UPSC is a comprehensive examination having three phases out of which two are based on written examinations (Prelims, Mains) followed by the last stage of the Interview. Prelims and Mains exams consist of questions based on various subjects. Geography is one of these subjects which is important from the exam point of view. It is important for the candidates to check the entire Geography syllabus for UPSC if they wish to score well in this subject.
One of the most common questions that bother UPSC aspirants is – “Is NCERT Geography enough for UPSC?” We will be discussing the answer to this question in detail below. Owing to the complex nature of the IAS examination, candidates are often confused and scared of the vast syllabus. Undoubtedly, the syllabus is large and seems tough to cover at a glance. However, if proper strategy and planning go behind the process, it is not impossible to score well and shine through the merit list.
Is NCERT Geography Enough for UPSC?
There are a number of subjects that form a part of the UPSC syllabus. The IAS examination is a mixture of objective and subjective modes. Therefore candidates have to stay prepared for both types of questions that come across the two phases. NCERT books offer detailed knowledge in the form of concise information and therefore they are appropriate for the preparation of IAS Prelims. NCERTs are most popular as they help in forming a strong base for the candidates who are starting their UPSC preparation.
NCERT Geography books surely aid in strengthening the concepts of the aspirants and therefore are considered really important for both UPSC Prelims and Mains. But, looking at the difficulty of the examination, it will not be right to say that just covering NCERT Geography will be enough for UPSC.
- As the UPSC exam is complicated and tests the objective as well as subjective knowledge of the candidates, it is advisable to also refer to other good books to prepare for Geography subject.
- Undoubtedly the NCERT Geography books can not be ignored and left out but they need assistance from other books and sources as well.
- NCERT Geography can be given priority while preparing for the UPSC Prelims exam paired along with other good books as well which will help in the Mains preparation.
Which NCERT Books are Required for UPSC?
There are a number of subjects that form an important part of the UPSC syllabus. To perform well, having the best books is extremely important. Apart from the compulsory subjects that are a part of IAS Prelims, there is also a list of optional subjects for the Mains examination. Candidates have a choice to opt for two subjects out of the list of 48 optional subjects for Mains. One of the most popular subjects among these optional papers is Sociology which is opted for by a number of aspirants.
For candidates who are currently willing to take the subject but are confused can look at the detailed UPSC Sociology syllabus and make their decision. Candidates can also look at the detailed syllabus for the IAS examination and decide for themselves if they wish to choose any other subject. We are providing here a list of some important NCERT Geography books that are required for the UPSC examination.
- NCERT Class 12th – Fundamentals of Human Geography
- NCERT Class 12th– India – People and Economy
- NCERT Class 11th – India – Physical Environment
- NCERT Class 11th – Fundamentals of Physical Geography
- NCERT Class 10th – Contemporary India – 2
- NCERT Class 9th – Contemporary India – 1
- NCERT Class 8th – Resource and Development
- NCERT Class 7th – Our Environment
- NCERT Class 6th – The Earth Our Habitat
