NCERT foundation course for UPSC Destination IAS Academy the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams in India. With a vast syllabus covering multiple subjects, aspirants often struggle to find the right study materials. Among the numerous resources available, NCERT books hold a special place due to their authenticity, clarity, and structured approach. These books serve as the foundation for building conceptual clarity, which is crucial for clearing the preliminary and mains stages of the examination. Therefore, NCERT is called” the Geeta, the Bible and the Quran” for this examination.
Why are NCERT books essential for UPSC preparation?
1. Authentic and reliable source of information
NCERT books are published by a government body and written by subject matter experts, ensuring that the information presented is accurate, unbiased, and aligned with the latest government policies and research. This makes them highly reliable for UPSC aspirants, as the examination tests factual accuracy and conceptual clarity.
2. Simple and easy-to-understand language
One of the biggest advantages of NCERT books is their simple language. Unlike many reference books that use complex terminology, NCERTs explain concepts in a clear and concise manner. This makes them particularly useful for beginners who are starting their UPSC journey.
3. Strong conceptual foundation
UPSC examinations, especially the Preliminary and Mains stages, require aspirants to have a deep understanding of basic concepts. NCERT books, written in a structured and step-by-step manner, help in building a solid foundation, which is necessary before moving on to advanced reference books.
4. Direct questions in UPSC prelims
Many times, UPSC directly picks factual and conceptual questions from NCERT books. This trend has been observed in subjects like History, Geography, Polity, and Economy. For instance, UPSC Prelims questions related to ancient and medieval history, Indian geography, and environmental studies are often framed directly from NCERTs.
5. Helps in answer writing for mains
In the Mains examination, candidates are required to write analytical and descriptive answers. A strong conceptual base is necessary to articulate points effectively. NCERT books provide a clear understanding of fundamental topics, which helps aspirants write well-structured and precise answers.
6. Essential for general studies (GS) papers
NCERT books comprehensively cover all four General Studies (GS) papers of the UPSC Mains. Subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Environment are extensively covered in NCERT books, making them a crucial resource for GS preparation.
7. Useful for optional subjects
For candidates choosing optional subjects like Geography, History, and Political Science, NCERT books serve as a valuable starting point. They provide a basic understanding before moving on to advanced books and reference materials.
Subject-Wise Importance of NCERT Books for UPSC
1. History
NCERT history books provide a chronological and structured understanding of India’s past, making them indispensable for both Prelims and Mains examination.
Old NCERT vs. New NCERT:
The Old NCERTs by R.S. Sharma, Satish Chandra, and Bipan Chandra are detailed and analytical, making them ideal for Mains. The New NCERTs provide concise and easy to-understand explanations, useful for Prelims.
Recommended NCERTs:
Class 6-12 History NCERTs (Themes in Indian History, Our Past, etc.) Old NCERTs by R.S. Sharma, Satish Chandra, and Bipan Chandra (for in-depth understanding)
Standard books after NCERT:
Freedom Struggle: Bipan Chandra
Spectrum
2. Geography
NCERTs offer well-illustrated maps, diagrams, and explanations, which are crucial for both Prelims and Mains. Many questions in the Prelims are directly from NCERT books.
Recommended NCERTs:
Class 6-12 Geography NCERTs (Fundamentals of Physical Geography, India: People and Economy, etc.)
Standard books after NCERT:
G.C. Leong: “Certificate Physical and Human Geography”
Indian Geography: M.Barnwal
3. Polity
NCERTs provide a fundamental understanding of the Indian Constitution, governance, and political structure.
Recommended NCERTs:
Class 9-12 Political Science NCERTs (Democratic Politics, Indian Constitution at Work, etc.)
Standard books after NCERT:
M. Laxmikant’s Indian Polity.
D.D. Basu’s Indian Constitution.
4. Economics
Economy-related NCERT books help aspirants understand basic economic concepts, policies, and terminologies. They explain fundamental concepts like GDP, inflation, fiscal policy, and economic reforms. Questions in UPSC Prelims are often framed from these
Books recommended NCERTs:
Class 9-12 Economics NCERTs (Indian Economic Development, Introductory Macroeconomics, etc.) Standard books after NCERT: “Indian Economy”: Ramesh Singh
5. Environment & Ecology
With increasing importance given to environmental issues in the UPSC syllabus, NCERTs provide a solid foundation. Basic concepts of biodiversity, conservation, and climate change are covered. UPSC often frames questions directly from these books.
Recommended NCERTs:
Class 12 Biology NCERT (Chapters on Ecology)
Class 9-10 Science NCERTs (Environmental concepts)
Standard books after NCERT: IGNOU study material.
6. Science & Technology
Though UPSC does not expect deep scientific knowledge, understanding basic scientific principles is necessary. Science NCERTs cover key topics like physics, chemistry, and biology relevant to current affairs. Basic knowledge helps in answering application-based questions.
Recommended NCERTs:
Class 6-10 Science NCERTs
Standard books after NCERT: Science & Technology: Magrahill
How to read NCERT books effectively for UPSC?
1. Follow a Systematic Approach: Start with Class 6 NCERTs and progress to Class 12. Read subject-wise rather than class-wise for better continuity.
2. Make Notes: Summarize important points in your own words. Highlight key definitions, facts, and diagrams.
3. Revise Regularly: NCERT books are concise, making multiple revisions easier. Revise at least 2-3 times before moving to advanced books.
4. Solve Previous Year Questions (PYQs): Identify questions from past UPSC exams that are directly or indirectly based on NCERTs.
5. Use NCERT-Based Mock Tests: Attempt mock tests focusing on NCERT content to reinforce learning.
Thus, NCERT books are an indispensable resource for UPSC aspirants. They provide a well-structured, reliable, and simple approach to complex topics, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced candidates. While reference books and advanced materials are necessary, a strong foundation built through NCERTs ensures a higher chance of success in the UPSC examination.
Aspirants should develop a habit of reading, understanding, and revising NCERTs diligently. By integrating NCERT books into their preparation strategy, they can enhance their conceptual clarity and improve their overall performance in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
To help aspirants master the NCERTs effectively, Destination IAS Academy offers a structured NCERT Foundation Course, designed under the guidance of Kailash Mishra Sir, DRDO Scientist and renowned professors from Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Allahabad University (AU).
About Destination IAS Academy – A Legacy of Excellence
Established in 1999, Destination IAS Academy has been a pioneer in UPSC coaching, helping students achieve their IAS, IPS, and IRS dreams. With over 500+ selections till date, our academy has produced top-ranking candidates, including AIR 1, AIR 10, and multiple selections in the top 100. Our academy is known for its high quality teaching methods, result-oriented approach, and personalized guidance, making us one of the best UPSC coaching institutes in India.
NCERT Foundation Course – A Strong Base for UPSC
Who should join this course?
This course is ideal for:
• Beginners starting their UPSC journey and aiming to build a strong foundation.
• Working professionals who want structured learning.
• College students who wish to prepare early for UPSC.
• Aspirants struggling with basic concepts and needing conceptual clarity.
Course Highlights
1. Comprehensive Coverage of NCERTs
• We cover all important NCERT textbooks from Class 6 to 12.
• Subjects include History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science & Technology, Environment, and Art & Culture.
• Special focus on NCERT-based conceptual learning and current affairs linkages.
2. Structured & Exam-Focused Approach
• The course follows a systematic syllabus plan covering NCERTs in a structured manner.
• Topic-wise lectures, handwritten notes, and summaries for quick revision.
• Doubt-clearing sessions with expert faculty.
3. Answer Writing & Test Series
• Regular MCQ tests for Prelims to track progress.
• Answer writing practice for Mains based on NCERT concepts.
• Previous year question (PYQ) discussions to understand the exam pattern.
4. Expert Faculty & Mentorship
• Classes by renowned professors from DU, JNU, and AU.
• Special mentoring sessions by Kailash Mishra Sir, Ex-DRDO Scientist.
• Personalized feedback and guidance for each student.
5. Flexible Learning Options
• Offline classes at our Delhi center.
• Online courses with recorded lectures for distant learners.
• Study materials and PDFs provided for self-paced learning.
Why Choose Destination IAS Academy?
1. Experienced Faculty & Expert Mentorship Under the guidance of Kailash Mishra Sir, DRDO Scientist, our academy offers high quality education supported by professors from DU, JNU, and AU.
2. Holistic Approach to Learning We don’t just focus on NCERTs but also ensure: • Current Affairs Integration with static topics. • UPSC answer writing skills development. • Regular performance assessment & feedback.
3. Affordable & value-for-money coaching Unlike many high-fee coaching centers, we believe in providing quality education at affordable prices, making UPSC preparation accessible to all.
4. Personalized Mentorship & Doubt Support We ensure one-on-one mentorship sessions, regular doubt-solving classes, and progress tracking to ensure maximum improvement.
5. Teaching Methodology
• Topic-wise classes as per NCERT syllabus.
• Detailed handwritten notes & study material.
• UPSC Prelims & Mains approach in every class.
• Weekly tests, assignments & doubt sessions.
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