15 Best Books for UPSC in India [August, 2024]

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest and most prestigious exams in India. It is the exam one must crack to become an IAS, IPS or IFS officer. Preparing for this exam is an arduous journey that requires hard work, perseverance and most importantly, the right preparation strategy and resources. Amongst the most pivotal tools for UPSC prep are the books and study material that you choose.

With the right books, structuring your UPSC prep becomes easy. Your understanding of concepts deepens, practice questions help assess your knowledge, and previous years’ papers give insights on the rapidly changing exam trends and patterns. Choosing what books to study from can have a significant impact on your exam success.

In this blog, we bring to you an extensively researched list of the 15 best books for UPSC preparation recommended by toppers, experts and reputed coaching institutes. We have categorized the handpicked books basis their specific purpose like comprehensive prep guides, subject-wise texts, question banks, test series and more so that you can make informed choices as per your prep stage needs.

For each listed book, we have provided the key description, highlights, features and our detailed review analyzing its relevance, usefulness and differentiators so that you can determine if it will add value to your exam readiness. Additional tips on using UPSC prep books optimally further helps you derive maximum utility from these guides. Let’s get started!

1. All About UPSC Civil Services Exam

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Description

This book provides a comprehensive overview and preparation guide for the UPSC Civil Services Exam. It covers the entire exam format, syllabus, eligibility criteria, application process, previous year question papers, and expert strategies to crack the exam in the first attempt.

Key Features

• Complete analysis of the latest exam pattern and syllabus
• Tips and strategies by UPSC toppers and experts
• Chapter-wise quizzes and mock tests for self-evaluation
• Solved examples of questions asked in previous year papers
• Insightful answers with explanations for prelims and mains exam

Our Expert Opinion

This is undoubtedly one of the best books available for UPSC exam preparation. The book simplifies the entire exam process and equips an aspirant with the right techniques and approaches to tackle this highly competitive exam effectively. From prelims to personality test, it covers every stage meticulously.

2. NCERT Summary

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Description

This book provides one-liner notes and summaries of NCERT textbooks from Class 6th to 12th. The crisp pointers help in quick revision of the NCERT material for exams like UPSC Civil Services, State PCS, and other competitive exams where NCERT texts are important.

Key Features

• One-line summaries for quick grasp of concepts
• Chapters arranged topic-wise for easy understanding
• Additional inputs provided wherever relevant
• Easy to memorize points facilitate quick revision
• Light-weight book enables carrying it anywhere for reading

Our Expert Opinion

NCERT texts form the foundation for many competitive exams in India. This book is a must-have guide for students as the one-liners judiciously summarize the concepts for exam perspective. The notes are crisp yet cover all key takeaways from the textbooks. An excellent companion for Prelims and Mains.

3. Indian Economy for UPSC

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Description

This book offers an in-depth analysis of the major topics in Indian Economy with special focus on their examination suitability for UPSC & State PSC exams. The 15th updated edition provides the latest data and recap of contemporary changes in economic policies and financial trends.

Key Features

• Exam-oriented presentation of macro & micro topics
• Chapter-wise questions for practice
• Coverage of Budget 2023-24 announcements
• Past exam questions with authentic answers
• Chapters summarised in tables, diagrams

Our Expert Opinion

For any competitive exam in India, a strong grasp of the Indian Economy is essential. This book stands out with its exam-centric approach, aligned perfectly for aspirants aiming for high scores. The latest financial data and policy changes equip students with contemporary knowledge. The authentic solutions provide insights into the examiner’s perspective. Highly recommended.

4. NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12

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Description

This book contains detailed notes for Indian History as covered in NCERT textbooks of Class 6th to 12th (old and new editions). It simplifies the facts and events of history for easy understanding and retention.

Key Features

• Chapter-wise outlines of full NCERT history content
• Summary notes for quick revision
• Inherently exam-focused perspectives of events
• Useful for both prelims and mains requirements
• Covers latest updates from new NCERT editions

Our Expert Opinion

UPSC and other competitive exams will undoubtedly have a significant share of questions on ancient and medieval history of India. This book equips students with all historical facts precisely as intended for the exams. The exam-oriented outlook makes it easier for aspirants to prepare the history portion with higher efficiency.

5. The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations

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Description

This book imparts techniques to craft model answers for the UPSC Main exam, adhering to demands of the examiner, word limits and latest trends of the exam. Answer writing for GS Papers I, II, III & IV included.

Key Features

• Edition updated with recent UPSC exam feedback
• Expert guidelines as per latest syllabus
• Tips for structuring, introducing and concluding answers
• Insights on scoring high marks in answer writing
• Dos and don’ts highlighted from real exam hall experiences

Our Expert Opinion

Mastering the technique to write impressively scored answers is what distinguishes an aspirant in clearing UPSC CSE exam. This book fills that crucial gap by elucidating the essentials of the answer writing skill set for subject papers, case studies and essays. Follows latest exam patterns and expectations. Highly recommended guide.

6. Oxford Map Activity Book For UPSC and Other Exams

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Description

This activity book contains detailed political and physical maps of India and the World along with map reading exercises derived from previous years’ questions from UPSC and other competitive exams.

Key Features

• Detailed India and World political maps
• Thematic maps on physical geography
• Map interpretation questions from past exam papers
• Explanations and solutions to map questions

Our Expert Opinion

Map based questions form an integral part of General Studies papers in UPSC & other competitive exams. This activity book helps students master map reading skills and learn vital aspects of physical and political geography. With exam-like map questions and detailed explanations, it is an important self-assessment tool for exam readiness.

7. Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus For IAS Examination

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Description

This book published by Drishti IAS covers the detailed syllabus and exam pattern for UPSC Civil Services Prelims and Mains examination in an easy to understand presentation.

Key Features

• Clearly structured Prelims and Mains syllabus
• Insights on updated exam formats
• Change analysis from previous years’ papers
• Topic-wise preparation tips and strategies
• Last minute revision guidance

Our Expert Opinion

For any competitive exam, the starting point is always to comprehend the syllabus, exam pattern and strategies accurately. This book does exactly that in a crisp and structured manner for both Prelims and Mains exams. The change analysis and tips equip students to orient their preparation accordingly. Vital read before planning preparation.

8. UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024

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Description

This book provides a 410 days detailed preparation timetable for UPSC CSE 2024 Prelims and Mains exam as per latest pattern changes. Guidelines include daily schedules, subject-wise planning, shortcuts, tricks and memory tools for efficient implementation.

Key Features

• Structured daily, weekly and monthly timetables
• Separate routine for weekdays and weekends
• Topper preparation strategies with proven templates
• Import tricks, hacks and mnemonics
• Recommended books and online resources

Our Expert Opinion

For comprehensive and holistic planning, this UPSC book delivers an end-to-end strategy spanning daily schedules to specific techniques for subject-level mastery. The shared hacks and memory tools boost productivity multifold. Implementing its structured approach under guidance of mentors will definitely yield positive results. Worth investing!

9. 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers 1 & 2

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Description

As the name suggests, this book compiles fully solved and detailed solutions to question papers of 29 Previous Years of UPSC Preliminary Exam held between 1995 to 2023, with in-depth analysis.

Key Features

• Fully solved GS Paper 1 & 2 (CSAT) 1995-2023 papers
• Detailed explanations to all questions
• Topic-wise analysis & subject-specific insights
• Trends & priority analysis of previous year questions
• Pointers to aid revision for 2024 exam

Our Expert Opinion

The relevance of practicing with previous years’ papers prior to UPSC CSE exam cannot be emphasized enough. This book provides fully solved papers of past 29 years along with deep insights into nature, trends and priority of UPSC questions. Thorough practice with these intricately explained PYQs will surely boost 2024 exam preparation to next level.

10. UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book

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Description

This preparatory guide book from Gyaniversity provides all-inclusive study material and practice resources for assured success in UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2024 including solved papers, online test series, video lectures, detailed notes etc.

Key Features

• Fully solved previous years general studies & CSAT papers
• Complete video lectures on entire UPSC syllabus
• Topic-wise PDF notes for Prelims & Mains
• MCQ database access with 7000+ questions
• Sectional/Full-length mock tests for self-assessment

Our Expert Opinion

This UPSC book bundles the widest range of preparatory resources like solved papers, notes, videos and test series – all integrated in one place. Such comprehensive coverage of the entire syllabus and exam aspects makes it extremely convenient for students to succeed in this highly competitive exam in one attempt. Highly recommended.

11. World History for UPSC

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Description

This book imparts world history from civilization perspectives relevant for UPSC Civil Services and other competitive exams. It covers key historical events chronologically, aligned to evolving global economic and political institutions.

Key Features

• Chronological analysis of civilizations – ancient to modern
• Focus on socio-economic institutions and power centers
• Exam-oriented snapshot of important historical events
• Captures transitions in global world order over centuries
• 3rd Edition updated with latest trends

Our Expert Opinion

For UPSC and State PSC exams, revising vast portions of world history within limited timeframes is hugely challenging. This book alleviates the pressure by contextualising events from exam suitability standpoint. The thematic representations of power dynamics make retention and correlation easier. Indeed one of the must-reads for exam preparation.

12. Indian Art And Culture for UPSC

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Description

This book provides exhaustive coverage of the rich Intangible Cultural Heritage of India with special emphasis on art forms, architecture, literature, religions and philosophical precepts for UPSC & State PSC exam requirements.

Key Features

• Comprehensive insights on India’s art, temples, monuments
• Introduction to classical dances, music genres
• Details of key religious and literary works
• Updated as per latest UPSC-UPPSC exam trends
• Chapter-wise objective questions for practice

Our Expert Opinion

The art, culture and architectural heritage of India has gained increased importance in competitive exams like UPSC-CSE over recent years. This book stands out for its well-researched content which is structurally oriented for exam suitability, especially Prelims and Mains. The latest edition has captured UPSC’s emerging focus in this subject area.

13. NCERT Notes Bhartiya Itihas Class 6-12

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Description

This book contains chapter-wise detailed notes of NCERT textbooks in Ancient and Medieval history as prescribed for classes 6-12 (old and new editions). It focuses on key historical characters and events for exam-oriented preparation.

Key Features

• Precise, exam-focused NCERT history content
• Concise notes for quick last minute revision
• Chapters arranged chronologically – Ancient to Medieval
• Coverage of old and latest editions of textbooks
• Includes additional inputs for better understanding

Our Expert Opinion

NCERT history textbooks contain the foundational matter concerning India’s rich culture and heritage spanning centuries, which UPSC frequently tests candidates on. This guide streamlines the lengthy content into concise pointers that capture the essence, for accelerated revision and retention. Its exam-ready layout sharpens preparation.

14. Arihant Magbook Indian History

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Description

This Magbook comprises 5 exhaustive books covering complete theory and latest exam trends in core subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Science & Technology and Economics for UPSC & State PSC Prelims and Mains, authored by panel of experts.

Key Features

• Topic-wise theory content with charts, graphics
• Chapter-wise MCQs for practice
• Previous Years questions from 2013-2022
• Model test papers included in all books
• Dedicated section on current affairs

Our Expert Opinion

This Magbook bundles full course content for UPSC CSE exam across 5 major areas, authored by subject experts, in concise text for exam preparation. The inclusion of PYQs, MCQs and model tests ensures aspirants can self-evaluate their progress holistically. Eliminates need for multiple books. Worth the money!

15. Drishti IAS Nibandh 9th Edition

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Description

Published by Drishti IAS, this book imparts structured guidance to candidates on effectively writing essays in Hindi language for UPSC Civil Services Main Exam and other competitive exams as per latest paper requirements.

Key Features

• Updated content as per UPSC exam trends
• Variety of model essays in Hindi
• Tips for introduction and conclusion writing
• Techniques for expanding essay word limit
• Brainstorming tools for essay topics

Our Expert Opinion

The importance of essay paper in UPSC Personality Test is paramount since it assesses aspirants’ ideas, creativity and language proficiency. This book stands true to its purpose of teaching students essay writing skills, helping organize thoughts methodically. Follows latest UPSC expectations and prepares aspirants to excel. Worth buying!

Comparison for Best Books for UPSC in India

How to Choose the Best UPSC Books

With UPSC Civil Services Exam being highly competitive, choosing the right books and preparation material which aligns with the latest exam pattern and evolving trends is extremely crucial. Students should base their choices on content accuracy, exam relevance and revision suitability besides relying upon mentors, toppers and expert recommendations. Reputed publications known to update frequently such as McGraw Hill, Pearson, Disha, Drishti IAS should be preferred.

Different Types of UPSC Books

There are abundant options in UPSC focused books, broadly across categories like:

• Comprehensive exam guides
• Subject-specific books for Prelims & Mains
• Previous years’ solved papers
• Model test papers
• Notes compilation for quick revision
• Essay writing guides
• Current affairs digests
• Timetable planners

How to Use UPSC Books in Prep

• Comply fully with daily and monthly schedules outlined
• Solve previous papers with timed conditions
• Consolidate notes from books for concise revision
• Attend test series and assess improvement areas
• Focus maximum on books for your weaker areas
• Revise current affairs compilations daily

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Best Books for UPSC

Q. Which books are best for upsc ?

The best books for upsc include:

• NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams
• Indian Economy for UPSC (English)| 15th Edition|Civil Services Exam|State Administrative Exams
• UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024 410 DAYS Full Detailed Topper TIMETABLE
• Arihant Magbook Sets of 5 Books

Q. Which books is best for upsc ?

The NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams is considered one of the best books for UPSC preparation due to its exam-focused content of precise history facts as intended for competitive exams. It captures the evolution of crucial events and characters spanning ancient to medieval India, helping students consolidate preparation.

Q. Which books are best for upsc preparation?

Some of the best books for UPSC preparation recommended by experts are:

• 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers by Disha Experts
• Indian Economy for UPSC (English) by Ramesh Singh
• The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations

These provide fully solved past exam analysis, updated economy topics, and answer writing skills respectively to crack the exam.

Q. Which books are best for upsc prelims?

The best books for UPSC Prelims preparation are:

• UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book – for its comprehensive coverage with solved papers, notes, online material
• NCERT Summary by Cengage – for quickly grasping textbook concepts
• Oxford Map Activity Book – to learn map-reading skills important for GS paper

Q. Which books are best for upsc for beginners?

For UPSC beginners, the best books include:

• All About UPSC Civil Services Exam by McGraw Hill – for complete exam pattern and strategy insights
• Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus Book – for understanding the latest syllabus of prelims and mains
• UPSC IAS PRE Academy Lectures videos – ease self-learning with expert guidance

Q. Which are the top 3 best books for UPSC CSE?

The top 3 best books for assured success in UPSC Civil Services Exam recommended by experts are:

1. 29 Previous Years UPSC Prelims Solved Papers by Disha Experts
2. UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide by Gyaniversity
3. UPSC Syllabus & Strategy by Drishti IAS

These books provide fully explained past papers, complete subject notes with revision aids and the latest exam pattern analysis respectively, essential for exam preparation.

Q. How many books should one refer to clear IAS?

As per UPSC toppers and coaching experts, one should limit book count to 4 or 5 books per subject area comprising 1 textbook for in-depth study, 1 for revision notes, 1 PYQ practice book and 1 forecasting latest trends. Any more breeds confusion. Stick to NCERTs majorly.

Q. Which publisher books are best for UPSC 2024?

Based on consistency in incorporating latest exam patterns and student feedback, some noteworthy publishers of best UPSC books are:

• McGraw Hill
• Pearson
• Disha
• Arihant
• Drishti IAS

Aspirants should shortlist their book purchases from these trusted publishers for 2024 exam preparation after comparing table of contents.

Q. What are the basic books needed for IAS?

The basic books needed for assured UPSC CSE preparation are:

• NCERT textbooks from 6-12 grade
• Previous Years Solved papers of Prelims & Mains
• CSAT Manual for Paper 2 practice
• Notes compilations for Revision
• Current Affairs monthly digests

Reading these sets of books is fundamental for students to gain domain mastery, test themselves through past papers and stay updated.

Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care

On Usage

• Read UPSC books attentively without any distractions
• Comprehend concepts and memorize key points
• Make short notes for revision
• Follow test series guidelines religiously
• Solve previous papers with a timer
• Ensure 6-8 hours of daily reading
• Revise current affairs from compilations

On Maintenance

• Handle books with care, don’t fold pages
• Avoid eating/drinking while reading
• Don’t add external notes on original content
• Use paper bookmarks to mark pages
• Maintain books in cool, dry conditions
• Wipe covers with dry cloth only

On Care

• Dust books gently to upkeep condition
• Treat damage issues like torn pages promptly
• Adopt pest control measures for book safety
• Consider lamination for long lasting usage
• When not using books, pack appropriately

We hope these guidelines help you use, maintain and care for your precious UPSC preparation books optimally so that they can aid your success journey for years together. Please reach out for any other assistance required. Wish you the very best!

Conclusion

Preparing for an exam as vast and complex as the UPSC Civil Services is a challenging task. The exam tests not only your knowledge across a diverse set of topics but also evaluates your cognitive skills, situational judgement, mental ability and aptitude. Hence, choosing the right preparation books and resources becomes vital.

Through this blog, we aimed to compile an exhaustive list of the best books for UPSC based on expert research and genuine aspirant reviews. We have covered specific texts for prelims and mains, solved papers, current affairs digests, test series and more to aid your UPSC journey. The detailed description and feature analysis hopes to have provided you clarity to pick books that suit your individual prep needs.

Additionally, we offered targeted tips on optimally using UPSC guides for maximum productivity. Recommendations on their ideal usage, careful maintenance and safety precautions intends to ensure you derive full value from these books. As you get into diligent reading and practice, do remember to take breaks, follow timetables, attempt mock tests and complement your prep with online learning tools.

We trust this blog served the purpose of simplifying and supporting your book selections for UPSC CSE exam preparation. We wish the very best in your endeavor to succeed and remind you to persistently work towards your goals with determination and positivity. You have it in you to master this exam!