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Blog / 04 Nov 2025

Top NCERT Books for IAS Preparation: Subject-Wise Booklist for Prelims & Mains

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The preparation to take the IAS exam isn't just an adventure; it's an emotionally-charged rollercoaster. Everyone hopes to pass one of India's most difficult exams; however, the process demands perseverance, patience and the right direction. The basis of success is in the NCERT books, which aid candidates develop their conceptual clarity and self-confidence. The right selection of NCERTs can help you prepare more smoothly and more organized. It can also make the process less stressful.

Here's a subject-wise listing of the top NCERT books to use to help with IAS exam preparation that all aspirants ought to consider:

1.History

History is the main topic of the IAS exam and NCERTs are solid foundations. Start with the basics, and move up to more advanced references.

  1. Ancient India Class 6, - covers early civilizations, culture and the social structure. These books provide the foundation.

  2. Medieval India Class 7 - It helps learn about what was happening in the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal era and the regional kingdoms. The clarity of the concept here is crucial to pass Mains.

  3. World History and Modern India Class 8, 9 and 10 - Concentrates on the struggle for freedom as well as colonial India as well as social reforms. Stories of the heroes we have inspire enthusiasm and inspire.

  4. Class 11 and 12: They provide precise descriptions that are required to Prelims as well as Mains.

Tips: Read the books in a slow pace, relating events to the larger idea, makes history not simply a memorization exercise, but rather a narrative that you live through.

2. Geography

Geography goes beyond diagrams and maps, it tells the story about our Earth. NCERTs help make it visually and emotional.

  1. Class 6 and 7: Earth with its various features the environment, and resources - Offers the foundational structure.

  2. Class 8 and 9: Climate, physical geography and natural dangers - Understanding the planet is vital for the today's developments.

  3. Class 11 and 12: Indian geography, world geography, economic geography essential for Prelims as well as Mains.

Tips: Create diagrams of maps, flowcharts, and mind-maps. Geography is interesting when you can visualize it, and then connect it to actual happenings.

3. Polity

Indian Polity is one of the subjects with the highest scores during the IAS exam. The NCERTs are the most simple of subjects.

  1. Classes 6-8: Social Sciences: The basics of democracy and governance - Begin early to develop your enthusiasm for social sciences.

  2. Class 9 and 10, Democratic policies and Indian Constitution fundamentals - Concepts such as fundamental rights, obligations, and governance frameworks are thoroughly explained.

  3. Classes 11 and 12: Indian Constitution at Work and Political Underpinnings is essential for Mains essay analysis and writing.

Tips: NCERTs provide clarity, without confusion of numerous references. Keep in mind that simplicity is the most sophisticated form of sophistication.

4. Economics

Economics can be intimidating for students however NCERTs simplify it into a simple, understandable language.

  1. Class 9 and 10: Understanding economic development and basic microeconomics.

  2. Class 11 and 12: Introduction to Micro & Macro Economics, Indian economic development is essential to Prelims as well as Mains.

Tips: Link theory to current developments. When inflation, GDP, or government schemes make reports, NCERT concepts help you to analyze them with confidence.

5. Science & Environment

Science NCERTs are helpful for general and environmental studies. These books can help you understand the basic concepts.

  1. Science in the 6th and 10th grades: Fundamentals of biology, physics and Chemistry - Vital for understanding ecology and the environment issues in Prelims.

  2. Class 11 and 12 Biology: Biodiversity, environment and ecological balance:The key to environmental papers.

Tip: Don't rush. Science NCERTs are excellent to develop conceptual clarity, which aids with CSAT and essay writing.

6. Optional Subjects

Many aspirants select additional subjects aligned to NCERTs:

  1. Anthropology: Classes 11 and 12 sociology, as well as related books offer an excellent foundation.

  2. Sociology and Political Science: NCERTs give precise definitions and examples that help improve analytic thinking.

7. Additional Tips for Using NCERTs Effectively

  1. Sequential Reading: Begin at lower classes and work your way up, skipping class can lead to gaps.

  2. Highlight and make notes: Writing summary documents increases retention and assists in revising.

  3. Connect with current affairs, NCERTs help to understand the context and news brings concepts to life.

  4. Revise Multiple Times: IAS requires repetitive reading for deep understanding.

Final Thoughts

The books of NCERT are not just books. They serve as your guides on this IAS journey. They can help you find guidance when you're lost, a sense of purpose when you are overwhelmed. These books provide the basis on which the most advanced references and coaching assistance can lead to success.

Keep in mind that every book you read, each concept that you comprehend, will bring the goal closer to achieving your goals. IAS preparation is not only about passing the exam; it's about making yourself an informed, competent, and ethical citizen.

Let NCERTs help guide you and keep you focused. They're not just learning materials. They are also the beginning of an adventure that will determine your future.