UPSC is undoubtedly one of the toughest competitive exams in the world. Conducted in three phases, the exam tests your knowledge and skills. Clearing the Prelims, Mains and Interview requires excellent preparation, time management, a strong foundation and taking mock tests to build confidence. Moreover, selecting the right optional subject can make a huge difference in your UPSC preparation. With many options available, Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) has emerged as one of the most popular choices among aspirants for many reasons. Here are 7 key benefits of choosing PSIR as your UPSC optional subject.
- An Interesting and Engaging Subject
Studying PSIR helps you understand how politics, governance, and international systems work in the real world. The subject covers political philosophies, ideologies, government functioning, and global relations. Thus, it is both intellectually stimulating and relevant in the modern world. Thus, it is an interesting option to study for aspirants who love discussion on current events, diplomacy and leadership.
- High Scoring Potential
The main advantage of selecting PSIR is its scoring consistency. Over the years, many toppers have chosen PSIR and scored well. However, you need PSIR coaching in Delhi to prepare and build confidence by taking mock tests. In the coaching, you will get a structured syllabus and conceptual clarity. With conceptual clarity, you can write logical and analytical answers that stand out in the mains.
- Strong Overlap with General Studies
Another reason to pick PSIR is its overlap with the General Studies papers. A significant portion of GS Paper II (Polity, Governance, International Relations) and GS Paper IV (Ethics and Political Thinkers) directly relates to PSIR concepts. Even topics in the Essay and Interview rounds often connect to political and international themes. Thus, this overlap saves your precious time and effort in exam preparation.
- Abundance of Study Material
Unlike some optional subjects, it is easy to find study materials in PSIR, from standard books to coaching notes. Study materials provide comprehensive insights and build a strong foundation in the subject. Aspirants can also access numerous topper strategies and answer compilations to design an effective study plan.
- Relevance to Current Affairs
Political Science and International Relations directly connect with current affairs, with topics like elections, government policies, international summits and so on. This real-time relevance makes studying more engaging and helps you write better answers in the mains. Following the news regularly can improve your GS, Essay and PSIR preparation.
- Interdisciplinary Nature
PSIR is interdisciplinary in nature as topics are drawn from history, sociology, law, and economics. This provides aspirants with a broader understanding of governance, diplomacy, and public policy. Studying this subject improves your analytical thinking, which is essential for the UPSC exam and for future administrators.
- Helpful in Interview and Beyond
The benefit of PSIR doesn’t end with the mains. A strong foundation of political concepts and international issues helps you engage confidently with the panel. Later, as a future civil servant, you need these concepts for decision-making and policy implementation.
Pick PSIR and Join PSIR Coaching in Delhi
Choosing PSIR as your UPSC optional subject is an opportunity to study a subject that shapes the world around us. With a balance of theory, practicality and current relevance, it will help you make smart choices later.
If you are passionate about politics, world events and human governance, PSIR can be an ideal match for your UPSC journey. However, you need to join the best PSIR optional coaching in Delhi to get comprehensive insights, a study plan and mentorship from qualified teachers. Ruhil Neeraj is an excellent centre in Delhi that provides PSIR coaching to UPSC aspirants. Contact us to join the coaching now.
