Are NCERTs Sufficient for IAS Preparation? A Comprehensive Guide

The trend of aspirants appearing for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examination has risen significantly each year. As a result, the level of competition as well as the difficulty in cracking the exam has escalated. Despite the enhancements in the examination pattern, a common question remains: Are NCERT books alone enough for successful IAS preparation?

NCERTs: A Necessary but Not Sufficient Foundation

NCERTs, or the National Council of Educational Research and Training textbooks, play a crucial role as a foundational source for understanding the syllabus and building a solid base of knowledge. However, they are merely the starting point of your preparation.

The Extent of NCERT Coverage

Among the subjects, it is necessary to study NCERT textbooks from Class 6 to 10 for Science, 6 to 12 for Social Science, Polity, Geography, History, and 9 to 12 for Economics. Additionally, Environment-related topics may not be included every year, so it is crucial to keep up-to-date with the syllabus.

Creating Notes and Studying Effectively

Formulating notes in the manner you used to create them during your school days can be incredibly beneficial. Imagine recalling all the necessary information as if you were aiming for a perfect score of 95. This not only helps in internalizing the information but also aids in effective revision.

The Limitations of NCERTs in IAS Preparation

While NCERTs are indeed your starting point, they are far from being sufficient for the IAS examination. To effectively cover the extensive syllabus, you must brainstorm and create additional content for Prelims, Mains, and even the interview stage.

Preparing for the UPSC Examination

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination is one of the most challenging examinations a person can undertake. A thorough and well-rounded preparation is essential for success. Here are a few tips and considerations:

Time Management: Determine the best time of day for you to study. Early mornings, evenings, or night – figure out when you can concentrate the most effectively. Reading Style: Some prefer reading alone while others enjoy using highlighters and colored pens to emphasize key points. Experiment with methods to discover which works best for you. Resource Choice: Are you a book lover or an internet enthusiast? Some prefer ebooks and internet resources, while others prefer traditional books. Depending on your preferences, you can explore portals like MyPustak, which offers a wide range of books for free.

Unlocking Free NCERT Books for UPSC Examination

If you're a bookworm, you no longer need to concern yourself with the hefty prices of books. MyPustak is an exceptional online repository that provides NCERT books and UPSC-specific materials for free. This portal allows users to access educational resources without any charge, making the preparation process more manageable.

Conclusion

While NCERTs are an invaluable resource for UPSC preparation, they are certainly not enough on their own. By combining them with extensive note-taking, effective study habits, and regular updates with the latest syllabus, you can build a strong foundation for success in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.