Why Choose Physics as Optional for UPSC?

• Scoring potential due to objectivity and precision in answers
• No need to memorize vague facts – rely on logic and derivation
• Useful for candidates from IIT, NIT, BSc (Physics), or Engineering backgrounds
• Performance not dependent on UPSC trend or current affairs

• Best ias coaching in hindi medium 

  Best mentorship programme for upsc

  Best ias coaching in chandigarh

UPSC Physics Optional Syllabus

The Physics syllabus is divided into two papers – Paper I and Paper II, each of 250 marks.

Paper I

• Mechanics and General Properties of Matter
• Oscillations and Waves
• Thermal and Statistical Physics
• Electromagnetism
• Optics
• Special Relativity

Paper II

• Quantum Mechanics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Nuclear and Particle Physics
• Solid State Physics and Electronics
• Electronics and Experimental Physics

Download Physics Optional Syllabus PDF:

• 📄 UPSC Physics optional Syllabus English
• 📄 Hindi Version – Coming soon

Best Books for UPSC Physics Optional

Here’s a topic-wise recommended booklist for covering the entire Physics optional syllabus:

Paper I

• Mechanics: D.S. Mathur – “Mechanics”, Berkeley Physics Series (Vol 1)
• Oscillations and Waves: N.K. Bajaj – “Waves and Oscillations”
• Thermal Physics: Zemansky and Dittman – “Heat and Thermodynamics”, Reif – “Statistical Physics”
• Electromagnetism: Griffiths – “Introduction to Electrodynamics”
• Optics: Jenkins and White – “Fundamentals of Optics”
• Relativity: Resnick – “Introduction to Special Relativity”

Paper II

• Quantum Mechanics: S. Gasiorowicz, H.C. Verma (Vol II)
• Atomic & Molecular Physics: H.E. White – “Atomic Physics”
• Nuclear Physics: S.N. Ghoshal, D.C. Tayal – “Nuclear Physics”
• Solid State Physics: S.O. Pillai, Charles Kittel
• Electronics: Sedra & Smith, Millman & Halkias
• Experimental Physics: B.L. Worsnop and H.T. Flint – “Advanced Practical Physics”

UPSC Physics Optional Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Analyzing PYQs is critical for Physics because:

• You identify recurring problem types and derivation-based questions
• It helps you prioritize frequently asked subtopics
• Trains you to attempt lengthy derivations within time limits
• Understand UPSC’s pattern of question framing – numerical, conceptual, or proof-based

Sources for Physics PYQs

• UPSC Official Website – www.upsc.gov.in
• Physics optional past-year compilation from PlutusIAS, TheHinduZone
• Oureducation PYQ booklets for UPSC Physics

Preparation Strategy for UPSC Physics Optional

1. Build Conceptual Clarity

Understand every formula derivation step-by-step. Avoid rote memorization – UPSC checks logic.

2. Practice Derivations and Numericals

Every answer must be crisp, derivation-based, or diagram-supported. Time yourself while solving problems.

3. Follow a Structured Plan

• Start with Paper I topics – easier to revise and test first
• Allocate fixed hours to derivation practice and past paper solving
• Complete basic NCERT and H.C. Verma for foundation before jumping to advanced sources

4. Join a Test Series

PlutusIAS Physics Test Series includes 8 sectional and 4 full-length papers with detailed solutions and feedback. Regular testing improves speed and structure.

5. Maintain a Formula Diary

Keep a compact notebook with only formulas, constants, and quick concepts. Revise it before every mock or exam.

Challenges with Physics Optional

• Low success ratio – fewer takers means higher competition among experts
• Lengthy answers – derivations take time
• No direct GS overlap – you must devote 100% separate time for Physics
• Answer writing requires high precision and mathematical neatness

Top Scorers with Physics Optional

• Gaurav Agrawal (AIR 1, 2013): Physics as optional (later switched to Economics)
• Sakshi Sawhney (AIR 6, 2012): Physics optional
• Dr. Harshad Patel: IFoS Topper with Physics

Coaching Institutes Offering Physics Optional

Since Physics is highly technical, self-study is possible, but some coaching support can help in coverage and answer presentation. Top institutes include:

• PlutusIAS: Online test series, mentorship, and limited-batch classes
• TheHinduZone: Top-rated mentorship and demo lectures
• Vajiram and Ravi: Past support for Physics, limited recent batches

Conclusion

UPSC Physics optional is a great choice for candidates with a technical bent of mind and a love for physical sciences. While the success ratio is lower due to fewer takers, it can be rewarding for those who love derivations, problem-solving, and scientific clarity.

With the right strategy, test series, and consistency, you can turn Physics into your strength and score 280+ in optional.

Download Syllabus PDF

• ✅ Download UPSC Physics Optional Syllabus (English)
• ⏳ Hindi version will be uploaded soon

Explore Physics Test Series and Mentorship at PlutusIAS.com or TheHinduZone.com.