@IamThat I think 3rd is the most feasible option.
Regarding dropping an attempt, it is recommended only once you have given at least one mains.
Until that time you have no experience of how to prepare and what is your natural way of preparing and how much that strategy fetches.
So focus on prelims Ensure that you figure the method in the madness of prelims this time. There is a method trust me. It might take time from feburary to june this year, but figure it out.
But dont leave optional all together. Keep doing it no matter how little time you devote.
Best wishes! You got this
