Navigating the UPSC Prelims Without Solely Dependent on NCERT Books
While NCERT (National Council of Education Research and Training) books are considered essential for UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) preparation, it is possible to clear the prelims without solely relying on them. This article explores strategies to prepare for the UPSC prelims effectively without turning to NCERTs.
Underlying Reasons for NCERT Books
NCERT books are widely recommended for UPSC preparation for several reasons. They provide a strong foundation in various subjects, making it easier to understand the basics. NCERT books teach the proper sentence framing and offer crisp and concise knowledge of the topics. These resources are invaluable for building a solid base of knowledge that is often directly tested in the UPSC exams.
When NCERT Books May Not Be the Best Choice
There are certain scenarios where you might not need to rely exclusively on NCERT books for your UPSC preparation:
Ideally Read in School: If you were properly taught the subjects during your school days, you might have a firm grasp of the foundational concepts. No Understanding Issues: If you do not face any difficulties in understanding the subjects or topics, you might not need to refer to NCERT books. Alternative Resources: If you have alternative resources such as summaries or concise notes, you can use them instead of NCERT books.Strategies for UPSC Prelims Preparation
Here are some effective strategies to consider:
Focus on Current Affairs
To excel in the UPSC prelims, it is crucial to stay updated with current affairs. Here are some ways to stay informed:
Newspapers and Magazines: Regularly read newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra. Online Resources: Utilize platforms that curate current affairs news for UPSC preparation. This includes websites and online forums dedicated to UPSC.Practice Previous Year Papers
To get a feel for the exam pattern and improve your speed and accuracy, practice previous year papers:
Analyze Previous Year Papers: Identify common patterns, types of questions, and the difficulty level of the papers. Time Management: Practice solving questions within the given time limit to improve your efficiency.Utilize Online Resources Effectively
Online resources can significantly enhance your preparation:
Free Online Courses: Explore free online courses offered by platforms like Coursera, edX, and NPTEL. Online Notes and PDFs: Access comprehensive notes and PDFs from various sources to supplement your preparation.Join Study Groups
Staying connected with fellow aspirants is essential:
Discuss and Learn: Engage in discussions and exchange knowledge with other aspirants. Learn from each other's strengths and weaknesses.Seek Guidance
To get structured preparation and expert advice:
Mentors or Coaching Institutes: Consider seeking guidance from mentors or joining coaching institutes. Structured preparation helps in maintaining a consistent pace and covers all aspects of the exam.Remember
While NCERT books provide an excellent foundation, consistent practice, staying updated with current affairs, and effective time management are crucial for success in the UPSC prelims. While some may not need to rely on NCERT books, for a highly competitive exam like the UPSC, it is advisable not to take any risks. NCERT books have been a reliable source of questions in the past, and thus, they should not be ignored.