Preparing for the IAS exam can be overwhelming, but choosing the right resources can make a significant difference. Here are five highly recommended books that will help you get ready for the IAS exam.
1. IAS Exam Notes For UPSC General Studies Prelims & Mains for Exam Preparation
This set of 14 books by TOPPERSNOTES, reviewed by Abhishek Saraf, is a comprehensive resource for both prelims and mains. The latest edition ensures you’re up-to-date with the current syllabus and exam trends. With detailed notes and clear explanations, these books are designed to simplify your preparation process and boost your confidence.
- The Civil Services have risen in social reckoning as a career due to its significant role in bringing government’s policies to the people and making development possible on ground like a rainmaker.
- Qualifying for the Civil Services is also considered as a mark of talent and success given that it requires passing through a multi-stage rigorous system of examination and interview.
- Apart from job security and satisfaction, the services provide ample opportunities and challenges to prove one’s mettle and also to contribute and give back to society.
- In India, the Civil Service is defined as “appointive positions by the Government in connection with the affairs of the Union and includes a civilian in a Defence Service, except positions in the Indian Armed Forces.”
2. Oswaal UPSC CSE Prelims 10 Previous Years Solved Papers | General Studies | Paper 1 & 2
- Extensive practice with 900+ previous years’ questions with detailed solutions
- 100% updated with fully solved UPSC CSAT 2023 question paper
- 100% exam readiness with answer keys mapped with UPSC official answer keys
- Expert guidance with tips to crack the UPSC CSAT examination
- Valuable exam insight with UPSC CSAT 10-year subject-wise trend analysis
- Concept clarity with authentic, elaborated, and error-free solutions
Oswaal’s collection of solved papers from 2014 to 2023 for General Studies Papers 1 and 2 is a valuable resource for understanding the exam pattern and the type of questions asked. This set of two books is perfect for thorough practice and revision, helping you identify key areas to focus on.
3. Mastering Essay & Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services IAS/IPS & State PSC Main Exams
The second edition of this bestselling book by Dr. Awdhesh Singh has been thoroughly updated and enlarged. It prepares you to write the best answers and essays in the IAS/PCS mains examination with decades of Civil Services experience and the author’s expertise.
- This new edition contains 27 chapters, with the addition of 13 new chapters.
- Provides mains preparation strategy & resources.
- Explains the purpose of the essay paper and methodologies to write essays on any topic.
- Details the structure of essays for all six types, with a special chapter dedicated to philosophical topics.
- Explores techniques of brainstorming and mind-mapping for spontaneous essay writing.
- Includes best practices of essay writing to fetch additional marks.
- Investigates common mistakes and provides step-by-step resolutions.
- Features 30 model essays with mind maps and strategies.
- Provides quotations, anecdotes, stories, poems, and studies to enhance essays.
- Offers tips, ideas, and suggestions for perfect answers in the General Studies papers.
Authored by Awdhesh Singh, this book is a crucial tool for mastering the art of essay and answer writing, which is vital for mains. The second edition includes updated content and strategies to improve your writing skills and effectively present your knowledge in the exam.
4. NCERT Summary (Class 6 to 12)
Manish Rannjan’s NCERT Summary is an excellent resource for summarizing the essential points from NCERT textbooks, which are fundamental for IAS preparation. This book covers classes 6 to 12 and provides concise one-liner summaries that are incredibly useful for quick revision and retaining key information.
- The book covers key subjects like Indian History, Art and Culture, World History, Geography, Environment & Ecology, Indian Polity and Constitution, Indian Economy, General Science, and Science & Technology.
- Designed to open gateways for thinking and provide a comprehensive understanding of the world.
- Written in a lucid and systematic way, the book is divided into different segments for easy reference.
- Effectively caters to the requirements of UPSC, UPPSC, BPSC, JPSC, MPPSC, and other competitive exams.
- NCERT Summary provides direction and focus during study, making it ideal for self-practicing.
5. Forum IAS Prelims Test Series 2024
The Forum IAS Prelims Test Series offers 29 tests with solutions, including both NCERT-based and sectional standard books. This comprehensive test series is designed to assess your preparation level and help you practice extensively. With detailed solutions, it aids in understanding and improving your weak areas.
Conclusion
These five books are essential for anyone preparing for the IAS exam. They offer a comprehensive and structured approach to cover the vast syllabus and provide ample practice opportunities. Investing in these resources will undoubtedly enhance your preparation and boost your chances of success. Happy studying and best of luck with your IAS journey!
