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Best Books for UPSC

Preparing for the UPSC exam requires diligent study and thorough understanding of a wide range of topics. To assist you in your preparation, here is an expanded list of best books that cover various subjects and provide comprehensive knowledge for the UPSC exam.

TSPSC, UPSC, APPSC
TSPSC, UPSC, APPSC
TSPSC, UPSC, APPSC

UPSC Books – Best IAS Books For UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024

When it comes to preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination, several books can be immensely beneficial. or Must-read Books for UPSC Exam preparation

Firstly, “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra provides a comprehensive understanding of India’s freedom movement, which is an essential aspect of UPSC exams.

Another noteworthy book is “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh, which delves into various economic aspects of the country in a well-structured manner.

For the General Studies Paper, “History of Modern India” by Rajiv Ahir is highly recommended, as it covers the colonial period and the post-independence era extensively.

Additionally, “Geography of India” by Majid Hussain offers an in-depth analysis of India’s physical, social, and economic geography, making it a valuable resource.

Lastly, for current affairs, “The Hindu” newspaper is a must-read for staying updated on national and international events. These books form a solid foundation for aspirants aiming to excel in the UPSC examination.

UPSC Books List – Best Books for UPSC Prelims Exam Preparation

UPSC Prelims – IAS Prelims has two papers (GS 1 and CSAT) and both are of objective type with negative marking.  Below is the list of best IAS books for Prelims.

Subject UPSC Books
History
  1. India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra
  2. Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
  3. NCERT XI (Ancient & Medieval)
  4. NCERT XII (Modern Indian History)
Geography
  1. Certificate Physical Geography – G C Leong
  2. NCERT VI – X (Old Syllabus)
  3. NCERT XI, XII (New Syllabus)
  4. World Atlas (Orient Black Swan)
Indian Polity
  1. Indian Polity – M Laxmikanth
  2. NCERT IX-XII
Economics
  1. Indian Economy by Nitin Singhania
  2. Economic Development & Policies in India – Jain & Ohri
  3. NCERT XI
International Relations
  1. NCERT XII (Contemporary World Politics)
  2. Current Affairs
CSAT
  1. Tata McGraw Hill CSAT Manual
  2. Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R S Aggarwal

UPSC Book List – Best Books for UPSC Mains Exam Preparation

IAS Aspirants who clear the UPSC Prelims Exam reach the Mains Exam Stage Only. There are 9 theoretical papers in UPSC 2024 out of which two pagers are on the optional subjects. Each candidate should follow the important IAS General Studies Mains Books to Read.

Below is the list of Best Books for UPSC Mains

Subject UPSC Books
History, Indian Heritage & Culture

[GS Paper 1]
  1. Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
  2. India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
  3. India after Independence by Bipan Chandra
  4. History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra
  5. Ancient India by R.S Sharma
Geography

[GS Paper 1]
  1. Geography of India by Majid Husain
  2. World Geography by Majid Husain
  3. World Atlas (Orient Black Swan)
  4. Certificate Physical and Human Geography – G C Leong
  5. Fundamentals of Physical Geography NCERT Class 11
Polity & International Relations

[GS Paper 2]
  1. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
  2. Introduction to the Constitution of India by DD Basu
  3. International Relations: Pushpesh Pant
Economy

[GS Paper 3]
  1. Indian Economy – Nitin Singhania
  2. Environment and Disaster Management – Tata McGraw Hill
  3. Challenges to Internal Security of India – Ashok Kumar
Ethics

[GS Paper 4]
  1. Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude for Civil Services Main Examination by Subba Rao and P.N. Roy Chaudary
Solved Papers
  1. IAS General Studies Prelims Solved Papers – Vishal Publications