Optional preparation is typically structured in three phases spanning 10-12 months from the point of starting:

Phase 1 — First Reading (Months 1-3): Read all standard books for both papers cover to cover, focused only on understanding core concepts. Do not attempt to make detailed notes at this stage. The goal is familiarity with the entire syllabus.

Phase 2 — Second Reading and Notes (Months 4-6): Re-read the same books more carefully, making concise notes (target a 10:1 ratio between source text and notes). Begin solving Previous Year Questions (PYQs) topic by topic after completing each section.

Phase 3 — Answer Writing and Revision (Months 7-10): Join a test series immediately after Prelims. Write full-length papers under timed conditions (3 hours). Revise your short notes at least 3 times before Mains. In the final month, use flashcards and one-page topic summaries for rapid revision.

Daily time allocation: Most toppers and coaching institutes recommend 2-3 hours daily for the optional alongside GS preparation, increasing to 4-5 hours in the dedicated Mains phase after Prelims.

An important note on starting: Do not wait until after Prelims to begin the optional. Ideally, first reading should begin alongside GS preparation in the early months. Toppers who began optional reading early consistently report smoother Mains preparation because the subject feels familiar rather than rushed.