Essential NCERT Books for UPSC Preparation

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts various civil service examinations in India, requiring comprehensive preparation from candidates. One of the key resources in this preparation is the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks. This article outlines the essential NCERT books for UPSC candidates, providing an overview and explaining how to leverage these resources effectively.

History

To build a solid foundation in history, aspirants should start with the NCERT class textbooks from Class 6 through Class 12. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Overview of Class 6-12 History Textbooks

Class 6: Our Past - I Class 7: Our Past - II Class 8: Our Past - III Class 9: India and the Contemporary World - I Class 10: India and the Contemporary World - II Class 11: Themes in World History Class 12: Themes in Indian History - I, II, and III

These NCERT books cover a broad spectrum of historical topics and are essential for developing a foundational understanding. However, it's recommended to move beyond these NCERTs and focus on more in-depth study materials like Spectrum Nitin Singhania for more advanced preparation.

Geography

For a strong geographical foundation, the following NCERT textbooks are crucial:

Overview of Class 6-12 Geography Textbooks

Class 6: The Earth Our Habitat Class 7: Our Environment Class 8: Resource and Development Class 9: Contemporary India - I Class 10: Contemporary India - II Class 11: Fundamentals of Physical Geography, Practical Work in Geography - I Class 12: Fundamentals of Human Geography, Practical Work in Geography - II, India: People and Economy

While these NCERT books are essential, delving deeper into class 11 and 12 geography books is advised. For further exploration, consider referring to G C Leong's books.

Polity and Political Science

For polity and political science, the recommended NCERT textbooks are:

Overview of Class 9-12 Political Science Textbooks

Class 9: Democratic Politics - I Class 10: Democratic Politics - II Class 11: Political Theory Class 12: Contemporary World Politics, Politics in India Since Independence

However, it's important to note that while these NCERTs are valuable, most aspirants find M Laxmikanth’s book sufficient to cover the entire syllabus for UPSC preparation. Therefore, M Laxmikanth is the recommended standard book to focus on.

Economics

For economics, the NCERT textbooks provide a good starting point. The recommended NCERT books are:

Overview of Class 9-12 Economics Textbooks

Class 9: Economics Class 10: Understanding Economic Development Class 11: Indian Economic Development Class 12: Introductory Macroeconomics, Introductory Microeconomics

While these NCERT books are a good starting point, candidates are encouraged to supplement them with standard textbooks like Ramesh Singh for more comprehensive coverage. These additional resources will help in a more nuanced understanding of economic concepts.

Science

For science, the NCERT class textbooks from Class 6 through Class 10 are necessary:

Overview of Class 6-10 Science Textbooks

Class 6-10: Science NCERT books of respective classes

While these NCERTs are essential, Lucent's books are recommended as a more comprehensive resource for science preparation.

Environment and Ecology

For environmental studies, the NCERT Class 12 Biology book’s last four chapters (Units X to XII) are highly recommended. These chapters cover critical environmental topics and provide a solid foundation. Additionally, standard notes from Shankar IAS are sufficiently comprehensive for UPSC preparation in this area.

Conclusion

While the NCERT books provide a strong foundation, it is important to supplement them with other study materials, reference books, and the latest current affairs to cover the entire UPSC syllabus comprehensively. Successful candidates recommend focusing on standard textbooks like Spectrum Nitin Singhania, M Laxmikanth, and the Lucent books along with regular read-through of current affairs magazines and newspapers. With consistent effort and the right resources, you can prepare effectively for the UPSC examination.

All the best!