Importance Of Ncerts In Upsc Preparation

When it comes to UPSC preparation, one thing that can be heard from every mouth is "Read NCERTs". When one thinks of this exam & to prepare for it, he/she begins by flipping the pages of NCERT books.

Why NCERT is the most important aspect of the UPSC preparation

But, has anyone ever wondered, why is it important to dive into the ocean of NCERTs while preparing for UPSC?

If NO, then let us discuss the importance of NCERTs in UPSC preparation.

1.EASY TO BEGIN WITH

NCERTs explain the concepts in very layman or simple language and therefore are easy to understand. This helps boost the confidence of an individual at the beginning stage of preparation.

2.HELPS BUILD A STRONG FOUNDATION

Before moving on to high level concepts, it"s important that one is thorough with the foundational or basic concepts. For e.g. before understanding the concept of Orographic Rainfall, one needs to know what is pressure gradient, how mountain acts as barrier to wind, what are air packets etc. This conceptual clarity is gained through NCERTs which makes it easier for the aspirant to built up on themes further.

3.RELIABLE SOURCE

As NCERT books are published by National Council of Educational Research & Training (NCERT), an autonomous organization under Government of India and are written by eminent authors like R.S. Sharma, Satish Chandra, Bipin Chandra etc., therefore they become one of the most reliable sources to cover topics mentioned in the syllabus. The authenticity of the information mentioned in the NCERTs cannot be doubted upon as these are drafted by experts.

4.DIRECT QUESTIONS FROM NCERTs IN PRELIMS

UPSC many times has asked questions directly from NCERTs especially when it comes to Ancient & Medieval History.

Some examples are

Que- Which one of the following is the characteristic climate of the Tropical Savannah Region? (2012)

A. Rainfall throughout the year.
B. Rainfall in winter only.
C. An extremely short dry season.
D. A definite dry and wet season.

(Its answer can be found in Class 11th Physical Geography book.)

Que- With reference to Medieval India, which one of the following is the correct sequence in ascending order in terms of size?

A. Pargana - Sarkar - Suba
B. Sarkar - Pargana - Suba
C. Suba - Sarkar - Paragana
D. Pargana - Suba - Sarkar.

(Answer can be gauged after reading class 11th Medieval History).

5.HELPS IN MAINS EXAMINATION

The writing style in NCERT books, for e.g., the idea of beginning a topic with an anecdote can be utilised in Essay paper. The case studies, examples, quotes and data can be used in Mains Answer Writing. The explanation for concepts given in Geography NCERT books can be directly copied in GS Paper 1 in Mains exam.

So, these were some reasons why NCERTs are important. Now, coming to which NCERTs are most important. Here"s the list

1. Ancient History- Class 11 by R S Sharma.
2.Medieval History - Class 11 by Satish Chandra.
3.Modern History - Class 12 by Bipin Chandra (either this or Spectrum).
4.Class 11 and 12 Geography NCERTs (total 4).
5.Class 11 Fine Arts NCERT for Art & Culture.
6.Class 11 and 12 NCERTs for Indian Society (total 4).

Understanding the importance of NCERTs in UPSC preparation, DELHI INSTITUTE FOR CIVIL SERVICES (DICS), GANDHINAGAR, the topmost Institute for UPSC and GPSC preparation in Gandhinagar and in fact in entire Gujarat, conducts "NEEV" Batches for NCERTs which handhold students and help them lucidly understand the books and the topics.

Therefore, aspirants can join the NEEV batches at DICS, Gandhinagar and get a good command over NCERTs.