Introduction:
When preparing for the sociology optional paper in the UPSC exam, it is essential to have a well-rounded approach that includes both objective and essay-type questions. While objective questions test your knowledge and understanding of the subject, essay-type questions evaluate your critical thinking and analytical skills. Therefore, allocating dedicated time for practicing essay-type questions is crucial for scoring well in the examination.

Importance of essay-type questions:
1. Evaluates critical thinking: Essay-type questions require you to analyze and evaluate various sociological concepts, theories, and perspectives. By practicing such questions, you develop the ability to think critically and present arguments effectively.

2. Enhances writing skills: Writing coherent and well-structured essays is essential in conveying your ideas and arguments concisely. Regular practice of essay-type questions helps in improving your writing skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and sentence construction.

3. Demonstrates depth of knowledge: Essay-type questions allow you to showcase your in-depth knowledge of sociological concepts. By providing relevant examples, case studies, and empirical evidence, you can exhibit a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Allocating time for essay-type questions:
1. Understand the weightage: Analyze the past UPSC question papers to determine the weightage given to essay-type questions. This will help you allocate an appropriate amount of time for practicing such questions.

2. Set a schedule: Create a study schedule that includes dedicated time for practicing essay-type questions. This will ensure that you give equal importance to both objective and essay-type questions.

3. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your essay writing skills. Set aside a specific time slot every day or week to work on essay-type questions. You can also seek feedback from mentors or peers to identify areas of improvement.

4. Focus on diverse topics: Cover a wide range of sociological topics while practicing essay-type questions. This will not only help you gain a holistic understanding of the subject but also prepare you to tackle any question that may be asked in the examination.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, allocating dedicated time for practicing essay-type questions is essential for scoring well in the sociology optional paper of the UPSC exam. By practicing essay-type questions, you develop critical thinking skills, enhance your writing abilities, and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of sociological concepts. Therefore, ensure that you have a balanced approach by giving equal importance to both objective and essay-type questions during your preparation.