eVidyarthi Exam Preparation
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How to Prepare for UPSC

Tips to Prepare for UPSC

  • Start your preparation at least a year before the Prelims exam.
  • Go through the syllabus of both the Prelims and Mains exams.
  • Analyse the past few years’ question papers of both Prelims and Mains.
  • Start reading a newspaper regularly and make short notes based on relevant articles.
  • Read the basic NCERT books and then go through the UPSC Syllabus relevant Textbooks.
  • Make short notes in whichever way you feel comfortable, either online or in hard copy.
  • Make a timeline of objectives to be achieved, both long-term and daily.
  • If you are attending coaching, attend classes regularly and revise the content after class.
  • Make use of the internet and social media for your preparation carefully.
  • Start learning the basics of answer writing.
  • Join a Test Series for both Prelims and Mains.
  • Form discussion/answer writing groups to help each other.
  • Revise regularly the content you have been reading at least on a weekly basis.

Subject – Wise UPSC Preparation

History
  • Begin by thoroughly understanding the UPSC syllabus for the history optional subject.
  • NCERT Books: Start with NCERT textbooks for history from classes 6 to 12.
  • Standard Reference Books: After NCERTs, move on to standard reference books like “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipin Chandra, “Ancient India” by R.S. Sharma, and “Modern India” by Bipin Chandra.
  • While reading, take concise and organised notes. This helps in quick revisions and retaining important information.
  • Analyse UPSC previous year question papers to understand the pattern and types of questions asked.
Economics
  • Economics is a crucial subject for both the Preliminary GS Paper 1 and Main Examination GS Paper 3 of the UPSC CSE.
  • Start by thoroughly understanding the economics syllabus outlined by UPSC. The syllabus for both Prelims and Mains is available on the UPSC official website. Make a checklist of topics to cover.
  • NCERT Books: Begin with NCERT textbooks for economics, such as Indian Economic Development (Class 11) and Macroeconomics (Class 12).
  • Move on to more advanced economics textbooks. Some recommended books include “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh, and “Indian Economy” by Jayant Parikishit.
  • Stay updated with current economic issues in India and globally. Read newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and Business Standard regularly.
  • Analyse the Economic Survey and the Union Budget of India, as they are crucial sources for UPSC economics questions. Focus on key economic indicators, policies, and initiatives.
  • Reading economic journals like the Economic and Political Weekly (EPW) and magazines like Yojana.
  • Economics is a dynamic subject, and current affairs play a significant role in UPSC exams. Stay updated, practice writing, and develop a well-rounded understanding of economic concepts to excel in this subject in the UPSC CSE.
Geography
  • Geography is an integral part of both the Preliminary GS Paper 1 and Main Examination GS Paper 1 of the UPSC CSE.
  • Start with NCERT geography textbooks, such as Fundamentals of Physical Geography (Class 11) and India – Physical Environment (Class 11) for the basics. For advanced concepts, use “India – People and Economy” (Class 12) and Fundamentals of Human Geography (Class 12).
  • Some recommended books include Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong and Geography of India by Majid Husain.
  • Atlas books like the “Oxford School Atlas” or “Atlas of the World” are excellent resources. Understand map reading, latitude, longitude, and various types of maps.
  • Stay updated with current geographical issues and developments in India and around the world.
  • Focus on understanding geographical concepts such as climate, landforms, population, urbanisation, and regional geography. Make use of diagrams, charts, and maps to enhance your understanding.
  • Practice map-based questions regularly, as they are a common component of the Prelims.
  • Solve previous years’ UPSC question papers to understand the type of questions asked and the level of difficulty.
Indian Polity
  • Indian Polity constitutes a significant portion of both the Preliminary GS Paper 1 and Main Examination GS Paper 2 of the UPSC CSE.
  • Start with NCERT textbooks on Indian Polity, such as Indian Constitution at Work (Class 11) and Political Theory (Class 11).
  • Move on to more advanced Indian Polity textbooks like Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth and Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu.
  • Read and understand the Indian Constitution thoroughly. It’s the backbone of Indian Polity. Pay attention to its articles, schedules, and amendments. Make notes on key provisions.
  • Stay updated with current political developments in India and around the world.
  • Understand fundamental concepts like federalism, separation of powers, fundamental rights, and directive principles. Pay special attention to topics like the parliamentary system, elections, and governance.
  • While preparing for Mains, connect your knowledge of Indian Polity to current affairs topics. This will help you provide relevant and contemporary examples in your answers.
  • Solve previous years’ UPSC question papers to understand the type of questions asked and the level of difficulty.
Art and Culture
  • Begin with the NCERT textbooks that cover art and culture-related topics. F An Introduction to Indian Art – Part 1 (Class 11)
  • An Introduction to Indian Art – Part 2 (Class 11) provides a good foundation. These books are essential for building a strong base.
  • Standard Reference Books:
  • Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania: This is a widely recommended book for UPSC Art and Culture preparation. It covers a broad range of topics in a structured manner.
  • Facets of Indian Culture by Spectrum: This book provides insights into various aspects of Indian culture, including art, music, dance, and architecture.
  • Study the historical background and evolution of Indian art and culture. Understand the different dynasties, empires, and periods that have contributed to the rich cultural heritage of India.
  • Art Forms: Learn about various Indian art forms, including classical and folk forms, their characteristics, and their significance. Pay attention to classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi and music forms like Hindustani and Carnatic music.
  • Architecture: Study the architectural styles of various historical monuments and temples in India, such as Dravidian, Nagara, Mughal, and Indo-Islamic architecture. Understand the significance of these architectural styles.
  • Cultural Practices and Festivals: Learn about cultural practices, traditions, and festivals of different regions in India. Understand the cultural significance of festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, and others.
  • Artists and Personalities: Familiarise yourself with renowned artists, musicians, dancers, and their contributions to Indian art and culture.
  • Museums and Artefacts: Understand the significance of major museums in India, such as the National Museum in Delhi and the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. Know about important artefacts and sculptures housed in these museums.
  • Connect your knowledge of art and culture to current affairs topics, especially when discussing the preservation of cultural heritage, cultural policies, and government initiatives.
Science and Technology
  • Preparing for the Science and Technology section in the UPSC Civil Services Examination is crucial as it is part of the General Studies Paper 3 for both the Preliminary and Main Examinations.
  • NCERT Books: Science – Class 6 to 10
  • Science and Technology – Class 11 and 12 provide a solid foundation.
  • Stay updated with current developments in science and technology by reading newspapers, magazines, and online sources.
  • Consider subscribing to science and technology magazines like “Science Reporter” and “Down To Earth.” These publications provide in-depth coverage of scientific advancements and environmental issues.
  • Explore reputable websites such as the Department of Science and Technology and the ISRO for official information and updates.
  • Learn about advancements in biotechnology, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Understand important concepts like genetic engineering, vaccines, and recent healthcare initiatives.
  • Study the major scientific institutions, research organisations and their contributions to science and technology in India, including ISRO, DRDO, CSIR, and ICMR.
  • Be prepared to write essays and answers on ethical and social issues related to science and technology, such as privacy concerns, biotechnology ethics, and the impact of automation on employment.
  • Connect science and technology with other subjects like environment, governance, and economics. Understand how technological innovations impact various aspects of society and governance.
Environment and Ecology
  • Start with the NCERT textbooks on environment and ecology. For example, Our Environment (Class 7) and Environmental Studies (Class 11) provide a solid foundation. These books are essential for building a strong base.
  • Stay updated with current environmental developments by reading newspapers, magazines, and online sources. Focus on environmental policies, conservation efforts, and international agreements.
  • Consider subscribing to magazines like “Down To Earth” and “Environment and Ecology” to stay updated on environmental issues and solutions.
  • Explore reputable websites such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the World Wildlife Fund for official information and updates.
  • Study the major environmental laws and policies in India, such as the Wildlife Protection Act, Forest Conservation Act, and the National Action Plan on Climate Change.
  • Understand India’s rich biodiversity, including wildlife conservation efforts and the significance of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.
  • Learn about climate change, its impact on India, and the country’s initiatives to combat climate change, including its commitments under international agreements like the Paris Agreement.
  • Connect environment and ecology with other subjects like economics, governance, and public health. Understand the holistic impact of environmental issues.
  • Government Policies and Initiatives: Know the government policies and initiatives related to the environment and ecology, such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
  • Environmental Impact Assessment: Understand the EIA process and its significance in environmental governance. Know how environmental clearances are granted for development projects.

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