Strategies to adapt time management approach for UPSC PSIR optional subject:

1. Review Previous Year Question Papers:
- Analyze the historical trends of question lengths, complexity, and the depth of analysis required in previous years' papers.
- Identify patterns in the types of questions asked, the weightage given to different topics, and the level of detail required in the answers.

2. Categorize Questions:
- Categorize the questions based on their length, complexity, and depth of analysis required.
- Group them into broad categories such as short answer, essay-type, conceptual, theoretical, or application-based questions.

3. Allocate Time Proportionately:
- Allocate time proportionately to different question categories based on their weightage and difficulty level.
- For example, if essay-type questions carry more marks, allocate more time to them, while allocating relatively less time for short answer questions.

4. Practice Time-bound Mock Tests:
- Simulate exam-like conditions by practicing time-bound mock tests.
- Set a timer for each section or question to train yourself in managing time effectively.
- This will help you develop a sense of timing and improve your speed and accuracy in answering questions.

5. Prioritize High-Scoring Topics:
- Identify topics that have consistently appeared in previous years' papers and carry higher marks.
- Allocate more time for studying and preparing these topics as they are more likely to be asked in the exam.

6. Focus on Understanding Concepts:
- Instead of rote memorization, focus on understanding the underlying concepts and theories.
- This will enable you to answer questions with depth and analysis, even if the question is framed differently from previous years.

7. Create a Study Plan:
- Create a structured study plan that allocates sufficient time for each topic based on its importance and difficulty level.
- Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals to ensure comprehensive coverage of the syllabus within the available time.

8. Revise Regularly:
- Regular revision is essential to retain information and reinforce understanding.
- Allocate dedicated time for revision in your study plan to keep the concepts fresh in your mind.

9. Stay Updated:
- Stay updated with current affairs, especially those related to political science and international relations.
- Incorporate newspaper reading and analysis of relevant articles into your study routine to enhance your understanding and answer questions with a contemporary perspective.

By adapting your time management approach based on the historical trends of question lengths, complexity, and the depth of analysis required in previous years' papers for the UPSC PSIR optional subject, you can optimize your study time, improve your preparation, and increase your chances of scoring well in the exam.