The UPSC Civil Services Examination is not just an exam - it is a comprehensive evaluation of your knowledge, clarity, and perspective. One question every beginner asks is: “Where should I begin with my UPSC preparation?” The most reliable answer remains the same: start with NCERT books.
Why NCERTs Matter for UPSC Preparation
NCERTs are not simply the basic books, they form the conceptual backbone of Civil Services preparation. UPSC rewards understanding, not rote learning, and this is exactly what NCERTs cultivate. This is why the first step in every topper’s strategy is completing the NCERTs.
1. Concept Clarity – The First Step to Success
Almost every subject in the UPSC syllabus, such as History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Environment, has its foundational base in the NCERTs.
Studying these books from Class 6 to 12 not only builds a strong basic understanding but also develops analytical thinking.
For example, in Prelims 2021, a question was asked:
“In India, the separation of judiciary from the executive is enjoined by the Constitution under the Directive Principles of State Policy.”
This is directly taken from Class 11 Political Science NCERT.
2. NCERTs Build GS Foundation for Both Prelims and Mains
The conceptual clarity provided by NCERT books helps at every stage — Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
(a) In the Prelims Exam
• 2020 Question:
“What is the difference between weathering and erosion?”
Its answer comes directly from Class 11 Geography – Fundamentals of Physical Geography.
• 2023 Question:
“Which one of the following is the best description of the term ‘Ecological Footprint’?”
This is covered in Class 12 Biology NCERT in the Ecology chapters.
Nearly 25–30% of Prelims questions are rooted in the NCERTs.
(b) In the Mains Exam
When you write answers in Mains using NCERT-based definitions and concepts, your responses become more balanced, clear, and credible.
Examples:
• GS Paper I (History):
“Discuss the contribution of Moderates and Extremists in the freedom struggle.”
This relates to Class 12 History – Themes in Indian History Part III.
• GS Paper III (Economy):
“Explain the role of liberalisation in India’s growth story.”
This is thoroughly explained in Class 11 Economics – Indian Economic Development.
3. How NCERTs Strengthen Your Conceptual Understanding
|
Subject |
Relevant NCERT |
Utility |
|
History |
Class 6–12 “Our Pasts”, “Themes in Indian History” |
Prelims + GS Paper 1 |
|
Geography |
Class 6–12 “Fundamentals of Physical Geography”, “India: People and Economy” |
Maps, Environment |
|
Polity |
Class 9–11 “Democratic Politics”, “Indian Constitution at Work” |
Constitution, DPSPs |
|
Economy |
Class 11–12 “Indian Economic Development” |
GS Paper 3 & Essay |
|
Environment & Science |
Class 6–10 Science, Class 12 Biology (Ecology) |
GS Paper 3 + Prelims |
4. Why Every UPSC Aspirant Must Start With NCERTs
1. Authentic Source
Published by the Government of India, NCERTs are reliable and exam-oriented.
2. Simple Language, Strong Concepts
Complex topics, such as the Indian Monsoon, federalism, and economic reforms, are explained in simple terms.
3. Sequential Learning (Continuity)
From Class 6 to 12, NCERTs follow a logical progression, helping subjects deepen gradually.
4. Useful in Prelims, Mains, and Interview
They strengthen the conceptual clarity and analytical thinking needed in all stages.
NCERTs Are Not Optional, They Are the Foundation
Looking at the vast UPSC syllabus, many students go directly to advanced books. But remember:
“If the foundation is weak, the structure can never stand strong.”
NCERTs are the foundation that strengthens every stage of your preparation, GS, Optional, Essay, and Interview.
They help you understand the syllabus and adopt the analytical approach required by UPSC.
Therefore, start with NCERTs, master the basics, and let concepts guide your preparation, because in UPSC, the depth of your answer matters more than the length.
