How to select between Arts/ Commerce and Science stream subjects in class XI?

The choice of subjects after class X is a very crucial decision in a student’s life – something that is understandably met with a lot of anxiety and confusion both on the part of parents and students alike. By Payal Krishnan

This anxiety is not out of place really since to large extent, on this decision, hinges the general direction that a student’s career is going to take. A pretty daunting task it is for sure!

It is a common practice to base this crucial decision on the marks that the student obtains in his class X examinations. So, a student who secures 90% plus aggregate in his class X Board Exams, is definite 'candidate' for the Science subjects and another student who secures a 60% in his class X exams, assumes that Humanities or the Arts subjects is what he must be cut out for. Such generalizations often prove erroneous and students may end up disillusioned and unduly stressed.

While performance in the class X final examinations may be a fair indication of the student’s hold over academic subjects, it should not be taken as the sole indicator for the level of aptitude and interest in any given area. Take the case of Arpita, who obtained a 75 % in her class X Boards. It is reasonable to assume that her Board exam result has been a function of such factors as

• The level of preparedness
• Memory
• Exam taking skills
• Level of anxiety on the day of exam

Motivation or interest per se is likely to have played a relatively insignificant role. However, the scenario will change 2 years hence when she will be looking at her Class XII Board Exam results! Along with the factors listed above, her involvement with her subjects of study and her overall interest in the same will truly reflect in her final performance. This is because studies in the higher classes (Class XI and XII) get tougher and success in the examinations at this stage can be attained only by a consistent approach and an inquisitiveness to learn that is best brought about by an inherent interest in the subject matter. It therefore brings us to the central point of this write-up. And that is - the choice of stream (or subjects) in class XI should be arrived at only after taking an individual student’s interest and aptitude into account.

Some pointers to keep in mind while choosing the subject combinations:

• Know the subject combinations offered in your school at the +2 level. Typically the streams available in the schools and the subjects offered therein are:
• Science (Medical): Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  Optional subjects: Math, Engineering Drawing, Economics, Computer Science, Informatics Practices, Biotechnology
• Science (Non-Medical): Physics, Chemistry, Math
  Optional Subjects: Biology, Engineering Drawing, Economics, Computer Science, Informatics Practices
• Commerce: Business Studies, Accounts, Economics
  Optional Subjects: Math, Informatics Practices
• Arts: History, Geography, Political Science
  Optional Subjects: Economics, Psychology

One language (English is usually a compulsory subject in most schools)

• Know your interests and aptitude. Co-curricular activities and inputs from friends & family can be valuable in this regard. You can also take the help of psychometric testing by certified guidance counselors.
• Have a Career Plan revolving around a minimum of 3-4 careers in place.
• Think it through yourself; what is good for your friend may not be good for you.
• Explore career options and discover new opportunities that may excite you (this process should indeed continue within the broad field throughout the two years of plus two studies).
• Be realistic and honest with yourself-no one knows you better than you do! If you know for instance, that you do not have a ‘Math-Brain’, do not fool yourself into taking Science.
• Pay heed to the advice from parents and other adults who know you closely. Their experience can often give you valuable insights into yourself and the world of work.

Lastly, it is important that you think through before taking this decision. Do not take it in haste or feel pressured in any way whatsoever.

All the Best!

About the Author

Payal Krishnan

Payal Krishnan is a career expert at Meritnation.com.