UPSC CSE preparation is a long and engaging process. It requires consistent and focussed efforts since it covers a multitude of subjects and varied knowledge. Thus discipline and perseverance are seen as basic pillars for IAS preparation.
The first and foremost guide to any UPSC aspirant is the syllabus given by UPSC. All IAS aspirants should understand the UPSC Exam Syllabus in the first place which is indicative of the demands of this exam. The next step is to read the NCERT Books from class 6 to class 12 to build a strong foundation in the subjects. Subsequently, the IAS Aspirants should prepare a list of standard books required to cover the General Studies syllabus for Prelims as well as Mains and cover the syllabus holistically.
NCERT Books should form the basics of your preparation. No matter what coaching you go to or what books you refer to, NCERTs are a must-read for every aspirant. Make short notes from the NCERT books which will be of help during revision.
Apart from the NCERT books, following are the standard books suggested for any UPSC aspirant:
Indian Polity for Civil Services Examinations by M. Laxmikanth.
Why is it important: It gives comprehensive and well detailed information about the Indian political system and its background. It helps in establishing a foundation for the students to understand Indian Polity in detail.
Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu is another book for Indian Polity which aspirants should go through to better understand the concepts and have a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of the Indian political system.
India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
Why this is important: this is the most structured book on Modern Indian History. It helps you to have an in-depth understanding of historical events and their causes and effects to write well argued answers to the complex UPSC mains questions.
A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir (Modern Indian History)
Why is it important: It gives detailed information about the historical context before the arrival of the British and how Indian history progressed after that.
India After Gandhi by Ramachandra Guha
Why is it important: The book will give you a better understanding of how India has changed since Independence and some of the big events that shaped today’s India.
Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong. (Geography)
Why is it important: It helps you develop an understanding of the technical concepts in Geography along with well-explained diagrams according to the needs of the exam.
Environment by Shankar IAS Academy
Why is it important: Gives a comprehensive coverage of the syllabus given for UPSC exam and is an easy read.
Environment for Civil Services Prelims and Mains – by Khuller and Rao (McGraw Hill)
Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
Why is it important: a comprehensive book about the Indian economy which gives you foundational knowledge of the economy and helps you make sense of economic concepts and current scenarios.
Economic Survey by the Ministry of Finance is also a very important document to be read for the Indian Economy part of the exam.
Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania.
Why is it important: A one-stop solution to the Art and Culture topic of the UPSC exam which covers all art and culture forms in detail.
Thus, all these books along with the NCERTs cover the syllabus holistically and prepare the aspirants well for the exam. Regular revision is a must to excel at the exam.
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