Analyzing and understanding the question paper for the Zoology Optional subject is crucial for effective preparation and scoring well in the UPSC exam. Here are some detailed steps to help you with the process:

1. Read the question paper thoroughly:
- Begin by carefully reading the entire question paper to get an overview of the topics and sub-topics covered.
- Pay attention to the marking scheme, as it will guide you on how much weightage each question carries.

2. Identify key topics and syllabus areas:
- Analyze the questions and identify the key topics and syllabus areas they are based on.
- This will help you prioritize your preparation, focusing more on the important topics.

3. Breakdown the questions:
- Breakdown each question into its constituent parts and understand what is being asked.
- Look for keywords and phrases that provide clues about what the examiner expects you to discuss or analyze.

4. Refer to the syllabus:
- Cross-reference the questions with the official syllabus for the Zoology Optional subject.
- This will ensure that you are covering all the relevant topics and not missing out on any important areas.

5. Categorize questions:
- Categorize the questions into different sections based on the topics they cover.
- This will help you allocate time and resources accordingly, making your preparation more efficient.

6. Prioritize based on weightage:
- Pay attention to the marking scheme and prioritize your preparation based on the weightage of each question.
- Focus more on the questions that carry higher marks but ensure you cover all topics adequately.

7. Practice previous years' question papers:
- Solve previous years' question papers to get a better understanding of the exam pattern and the types of questions asked.
- This will also help you identify any gaps in your knowledge and improve your time management skills.

8. Seek guidance from experts:
- If you find any questions or concepts challenging, seek guidance from subject matter experts or your mentors.
- They can provide insights, explanations, and additional resources to help you better understand and analyze the questions.

By following these steps, you will be able to effectively analyze and understand the question paper for the Zoology Optional subject. Remember to practice regularly and revise thoroughly to enhance your chances of scoring well in the UPSC exam.