How to score high in UPSC History Optional 2023 Exam

Written By
Insight IAS
Written By
Insight IAS

How to Score High in UPSC History Optional 2023 Exam

The UPSC Civil Services Exam is a competitive examination in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment to various Civil Services of the Government of India, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS). The History optional is one of the subjects that candidates can choose as an optional subject in the UPSC Civil Services Mains Exam.

To prepare for the UPSC History Optional exam, it is important to have a good understanding of Indian history, as well as world history. The syllabus includes topics such as ancient history, medieval history, modern history (1857 to 1947), and the post-independence period. It is important to regularly revise the syllabus, practice writing essays and answers, and stay updated with current events related to history.

The UPSC History Optional Exam is a competitive exam that tests a student's knowledge of Indian history. The exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and is considered to be one of the most difficult exams to crack. A large number of students take the UPSC History Optional Exam every year, but only a handful of them are able to clear it.

If you are aspiring to take the UPSC History Optional Exam in 2023, then this blog post is for you. In this post, we will discuss how to score high in the UPSC History Optional Exam 2023.


The UPSC History Optional Exam and How to Prepare for It


» What Is the UPSC History Optional Exam?

The UPSC History Optional Exam is a written examination consisting of two papers, each three hours long. Paper 1 is an objective type paper consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions. Paper 2 is a subjective type paper consisting of six essay questions, out of which the candidate has to attempt four. The total marks for the examination are 250.

The objective of the examination is to test the candidate's ability to recall and recognize historical facts and events, as well as to evaluate their analytical and interpretative skills. The examination also aims to assess the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in written English.


» Why Should You Take the UPSC History Optional Exam?

There are several reasons why you should take the UPSC History Optional Exam. Firstly, it is an excellent way to improve your understanding of Indian history. Secondly, it helps develop important skills such as analytical thinking and effective writing. Thirdly, it gives you an edge over other candidates in the competitive civil services examinations conducted by the UPSC. Finally, it is an enjoyable subject that can be both challenging and rewarding.


How to Prepare for the UPSC History Optional Exam


» Study NCERT textbooks thoroughly, starting from class 6 to class 12 -

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks are considered the best resource for preparing for the UPSC History Optional Exam. It is important to study all the textbooks from class 6 to class 12 thoroughly in order to score high in the exam.


» Cover all the important events, personalities, and issues of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history -

It is important to cover all the important events, personalities, and issues of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history while preparing for the exam. This will help in understanding the context of questions asked in the exam and will also be helpful in writing essays.


» Prepare a timeline to have a clear idea of the chronology of events -

Preparing a timeline of events is helpful in having a clear understanding of the chronology of historical events. This will be helpful in answering multiple-choice questions as well as essay questions.


» Practice writing essays and answer writing to improve presentation skills -

The National Practicing essay writing and answer writing helps in improving presentation skills which are necessary for scoring high marks in the exam. It is also helpful in developing a better understanding of the subject matter.


» Go through previous years' UPSC question papers for pattern and trends -

Going through previous years' UPSC question papers helps in understanding the pattern of the exam and the types of questions that are asked. It is also helpful in identifying the areas where more focus is required.


» Seek guidance from experienced teachers or toppers -

It is always helpful to get guidance from those who have already been successful in the UPSC History Optional Exam. Experienced teachers and toppers can help you understand the exam pattern, important topics, and how to prepare effectively. Shri. S. Baliyan sir, is one of the most successful and reputed faculties known in the field of UPSC preparation. He is a renowned author and prolific researcher in the field of History of India and the World. He is teaching History Optional, Indian Art & Culture and Essay Writing to Civil Services aspirants since more than 20 years.


» Keep up-to-date with current events and their historical context -

Keeping up-to-date with current events will help you connect historical events with the present. This will also help you see how history is repeating itself. By understanding the historical context of current events, you will be better prepared for the UPSC History Optional Exam.


» Seek guidance from experts and join a test series to evaluate preparation -

Joining a test series is a great way to evaluate your preparation for the UPSC History Optional Exam. Test series not only give you an idea of where you stand, but they also provide valuable feedback that can help you improve your performance. Additionally, seeking guidance from experts can help you fill any gaps in your knowledge and prepare more effectively for the exam.


The UPSC History Optional Exam is a great opportunity for those who want to pursue a career in history. It is a challenging exam, but with proper preparation, it is possible to score high marks. To prepare for the exam, students should study NCERT textbooks thoroughly, cover all the important events, personalities, and issues of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history, prepare a timeline, and practice writing essays and answer writing. In addition, they should seek guidance from experienced teachers or toppers, keep up-to-date with current events and their historical context, join a test series to evaluate preparation, revise regularly focus on areas where improvement is needed, and maintain a positive attitude.