Books for UPSC IAS 2024 - Subject wise prelims & Mains Books

Books for UPSC IAS 2024 - Subject wise prelims & Mains Books

Edited By Vishnukumar V | Updated on Feb 14, 2024 03:00 PM IST | #UPSC CSE

Candidates preparing for the UPSC Civil Services exam are advised to study from the best IAS books for preparation. To increase and enrich their knowledge base and preparation, candidates must study from the UPSC IAS books of different subjects. There is a myriad of study material available for the UPSC IAS exam, so it is important to choose books for preparation carefully.

This Story also Contains
  1. UPSC IAS 2024 - Highlights
  2. Best Books for IAS
  3. Books for IAS - Best Books for IAS Prelims and Mains exam
  4. IAS Books for Prelims
  5. IAS Books for IAS Mains
  6. How to Prepare for IAS Exam 2024?
Books for UPSC IAS 2024 - Subject wise prelims & Mains Books
Books for UPSC IAS 2024 - Subject wise prelims & Mains Books

Before selecting the best books for IAS preparation, candidates must also know the UPSC IAS syllabus. Candidates appearing for the IAS exam must have started preparing for the exam long before, if not they should immediately do so. Referring to the best books for IAS is not enough to qualify the IAS exam. Candidates must also work hard and practice as many IAS sample papers and previous year IAS question papers as possible to clear the exam.

UPSC IAS 2024 - Highlights

Candidates can check some basic details about UPSC IAS exam here.

Exam Name

Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Exam

Exam Conducting Authority

Union Public Service Commission

Stages of Exam

Preliminary

Mains

Personality Test

Exam Mode

Offline

Quick Links:


Best Books for IAS

Here is a list of some of the best and most commonly referred books for UPSC IAS exam preparation. Check the table below for the names of the most common UPSC IAS preparation books.]

Best books for UPSC IAS

Sr. No.

IAS syllabus books

1

NCERT books (Geography, Polity, History, Economics)

2

Indian polity by M Laxmikahth

3

Indian art and culture by Nitin Singhania

4

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

5

Environment by Shankar IAS

Books for IAS - Best Books for IAS Prelims and Mains exam

UPSC Civil Services exam is a three-stage exam - prelims, mains and personality test. Candidates preparing for the IAS exam are always looking for good IAS syllabus books to brush up their knowledge base. Check some of the books that they can refer to while preparing the IAS exam in the tables below.

IAS Books for Prelims

UPSC IAS prelims exam is a multiple choice question type having two papers - General studies and CSAT. In paper 1 questions are from subjects like history, geography, economy, polity, general knowledge, general science, etc. Whereas in CSAT candidates' reasoning and aptitude capabilities are tested. So to prepare for UPSC civil services prelims candidates can refer to the IAS syllabus books mentioned in the table below.

Books for UPSC IAS Prelims

Subject

Books for UPSC IAS Prelims

History

India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipin Chandra

Facets of Indian Culture – Spectrum

NCERT 11th (Ancient & Medieval)

NCERT 12th (Modern Indian History)

Geography

Certificate Physical Geography – G C Leong

NCERT 6th to 10th

NCERT 11th and 12th

World Atlas

Indian Polity

Indian Polity – M Laxmikanth

NCERT 9th to 12th

Economics

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

Economic Development & Policies in India – Jain & Ohri

NCERT 11th

International Relations

NCERT 12th (Contemporary World Politics)

Current Affairs

CSAT

Tata McGraw Hill CSAT Manual

CSAT – Arihant

Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R S Aggarwal

IAS Books for IAS Mains

UPSC IAS mains exam is descriptive in nature. It has a total of 9 papers all written. In IAS mains questions are asked from subjects like geography, history, economy, Hindi language, English language, etc. To know about the best books for UPSC IAS mains preparation check the table below:

UPSC IAS books for mains exam

Subject

Books for IAS mains

History, Indian Heritage & Culture

An Introduction to Indian Art Part 1: Textbook in Fine Arts for Class 11th

India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra

India after Independence by Bipin Chandra

History of Modern India by Bipin Chandra

History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra

India’s Ancient Past by R.S Sharma

Contemporary World History for class 12th

Mastering Modern World History by Norman Lowe

Geography

NCERT Class 11 - Physical Geography

NCERT Class 12 - Human Geography

World Geography by Majid Husain

Geography of India by Majid Husain

Certificate Physical and Human Geography by G C Leong

World Atlas

Polity

Indian Polity by M Laxmikanth

Introduction to the Constitution of India by DD Basu

From Government to Governance by Kuldeep Mathur

Ethics in Governance, ARC Report

Human Development Report

World Development Report

Social Justice

NCERT of 11th on Indian Society

12th class NCERT

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Human Development Report

World Development Report

International Relations

India’s Foreign Policy Since Independence by V.P. Dutt Or

India’s Foreign Policy by Rajiv Sikri

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Economy

Indian Economic Development NCERT of 11th

Introductory Macroeconomics 12th class NCERT

Indian Economy by Sanjiv Verma

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

Economic Survey (latest)

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Biodiversity, Environment

12th NCERT Book on Biology

India Year Book

The chapter on Climate Change from Economic Survey

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Security and Disaster Management

India’s Security in a Turbulent World by Jasjit Singh, published by National Book Trust of India

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Science & Technology

8th, 9th and 10th class NCERT books on Biology

The Hindu or Indian Express Newspaper

Monthly Magazine ‘Science Reporter for Science & Technology

Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude for Civil Services Main Examination by Subba Rao and P.N. Roy Chaudhary

Ethics in Governance

ARC Report

Lexicon

Best Study Material for UPSC Civil Services Exam- Prelims & Mains - Video Guide

How to Prepare for IAS Exam 2024?

Candidates preparing for UPSC IAS 2024 should have a preparation strategy on how to prepare for the UPSC IAS 2024 exam. The best way to prepare for the UPSC civil services exam is to have your own unique plan and not anyone else. Here a few tips on how to prepare for the UPSC IAS examination:

  • Candidates must go through the UPSC IAS syllabus and exam pattern before starting their preparation

  • Candidates must refer to the standard books for IAS exam

  • Candidates must develop a habit of reading the newspaper

  • Candidates should make short notes while studying for faster revision

  • Candidates must go through the previous year's UPSC IAS question papers to know the type and level of questions and more

UPSC CSE Preparation Strategy and Best Books
UPSC CSE preparation strategy along with best books for prelims as well as mains exam for sure success.
Download EBook

More Relevant Links - UPSC IAS Result 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which economy IAS books is best for the UPSC civil services exam?

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh is the best book for the UPSC IAS exam.

2. Does UPSC release the IAS cutoff?

Yes, UPSC releases the IAS cutoff after the declaration of the final IAS result.

3. What is the minimum age required to apply for the UPSC IAS exam?

The minimum age required to apply for the IAS exam is 21 years.

4. Are NCERT books enough for IAS exam preparation?

No, NCERT books are good and much needed for IAS 2024 exam preparation. But alone they are not enough to crack the exam. To clear the IAS exam candidates must read other reference books too.

5. How can I choose best books for UPSC IAS?

While buying the books for UPSC 2024, keep in mind that books must be based on latest syllabus and exam pattern.

6. Which is better for preparation - books or online mode?

It completely depends on the students' perspective. There are students who prefer to study in online mode because of the amount of resources available there whereas some prefer books because of authenticity.

7. How can I get UPSC sample papers?

The sample papers of UPSC 2024 is available in the online mode. However, you can buy the books of UPSC IAS which contain the sample practice papers.

8. How can I choose best IAS books?

While choosing the best books for IAS, candidates must keep in mind that the books are based on latest exam pattern and syllabus of UPSC IAS 2024.

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Questions related to UPSC CSE

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For becoming an IAS officer you have to give UPSC exam , and focus on excelling in academics, particularly in subjects like History, Geography, Political Science and English. Maintain a strong foundation in these areas and stay updated on current events and national/international issues. After 10th standard, choose the Humanities or Social Sciences stream, then graduate from a recognized university. Prepare for the UPSC and for studies you have to focus on excelling in academics, particularly in subjects like History, Geography, Political Science and English. Maintain a strong foundation in these areas and stay updated on current events and national/international issues. After 10th standard, choose the relevant subject and complete your higher education and graduation then prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, which includes preliminary, main and personality tests. Join coaching classes, develop skills like communication, leadership and problem-solving and stay motivated. And also research more about that exam.


Have a great day

Steps to become an IAS officer


Graduation


You should have a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a known university

Arts: History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Sociology

Science: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology

Commerce: Economics, Accountancy, Business Studies

Preparation for UPSC Civil Services Examination:


Study the Syllabus: Learn the syllabus for Preliminary and Main exams.

Choose Elective Subjects: Take elective subjects that you enjoy and have expertise in

Study Material: Reference textbooks, handouts distributed during the coaching and internet resources.

Practice: Previous years' question paper, mock tests, etc

Coaching Institutes: Join a good coaching institute for formal guidance 3. UPSC Civil Services Examination:

Prelims Exam: An objective-type qualifying test that will make you eligible to appear in the Main examination.

Main Exam: Very subjective test which includes all subjects.

Interview: Personality test by a panel of experts.

Important Tips:


Start Early: Better preparation starts early.

Time Management: Manage your time very efficiently.

Consistency: Follow a regular study routine.

Stay Updated: Current affairs and news.

Seek Guidance: Who have an experience can be consulted upon for guidance.

Practice Regularly: Solve the previous year's paper and mock tests.

Stay Positive: Believe in yourself and work hard.

Hence, with these steps and dedication and perseverance, you're sure to achieve your end as an IAS officer.

Hello,

Yes, while IAS (Indian Administrative Services) preparation requires a graduation degree, here are steps you can take to start your IAS journey after completing your 11th standard (BiPC):

  1. Focus on Graduation : Choose a stream for your higher studies that aligns with your interest. Graduation is a mandatory qualification for IAS eligibility.
  2. Early Preparation : Start building a strong foundation in subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Political Science, which are part of the IAS syllabus.
  3. Develop General Knowledge : Read newspapers daily and follow current affairs magazines to stay updated with national and international news.
  4. Improve Language Skills : Enhance your proficiency in English and one Indian language as per the Civil Services syllabus.
  5. Join Study Circles or Coaching : Enroll in pre-IAS foundation courses available for school students for a head start.
  6. Time Management : Create a balanced study schedule alongside your schoolwork to gradually prepare for the IAS exam.
  7. Participate in Competitions : Engage in essay writing and debates to boost your analytical skills and confidence.

To get more help, you can visit : https://www.careers360.com/careers/ias-officer

Hope it helps 1

Hello there,

Becoming both an IAS officer and a doctor is achievable but requires dedication and clear planning, as each career has distinct educational and examination paths. Here’s a roadmap to help you achieve both:

1. Complete Your MBBS to Become a Doctor

  • Enroll in an MBBS Program : First, you need to qualify for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and get admission to a medical college.

  • Complete Your Medical Degree : The MBBS program typically takes 5.5 years, including an internship.

  • Gain Experience (Optional) : You may choose to practice medicine for a few years to gain clinical experience, but it’s not mandatory if your goal is to pursue IAS right after MBBS.

    2. Prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)

  • Understand the UPSC Exam Structure : The UPSC CSE has three stages—Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview. You can start preparing while in medical school or after completing MBBS.

  • Choose Your Optional Subject : As a doctor, you may consider taking medical science as your optional subject, though it’s not mandatory.

  • Develop a Study Plan : Balance your medical studies or job with UPSC preparation. Many doctors manage both by allocating dedicated study time each day.

  • Appear for the Exam : With a systematic approach, crack the UPSC exam and qualify for the IAS position.

    3. Career Path as a Doctor-IAS

  • IAS Training and Posting : After clearing UPSC, complete your training and take up your role as an IAS officer. You’ll have a broad scope to influence healthcare, public policy, and social development.

  • Consider Government Health Roles : In administrative roles, you could use your medical background to work in health-related departments, where your knowledge of medicine would be a unique asset.

    Additional Pathways

  • Alternative Approach : You could also join as a doctor in a government hospital and then transition to administration by appearing for the UPSC exam when ready.

  • Health Policy and Administration : Use your medical background in policy formulation or in roles within the Ministry of Health, combining both careers for impactful healthcare reforms.

This dual career path is ambitious but can be very rewarding, allowing you to serve in both the medical and administrative fields.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello aspirant, The answer to this question is no. Both of these areas require your complete commitment and dedication. You can not manage both of these together. Also it is not allowed to do any other profession while performing duties as a IAS officer. If you want to practice medical profession then you have to leave your job.

Thank you

Hope it helps you.

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