**Should I prepare mathematics before prelims for the IAS exam?**

Preparing for the IAS exam requires a well-planned and systematic approach. The choice of an optional subject plays a crucial role in determining your overall score. If mathematics is your optional subject, it is essential to allocate sufficient time and effort to prepare for it. Here are some reasons why you should consider preparing for mathematics before prelims:

**1. Familiarity with the subject:** Mathematics is a subject that requires a deep understanding of concepts and extensive practice. By starting early, you can get familiar with the syllabus, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and work on improving your problem-solving abilities.

**2. Time management:** The IAS exam is known for its vast syllabus, and time management is crucial to cover all the topics effectively. By preparing mathematics before prelims, you can allocate more time to other subjects during the final stages of preparation, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the entire syllabus.

**3. Enhancing problem-solving skills:** Mathematics is fundamentally a subject that enhances logical and analytical thinking. By starting early, you can gradually build your problem-solving skills, which will not only benefit you in mathematics but also in other subjects and the overall exam.

**4. Overcoming fear and building confidence:** Mathematics can be a challenging subject for many aspirants. By dedicating time and effort to understand and practice mathematics, you can overcome your fear and build confidence in your abilities. This confidence will further motivate you to perform well in other subjects as well.

**5. Revision and practice:** Mathematics requires regular revision and extensive practice to excel. By starting early, you can revise the concepts multiple times and solve a variety of problems, making your understanding of the subject more thorough and comprehensive.

In conclusion, preparing mathematics before prelims for the IAS exam is highly recommended. It not only allows you to become familiar with the subject but also helps in enhancing problem-solving skills, managing time effectively, building confidence, and ensuring thorough revision and practice. By following a well-structured study plan and dedicating sufficient time to mathematics, you can significantly improve your chances of success in the IAS exam.

Yes you should