The Best Book for Comprehensive Geography Study After NCERTs for UPSC

Geography plays a pivotal role in the Civil Services Examination (UPSC), specifically in the General Studies Paper I. It is both scoring and fascinating, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and those looking to enhance their preparation. This comprehensive guide explores the best books to read after NCERTs to excel in your UPSC Geography preparation.

Importance of Geography in UPSC

Geography is a crucial component in the IAS UPSC CSE Prelims as well as the IAS Mains. It carries an average weightage of 18-25 marks in the Prelims exam every year. This subject is not only easy to grasp but also highly interesting, thus making it a preferred choice as an optional subject. The main focus in IAS Geography is on Indian Geography, with questions from world geography being quite common.

NCERT Books for Beginners

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) books are a great starting point for prospect candidates. Here are the key NCERT books you should refer to:

Class IX: Contemporary India Part-I Class X: Contemporary India Part-II Class XI: Fundamentals of Physical Geography and Indian Physical Environment Class XII: Fundamentals of Human Geography and India People and Economy

These books lay a strong foundation and provide comprehensive coverage of geographical concepts.

Advanced Books for Deepening Knowledge

After completing the NCERTs, it’s essential to dive into more advanced literature. Here are some recommended books:

G.C. Leong’s Certificate Physical and Human Geography Majid Husain’s Geography of India R.C. Chandna’s Geography of Population: Concepts, Determinants and Patterns Majid Hussain’s World Geography D.R. Khullar’s Physical Human and Economic Geography for Civil Services Examination

These books provide a more in-depth analysis of geographical concepts and topics, making them ideal for mastering the subject.

Additional Resources for Current Affairs

To stay updated with the latest happenings, sources of current affairs are indispensable. Here are some reliable resources:

Newspapers: The Hindu, The Indian Express, The Hindustan, The Economic Times, The Times of India Magazines: Economic and Political Weekly, Down To Earth Internet and Television: Regularly check educational and UPSC preparation websites, news channels, and UPSC aspirant forums

These resources help you stay informed about historical, cultural, economic, industrial, and socio-political events that are crucial for your preparation.

Practice with Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers

Practicing previous year papers and mock tests is crucial to ensure you are well-prepared for the real exam. Here are some sources for practice:

Oxford Student Atlas Previous Year Papers for IAS, CAPF, CDS Test Series by Vision IAS

By regularly solving these practice papers, you can improve your analytical skills and familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.

Conclusion

Choosing the right books and resources is key to excelling in UPSC Geography. By following the above recommendations, you can build a robust foundation and enhance your preparation. Remember, 'Practice makes a man perfect.' Happy studying!