Choosing the right optional subject in UPSC Mains is significant as it can greatly affect an aspirant's overall score and success rate. A well-chosen subject aligns with the student’s interests and strengths, promoting enthusiasm and deeper understanding. Candidates are advised to consider the syllabus breadth, availability of resources, and overlap with the General Studies papers when making this choice. An optional that complements the aspirant’s background can also facilitate better preparation. Since the optional marks can heavily influence the final ranking, careful consideration in this choice is critical for aspirants aiming for top positions.