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NCERT Books for UPSC 2025 Prelims and Mains Exam Preparation

NCERT books play a crucial role in the UPSC preparation journey. Here is a comprehensive list of NCERT books for the UPSC 2025 Prelims and Mains exams.
authorImageSheetal Gaur27 Mar, 2025
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NCERT Books For UPSC

 

NCERT Books for UPSC: When preparing for the UPSC CSE and IFoS exams, aspirants often find themselves overwhelmed by the vastness of the syllabus. Amidst a plethora of study materials available, NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books stand out as indispensable resources for UPSC preparation.

These books, ranging from classes 6th to 12th, serve as foundational texts that lay the groundwork for understanding various subjects essential for the UPSC exams. Keep on reading to get the list of top NCERT Books for UPSC 2025 to enhance your preparation and build a strong foundation. 

NCERT Books for UPSC 2025

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), established in 1961 by the Government of India, serves as an advisory body to the central and state governments on school education policies and programs. NCERT's main objectives include conducting and promoting educational research, developing and publishing textbooks and multimedia materials, and organizing teacher training.
It collaborates with various educational institutions and acts as a nodal agency for the Universalization of Elementary Education and international educational exchanges. NCERT has several regional units across the country to support its diverse functions.  NCERT books serve as foundational resources for both UPSC Prelims and Mains examinations. 

NCERT Books for UPSC Prelims 2025 Preparation

Here is a comprehensive list of NCERT Books for UPSC Prelims 2025:
History
  1. Class 6: Our Past I
  2. Class 7: Our Past II
  3. Class 8: Our Past III
  4. Class 9: India and the Contemporary World I
  5. Class 10: India and the Contemporary World II
  6. Class 11: Themes in World History
  7. Class 12: Themes in Indian History Part I, II, and III
  8. Class-11: Ancient India- RS Sharma (Old NCERT Books)
  9. Class-11: Medieval India - Satish Chandra ((Old NCERT Books)
  10. Class-12: Modern India - Bipin Chandra (Old NCERT Books)
Geography
  1. Class 6: The Earth: Our Habitat
  2. Class 7: Our Environment
  3. Class 8: Resources and Development
  4. Class 9: Contemporary India I
  5. Class 10: Contemporary India II
  6. Class 11: Fundamentals of Physical Geography
  7. Class 12: Fundamentals of Human Geography
  8. Class 12: India-People and Economy
Polity
  1. Class 9: Democratic Politics I
  2. Class 10: Democratic Politics II
  3. Class 11: Political Theory
  4. Class 12: Contemporary World Politics
Art and Culture
  1. NCERT Class XI – An Introduction to Indian Art Art & Culture
  2. NCERT Class XII – Living Craft Traditions of India (Chapters 9 & 10) 
Economics
  1. Class 9: Economics
  2. Class 10: Understanding Economic Development
  3. Class 11: Indian Economic Development
  4. Class 12: Introductory Macroeconomics
  5. Class 12: Introductory Microeconomics
Science
  1. Class 6 to 10: Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
  2. Class XI: Chemistry: Unit 14 & Biology: Units 4 & 5
  3. Class XII: Chemistry: Unit 16 & Biology: Units 8, 9 & 10
Society
  1. Class VI: Social & Political Life I
  2. Class VII: Social & Political Life II
  3. Class VIII: Social & Political Life III
  4. Class XI: Sociology: Understanding Society
  5. Class XII: Indian Society
  6. Class XII: Social Change and Development in India
Environment
  1. Class VI to Class X (Science NCERT)
  2. From Class VI to Class XI (Geography NCERT)
  3. Class XII (Biology NCERT)
  4. Note: Only Environment-related chapters must be read

NCERT Books for UPSC Mains Preparation

For UPSC Mains preparation, NCERT books serve as an excellent foundation, providing clarity on various subjects and concepts. Here’s a breakdown of NCERT books for different subjects that are often recommended for UPSC Mains:
History
  1. Class 6 to 10: History textbooks covering ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history.
  2. Class 11 & 12: Themes in Indian History (Ancient, Medieval, and Modern)
Geography
  1. Class 11 & 12: Fundamentals of Physical Geography and Fundamentals of Human Geography
  2. Class 6 to 10: Relevant chapters covering Indian and World Geography.
Polity
  1. Class 9 to 12: Democratic Politics and Contemporary World Politics
  2. Class 11 & 12: Indian Constitution at Work and Politics in India Since Independence
Economics
  1. Class 11 & 12: Indian Economic Development, Introductory Microeconomics, and Macroeconomics
  2.  Class 9 & 10: Basic Concepts of Economics and Understanding Economic Development
Environment Class 12: Biology

Subject-wise NCERT Books for UPSC

For effective UPSC preparation, aspirants can focus on subject-wise  NCERT books to ensure comprehensive coverage of each area in the syllabus. Here’s a breakdown by subject along with relevant NCERT books to refer to:
Subject-Wise NCERT Books for UPSC 
Subject Book Name Class Purpose
History Our Pasts I, II, III 6th-8th Ancient, Medieval, and Modern History for Prelims and Mains
Themes in Indian History I, II, III 11th-12th In-depth study for Mains, focusing on Indian history
India’s Struggle for Independence 12th Focuses on the freedom movement and key historical events
Geography The Earth Our Habitat 6th Basics of Physical Geography for Prelims
Resources and Development 10th Focuses on natural resources and their management
India: Physical Environment 11th Detailed study of India’s geography for Mains
Fundamentals of Physical Geography 12th A key book for understanding physical geography
Polity Democratic Politics 9th Foundation for understanding Indian polity for both Prelims and Mains
Indian Constitution at Work 11th A detailed book on constitutional provisions and polity
Contemporary World Politics 12th Mains-oriented content on global politics
Economics Indian Economic Development 11th For understanding the basics of India’s economy for both Prelims and Mains
Introductory Microeconomics 11th A key book for understanding microeconomic principles
Introductory Macroeconomics 12th Covers macroeconomic concepts relevant for both Prelims and Mains
Science Science – Physics, Chemistry, Biology 6th-10th Basic understanding of Prelims, focusing on concepts
Our Environment 12th Environmental science for both Prelims and Mains
Biology 12th For a detailed understanding of biological processes for Mains
Environment & Ecology Environment and Ecology (NCERTs on Ecology) 6th-10th Essential for both Prelims and Mains focusing on ecological studies
Art & Culture An Introduction to Indian Art 11th Covers ancient and modern Indian art for Mains
Society Social Change and Development in India 12th Mains-oriented, with insights into social issues in India

Physics Wallah NCERT Summary Books for UPSC Exam

Physics Wallah offers a selection of NCERT books and supplementary materials curated for UPSC preparation. Physics Wallah NCERT Summary Books  offers an extensive guide to cover the relevant content of NCERT concisely and interactively. These books include "Points to Ponder" which promotes critical thinking, along with maps, diagrams, and flowcharts for better understanding. Our "NCERT Workbooks" provide concise summaries of NCERT textbooks and include chapter-wise questions for both Prelims and Mains exams helping in the practice of key concepts.

NCERT Books for UPSC in Hindi

For aspirants comfortable with Hindi as a medium of instruction, NCERT books are also available in Hindi medium. These books offer the same content as their English counterparts, enabling Hindi-medium students to prepare effectively for UPSC exams. Here are some useful NCERT Books for UPSC in Hindi:

UPSC NCERT Wallah Hindi Practice Workbook Combo Set

  • इतिहास: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा VI
  • इतिहास: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा VII
  • इतिहास: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा आठवीं
  • भारतीय समाज: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा VI
  • भारतीय समाज: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा VII
  • कला और संस्कृति: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा XI
  • अर्थव्यवस्था: एनसीईआरटी कक्षा IX

Importance of NCERT Books for UPSC Preparation

NCERT books hold paramount importance in UPSC preparation for several reasons:
  • Comprehensive Coverage: NCERT textbooks offer comprehensive coverage of various subjects including History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, and more. The content is structured in a manner that aids in building a strong conceptual foundation.
  • Aligned with UPSC Syllabus: The syllabus for UPSC exams is vast and dynamic. NCERT books, being the backbone of school education in India, are meticulously aligned with the UPSC syllabus. They cover topics systematically, making it easier for aspirants to navigate through the vast syllabus.
  • Clear and Concise Language: NCERT books are written in lucid and concise language, making complex topics easily understandable. This simplicity in language helps aspirants grasp concepts effectively, irrespective of their educational background.
  • Authenticity and Reliability: NCERT books are authored by subject matter experts and undergo rigorous scrutiny before being published. The information provided in these books is authentic and reliable, which is crucial for UPSC preparation where accuracy is paramount.
  • Strong Fundamentals: UPSC exams demand a deep understanding of basic concepts. NCERT books provide a solid foundation by explaining fundamental concepts in detail. Mastering these basics is essential for tackling advanced topics encountered in higher-level study materials.

Effective Strategies for UPSC Preparation with NCERT Books

While possessing NCERT books is essential, utilizing them effectively is equally crucial for UPSC preparation. Here are some strategies to optimize your preparation using NCERT textbooks:

  • Study Approach: Begin with lower classes (6th to 8th) and gradually move towards higher classes (9th to 12th). This sequential approach ensures a structured understanding of concepts, especially for subjects like History and Geography, which build upon previous knowledge.
  • Active Reading: Instead of passive reading, engage actively with the content. Make concise notes while reading, highlighting important concepts, dates, events, and keywords. Summarize each chapter in your own words to aid retention.
  • Integration with Current Affairs: Relate NCERT concepts with current affairs to understand their contemporary relevance. This integration enhances your understanding of real-world applications of theoretical concepts, especially in subjects like Economics, Polity, and Environment.
  • Practice Questions: After completing each chapter, solve NCERT textbook exercises to test your understanding. Additionally, attempt questions from previous years' UPSC question papers related to the topics covered. This practice familiarizes you with the exam pattern and improves your answer-writing skills.
  • Revision Strategy: Regular revision is key to retaining information. Allocate dedicated time for revision, especially closer to the exam dates. Use revision techniques like mind maps, flashcards, and group discussions to reinforce your learning.
  • Mock Tests and Analysis:  Take regular mock tests to gauge your preparation level and identify areas of improvement. Analyze your performance, identify weak areas, and adjust your study plan accordingly. Focus on improving both speed and accuracy, essential for the time-bound nature of UPSC exams.
  • Seek Guidance: Explore PW UPSC Online platforms where mentors provide guidance and strategies for effective NCERT-based preparation. Engage in discussions and seek clarification for any doubts or concepts you find challenging.

In conclusion, NCERT books are indispensable assets for UPSC aspirants, serving as pillars of knowledge upon which successful preparation is built. Their comprehensive coverage, alignment with the UPSC syllabus, and clarity make them essential companions in the journey toward cracking one of the toughest competitive exams in India. 

Explore PW UPSC Courses to gain comprehensive knowledge for your exam preparation!

NCERT Books for UPSC FAQs

Are NCERT books alone sufficient for UPSC preparation?

NCERT books provide a strong foundation but may not be sufficient for comprehensive preparation. Aspirants should supplement their studies with additional reference materials, current affairs, and practice tests.

Should I focus on old or new NCERT books for UPSC preparation?

Both old and new NCERT books are valuable. While old books provide a historical perspective, new books incorporate updated information and may align better with the current UPSC syllabus.

Are NCERT books necessary for UPSC prelims or mains?

NCERT books are essential for both UPSC prelims and Mains exams. They cover fundamental concepts required for prelims and serve as primary sources for Mains answer writing.

Where can I find NCERT book summaries for UPSC 2025 preparation?

You can find NCERT book summaries for UPSC 2025 preparation in dedicated "NCERT Summary Books" by PhysicsWallah.

Can I skip NCERT books if I have a background in the subject?

While background knowledge is advantageous, NCERT books offer structured content aligned with the UPSC syllabus. It's recommended not to skip them entirely as they provide a solid foundation for exam preparation.
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