Best Sociology Optional Booklist for UPSC IAS 

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1. Importance of Choosing Sociology as an Optional Subject: 

Weightage and impact of the optional subject in the UPSC Mains Examination. Factors to consider: general interest, access to guidance and study material, personal comfort level.

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2. Sociology as a Popular Optional Subject: 

Past trends and popularity among UPSC aspirants. Success rate and ranking of candidates with Sociology optional.

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3. Factors to Consider Before Choosing Sociology: 

Thoroughly review the Sociology syllabus for Mains Examination. Analyze past 5 years' question papers for better understanding.

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4. Nature of Sociology in the Civil Services Examination: 

 Overview of the syllabus, divided into 10 chapters in each paper. Core areas: Sociology as a discipline, sociological thought, social institutions, social realities, social change, and Indian Sociology.

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5. Approach to Prepare Sociology: 

Understanding traditional core concepts and exploring emerging areas. Observing social realities through a sociological lens. Assimilating concepts, current events, and traditional knowledge.

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6. Coverage of the Syllabus and Challenges: 

No single book covers the entire syllabus. Books may struggle to keep pace with rapidly changing societies. Illustration: Examples of emerging social issues not covered in academic books.

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7. Recommended Sources for Sociology Optional Preparation: 

One base source, preferably class notes. Standard sources like IGNOU BA material, Haralambos and Holborn's "Sociology Themes and Perspectives," Anthony Giddens, and "Indian Society and Culture" by Subhas Mohapatra can be used as references.

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8. Guidelines for Preparation and Success: 

Consolidation of knowledge and establishing linkages within the syllabus. Relating current events to sociological concepts (especially in Paper 2).

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