Is It possible to clear UPSC using NCERT only?

While NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books provide a strong foundation for UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) preparation, relying solely on NCERT books may not be sufficient to clear the exam. While NCERT books are valuable resources for building conceptual clarity and understanding fundamental concepts across various subjects, the UPSC exam requires a comprehensive and holistic approach to preparation.

Here are some points to consider regarding the use of NCERT books for UPSC preparation:

1. Foundation Building: NCERT books are ideal for building a strong foundation in subjects such as History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science, and Environment. They provide concise yet comprehensive coverage of basic concepts and facts, making them indispensable for UPSC aspirants.

2. Conceptual Understanding: NCERT books help aspirants develop a clear understanding of fundamental concepts, theories, and principles in different subjects. They serve as a starting point for deeper exploration of topics covered in the UPSC syllabus.

3. Supplementary Resources: While NCERT books form the core of UPSC preparation, aspirants need to supplement their study with additional resources such as standard reference books, advanced study materials, online resources, and coaching materials. These resources provide in-depth coverage of topics, advanced concepts, and practice questions necessary for UPSC exam preparation.

4. Current Affairs: NCERT books may not cover current affairs comprehensively, which is a crucial component of the UPSC exam. Aspirants need to stay updated with current events, national and international developments, government initiatives, policies, and socio-economic issues through newspapers, magazines, online platforms, and current affairs compilations.

5. Practice and Revision: While NCERT books provide foundational knowledge, aspirants need to practice answer writing, solve previous years' question papers, and engage in mock tests to develop exam-oriented skills such as critical thinking, analytical ability, and time management. Additionally, regular revision of NCERT concepts is essential to reinforce learning and retention.

6. Optional Subject Preparation: NCERT books may not cover optional subjects comprehensively. Aspirants need to refer to specialized textbooks, reference materials, and coaching notes for optional subjects chosen for the UPSC exam.

In conclusion, while NCERT books are an essential part of UPSC preparation, aspirants should complement their study with a diverse range of resources to cover the entire UPSC syllabus comprehensively. A well-rounded preparation strategy that integrates NCERT books with supplementary materials, current affairs coverage, practice, and revision is crucial for success in the UPSC exam.