So, you've decided to take on the mighty UPSC Prelims? Buckle up! This exam isn’t just about studying hard—it’s about studying smart. And that starts with choosing the right books. Let me walk you through the essential booklist like a mentor would!

1. History –

Start with NCERTs (Class 6-12) – They build your foundation brick by brick.

• For Modern History, Spectrum’s "A Brief History of Modern India" is a lifesaver! (Trust me, it’s like the "Netflix series" of history books—concise yet engaging.)

2. Geography –

• NCERTs (Class 6-12) – The maps and diagrams are gold.
• G.C. Leong’s "Certificate Physical and Human Geography" – A must for understanding why deserts are dry and mountains are high!
• Get a good Atlas (Oxford or Orient Blackswan). Your UPSC journey is incomplete without one!

3. Polity –

• M. Laxmikanth’s "Indian Polity" – The undisputed king of polity books. If UPSC asks a polity question, 9/10 times it’s hiding in Laxmikanth.

4. Economy –

Start with NCERTs (Class 9-12) for basics.

• Then, grab Ramesh Singh’s "Indian Economy" – It breaks down complex topics into bite-sized explanations.
• For real-world updates, read the Economic Survey & Budget Highlights (a must for mains too).

5. Environment & Ecology –

• Shankar IAS’s "Environment" – UPSC loves environment-related questions, and this book is your best bet!
• Also, refer to Class 12 NCERT Biology (last few chapters).

6. Science & Tech –

• Stick to NCERT Science (Class 6-10) for basics.
• Follow The Hindu’s Science & Tech section for current developments.

7. Current Affairs –

• Read The Hindu or Indian Express daily (Editorials are UPSC gold).
• Monthly magazines like Yojana & Kurukshetra help in Essay & Mains prep too!
• Keep an eye on PIB & government reports (India Year Book, NITI Aayog reports).

8. CSAT –

CSAT Manual (TMH) for concepts.

• Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal for practice.
• Solve previous year's CSAT papers – UPSC has a habit of surprising aspirants!

9. The Magic Formula –

Solve UPSC Objective previous year papers – They tell you exactly what to expect.

• Join a Mock Test Series (Vision IAS, Insights, or ForumIAS). They sharpen your accuracy & time management.

Final Tip: Don’t Just Read, Revise!

UPSC isn’t about how many books you read—it’s about how well you remember what you read. Revise, revise, and revise again!

Now, get your books, grab some chai, and start your UPSC journey. You got this!

Would love to hear which books you’re using! Drop your favorites in the comments.