What is the Reason for Choosing Botany as An Optional Subject for UPSC?

1. Scientific and Factual Subject
  • Subjectivity does not exist; factual and diagrammatic answers are required.
  • It has fewer opinion-based questions in comparison to the humanities subjects.
2. High-Scoring Optional
  • More than 300 marks can be scored by candidates with conceptual understanding and clear diagrammatic representation.
  • Very little bias by the examiners because the evaluation is objective.
3. Defined and Limited Syllabus
  • The syllabus is not only static but also very predictable, making it possible to cover in 4 to 6 months.
4. Overlap with Other Exams
  • Helpful for the Indian Forest Services (IFS), State PSCs and Agricultural Science examinations.
  • Beneficial in General Studies (GS) – Environment, Ecology, and Agriculture.
5. Perfect Fit for Science Graduates
  • Students pursuing B.Sc./M.Sc. in Botany, Agriculture, Forestry, Biotechnology, or Life Sciences are preferred.
6.  Top Choice Among UPSC Rank Holders
  • A good number of successful candidates have opted for Botany as their Optional subject in the UPSC exam.