Geography is one of the most popular options. It owes this to its multidisciplinary characteristics. The semi-scientific nature of the discipline makes it scoring as well as easily adaptable for the aspirants with different educational backgrounds. This is the only optional with maximum importance in general studies (Main & Prelims).
The classroom curriculum further makes the easy adaptation of the subject possible. As per the requirement of the syllabus, the class room training is inclusive of detailed coverage of both the papers.
Geography Syllabus
Geography as a subject has vast syllabus. To succeed, you will need to stick to the curriculum. Reading sensibly in context of India as a part of the globe should be the main aim behind studying the subject. A sound study of the topics given below should see you well prepared.
Paper - I (Fundamentals)
The topics: Geomorphology, Climatology, Oceanography, Biogeography and Environment Geography are the true scientific headings. They also form the most fundamental avenue of the study.
Section - A: Physical Geography
1.Geomorphology
2.Climatology
3.Oceanography
4.Biogeography
5.Environmental Geography
Section - B: Human Geography
1.Perspective in Human Geography
2.Economic Geography
3.Population & Settlement Geography
4.Regional Geography
5.Model, Theories & Laws In Human Geography
Paper - II (Geography of India )
This is the application paper or regional approach paper with two sections though the division is different from Paper I. Physical Geography is the only physical topic, the others are application or regional approach subjects.
Section - A
1.Physical Geography
2.Resources
3.Agriculture
4.Industry
5.Transport, Communication & Trade
Section - B
1.Cultural Setting
2.Settlement
3.Regional Development & Planning
4.Political Aspects
5.Contemporary Issues
The most important aspect of this optional is Map Marking. It is practiced daily in the class to attain perfection in marking the places appropriately and scoring high. The detailed class notes with supplementary printed material suffice the examination requirement. This reduces the excessive burden of reading the textbooks.
The sample answers and marked maps are also significant aspects of training curriculum. The nature of section B is truly contemporary and thus material is updated on half yearly basis
Geography, the most popular and multidisciplinary optional, is a pratical subject. Taking the understanding of this subject in classroom makes the preparations foolproof.
The class curriculum is oriented to enhance not just the understanding the subject but also the interdependent and interrelated nature of the discipline. It helps aspirants to overlap the GS preparations with the subject as well.