The candidate must read these books for their UPSC Prelims Preparation. These books cover the all topics in the syllabus of the UPSC Prelims Examination.
Preparation for UPSC Prelims (Civil Services Preliminary Examination) needs comprehensive knowledge across various subjects. The following 10 books cover the essential topics for UPSC Prelims Preparation:
Books For UPSC Prelims Preparation:
| Indian Polity (M. Laxmikanth) |
| Indian Economy (Ramesh Singh) |
| History of Modern India (Bipan Chandra) |
| Certificate in Physical and Human Geography (Goh Cheng Leong) |
| Oxford School Atlas |
| General Science for Civil Services Preliminary Examination (Tata McGraw Hill) |
| Environment and Ecology (Majid Husain) |
| NCERT Books |
| CSAT Paper II (Arihant Publications) |
| Current Affairs |
1. Indian Polity (M. Laxmikanth)
This book serves as a detailed manual, providing in-depth information on the Indian political system, constitutional provisions, and governance. Along with delving into the historical context and the process of creating the Constitution, it also examines various aspects such as the Constitution’s characteristics, fundamental rights, directive principles, government structure, federalism, center-state relations, and more. The comprehensive coverage of Indian polity encompasses an exploration of different institutions including the President, Prime Minister Parliament Supreme Court Election Commission among others.
2. Indian Economy (Ramesh Singh)
It covers the fundamental concepts of the Indian economy, economic policies, and current issues. Indian Economy is like a guide that takes you on a journey through the world of economics. It starts from the very basics and gradually introduces more advanced ideas. You’ll explore big-picture concepts like how the whole economy works (that’s macroeconomics) and also zoom in to understand how individual decisions affect things (that’s microeconomics).
3. History of Modern India (Bipan Chandra)
Bipan Chandra
The History of Modern India by Bipan Chandra is a comprehensive and authoritative account of India’s journey from the mid-18th century to the present day. This seminal work offers a vivid and analytical portrayal of key events, movements, and personalities that shaped India’s modern history, including British colonial rule, the struggle for independence, socio-economic changes, cultural transformations, and the birth of the Indian republic. Bipan Chandra’s book is celebrated for its meticulous research, balanced narrative, and insightful analysis, making it an essential read for anyone seeking a deep understanding of India’s complex historical evolution during this critical period.
4. Certificate in Physical and Human Geography (Goh Cheng Leong)
“Certificate Physical and Human Geography” by Goh Cheng Leong is the best book for UPSC IAS Aspirants that offers a comprehensive exploration of both physical and human geography. This book is an essential guide for the IAS Prelims examination seeking a deeper understanding of Earth’s landscapes, and environments. The book covers a range of geographical topics, from natural features like landforms and climate patterns to human-related subjects such as population, urbanization, and economic development. It’s a valuable tool for anyone interested in broadening their knowledge of the world’s geographical dynamics.
5. Oxford School Atlas
The Oxford School Atlas is a good book for those aspiring to clear the UPSC IAS examination. This Book serves as a comprehensive geographical resource as a conventional map. It offers a holistic understanding of the world’s diverse landscapes, political boundaries, and thematic information. Its clear and detailed maps are helped by insightful explanations, making complex concepts easy to grasp. Whether you’re preparing for the geography segment of the UPSC IAS exam or seeking a deeper insight into global dynamics, the “Oxford School Atlas” is an indispensable tool that transforms geographical learning into an engaging and effective experience.
6. General Science for Civil Services Preliminary Examination (Tata McGraw Hill)
Covers basic science concepts needed for the General Science section.
7. Environment and Ecology (Majid Husain)
This book discusses environmental issues, ecology, and related policies. This comprehensive book by Majid Husain explores how nature and society are intertwined. With a balanced blend of scientific insights and practical solutions, the book covers a wide range of topics, including ecosystems, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development. Through a reader-friendly approach, it educates readers about environmental challenges and encourages responsible stewardship. Students, researchers, and anyone interested in addressing today’s complex environmental issues will find this book to be an invaluable resource.
8. NCERT Books
NCERT Books is an essential material for UPSC preparation. Essential textbooks for UPSC Prelims and Mains preparations are History (Class 6 to 12), Geography (Class 6 to 12), Science (Class 6 to 10), Economy (Class 11 and 12), etc.
These books are essential for any candidate planning to appear for the UPSC Exam. During their preparation for the UPSC Prelims examination, it provides a foundation that will help them in their next level of study.
9. CSAT Paper II (Arihant Publications)
CSAT Paper II by Arihant Publications is a popular study resource designed to help candidates prepare for the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. This book aims to assist aspirants in enhancing their skills in areas such as comprehension, logical reasoning, decision-making, problem-solving, and general mental ability.
Covers the aptitude and reasoning section of the exam. This book helps in preparation for the CSAT paper.
10. Current Affairs
The list of Newspapers and magazines for UPSC Prelims –
| The Hindu | Indian Express | Yojana |
| Kurukshetra | Economic | Political Weekly |
Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express, etc., and magazines like Yojana, Kurukshetra, and Economic and Political Weekly to stay updated on current events.