Yes, you should allocate specific time for practicing answer writing for Economics Optional within your plan.

Answer writing is a crucial aspect of UPSC preparation, especially for subjects like Economics Optional. It helps you develop the necessary skills to effectively communicate your ideas and concepts in a concise and coherent manner. Here are some reasons why you should allocate specific time for practicing answer writing for Economics Optional:

1. Enhances understanding:
Practicing answer writing allows you to consolidate your knowledge and understanding of different topics in economics. It helps you identify any gaps in your understanding and encourages you to delve deeper into the subject matter.

2. Improves time management:
Answer writing requires you to articulate your thoughts within a given time frame. By practicing regularly, you can improve your time management skills and learn to structure your answers efficiently. This is particularly important during the actual exam, where time is limited.

3. Develops analytical skills:
Answer writing requires you to analyze the given question and present a logical and well-structured argument. Regular practice helps in honing your analytical skills and enables you to critically evaluate the different dimensions of a problem.

4. Familiarizes with exam pattern:
By practicing answer writing, you become familiar with the exam pattern, style of questions, and the specific requirements of the Economics Optional paper. This familiarity can boost your confidence and help you perform better in the actual exam.

5. Provides feedback and self-assessment:
Practicing answer writing allows you to receive feedback on your performance. You can evaluate your answers, identify areas of improvement, and work on them accordingly. This iterative process of self-assessment is crucial for continuous growth and enhancement of your writing skills.

6. Enhances presentation skills:
Answer writing involves presenting your ideas in a clear and concise manner. Regular practice helps in improving your presentation skills, including the use of diagrams, charts, and graphs to support your arguments. This makes your answers more visually appealing and easier to understand.

7. Increases speed and accuracy:
Practicing answer writing helps in increasing your speed and accuracy while solving questions. It trains your mind to think quickly and effectively, enabling you to write comprehensive answers within the given time constraints.

In conclusion, allocating specific time for practicing answer writing for Economics Optional is essential for UPSC preparation. It not only enhances your understanding and analytical skills but also improves time management, familiarizes you with the exam pattern, and develops your presentation skills. Regular practice and self-assessment are key to achieving success in the Economics Optional paper.