Optional Subject: Choosing and Preparing
Selecting and Mastering the Optional
The optional subject allows candidates to demonstrate depth in a chosen field such as Public Administration, Economics, Geography, or Bhutanese History. The key is to align your choice with your academic background and the syllabus. You must understand fundamental theories, key thinkers, and their application to Bhutan. For Public Administration, know Weberian bureaucracy, New Public Management, and Bhutan's civil service reforms. For Economics, grasp micro and macro principles, development economics, and Bhutan's hydropower-led growth. For Geography, focus on physical, human, and regional geography with Bhutanese case studies.
Traps and Strategy
Examiners reward precise definitions and structured arguments. Avoid vague generalisations; cite specific examples. A common trap is to ignore the Bhutanese context-many questions ask you to relate theory to Bhutan. Another is poor time management; allocate time according to marks. Do not memorise without understanding; application-based questions are common.
Worked Example
If asked to discuss "the relevance of New Public Management to Bhutan's civil service," structure your answer: define NPM (market-based reforms, performance measurement), list its principles, then evaluate its application in Bhutan (e.g., performance agreements, e-governance), and conclude with challenges. Rule of thumb: for any theory question, define, explain, apply, and critique.