Cracking the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam is no small feat. It requires rigorous preparation, dedication, and a well-planned strategy. One of the most crucial aspects of preparation is the selection of the right study material, including books. Thankfully, several toppers have shared their booklists, which can serve as valuable insights for aspiring IAS candidates.
While there is no one-size-fits-all booklist, as each candidate has unique strengths and weaknesses, the recommendations from top scorers can provide valuable guidance. These toppers have successfully cleared the IAS exam and have shared their booklists to help future aspirants streamline their preparation and achieve success.
One of the primary books that consistently appears in multiple toppers’ lists is “Indian Polity” by M. Laxmikanth. This comprehensive book covers various aspects of Indian polity, including the constitution, governance, and other related topics. It is widely regarded as the go-to resource for polity preparation for the IAS exam.
Another popular choice is “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra. This book delves into the history of India’s struggle for freedom and provides a detailed account of the events, leaders, and movements that shaped the nation. It not only serves as a history textbook but also helps candidates understand the socio-political dynamics of the country.
For general studies, “NCERT” textbooks are highly recommended. These books provide a strong foundation for various subjects such as history, geography, economics, and science. Toppers suggest starting with the NCERT books of classes 6 to 12 to grasp the basics before moving on to advanced study materials.
In addition to these, for current affairs, newspapers hold great importance. “The Hindu” and “The Indian Express” are popular choices among aspirants. Regularly reading these newspapers not only helps candidates stay updated with the latest happenings but also enhances their comprehension and analytical skills.
Apart from these core books, some toppers recommend reading other supplementary resources to gain an in-depth understanding of specific subjects. For economics, “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh is a highly acclaimed book. It covers the various aspects of the Indian economy, including economic theory, policies, and developments. Many toppers also suggest referring to “Economic Survey” and “Budget” documents released by the Government of India for additional insights.
For geography, “Certificate Physical and Human Geography” by Goh Cheng Leong is often recommended. It provides a comprehensive understanding of physical and human geography, along with numerous illustrations, maps, and diagrams to aid conceptual clarity.
In the optional subject domain, toppers’ booklists may vary depending on their chosen subject. However, the advice generally revolves around choosing standard reference books and practicing previous years’ question papers.
Apart from these specific book recommendations, toppers emphasize the importance of practice and revision. Solving previous years’ question papers and mock tests helps in familiarizing oneself with the exam pattern and time management. Additionally, referring to current affair magazines like “Yojana” and “Kurukshetra” can further enrich the preparation for the IAS exam.
It is crucial to note that booklists are just a starting point, and aspirants should adapt them to suit their individual requirements. Different books might be suitable for different stages of preparation, and candidates should always assess their strengths and weaknesses before finalizing their study material.
1. NCERT Books: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) books are considered the Bible for IAS preparation. Toppers swear by these books as they provide a solid foundation and cover the basics of various subjects comprehensively. It is advisable to start your preparation by thoroughly studying the NCERT books as they form the building blocks for advanced concepts.
2. Standard Reference Books: After gaining a strong conceptual understanding from NCERT books, aspirants should move on to standard reference books. These include books for subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Science. Some of the highly recommended reference books are ‘India’s Struggle for Independence’ by Bipan Chandra, ‘Indian Art and Culture’ by Nitin Singhania, and ‘Indian Economy’ by Ramesh Singh.
3. Newspapers and Magazines: One important aspect of IAS preparation is staying updated with current affairs. Reading newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra can significantly enhance your understanding of current events and various government policies. Toppers stress the importance of developing a habit of reading newspapers regularly and making notes of important news articles.
4. Online Resources: In this era of technology, online resources have become an integral part of IAS preparation. Websites like ClearIAS, [Online Coaching Platforms] Unacademy, and YouTube channels provide comprehensive study materials, mock tests, and video lectures – all of which can be immensely beneficial for aspirants. These platforms offer a convenient way to access the best study materials from the comfort of your home.
5. Previous Year Question Papers: Solving previous year question papers serves two purposes – it helps you understand the exam pattern and also aids in revision. Toppers recommend thoroughly analyzing and solving at least ten years’ worth of question papers to get a feel of the examination and to identify the areas where you need to focus more.
Overall, cracking the IAS exam requires comprehensive preparation and a well-planned strategy. The booklists shared by toppers serve as valuable insights for aspiring candidates. Books such as “Indian Polity” by M. Laxmikanth, “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra, and NCERT textbooks are highly recommended. However, candidates should tailor their booklists based on their needs and utilize supplementary resources for a thorough understanding of specific subjects. Practice, revision, and staying updated with current affairs are equally crucial aspects of IAS exam preparation.
