The UPSC includes Mathematics as one of the optional subjects among the 48 subjects available for candidates to choose from. The syllabus for Mathematics in the UPSC exam is highly specialized and covers a wide range of topics, including algebra, calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and real analysis.
Candidates who opt for Mathematics as their optional subject will have to appear for two papers, each carrying 250 marks, resulting in a total of 500 marks for this subject. These optional papers form a significant part of the UPSC Mains Examination, which is conducted after the IAS Preliminary exam. While Mathematics may not be as commonly chosen as some other subjects for the IAS Mains exam, candidates with a graduation degree or a strong background in Mathematics have the opportunity to select it as their preferred optional subject.
Mathematics Optional Syllabus: Paper-1
(1) Linear Algebra:
Vector spaces over R and C, linear dependence and independence, subspaces, bases, dimensions, Linear transformations, rank and nullity, matrix of a linear transformation. Algebra of Matrices; Row and column reduction, Echelon form, congruence’s and similarity; Rank of a matrix; Inverse of a matrix; Solution of a system of linear equations; Eigenvalues and eigenvectors, characteristic polynomial, Cayley-Hamilton theorem, Symmetric, skew-symmetric, Hermitian, skew-Hermitian, orthogonal and unitary matrices and their eigenvalues.
(2) Calculus:
Real numbers, functions of a real variable, limits, continuity, differentiability, mean-value theorem, Taylor’s theorem with remainders, indeterminate forms, maxima, and minima, asymptotes; Curve tracing; Functions of two or three variables; Limits, continuity, partial derivatives, maxima, and minima, Lagrange’s method of multipliers, Jacobian. Riemann’s definition of definite integrals; Indefinite integrals; Infinite and improper integrals; Double and triple integrals (evaluation techniques only); Areas, surface, and volumes.
(3) Analytic Geometry:
Cartesian and polar coordinates in three dimensions, second-degree equations in three variables, reduction to Canonical forms; straight lines, the shortest distance between two skew lines, Plane, sphere, cone, cylinder, paraboloid, ellipsoid, hyperboloid of one and two sheets and their properties.
(4) Ordinary Differential Equations:
Formulation of differential equations; Equations of the first order and first degree, integrating factor; Orthogonal trajectory; Equations of first order but not of the first degree, Clairaut’s equation, singular solution. Second and higher-order linear equations with constant coefficients, complementary functions, particular integrals, and general solutions. Section order linear equations with variable coefficients, Euler-Cauchy equation; Determination of complete solution when one solution is known using the method of variation of parameters. Laplace and Inverse Laplace transforms and their properties, Laplace transforms of elementary functions. Application to initial value problems for 2nd order linear equations with constant coefficients.
(5) Dynamics and Statics:
Rectilinear motion, simple harmonic motion, motion in a plane, projectiles; constrained motion; Work and energy, conservation of energy; Kepler’s laws, orbits under central forces. Equilibrium of a system of particles; Work and potential energy, friction, Common catenary; Principle of virtual work; Stability of equilibrium, equilibrium of forces in three dimensions.
(6) Vector Analysis:
Scalar and vector fields, differentiation of vector field of a scalar variable; Gradient, divergence, and curl in cartesian and cylindrical coordinates; Higher order derivatives; Vector identities and vector equation. Application to geometry: Curves in space, curvature, and torsion; Serret-Furenet’s formulae. Gauss and Stokes’ theorems, Green’s identities.
Mathematics Optional Syllabus: Paper-2
(1) Algebra:
Groups, subgroups, cyclic groups, cosets, Lagrange’s Theorem, normal subgroups, quotient groups, homomorphism of groups, basic isomorphism theorems, permutation groups, Cayley’s theorem. Rings, subrings and ideals, homomorphisms of rings; Integral domains, principal ideal domains, Euclidean domains, and unique factorization domains; Fields, quotient fields.
(2) Real Analysis:
Real number system as an ordered field with the least upper bound property; Sequences, the limit of a sequence, Cauchy sequence, completeness of real line; Series and its convergence, absolute and conditional convergence of series of real and complex terms, rearrangement of series. Continuity and uniform continuity of functions, properties of continuous functions on compact sets. Riemann integral, improper integrals; Fundamental theorems of integral calculus. Uniform convergence, continuity, differentiability, and integrability for sequences and series of functions; Partial derivatives of functions of several (two or three) variables, maxima, and minima.
(3) Complex Analysis:
Analytic function, Cauchy-Riemann equations, Cauchy’s theorem, Cauchy’s integral formula, power series, representation of an analytic function, Taylor’s series; Singularities; Laurent’s series; Cauchy’s residue theorem; Contour integration.
(4) Linear Programming:
Linear programming problems, basic solution, basic feasible solution, and optimal solution; Graphical method and simplex method of solutions; Duality. Transportation and assignment problems.
(5) Partial Differential Equations:
Family of surfaces in three dimensions and formulation of partial differential equations; Solution of quasilinear partial differential equations of the first order, Cauchy’s method of characteristics; Linear partial differential equations of the second order with constant coefficients, canonical form; Equation of a vibrating string, heat equation, Laplace equation, and their solutions.
(6) Numerical Analysis and Computer Programming:
Numerical methods: Solution of algebraic and transcendental equations of one variable by bisection, Regula-Falsi and Newton-Raphson methods, solution of a system of linear equations by Gaussian Elimination, and Gauss-Jorden (direct), Gauss-Seidel (iterative) methods. Newton’s (forward and backward) and interpolation, Lagrange’s interpolation. Numerical integration: Trapezoidal rule, Simpson’s rule, Gaussian quadrature formula. Numerical solution of ordinary differential equations: Euler and Runga Kutta methods. Computer Programming: Binary system; Arithmetic and logical operations on numbers; Octal and Hexadecimal systems; Conversion to and from decimal systems; Algebra of binary numbers. Elements of computer systems and concept of memory; Basic logic gates and truth tables, Boolean algebra, normal forms. Representation of unsigned integers, signed integers and reals, double precision reals, and long integers. Algorithms and flow charts for solving numerical analysis problems.
(7) Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics:
Generalized coordinates; D’Alembert’s principle and Lagrange’s equations; Hamilton equations; Moment of inertia; Motion of rigid bodies in two dimensions. Equation of continuity; Euler’s equation of motion for inviscid flow; Stream-lines, path of a particle; Potential flow; Two-dimensional and axisymmetric motion; Sources and sinks, vortex motion; Navier-Stokes equation for a viscous fluid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the scope of the Mathematics optional syllabus?
A: The scope of the Mathematics optional syllabus typically covers a wide range of topics in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and mathematical statistics. It includes subjects like algebra, analysis, calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis, mechanics, probability, and statistics. The syllabus aims to test the candidate’s understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and their ability to apply them in problem-solving.
Q: How should I prepare for the Mathematics optional paper?
A: Preparation for the Mathematics optional paper requires a thorough understanding of the concepts and regular practice. Candidates are advised to start with a strong foundation in the basics of each topic and gradually progress to more advanced concepts. Solving previous years’ question papers, participating in mock tests, and seeking guidance from experienced mentors or teachers can be beneficial. Additionally, time management is crucial, so candidates should allocate their study time efficiently to cover the entire syllabus.
Q: Is it necessary to have a mathematics background to choose mathematics as an optional subject?
A: While a background in mathematics is helpful, it is not always a strict requirement. Many candidates with diverse educational backgrounds choose mathematics as an optional subject and perform well in exams. However, candidates without a strong mathematics background may need to dedicate more time to building a solid foundation in the subject. The key is to approach the syllabus systematically, starting with basic concepts and gradually progressing to more complex topics. Consistent effort and a structured study plan can help candidates from various backgrounds succeed in the Mathematics optional paper.
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