Optional is 30–50 Marks — so overall, Maths wins.
4.3 Practice Intensive
• Without continuous practice, you risk very low marks.
• Some students have even scored below 100 Marks in Maths Optional due to a lack of practice.
4.4 Scaling Issues
• UPSC applies scaling to balance Optional subjects.
• Based on past data (10+ years of mark sheets):
• Paper I: Scaled at about 0.7 (If you solve 200 Marks worth of questions, you may get ~140).
• Paper II: Scaled at about 0.85–0.9 (If you solve 200 Marks, you may get ~170–180).
Still, scoring 325+ after scaling is very much achievable.
5. Maths About Mathematics Optional
• “It’s full of theorems and proofs.”
False. Out of ~56 questions across both papers, only 3–4 are theorem-based. Even if you skip them, you still have enough numerical questions to attempt.
• “It’s too tough compared to Engineering Maths.”
Not true. UPSC questions are at an average graduation level, not advanced research-level Maths.
• “It’s risky.”
Actually, it’s one of the most predictable and consistent options, provided you prepare sincerely.
6. Reality Check
• If you can sit for 2–3 hours continuously solving problems without getting bored, the Maths Optional is for you.
• If you need quick cramming or hate problem-solving, avoid it.
• On average, 500+ candidates take Maths every year, and 35–40 selections happen, including 2–3 candidates in the Top 20
This proves Maths Optional is not only viable but also one of the most rewarding choices.
7. Final Conclusion
Mathematics Optional is:
• Demanding but highly rewarding,
• Best for aspirants with Engineering, Maths, or Physical Science backgrounds,
• A clear path to securing Top Ranks (within 50) if prepared sincerely.
Yes, the syllabus is lengthy and requires discipline, but if you are serious about UPSC and have the right background, Maths can be the deciding factor in your IAS dream.
If you’re planning to take Mathematics Optional for UPSC and want structured guidance, experienced faculty, and proven results, check out:
UPSC Mathematics Coaching
At DIPS Academy, the Mathematics Optional is guided by Mr. Rajendra Dubey Sir, who has 30+ years of experience in UPSC coaching and CSIR NET Mathematics.
• His deep expertise, structured approach, and proven teaching methods have helped thousands of aspirants crack competitive exams.
• With a clear focus on concepts, problem-solving techniques, and answer-writing strategies, students at DIPS consistently score 300+ in Mathematics Optional.
If you’re serious about UPSC and considering Mathematics as your Optional, join the experts at.
