In the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Sociology students generally score between 250 and 320 marks in their optional papers.
The average score is around 250-270, but many successful candidates with Sociology optional score 300 or more.
Scoring Potential in Sociology Optional:
- High Scores: Several top scorers in Sociology each year achieve scores in the 290-320 range, and many selected candidates with Sociology optional score 300+.
- Average Scores:The average score in Sociology optional papers typically hovers around 250-270 marks.
- Consistent Performance: Sociology is known for consistent performance, with most candidates scoring 240 or more, even if they don’t perform exceptionally well.
- Highest Scores:The highest score ever recorded in Sociology optional was 329.
Why Sociology is a Popular Optional:
- Scoring Potential:Sociology is considered a scoring subject due to its straightforward questions and manageable syllabus.
- Relevance to IAS:Sociology is relevant to the work of IAS officers, as it provides knowledge about society and its various aspects.
- Short Syllabus:The syllabus for Sociology optional is relatively concise compared to other optional subjects.
- Focus on Current Affairs:Many questions in the Sociology papers draw from current affairs, so staying updated with daily news is crucial for success.
Example Scores:
- In 2017, Anu Kumari scored 318 marks, and Hemant Bhorkhade scored 317 marks in Sociology optional.
- In 2018, Vishal Shah achieved a score of 329 in Sociology optional.
- In 2020, Meera K scored 315 marks in Sociology optional.
Source: UPSC, PIB, Wikipedia, The Indian Express, The Times of India, The Hindu, Deccan Herald,