Is It Possible to Clear IAS Without Reading NCERT Books?

Passing the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam is a significant milestone for many aspiring civil servants. NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books are widely recommended for exam preparation due to their foundational value. However, is it possible to succeed without reading these books? This article explores this question in detail.

Foundation Knowledge

NCERT Books: These books are crucial for laying a solid foundation in various subjects, particularly history, geography, polity, and science. They are concise and cover the basics effectively, providing a comprehensible understanding of topics.

Yet, is it necessary to read NCERT books for success in the IAS exam? Here are some scenarios where you might not need to:

Well-Rounded School Education: If you attended school and studied your subjects thoroughly with a focus on the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) syllabus, you might have a good grasp of the basics. Clear Understanding of Subjects: If you have a natural aptitude for understanding complex subjects and can easily grasp key concepts, you might find NCERT books redundant. Alternative Resources: You have access to comprehensive summaries, summaries, or alternative resources that cover the same topics as NCERT books.

However, it is important to note that avoiding NCERT books entirely is not advisable, especially given the competitive nature of the exam and the direct questions asked from these books.

Syllabus Coverage

The IAS exam syllabus is vast, and NCERT books alone might not suffice to cover all the important topics comprehensively. Here are some additional points to consider:

Comprehensive Syllabus: NCERTs are excellent for foundational knowledge, but you will need to refer to other standard reference books and materials to cover advanced topics effectively. Diverse Resources: Utilize a combination of resources, including books by authors such as Laxmikant for polity, Spectrum for modern history, and others, to deepen your understanding.

Current Affairs

Staying Updated: Apart from NCERT books, staying updated with current affairs is crucial for both the preliminary and mains exams. This includes following newspapers, magazines, and online resources.

Personal Study Strategy

Study Plan: Success in the IAS exam depends on a well-rounded study strategy, effective time management, and the ability to integrate different resources. Some candidates might choose to focus on other materials if they feel confident in their understanding of the subjects.

In summary, while NCERT books are highly recommended for their clarity and foundational content, it is possible to clear the IAS exam using other resources. The key is to ensure comprehensive syllabus coverage, stay updated with current affairs, and develop a personalized study strategy that suits your learning style.