Prepare NCERT for UPSC
We all know the importance of NCERT textbooks in UPSC
preparation. This book provided to most students early on is truly a blessing.
Most of the textbooks from class 6th till 12th for CBSE students are NCERT
published. These books are known for their simple language and their
fundamental coverage of advanced topics. Not to forget that they are government
prescribed – which means you can access them free of cost.
Let us look at putting these amazing books to proper use and
making the most of them.
Firstly, you are not required to learn the entire NCERT
syllabus. Learn only those relevant to your requirements. A famous Indian myth
is that one needs to study everything while preparing for UPSC examinations,
which is not true. Although the sheer size of the syllabus is overwhelming – it
does not include irrelevant topics and mostly connects them to an
administrative perspective.
You can also join an IAS coaching institute because they provide the complete NCERT preparation in a very
simple form. They also have experienced faculty members who know what you have
to learn. The Thought Tree is one such IAS coaching institute. Coming back to our topic,
let's see how to prepare NCERT for UPSC.
How to Prepare NCERT for
UPSC
Reading is not just about what you read but also how you grasp
it and understand it. We all are clear that NCERT books are easy to read, but
that is not the end. One must dedicate their time entirely to NCERT books to gain fundamental knowledge.
Since NCERT material is important for all IAS candidates to pass the UPSC
exam, reading the NCERT book with proper concentration is important. Let us see
why and how you should read the NCERT books.
NCERT books provide a solid base for advanced concepts and
learning, and that too in a simple and clear language. It engages you in a
quick recap at the end of every chapter, along with a quick test you can take
to check the retention level. It also contains fun facts in the form of
caricatures besides the main content.
It is easily accessible (as mentioned before), and you can even
give it to any person starting their secondary school.
1. Choose Any Topic of Your Interest
Which method you choose to prepare for the exam is up to you.
However, the choice of method will help you a lot because learning the same
topic without gaps will be less time-consuming and helpful. But one can get
bored and lose focus from constantly studying the same book. To prevent that,
one can also start digging into another topic and taking notes for every topic
after completing it.
2. Note Making
Every sentence in the NCERT Books is important. It must be
understood in the right context and from the correct perspective. Initially, it
would make no contextual sense for candidates, and they will have eyes for
literal definitions of terms. As you delve into it further and further, you
will build a contextual relationship with the books.
That's the main reason why you shouldn't take notes on your
first time reading them and keep reading these books until you understand them.
If you start taking notes on the first read - you will not understand the depth
of the books.
3. Timely Revision
Allot adequate time to revise all the subjects regularly. You
can revise every day, revise every weekend, and then have a comprehensive
monthly revision. This will increase your retention power, and you will not
forget stuff easily.
If you follow all the pointers carefully - you can gain a lot
from NCERT books.
4. Timetable
A clear and thorough timetable is as important as the syllabus
of UPSC CSE. Be clear on how you will start your studies, what subject you will
prioritize, how many times you will revise, and so on. This will also inculcate
discipline and routine in your life, and you will feel motivated and work hard
(like you should).