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Essay books for UPSC exams: Get better at writing essays in exams

Essay books for UPSC exams: Get better at writing essays in exams

Mastering Essay & Answer Writing by Dr. Awdhesh Singh

Essays for civil services and other competitive examinations by pulkit khare, 151 essays for ias/ pcs & other competitive exams by disha experts, kiran’s upsc essays solved papers of 1993 till date, select essays for civil services examination by drishti publications.

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List of Must Read Books for UPSC

5 Non-Fiction Books to Read Before You Even Think of UPSC: Click Here to Know it All

In the period before you start preparing for the UPSC exam in all seriousness, you can try and lay a strong foundation for yourself. Empower yourself with knowledge and skills that will stand you in good stead when you sit for the exam and further in your career.

One very pertinent habit you can inculcate in yourself is of reading varied literature. Read books that will give you an insight into the social and political mores of the world. You must read the erudite writers who have explained and analyzed such issues in their books.

Here in this article, you will find some authors and their works which are recommended by experts. These works are a pragmatic look into Indian polity and the social milieu as it was and as it is. These are all scholars who are recognized around the world. The books will arm you with facts on India and a deep analysis of how our country has shaped and where it can go.

Also Read: Must-Read Books for UPSC IAS Exam as Recommended by Toppers

List of Must-Read Books for UPSC

1. india after gandhi by ramchandra guha.

This book is an account of modern Indian history post its independence, written by the historian Ramchandra Guha is a must-read book for UPSC. He consulted papers of many important figures and newspaper records from the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library. He particularly found the papers of Mr C Rajagopalachari and Mr P N Haksar very useful. This book won recognition from The Economist, The World Street Journal, The Outlook, and The Sahitya Academy of India, among others.

2. PaxIndica by Shashi Tharoor

Shashi Tharoor, a well-known diplomat, author, and politician, speaks of how Indian diplomacy has come of age and talks of where it will need to focus on the new age. He analyses India’s major international relationships, evokes the country’s soft power, and talks of how and why he thinks it is time for India to move from non-alignment to multi-alignment.  He speaks of the global responsibility of India in the connected world of today.

3. Seeing like a Feminist by Nivedita Menon

Nivedita, Professor of Political Thought at the Jawaharlal Nehru University and a writer who addresses women’s issues explore the transforming world with a lens of feminism. How the world is irrevocably being influenced by this world view. Be it the sexual harassment charges against world figures, caste politics challenging feminism or the ban on the veil in France, Menon addresses all of them and explores the world as it changes in light of such movements.

4. Wonder that was India by A L Basham

A L Basham was a historian, Indologist, and author. His book addresses the history of India, its social changes, the confluence of multiple cultures, governance, science, philosophy, literature, and also how the many invasions influenced our country through the centuries. This book is a must-read to understand the Indian culture and the influence of the history of modern India.

Also Read: List of UPSC Mains books for Hindi Medium Students

5. Argumentative Indian by Amartya Sen

A Nobel Prize-winning Economist, Amartya Sen has written this insightful book that is a collection of essays on India’s history and identity with a focus on its traditions of public debate and intellectual pluralism. This is one of the must-read books for UPSC. He has attempted to understand contemporary India in light of its tradition of public debates. He feels this is important for the success of India’s democratic tradition, secular politics, and removal of many biases of caste, gender, and community that unfortunately exist even today.

These are just some books that you must read to understand India, as it was, as it is and as it is evolving, and its role in the global scenario. They will help you formulate your own opinions and maybe help chart a path for yourself and your nation, even as a citizen.

Read these and similar books even before you embark upon your preparation. They will help you strengthen your knowledge base, your world view, and challenge your thought processes. They will enhance your analytical abilities and help you reason in light of facts. Exercises which will help you not only to study but also will help you when you walk down those cherished corridors.

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About the Author

Shilpa is a professional web content writer and is in deep love with travelling. She completed her mass communication degree and is now dedicatedly playing with words to guide her readers to get the best for themselves. Developing educational content for UPSC, IELTS aspirants from breakthrough research work is her forte. Strongly driven by her zodiac sign Sagittarius, Shilpa loves to live her life on her own notes and completely agrees with the idea of ‘live and let live. Apart from writing and travelling, most of the time she can be seen in the avatar of 'hooman' mom to her pets and street dogs or else you can also catch her wearing the toque blanche and creating magic in the kitchen on weekends.

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books to read for essay upsc

Top 15 Important books to be read by every UPSC Aspirant

Here are some suggestions for the best books for upsc examinations.

Books play a key role in prepping you for the UPSC exam. Every UPSC aspirant may be looking for the ideal materials to help them achieve their most important aims. On the market, there are thousands of UPSC preparation books for beginners. This makes deciding on the best books for UPSC beginners even more difficult. This broad array of possibilities perplexes every dedicated student when it comes to determining the original UPSC and IAS Prelims books. This article contains the top 15 important books that must be read by every UPSC aspirant.

IAS books are regarded as crucial during the preparation process. IAS toppers and tutors emphasize the need to read the best books available on the market, both online and offline. The core concepts are the same in all books, but how they are applied makes all the difference, which is why some books are regarded as the finest. The most important thing is to choose appropriate or top books for IAS preparation that are both relevant and useful.

On a shaky foundation, no magnificent structure can be built. Building a super-strong infrastructure requires a solid foundation. This applies to those who are prepping for civil service exams. The NCERT books are considered the foundational reading materials for the Civil Services Examination. It covers all major issues and provides us with crystal-clear intellectual clarity. It ensures that aspirants are no longer beginners after thoroughly reading them. As a result, NCERT Books can also be used to assess and enhance one’s performance. However they are insufficient to cover the complete UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains syllabus. Aspirants should study Standard Textbooks in addition to NCERTs. Standard Textbooks are produced by subject specialists in an exam-oriented manner, with each subject/topic in the UPSC CSE syllabus explicitly targeted.

Here are the top 15 book suggestions for the aspirants:

Table of Contents

1. Challenges to Internal Security of India – Ashok Kumar and Vipul Anekant (General Studies)

The goal of this totally rewritten and updated edition is to present comprehensive viewpoints on the topics and challenges surrounding the theme of ‘Indian Internal Security Challenges.’ It is designed in a comprehensive and transparent manner to cover every aspect of the UPSC examination’s Third General Studies Paper. Each syllabus topic has been broken down into twelve chapters to provide a comprehensive theoretical overview. This updated edition includes three annexures that provide a comprehensive overview of government strategies on internal security and challenges.

The book is by Ashok Kumar IPS and Vipul Anekant DANIPS. Ashok Kumar earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Delhi. He joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1989 and has worked in UP and Uttarakhand on a variety of demanding tasks. On deputation, he also served with the CRPF and the BSF.

2. Geography of India by Majid Husain (Geography)

The book “Geography of India” is aimed mostly at students studying for competitive exams. The most popular title is now in its ninth edition. The book is a well-known guide and a best-seller in the field. It’s a well-known reference book that covers all aspects of India’s geographical geography in a methodical and thorough manner. Resources of India, various methods of irrigation, Indian farming patterns, transportation and public distribution systems, food security, calamities, and government initiatives are among the themes discussed.

Prof. Majid Husain will be regarded as a legendary Indian academician. Prof. Majid Husain received his early schooling at Manglaur’s Nehru Inter College. He has produced and edited over 4 dozen books and has a remarkable capacity to elucidate difficult subjects in Geography in a straightforward and convincing manner. He was an internationally renowned Indian geographer who made significant contributions to the field of geography through several publications, research projects, and university teaching. His innovative teaching technique enabled students to grasp even the most difficult concepts. He taught the entire optional module of Geography, Geography for Prelims, Environment, and Ecology, and also mentored his students for the personality test.

3. Indian Art and Culture – Nitin Singhania (Culture)

This book is an excellent resource for UPSC aspirants at all levels of the examination: preliminary, mains, and interviews. Nitin Singhania’s new edition of Indian Art & Culture is now available to buy in both online and offline locations. The cultural diversity of India is well-known. The novel by Nitin Singhania eloquently depicts the essence of India’s unique culture. Despite the fact that there are numerous books about Indian culture, Nitin Singhania’s book has captivated UPSC candidates owing to its special presentation.

Nitin Singhania is a member of the Indian Administrative Service’s 2013 class (IAS). He is also a Chartered Accountant. He passed the UPSC Civil Services test with Economics as an elective. He is a member of the IAS 2013 class and currently works for the Government of West Bengal as a Joint Secretary.

4. Challenge and Strategy: Rethinking India’s Foreign Policy by Rajiv Sikri (International Relations)

The book provides a strategic and policy-oriented look at India’s existing and upcoming foreign policy difficulties. It examines the long-term variables and trends that should influence how the country formulates its foreign policy. If India is to play a key role in the complicated and fast-changing world of the twenty-first century, the author suggests a rethinking of its strategy. The focus of Rethinking India’s Foreign Policy is on India’s immediate and strategic surroundings. It also looks at critical topics including energy security, economic diplomacy, defense-diplomacy interactions, and foreign policy institutions.

Rajiv Sikri served in the Indian Foreign Service for more than 36 years as a career diplomat. He left the Ministry of External Affairs as Secretary in 2006.

The book is unique in that it incorporates the viewpoints of a historian, a diplomat, and a scholar. It contributes significantly to India’s strategic community’s continuing discussion on foreign policy by offering many novel and unconventional thoughts and policy suggestions. Policymakers, diplomats, and foreign policy analysts should read this simple and brief work. It will be of professional interest to the corporate and commercial communities. Students of Indian politics, international relations, defense, and strategic studies, and those interested in India’s foreign policy will find it useful.

5. Oxford School Atlas by Oxford Publishers (Geography)

This is for those who are preparing for a government job exam or university exams. This book provides a wealth of useful thematic maps of India, including 16 maps focusing on Indian climate, 22 maps focusing on Indian agriculture, 23 maps focusing on minerals and industries, 17 maps focusing on demography and human development, and 10 maps focusing on environmental concerns. This book contains the most up-to-date demographic and socioeconomic data from reliable sources.

There are different physical and political maps of India in this book. It includes new and useful India-themed maps. This book covers all of the continents in detail. Facts and Figures is a fresh and interesting area. Since its first publication in 1915, generations of students, researchers, and general readers have relied on The Oxford School Atlas for its accuracy and richness of cartographic data. The atlas includes 235 clear and easy-to-understand maps, including 121 thematic maps of India with accompanying charts and illustrations.

6. Indian Economy for Civil Services by Nitin Singhania (Economy)

In recent years, the Indian economy has seen significant changes, including a series of swings in economic growth and development. Nitin Singhania’s book, Indian Economy, is an attempt to write down economic issues and the necessary actions by stakeholders. The contents have been organized in a logical and conceptually clear manner to allow readers to grasp the material completely and thoroughly. Flowcharts, tables, graphs, pictures, and other visual aids have been used to help students understand and comprehend the concepts in a short length of time.

Nitin Singhania holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics. He is a member of the IAS 2013 class and currently works for the Government of West Bengal as a Joint Secretary. He’s also the author of “Indian Art and Culture,” a best-selling book.

7. International Relations: Pushpesh Pant (International Relations)

The book would be of great use to students studying for the civil services examination as well as specialized courses relating to the subject in universities and colleges, as it is written with an academic tone from a student’s perspective. This UPSC book explores all key events from the creation of sovereign states to current global challenges. It is the favorite of all students who are taking competitive exams.

The Padma Shri-winning author is an academician and historian who retired from Jawaharlal Nehru University as a professor of International Studies. Pushpesh Pant is an academic, cuisine critic, and historian from India. He left Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi as a Professor of International Relations.

8. Environmental Ecology, Bio-Diversity, Climate Change & Disaster Management – Dr Ravi Agrahari (Environment)

This is a stand-out book about environmental ecology, biodiversity, climate change, and disaster management. Each chapter provides a practical technical solution to an existing environmental problem while also covering basic to advanced environmental and disaster management topics in one book. This book provides a quick, relevant, and easy way to achieve exam success by combining both principles and actual suggestions for solutions to deal with a wide and complex syllabus. This is an optimistic, proactive book about the groundbreaking career of a well-known practitioner.

Dr. Ravi P. Agrahari, a Ph.D. from IIT Delhi, is a holder of the CSIR’s Junior Research Fellowship and Senior Research Fellowship. He is an energy expert who has published numerous papers in prestigious international journals. Dr. Agrahari is well-known for his knowledge of “Environmental Science” and “Science and Technology,” and has written multiple books for UPSC examinations on the subjects. Dr. Agrahari has been teaching UPSC hopefuls for over 19 years and has worked with over 50 reputable coaching facilities across India. He also works with a number of non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations to help students from underrepresented groups.

9. Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh (Economy)

The book has become an “indispensable companion” for Civil Services test candidates. It is one of the most recommended books on the subject and one of the “best-sellers” of all time. It includes all of the fundamental principles as well as the most up-to-date information, all of which are linked to current events in India. All of the concepts and theories are covered in the book to help the reader create a ‘fundamental’ and ‘application-based’ understanding of economics, as well as its subtle links to real-world policy issues and the fields of governance, polity, diplomacy, ethics, technology, and so on, in an interdisciplinary manner — making economics accessible to even those with no prior knowledge of the subject.

Ramesh Singh is a Delhi School of Economics alumnus and an education consultant with more than two decades of expertise advising civil service and other exam candidates. He also contributes to the Publication Division’s Yojana and Kurukshetra periodicals as a columnist. He is a master instructor, capable of clearly and concisely explaining even the most complex economic ideas. His economics courses and essays are well-received around the country. He is a Delhi resident who is involved in a variety of intellectual and social activities.

10. Indian Polity – Civil Services Examinations by M Laxmikanth (Polity)

The book is required reading for hopefuls taking the Civil Services and other State Services examinations. It is designed to meet the needs of not only competitive examination students, but also postgraduates, research scholars, professors, and general readers interested in the country’s political, civic, and constitutional issues. The existing chapters have been completely reworked and updated to reflect current events. This UPSC book, sometimes called the “Bible of Politics,” provides a thorough understanding of the subject. Going over the book several times can help you get good results in both the prelims and mains. One of the most popular UPSC prep books.

M. Laxmikanth is a trainer and author. Apart from this book, Laxmikanth has published Governance in India, Indian Polity, and Public Administration for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. In 1989, Laxmikanth received his master’s degree from Osmania University.

11. Important Judgements that Transformed India by Alex Andrews George (Polity)

“Important Judgments that Transformed India” is a book that explains the important court cases that everyone should be aware of. Many of these Supreme Court judgments have influenced the way India’s democracy now operates. It’s fascinating to see how Supreme Court decisions have safeguarded the spirit of the Indian Constitution, improved democracy, and changed the lives of ordinary Indians. This book meets the needs of numerous competitive examinations, including the UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims, Mains, and Interview). All academics, legal students, and general readers interested in Indian politics and the constitution will find it useful.

Andrews, Alex George is the creator of the popular ClearIAS.com website. He is a problem-solver with a wide range of expertise and interests, having graduated as an engineer. As an ecopreneur, technologist, blogger, and teacher, he wears many hats. His notes, methods, assistance, and mock examinations have helped thousands of applicants pass various stages of the UPSC Civil Services exam every year as one of the pioneers in online Civil Services exam tutoring.

12. India’s Ancient Past by RS Sharma (History)

The book India’s Ancient Past offers a thorough history of ancient India. From the earliest human beings in India through the early Medieval period, the author of the book investigates the civilizations and social systems that existed in India. There have been several geographical and language backgrounds explored. The author has also looked into certain cultures such as the Harappan Civilization, Neolithic, and Vedic periods.

India’s Ancient Past opens with a chapter on ancient Indian history and its importance, followed by a list of comprehensive maps from the historical periods covered in the book. The book then moves on to the Stone Age and the Neolithic period in the following chapters. People began to produce food throughout the Neolithic period. By that time, animal husbandry had also begun.

Other aspects of India’s ancient past, such as Chalcolithic Cultures and the Harappan Civilization, are highlighted. The author also goes into great length about Aryan culture. The book explains the rise of religions such as Jainism and Buddhism. Invasions by Macedonians and Iranians have also been mentioned. The following chapters go on to detail India’s interactions with various Central Asian kingdoms, the emergence and fall of the Gupta empire, and philosophical advances.

R. S. Sharma, the author of India’s Ancient Past, was a renowned historian who taught at Patna University, the University of Toronto, and Delhi University. During his lifetime, he was able to publish 115 works that were converted into fifteen languages. He was the Head of the History department at Delhi and Patna Universities. His writing was engaging and informative because he was regarded as a specialist in epigraphy, literary texts, and archaeological texts.

13. A History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra (History)

India’s current status is the result of a number of historical events. Satish Chandra’s history book contains a selection of these events. The 1000-year period covered in this book spans the seventh to seventeenth centuries, and it describes the order of events as well as the empires that dominated different parts of the country. With the rise of each new dynasty, there were many flaws that led to their demise, and historian Satish Chandra, who has a comprehensive understanding of historical events, dissects the many reasons for their demise in depth.

Satish Chandra is a well-known historian who specialized in Indian medieval history and taught at Jawaharlal Nehru University. He was also the chairman of India’s University Grants Commission and the president of the Indian History Congress. Satish Chandra is widely regarded as India’s most prominent historian and regarded as the country’s foremost expert on Mughal reign. When his book on medieval Indian history was published as a textbook for schools and colleges, it revolutionized the national curriculum.

14. Certificate of Physical & Human Geography by GC Leong (Geography)

This book contains a lot of the necessary geographical knowledge. For this reason, students taking competitive admission examinations or hoping to pass competitive examinations given by the Union Public Service Commission for several government positions rely heavily on the book (UPSC). The book is split into two parts. The first is on physical geography, and it contains detailed information about existing land masses, oceans, types of winds, rivers, glaciation, mountain types, groundwater, rainfall and its global patterns, and other natural phenomena. The second portion goes over the many climatic zones around the world, including Savanna, Steppe, Mediterranean, Equatorial, and Tropical Monsoon Climate.

Goh Cheng Leong is well-known for his writings on geography and related themes. He has also written Elements of Geography and Human and Economic Geography, in addition to this book.

15. Mastering Modern World History by Norman Lowe (History)

With the use of underlined words, keywords, and headings throughout the book, the reader is clearly informed about all aspects of Modern World History. The book also includes clear references that the reader will find extremely helpful. International Relations, fascism and communism, international conflicts, decolonization, and other global issues are all covered in this book. The content consists of from 1900 to 2012, a look at international relations and wars, as well as Europe and its history, including the rise and collapse of fascism and communism, the major superpowers’ international affairs – the United States, Russia/USSR, and China – International strife, the Holocaust, 9/11, and Saddam Hussein’s overthrow the rise of political Islam, as well as decolonization and following events in Africa, Climate change, economic crises, population ‘explosion,’ and other global issues There includes mention of historians’ differences and controversies, as well as new interpretations and discoverers.

Norman Lowe has extensive experience teaching history at all levels, serving as Head of History at Nelson and Colne MA26 in Lancashire for 25 years. Mastering Modern British History and Mastering Twentieth-Century Russian History are two of his books.

Some Important Tips for the Aspirants

Apart from these books, there are a few additional things to bear in mind if you want to pass the UPSC exam with excellent grades:

  • A deep understanding and grasp of the subject is the most crucial requirement for civil preparation. Despite the Civil Services’ extensive and detailed syllabus, many candidates fail at this stage. Effective preparation requires a full understanding of the syllabus’s nature, clarity, and scope. It might help you decide what to read and what to avoid. Every aspirant is strongly advised to keep a copy of the curriculum with them at all times during the exam. This will assist the candidate in determining whether or not a certain topic should be covered, as well as ensuring that no area or topic is overlooked.
  • Aspirants should also review previous years’ question papers. It aids in selecting the type of questions to be asked as well as locating the finest reading material. An examination of prior year’s papers can assist in putting the syllabus into context by showing the areas where more questions have been asked. It may also be useful in finding any trends in the paper. It’s a good idea to break down the syllabus’s contents into subtopics and go over the question papers again. It also aids in understanding the nature of the questions being asked. On the plus side, there’s a chance that certain questions from prior years will be asked again.
  • A thorough understanding of the syllabus allows one to connect with what is being read. For example, someone who knows the UPSC curriculum well may be able to tie an article in the newspaper to a section of the syllabus while reading it. It facilitates a smooth and seamless transition from the static syllabus to current events. Current events are the key to passing the Civil Services Examination. One must attempt to connect various stories and ideas seen in newspapers.
  • Follow the newest global headlines. Current Affairs is not a distinct subject to be studied, but rather an integral part of the UPSC curriculum. Current events and current problems are, in fact, the most active areas in all of the syllabus topics in terms of the examination. Frequently read a newspaper and a magazine.
  • It’s usually a good idea to take notes on everything you read, whether it’s newspapers or current affairs magazines, or the fundamentals of the many courses presented in coaching. Making notes is a good way to remember things. Also, theme-based and structured notes come in assistance when revising the large UPSC syllabus that has been covered over time. Making notes with mind maps, flow charts, short-cut approaches, and other methods aids in quick review and memory.
  • Coaching is the most critical part in cracking the Civils. Choosing the right coaching partner is crucial since it will help set the foundation for the Civils’ dream. Concentrate on the lessons being given and create a habit of taking notes. Coaching institutes also provide tests that can be used to determine one’s present level of preparation.
  • Beginning your preparation with the fundamentals is always an excellent approach. The best source for acquiring clarity and a good grasp on a variety of subjects is NCERT books. The UPSC does not test for specialist expertise, but rather tests for general knowledge and, more significantly, analytical abilities in the Prelims and writing and presentation skills in the Mains. Civil Services applicants frequently become weighed down with content by consulting many books at once. Concentrate on a few books at a time, including the NCERTs and one or two books per subject recommended by professors. It is more vital to be thorough with the substance than the number of books.
  • Cultivate the habit of thinking, in order to make connections between various topics or subjects. During the interviews, there is a lot of cross-questioning, and this strategy aids in being well-prepared on any issue. If a news piece mentions the Public Accounts Committee, for example, it must remind the candidate of the Public Accounts Committee’s position and tasks, which are previously covered in textbooks. Additionally, the candidate must be able to connect the two elements. This strategy also creates a lasting imprint of the subject, making it simple to recall during the exam and interview.
  • Many applicants are undecided about the optional subject to pursue. When selecting an optional subject, many people seek advice from others. Instead, the optional subject should be something about which one is both comfortable and confident. Also, do not base your decision on how candidates performed in the subject in past years. Choose an option in which you are confident and can find sufficient reading material as well as assistance. Generally, candidates should choose an option in something they have a strong interest in.
  • The internet assists in staying informed about current events. It’s a good way to stay current, especially with the optional subject. It’s also crucial to find a good, “trusted” source and stay with it because referring to ten different sources at once isn’t as effective as referring to one source ten times.
  • Aspirants for the civil service should develop a habit of getting up early every day and reading the newspaper first. Do not put off the project until later in the day; even if you have difficulty absorbing the topic at first, it will all fall into place over time. Many people struggle to understand the language or the subject at first, but with repeated attempts, results begin to emerge.
  • Reading a newspaper takes about 40 minutes to an hour on average. There may well be days when the paper is light and only takes 30 minutes, so aim for an average of 40 minutes. Sunday might be set aside as a revision day for all of the current problems encountered throughout the previous week. Revision is just as vital as learning new material.
  • Appearing for mock tests is an excellent way to supplement your continuing preparation. It introduces the exam format, frequent mistakes to avoid, and scoring systems, among other things. Mock examinations are also a great way to prepare for the final exam. At this level, applicants should focus on the MCQs rather than essay preparation.
  • The curriculum is divided into sections, each of which is significant and is covered in the syllabus. If History were the only significant topic, for example, the entire curriculum would be History. As a result, give each subject equal time. Make detailed notes because you may be referring to numerous books on the same topic. In the last phases of exam preparation, a 100-page book could be reduced to 20-25 pages in the form of notes, making it simpler to revise.
  • Writing abilities do not improve instantly, but rather over time. Daily writing practice is essential. Pick select a newspaper editorial and rework it in your own words. There may be candidates that have a slow writing speed and are looking for solutions to this problem. Such applicants will benefit from practice tests.
  • These practice examinations not only assist all candidates in preparation for the mains, whether they are fast or slow-paced, but also in understanding time management. Even fast-paced applicants with strong writing speed may initially be unable to complete the practice tests within the allotted time, but they ultimately learn to manage their time and thus begin to learn and attempt the tests in their entirety.
  • It is not possible for anybody to memorize the book after its first reading. The first reading should be to familiarise oneself with the contents, the second reading should be a remembrance, and the third reading will aid in memory. Also, each one has a different pace when it comes to memorizing, and thus learning must happen at an individual’s specific pace only.
  • If you’re short on time, consider using flowcharts instead of text-based solutions. A flowchart can easily summarise the entire answer. Similarly, tables are useful for presenting any type of data. Rather than burying material in the text and making it harder for the examiner to find, use tables to make the answer more appealing.
  • Begin the answers with a brief overview of the topic or keyword. In this area, always provide context for the answer. The body of the answer is made up of the answer to the specific question that was posed. Divide the question into sections to give the answer several dimensions. Finally, the ending should always be upbeat and forward-looking.

The above-mentioned information could serve as a beginner’s guide to passing the UPSC civil services test by reading important books. Remember, it’s always about the quality, not the number. Rather than gaining half-knowledge from numerous publications, choose the ideal book and devote your entire attention to it. For any subject, IAS aspirants should avoid using a huge number of books. Only standard books and study materials should be used. Rather than looking for fresh study material, they should concentrate on revising the classic works over and over again. While reading any of the topics, use a pointer to highlight the keywords, paragraphs, and equations for a better and faster understanding. Make it a habit to take notes when preparing from recommended sources, books, or study materials so you can review them quickly. Happy Learning dear aspirants!!

1. FAQ: Why is reading books essential for UPSC preparation?

Answer: Reading books is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides in-depth knowledge, diverse perspectives, and a comprehensive understanding of various subjects. It helps candidates develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and a holistic approach to the topics covered in the exam.

2. FAQ: What are the top 15 important books for UPSC preparation?

Answer: The list of essential books for UPSC includes classics like “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra, “Indian Polity” by M. Laxmikanth, “Economic Survey of India,” and “NCERT textbooks for history, geography, and science.” Additionally, candidates should explore newspapers, government reports, and current affairs magazines for a well-rounded preparation.

3. FAQ: How can I manage time effectively while reading these books?

Answer: Time management is crucial for UPSC preparation. Create a realistic study schedule, allocate specific time slots for each subject, and prioritize based on your strengths and weaknesses. Break down your reading into manageable chunks, and don’t forget to include breaks for relaxation and revision.

4. FAQ: Can I solely rely on online resources and avoid physical books?

Answer: While online resources are valuable, relying solely on them may not be sufficient. Physical books provide in-depth coverage and a tangible reference for revision. Combining both online and offline resources ensures a well-rounded preparation, catering to the diverse nature of the UPSC exam.

5. FAQ: How do I make the most out of the books I read for UPSC preparation?

Answer: Actively engage with the material by taking notes, highlighting key points, and summarizing chapters. Regularly revise the content to reinforce your understanding. Additionally, practice answer writing and solve previous years’ question papers to apply the knowledge gained from the books in a practical exam-oriented manner.

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books to read for essay upsc

9 must-read books for aspiring UPSC candidates

Here's a comprehensive list of highly recommended upsc prelims and mains preparation books, covering history, geography, civics, environmental science, and more..

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9 must-read books for aspiring UPSC candidates

Embarking on the journey to crack the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is like taking the path less travelled. It requires immense dedication, hard work, and unwavering determination. However, this challenging road leads to a beautiful destination for becoming a successful civil servant.

1. INDIA’S ANCIENT PAST BY R S SHARMA

The book by R.S Sharma revolves around all the past major and minor happenings from the enigmatic Indus Valley Civilization to the majestic Gupta Empire. With its clear explanations, insightful analysis, and inclusion of relevant maps and illustrations, this book serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the fascinating journey of ancient and medieval India.

2. CERTIFICATE PHYSICAL AND HUMAN GEOGRAPHY BY GOH CHENG LEONG

The book is considered very helpful by aspirants appearing for the preliminary examination of Civil Services and other prestigious competitive examinations that tests general knowledge, including knowledge of geography.

3. ANCIENT HISTORY OF INDIA BY SNEHIL TRIPATHI & SONALI BANSAL

4. a compendium of indian art and culture by s. baliyan, 5. internal security of india and disaster management by syed waquar raza, 6. environmental studies: from crisis to cure, by r. rajagopalan.

This book delves into the significant environmental challenges of our time, covering topics such as Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Institutions and Policies addressing environmental pollution.

7. QUESTION BANK ON ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY BY VINAY G.B

Question Bank on Environment and Ecology is a simple one-read solution that judiciously covers one of the most important areas of the UPSC Prelims syllabus along with providing all the latest topics and happenings around the globe.

8. QUESTION BANK ON INDIAN ECONOMY, 2E BY VINAY KUMAR G.B

Question Bank on Indian Economy is a compendium of practice questions designed to enable the aspirants of the UPSC examinations to crack the tricky MCQs of the real exam.

9. INDIAN FOREIGN POLICY BY SUMIT GANGULY

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WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE

Following are the topics on which our followers have written (and writing essays) every Sunday to hone their essay writing skills. The topics are chosen based on UPSC previous year topics. Writing one essay on each Sunday will help you get better marks in this paper.

ESSAY STRATEGY by Topper – Rank 1 CSE 2017

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WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2024

  • March 3, 2024 : Sometimes when you lose your way you find yourself
  • February 25, 2024 : Who Looks Inside Awakes, Who Looks Outside Dream
  • February 18, 2024 : Never Let School Interfere With Your Education
  • February 11, 2024 : Whoever Controls the Media Controls the Mind
  • February 04, 2024 : A certain darkness is needed to see the stars
  • January 28, 2024 : Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it
  • January 21, 2024 : Subtle Is powerful
  • January 14, 2024 : The power of community to create health is far greater than any physician, clinic or hospital. 
  • January  07, 2024 : Give them Quality. That’s The Best Kind of Advertising

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2023

  • December 31, 2023 : The only antidote to mental suffering is physical pain
  • December 24, 2023 : All Great Changes Are Preceded By Chaos
  • December 17, 2023 : We are drowning in information, but starved for Knowledge
  • December 10, 2023 : Violence Is the last resort of the incompetent
  • December 03, 2023 : Be a Voice, Not an Echo
  • November 26, 2023 : A Society that has more justice is the society that needs less charity
  • November 19, 2023 : Sell Your Cleverness and Buy Bewilderment
  • November 12, 2023 : love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within
  • November 5, 2023 : Clothes Make The Man
  • October 29, 2023 : Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
  • October 22, 2023 : Mathematics is the music of reason
  • October 15, 2023 : Girls are weighed down by restrictions, boys with demands – two equally harmful disciplines
  • October 08, 2023 : Inspiration for creativity springs from the effort to look for the magical in the mundane.
  • October 01, 2023 : Not All Who Wander Are Lost
  • September 24, 2023 : Visionary Decision-Making happens at the intersection of intuition and logic
  • September 17, 2023 : Thinking Is Like A game. It does not begin unless there is an opposition team.
  • September 10, 2023 : Unless we have well-educated people, we are vulnerable on National Security
  • September 03, 2023 : Harsh Laws are, at times, better than No laws
  • August 27, 2023 : Nations Do Not Die From Invasion. They Die From Internal Rottenness
  • August 20, 2023 : In Individuals, insanity is rare; In groups, parties and nations, it is the rule.
  • August 13, 2023 : Economics Is Too Important To Leave To The Economists.
  • August 06, 2023 : A self without a book-shelf is naked.
  • July 30, 2023 : Wrong Choices Lead To Right Places
  • July 23, 2023 : Credit where credit is due.
  • July 16, 2023 : A right is not what someone gives you; it’s what no one can take away from you.
  • July 9, 2023 : The measure of intelligence is the ability to change
  • July 2, 2023 : Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. 
  • June 25, 2023 : In the long run , the sword will always be conquered by the spirit
  • June 18, 2023 : The company you keep determines your Success
  • June 11, 2023 : A disciplined mind brings happiness.
  • June 4, 2023 : Our moral responsibility is not to stop the future but to shape it
  • May 28, 2023 : Action breeds confidence and courage
  • May 21, 2023 : A library is a hospital for the mind
  • May 14, 2023 : Self-Education is Life-Long Curiosity
  • May 7, 2023 : Silence is Spurious Golden
  • April 30, 2023 : The price of greatness is responsibility
  • April 23, 2023 : Progress is impossible without change
  • April 16, 2023 : The Impact of Artificial Intelligence.
  • April 9, 2023 : People would rather believe than know.
  • April  2, 2023 : Prioritizing education technology for global growth
  • March 26, 2023 : Technology is a weapon against poverty
  • March 19, 2023 : Every choice you make makes you
  • March 12, 2023 : Patience is a virture ; virtue is a grace
  • March 5, 2023 : Before any fight, it is the fight of mind
  • February 26, 2023 :  The Measure of a man is what he does with Power.
  • February 19, 2023 : When you kill time, you kill life.
  • February 12, 2023 : Delayed success mostly stays forever.
  • February 05, 2023 : The wound is the place where the Light enters you.
  • January 29, 2023 : Doubt is an uncomfortable condition, but certainty is a ridiculous one.
  • January 22, 2023 : I am what I am, so take me as I am
  • January 15, 2023 : Real learning comes about when the competitive spirit has ceased
  • January 08, 2023 : Time hurts but it also heals. It punishes but it rewards too- it is the greatest teacher ever for a human.
  • January 01, 2023 : The Beginning is the End and the End is The Beginning.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2022

  • December 25, 2022 : To tolerate is purely an act of mind
  • December 18, 2022 : The arc of moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice
  • December 11, 2022 : Religion is a culture of faith; Science is a culture of doubt.
  • December 04, 2022 : My best friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read
  • November 27, 2022 : Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits
  • November 20, 2022 : We are always blind as we want to be
  • November 13, 2022  : By your stumbling, the world is perfected.
  • November 6, 2022 : You cannot step twice in the same river
  • October 30, 2022 : Just because you have a choice, it does not mean that any of them has to be right.
  • October 23, 2022 : A smile is the chosen vehicle for all ambiguities
  • October 16, 2022 : The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
  • October 9, 2022 : A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ship is for
  • October 2, 2022 : History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man
  • September 25, 2022 : Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world
  • September 18, 2022 : Forests are the best case studies for economic excellence
  • September 11, 2022 : Culture changes with economic development.
  • September 4 2022 : We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.
  • August 28 2022 :  The obstacle is the path.
  • August 21 2022 : What is to give light must endure burning.
  • August 14 2022 : “He who has never learned to obey cannot be a good commander.” Aristotle.
  • August 7 2022 : Any fool can know. The point is to understand.” Albert Einstein
  • July 31, 2022 : A bad conscience is easier to cope with than a bad reputation. Friedrich Nietzsche.
  • July 24, 2022 : Time is all we have and don’t
  • July 17, 2022 : Life fritters away when distractions become your lifestyle
  • July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn July 10, 2022 : After every darkness comes the dawn
  • July 3, 2022 : Mind – a beautiful servant? Or a dangerous master?
  • June 26, 2022 : Education Breeds Peace
  • June 19, 2022 : A great leader is never angry
  • June 12, 2022 : That which hurts, instructs; That which instructs, creates; Creates Wonders!
  • June 05, 2022 : Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do
  • May 29, 2022 : The journey is a reward as well as destination
  • May 22, 2022 : Imagination creates reality
  • May 15, 2022 : The curious paradox is, only if we accept things as they are, things can change
  • May 08, 2022:  The whole problem with the world is that fools and fanatics are so certain of themselves, while wiser people are so full of doubts
  • May 01, 2022:  Loyalty To Country Always. Loyalty To Government Only When It Deserves
  • April 24, 2022: Successful Investing Is Anticipating The Anticipations of Others
  • April 17, 2022: Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear
  • April 10, 2022 : Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn
  • April 03, 2022 : Forgiveness is the final form of love
  • March 27, 2022 : The world of reality has its limits; the world of imagination is boundless
  • March 20, 2022 : Reason has always existed, but not always in a reasonable form.
  • March 13, 2022 : Everything we hear is an opinion; not a fact
  • March 5, 2022 : There are better practices to “best practices”
  • February 27, 2022 : History repeats itself first as a tragedy second as a farce.
  • February 20, 2022 : What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!
  • February 13, 2022 : Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world
  • February 6, 2022 : The real is rational and the rational is real.
  • January 30, 2022 : Philosophy of Wantlessness Is Utopian, while the philosophy of materialism is chimera.
  • January 23, 2022 : Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.
  • January 16, 2022 : The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.
  • January 09, 2022 : Knowing oneself is the beginning of all wisdom
  • January 02, 2022 : Biased Media Is A Real Threat To Indian Democracy

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2021

  • December 26, 2021 : What Gets Measured Gets Managed
  • December 19, 2021 : The enemy of stability is complacency
  • December 12, 2021 : A clear conscience fears no accusation
  • December 05, 2021 : Power of vested interests is vastly exaggerated compared with the gradual encroachment of ideas
  • November 28, 2021 : The whole is more than a sum of its parts
  • November 21, 2021 : Scientific and technological progress cannot be equated with the progress of humanity
  • November 14, 2021 : The price of our vitality is the sum of all our fears
  • November 7, 2021 : Lawlessness is the result of failure to cultivate a sense of self-evaluation
  • October 30, 2021 : What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make
  • October 24, 2021 : Science for the economic freedom of humanity
  • October 17, 2021 : An interdependent world cannot be an inequitable world
  • October 03, 2021 : Strength comes from an indomitable Will
  • SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 : Ethnocracy and concentration of power can derail even an affluent nation
  • SEPTEMBER 19, 2021 : Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.
  • SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 : Culture of entitlement comes with unreasonable expectations and insecurities 
  • SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 : Literacy is a vital skill that enhances dignity, improves health outcomes, empowers people to access their rights and bolsters opportunities
  • AUGUST 29, 2021 : A parliamentary system of government rests on a functioning opposition as ‘no democracy can do without it’.
  • AUGUST 22, 2021 : Development must lead to dismantle all kinds of human unfreedom
  • AUGUST 15, 2021 : Sport is a reflection of larger social phenomena
  • AUGUST 8, 2021 : Every social stratum has its own Common Sense and its own good sense
  • AUGUST 1, 2021 : Capitalism without competition is not Capitalism. It is Exploitation.
  • JULY 25, 2021 : We don’t have to sacrifice a Strong Economy for a Healthy Environment
  • JULY 18,2021 : We Need not a social conscience, but a social consciousness.
  • JULY 11, 2021 : The cure for evils of democracy is more democracy.
  • JULY 04, 2021 : No Constitution by itself achieves perfect justice
  • JUNE 27, 2021 : Our world has achieved brilliance without conscience.
  • JUNE 20, 2021 : Our common humanity demands that we make the impossible possible.
  • JUNE 13, 2021 : Without courage we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.
  • JUNE 06, 2021 : The political problem of mankind is to combine three things: economic efficiency, social justice and individual liberty.
  • MAY 30, 2021 : Economics without ethics is a caricature & ethics without economics is a fairy tale.
  • MAY 23 , 2021 : Indecisiveness is the rival of Progression
  • MAY 16 , 2021 : Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change.
  • May 09, 2021 : The possession of arbitrary power has always, the world over, tended irresistibly to destroy humane sensibility, magnanimity, and truth
  • May 02, 2021 : The truth of character is expressed through choice of act ions
  • April 25, 2021 : It is not our differences that divide us; It is our inability to recognise, accept, and celebrate those differences.
  • April 18, 2021 : Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
  • April 11, 2021 : Solutions emerge if situations are not forced
  • April 04, 2021 : Morality is subservient to materialistic values in present times
  • March 28, 2021 : Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible
  • March 21, 2021 : Our major social problems are not the cause of our decadence but are a reflection of it
  • March 14, 2021 : The Future of Multilateralism : Towards a responsible Globalization
  • March 07, 2021 : Subtlety may deceive you; Integrity never will
  • February 28, 2021 :Technology as the silent factor in international relations
  • February 21, 2021 :Patriarchy is the least noticed yet the most significant structure of social inequality
  • February 14, 2021:There can be no social justice without economic prosperity but economic prosperity without social justice is meaningless
  • February 07, 2021: Culture is what we are civilization is what we have
  • January 31, 2021: Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication
  • January 24, 2021: Ships do not sink because of water around them , ships sink because of water that gets into them
  • January 17, 2021: Mindful manifesto is the catalyst to a tranquil self
  • January 10, 2021: Life is long journey between human being and being humane
  • January 03, 2021: The Covid pandemic has revealed the urgent need for effective governance everywhere”
  • December 27, 2020: Challenges of 21st Century – insurmountable?
  • December 20, 2020: Too much Democracy is Detrimental to Development
  • December 13, 2020: Happiness is not an ideal of reason, but of imagination.

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2020

  • December 06, 2020 : As you Start to walk on the way, the Way appears
  • November 29, 2020: Need of the Hour is to Maximise Possibilities of Agriculture in India
  • November 22, 2020: The survival of democracy depends on its ability to lower social uncertainty
  • November 15, 2020: There is no greatness where there is no simplicity
  • November 08, 2020: Inequality can be Reduced by the Power of the Market rather than the Government
  • November 01, 2020: Civil liberties are fundamental to the functioning of modern democracies
  • October 25, 2020: Artificial Intelligence is Not All Evil – It can Promote Social Good Too
  • October 18, 2020: Wherever law ends, tyranny begins
  • October 11, 2020:Hyper-globalism is threat to human prosperity
  • September 27, 2020: Our World is in a Surplus of Multilateral Challenges and a Deficit of Solutions
  • September 20, 2020: In India Agriculture and the Farmer are both the Victims of Narrow Political Vision
  • September 13, 2020: India Needs Aggressive and Pragmatic Neighbourhood Policy
  • September 6, 2020: “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his  attitude .
  • August 30, 2020: The worst form of inequality is to try to make unequal things equal
  • August 23, 2020: Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.
  • August 16, 2020: Life without liberty is like a body without spirit.
  • August 09, 2020: Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value
  • August 02, 2020: New Education Policy 2020: A Progressive Policy with Diverse Challenges
  • July 26, 2020: In a democracy, the individual enjoys not only the ultimate power but carries the ultimate responsibility
  • July 19, 2020: Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance
  • July 12, 2020: The human spirit must prevail over technology
  • July 05, 2020: When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.
  • June 28, 2020: Today India Needs ‘Harmony in Diversity’, Not Unity in Diversity.
  • June 21, 2020: A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.
  • June 14, 2020: Post Independence, the Issue of Land is at the Core of India’s Non-Achievement of Its Development Aspirations
  • June 7, 2020: Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste
  • May 31, 2020: Despite Challenges, To be a Healthy and Successful Nation, India must Ensure Universal Health Coverage 
  • May 24, 2020: Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.
  • May 17, 2020:The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little
  • May 10, 2020: Urban Exclusion of Migrant Workers in India is a Reality and Needs Urgent Robust Policy Measures
  • May 03, 2020: Uncertainty should ignite creativity, not depravity
  • April 26, 2020: The fool doth think he is wise but the wise man knows himself to be a fool
  • April 19, 2020: Social Harmony, not Social Distancing, is the final solution to all our problems
  • April 12, 2020: It is our choices, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities
  • April 05, 2020: Education must also train one for quick, resolute and effective thinking
  • March 29, 2020: “Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them”
  • March 22, 2020: In order to understand the world one has to turn away from it on occasion
  • March 15, 2020: Pandemics such as COVID-19, though Catastrophic, are in the end Meant to Reset Humanity and its Priorities
  • March 08, 2020: Those who have wisdom have all: Fools with all have nothing
  • March 01, 2020: Indifferentism is the worst kind of disease that can affect people.
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  • February 23, 2020: To ease another’s heartache is to forget one’s own.
  • February 16, 2020 : When civil services does its job, people will not need social service
  • February 09, 2020 : The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.
  • February 02, 2020: Ability will get you success, Character will keep you successful.
  • January 26, 2020: Media’s duty is to inform public, not manufacture opinion.
  • January 19, 2020: Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes
  • January 12, 2020 : Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition
  • J anuary 5, 2020 : All war is a symptom of man’s failure as a thinking animal
  • December 29, 2019 : There cannot be daily democracy without daily citizenship
  • December 22, 2019: War is the ultimate Price we pay for lasting Peace
  • December 15, 2019 : Inclusivity and Plurality are the hallmarks of a peaceful society
  • December 08, 2019: Justice Loses Character if it becomes Revenge
  • December 01. 2019: Economic Growth and Development are Shaped by the Societies in which they Operate
  • November 24, 2019: Social Media is the Fourth Pillar of Democracy
  • November 17, 2019: Media is No More a Fourth Pillar of Democracy
  • November 10, 2019: Rise of Artificial Intelligence: the threat of jobless future or better job opportunities through reskilling and upskilling
  • November 03, 2019:Biased media is a real threat to Indian democracy
  • October 27, 2019: Neglect of primary health care and education in India are reasons for its backwardness
  • October 20, 2019: South Asian societies are woven not around the state, but around their plural cultures and plural identities
  • October 13, 2019: Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success
  • October 06, 2019: Best for an individual is not necessarily best for the society
  • September 29, 2019: Values are not what humanity is, but what humanity ought to be
  • September 22, 2019: Wisdom finds truth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2019

  • September 15, 2019: Kashmir Problem – Historical Injustice or Misguided Geopolitics?
  • September 08, 2019: India’s Space Ambitions – Are they Welfarist?
  • September 01, 2019: India – $5 Trillion Economy: Dream or Reality?
  • August 25, 2019 Knowledge will give you power, but character respect.
  • August 18, 2019 The mind is everything. What you think you become.
  • August 11, 2019: Virtue is Knowledge
  • August 04, 2019: Inclusive governance begets Inclusive growth
  • July 28, 2019: India’s headache: Unemployment or Underemployment?
  • July 21, 2019: The road to science and spirituality are opposite, but we should tread both
  • July 14, 2019: India is a leading power, rather than just a balancing power
  • July 07, 2019: Should the world embrace democratic socialism or progressive capitalism?
  • June 30, 2019: Impact of Digital Revolution on Human Wellbeing
  • June 23, 20 19: Contentment is natural wealth, luxury is artificial poverty
  • June 16, 2019: The definition of happiness is the full use of your powers, along the lines of excellence.
  • June 09, 2019: Not Corruption, Communalism is the Greatest Threat India is facing Today
  • May 19, 2019: First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.
  • May 12, 2019: Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake
  • May 05, 2019: Happiness equals reality minus expectations
  • April 28, 2019: Political correctness is tyranny with manners
  • April 21, 2019: The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
  • April 07, 2019: Dogma is the sacrifice of wisdom to consistency
  • March 31, 2019: The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.
  • March 24, 2019: Terrorism has No Religion
  • March 17, 2019: Money and Religion – Great Unifiers of Humankind?
  • March 10, 2019: Tradition becomes our security, and when the mind is secure it is in decay
  • March 03, 2019: Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower
  • February 24,2019: Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens
  • February 17, 2019: Problems worthy of attack prove their worth by fighting back
  • February 10, 2019: Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.
  • February 03, 2019: You can avoid reality, but you cannot avoid the consequences of avoiding reality
  • January 27, 2019: Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
  • January 20, 2019: All that we are is the result of what we have thought.
  • January 12, 2019: All differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the secret of everything.
  • January 06, 2019: National security is Irreversibly linked to good economic growth

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2018

  • December 28, 2018: To plan for smart development, governments and business must recognize nature’s role in supporting economic activity
  • December 23, 2018: Government Surveillance – Good or Bad?
  • December 16, 2018: Trade Wars – Economic or Geopolitical?
  • December 02, 2018: Immigration is Not a Threat, but Fundamentally it’s an Economic Issue
  • November 25, 2018: A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both
  • November 18, 2018: “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values
  • November 11, 2018: A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge
  • November 04, 2018: Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task
  • October 28, 2018: Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India
  • October 21, 2018: Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere
  • October 14, 2018: Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it
  • October 07, 2018: Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life
  • September 30, 2018: Commercialization of Space : Importance and the need for regulation
  • September 23, 2018: E-commerce as a new form of trade and its challenges to India.
  • September 16, 2018: Ability is nothing without opportunity
  • September 09, 2018: Death Penalty eliminates Criminals, not Crime.
  • September 02, 2018: Dissent is the foundation of democracy.
  • August 26, 2018: Mars Mission and Mob lynchings are two obverse faces of India
  • August 19, 2018: Strengthening Land Rights Strengthens Development
  • August 12, 2018: Age of Big Data: Data is the New Oil, History is its oldest bank
  • August 05, 2018: Strong Institutions and fair procedures, not personalities constitute the fundamentals of good governance
  • July 29, 2018: Social reform is a myth if places of worship are open only to all castes and not to all genders.
  • July 22, 2018: Section 377, not the carnal acts banned under it is ‘against the order of nature ‘
  • July 15, 2018: Schooling Is Not Education
  • July 08, 2018: Sometimes it takes a natural disaster to reveal a social disaster.
  • July 01, 2018: Normal human activity is worse for nature than the greatest nuclear accident in history
  • June 24, 2018: Gender Sensitive Indian Society is Prerequisite for Women and Child Empowerment
  • June 17, 2018: Where Should India Invest More – Human Capital or Human Development?
  • June 10, 2018: Has Democracy Taken Backseat Due to the Rise of Populists and Demagogues?
  • June 03, 2018: We won’t have a society ,if we destroy the environment
  • May 27, 2018: Can Development and Environment Protection Go Together?
  • May 20, 2018: Governor is the Choke Point of Federal Circuit of India
  • May 13, 2018: Anonymity is the Best and the Worst Feature of Urbanism
  • May 06, 2018: A man is but the product of his thoughts; what he thinks, he becomes
  • April 29, 2018: Guaranteeing Right to Vote may Establish a Democracy, But Ensuring it’s Right Use Only Will Bring a True Democracy
  • April 22, 2018: Stereotyping is an Ideological Force Which Hinders and Endangers Consolidation of India
  • April 15, 2018: Can Education and legislation Address Violence Against Women and Children in India?
  • April 8, 2018: Banking Crisis in India – Failure of Governance and Regulation?
  • April 1, 2018: Privacy is the fountainhead of all other rights
  • March 25, 2018: Impact of Technology on Human Relations and Human Productivity
  • March 18, 2018: India’s Focus should be on Ease of Living, not on Easy of Doing Business
  • March 11, 2018: A friend to everybody is a friend to nobody
  • March 04, 2018: Capitalism can not Bring Inclusive Growth
  • February 25, 2018: The unprecedented advance of technologies facilitate individual empowerment but at the cost of Institutions and Democratic societies
  • February 18, 2018: Threats being Faced by Liberal Democratic Systems are both Dangerous and Permanent
  • February 11, 2018: For India, Stigmatised Capitalism is Better than Crony Socialism
  • February 04, 2018: Art, freedom and creativity will change society faster than politics.
  • January 28, 2018: Politics of Identity is the Politics of the Weak
  • January 21, 2018: Poverty is the parent of revolution and crime
  • January 14, 2018: Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding
  • January 07, 2018: The Root Cause of Agrarian Distress in India – Failure of Policies or Failure of Governance?

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2017

  • December 31, 2017: Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India
  • December 24, 2017: Fulfilment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth
  • December 17, 2017: Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
  • December 10, 2017: Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for majority of farmers in India
  • December 03, 2017: Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms
  • November 19, 2017: Has the Non- Alignment Movement(NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world
  • November 12, 2017: Social media is inherently a selfish medium.
  • November 04, 2017: We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws
  • October 29, 2017: Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.
  • October 22, 2017: Harith Diwali, Swasth Diwali : What measures are needed to deal with Festivity and Air Pollution?
  • October 15, 2017: Biggest Threat to Humanity – Moral Crisis or Climate Change?
  • October 08, 2017: The monsoon is a defining aspect of India’s nationhood
  • October 01, 2017: India’s Infrastructure Story – Why is India not able to Build like China?
  • September 24, 2017: Impact of Digital Technologies on Globalisation
  • September 17, 2017: Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management in India – Challenges and Opportunities
  • September 10,2017: Gender Equality and Peace: Are They Connected?
  • September 03, 2017: Recent Natural Disasters – What do they Reveal about Humanity?
  • August 27, 2017: Godmen – A Threat to Indian Society and Culture
  • August 20, 2017: Corruption in India: Neither Systemic Reforms nor Surgical Strikes would End it
  • August 13,2017: Interrelationship between Gender Equality and Sustainable Development
  • August 06, 2017: Utility and relevance of Parliament in our polity
  • July 30, 2017: Caste System – Source of India’s Eternal Inequality?
  • July 23, 2017: Indian Democracy, Media and Public Opinion – Does Public Opinion Matter in Policymaking?
  • July 16, 2017: Poverty and Environment – Their Interrelationship is the Key to Sustainable World
  • July 09, 2017: Soft Power is India’s Strength, not its Weakness
  • July 02, 2017: Technology and Jobs – Is Technology a Curse?
  • June 25, 2017: Democracy’s Relevance in the Face of New Global Threats
  • June 18, 2017: Federalism in India – Competitive or Cooperative?
  • June 11, 2017: Peace, Environment and Development: Are these Interrelated?
  • June 04, 2017: Role of Technology in Development – Is Technology Helping or Hindering Development?
  • May 28, 2017: Poverty is a State of Mind
  • May 21, 2017: Does India Need Superpower Status?
  • May 14, 2017: India’s Achilles Heel – Lack of Ambition or Lack of Leadership in Achieving Greatness?
  • May 07, 2017: Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.
  • April 29, 2017: The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the foundation of morals and legislation
  • April 23, 2017: To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom
  • April 16, 2017: One-Party-Dominant System – Is it Good for India?
  • April 09, 2017: Should Youth in India Consider Politics as Career?
  • April 02, 2017: Can World Save Succeeding Generations from the Scourge of War?
  • March 26, 2017: Low, stagnating female labour-force participation in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms?
  • March 19, 2017: When a man is denied the right to live the life he believes in, he has no choice but to become an outlaw
  • March 12, 2017: The marks humans leave are too often scars
  • March 05, 2017: Environmental Challenges and Geopolitics: How to save our Environment?
  • February 27, 2017: Radical Solutions are Needed to Address Today’s Radical Problems
  • February 19, 2017: India’s Importance in the Post-truth World
  • February 12, 2017: The Role of Politics in Development
  • February 05, 2017: Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored
  • January 29, 2017: Building Walls and Banning Refugees – Does this Help Humanity?
  • January 22, 2017: Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality
  • January 15, 2017: Cyberspace and internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run
  • January 08, 2017: Water disputes between states in federal India
  • January 01, 2017: Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed

WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGES – 2016

  • (December 25, 2016) – Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality
  • (December 18, 2016) – Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare
  • (December 11, 2016) – Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms
  • (December 04, 2016) – If development is not engendered, it is endangered
  • (November 27, 2016) – Social media is better at breaking things than at making things
  • (November 20, 2016) – Deglobalization is good for the world
  • (November 12, 2016) – Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others
  • (November 06, 2016) – It is not inequality which is the real misfortune, it is dependence
  • (October 30, 2016) – Reducing Poverty while also Conserving Nature is an Impossible Task
  • (October 23, 2016) – Poverty can be eliminated by putting science at the heart of development
  • (October 16, 2016) – People shouldn’t be afraid of their government. Governments should be afraid of their people
  • (October 09, 2016) – Better Access is Key to Inclusive Cities
  • (October 02, 2016) – The weaker sections of Indian society – Are their Rights and Access to Justice Getting Better?
  • (September 25, 2016) – Imagination is more important than intelligence
  • (September 18, 2016) – Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life
  • (September 11, 2016) – Not what we have But what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance
  • (September 04, 2016) – It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it
  • (August 28, 2016) – If one can Address Moral Crisis, many of World’s Problems can be Solved
  • (August 21, 2016) – Overdependence on Technology will Advance Human Development
  • (August 14, 2016) – Geography may remain the same ; history need not
  • (August 07, 2016) – Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom
  • (July 31, 2016) – To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all
  • (July 24, 2016) – True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing
  • (July 17, 2016) – We Can Not Fight Terrorism – We have to Live With it
  • (July 10, 2016) – A house divided against itself cannot stand
  • (July 02, 2016) – When the going gets tough, the tough get going
  • (June 26, 2016) – India a Reluctant Participant in the New Global Order?
  • (June 19, 2016) – Inclusiveness in India – Still a Dream?
  • (June 12, 2016) – No one can make you feel inferior without your consent
  • (June 05, 2016) – Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted
  • (May 29, 2016) – It is hard to free fools from the chains they revere
  • (May 22, 2016) – Honest disagreement is often a good sign of progress
  • (May 15, 2016) – Fire is a good servant but a bad master
  • (May 08, 2016) – The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence
  • (May 01, 2016) – Labour Reforms in India and its Role in Economic Development
  • (April 24, 2016) – It takes a whole village to raise a child
  • (April 17, 2016) – Trust take years to Build, Seconds to Break
  • (April 10, 2016) – Cleanliness is next to Godliness
  • (April 03, 2016) – Honesty is the Best Policy
  • (March 27, 2016) – Before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes
  • (March 20, 2016) – Caste System – India’s Enduring Curse
  • (March 13, 2016) – Fortune favors the bold
  • (March 06, 2016) – Quick but steady wins the race
  • (February 28, 2016) – Dreams which should not let India sleep
  • (February 21, 2016) – Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole
  • (February 14, 2016) – Technology cannot replace manpower
  • (February 7, 2016) – Character of an institution is reflected in its leader
  • (January 31, 2016) – Can Capitalism bring Inclusive Growth?
  • (January 24, 2016) – Crisis Faced in India – Moral or Economic?
  • (January 17, 2016) – Too many cooks spoil the broth
  • (January 10, 2016) – The Best Things in Life are Free
  • (January 3, 2016) – Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

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Essay Paper UPSC 2021 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

Last updated on January 8, 2022 by Alex Andrews George

Essay Paper UPSC 2021 (Mains)

UPSC conducted the  Essay Paper , as part of the Civil Services Main Exam 2021 on 07-01-2022.

There were 8 Essay topics, out of which candidates were asked to write on two topics in 3 hours.

Candidates were supposed to answer about 1000 words for each essay (about 10-12 pages).

Table of Contents

Essay Paper UPSC 2021 Instructions

  • Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
  • The essay must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
  • No marks will be given for answers written in the medium other than the authorized one.
  • Word limit, as specified, should be adhered to.
  • Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.

Essay Question Paper – UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2021

Write  two  essays, choosing  one  topic from each of the following Sections A and B, in about 1000-1200 words each:

1. The process of self-discovery has now been technologically outsourced.

2. Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

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3. Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

4. The real is rational and the rational is real.

5. Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

6. What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

7. History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

8. There are better practices to “best practices”.

Most of the essays topics this year were philosophical and open to the interpretation of the candidates. However, considering the philosophical base of the questions, most candidates found the questions tricky. It was not easy to write 1000 words on each topic within the time constraints.

UPSC has ensured that the essay topics were much different from the GS questions.

A philosophical theme is clearly evident in most of the essay topics in Section A as well as Section B. This was the case in 2020 as well. However, this year it became much more prominent. It is a clue about what UPSC expects from the essay paper.

Rather than asking candidates to write on topics most aspirants are familiar or trained with, UPSC is now evaluating the essay writing skills of aspirants by providing them with abstract or philosophical topics.

The reason for such a shift in the pattern should be the change in the focus of the Commission.

All the 8 topics presented this year will test spontaneous thinking, comprehension, writing skills, and time-management of aspirants.

Repeated questions from previous years

The importance of the previous year UPSC questions cannot be stressed more.

Just like prelims, in mains too many questions came directly repeated from previous year question papers. Also, there were themes you often see in many essay books.

One such question was Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

Thinkers, Philosophers, and their Quotes

Let’s analyse the source of some of the question topics.

Your perception of me is a reflection of you; my reaction to you is an awareness of me.

This essay topic was a quote going rounds on the internet. The quote is attributed to “Coach Bobbi” [Bobbi Chegwyn] on Facebook.

Philosophy of wantlessness is Utopian, while materialism is a chimera.

This essay topic was connected with J.K. Mehta’s Theory of Wantlessness!

This has also connections with Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy.

The real is rational and the rational is real.

This is a quote by Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel .

As per Hegel, something can be real, yet it may not exist. Also, something may not be real, it may still exist. For Hegel, reality does not mean existence.

Among philosophers, Hegel is one whose thought is extremely difficult to understand. Often to understand Hegel’s thoughts, we need to grasp his ideas, not in isolation but together with his dialogue with other philosophers, in particular, Aristotle and Kant.

The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.

“The Hand That Rocks the Cradle Is the Hand That Rules the World” is a poem by William Ross Wallace that praises motherhood as the preeminent force for change in the world. The poem was first published in 1865 under the title “ What Rules the World “.

What is research, but a blind date with knowledge!

This is a quote by Will Harvey . Will Harvey (born 1967) is an American software developer and Silicon Valley entrepreneur.

History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.

It was Karl Marx who said that history repeats itself, first as tragedy, then as farce.

First, it’s a tragedy because it shouldn’t have happened. Then it’s a farce (joke) because we didn’t learn from our mistakes the first time around. This is Marx’s version of dark humour.

What should aspirants preparing for next year do for an essay paper?

First of all, you should take the essay paper seriously.

Unless properly trained, it is not easy to write 10-12 pages on an abstract or philosophical topic.

You need to polish your comprehension and analytical skills.

Read different kinds of essays – particularly philosophical essays.

Give stress to the thoughts of philosophers like Immanuel Kant, Thomas Aquinas, John Locke, Friedrich Niche, Karl Marx etc. Start writing essays on famous quotes.

Also, be prepared to write essays touching other areas like society, polity, economy, or technology. UPSC is known for surprises.

Remember that there is nothing like a constant trend with respect to UPSC questions.

What you get by analysing the previous year question papers are clues. And only those are what you need from UPSC questions!

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About Alex Andrews George

Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

He is the author of many best-seller books like 'Important Judgments that transformed India' and 'Important Acts that transformed India'.

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Reader Interactions

books to read for essay upsc

January 8, 2022 at 11:36 am

Upsc has chosen right path to evaluate person.one person read, listen ,rember and write in exam.He qualify exam.He is just like computer.worthy less people selected by upsc every year.They are not thinker.so our country is intellectually insolvent.civil services requires thinker to. progess country and welfare of common man.These types of question evaluate intellectual for the welfare of human being.

books to read for essay upsc

January 9, 2022 at 1:44 pm

You are putting the quality of a leader and a literate society in such a person who just has to follow his supremes.He/She must be a good analyst. That’s it!!!

books to read for essay upsc

June 13, 2022 at 12:41 pm

in the bureaucracy – there is no space for logical thinking.

once you clear the exams and get appointed – you have to follow the “protocol’ or “procedures” – its difficult to be analytical and innovative – bcos the system demands obedience and adherence to the protocol. If you follow the protocol – and even if lot of people are severely affected – you wont be taken to task. But if you are innovative – and even if ONE person gets affected – you will be punished.

books to read for essay upsc

January 8, 2022 at 4:02 pm

Yeah!I’ve passed upsc .

books to read for essay upsc

January 25, 2022 at 2:21 pm

I have written Essay on three topics..how may I share?

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10 Non-Fiction Books Every IAS Aspirant Should Read Beyond The Syllabus

10 Non-Fiction Books Every IAS Aspirant Should Read Beyond The Syllabus

It is no secret that the UPSC syllabus is vast like an ocean and you can’t get every drop of it. There is a lot of amazing non-fiction books that every IAS aspirant should read. This wouldn’t just give the insight into the deep understanding of things around you but also helps you in the preparation of UPSC syllabus.

Preparation of IAS exams is not an easy task and it is natural, that you may get boring sticking to the same books every day. So, for a change, it is a good idea that you should also read some non-fictional books apart from your syllabus to see things from a different perspective besides exams. We have some suggestions for you. Try reading them and giving your reviews about how you find these books in the comment section.

1) The Google Story

Google is the best and top search engine today. Whatever comes in your mind, you search on Google. The book is written by David Vise and Mark Malseed that take you the journey of the company from its foundation to fame. This book tells the readers to know about the real founders of Google, Google’s an inside culture which makes it different from other companies around the world, and all the relevant information about Google. It is written in the English language and published in 2005.

2) A Brief History of Time

One of the best seller book that takes you to travel the time while learning important concepts like Cosmology, Light Cones, Quantum Physics, Big Bang, and much more. The book is penned down by the great writer, Stephen Hawkins. The book also throws light on the power of ‘God’ and its limitations.

3) India After Gandhi - The History of the World's Largest Democracy

Ramchandra Guha beautifully describes the picture of India after Mahatama Gandhi. A few academic syllabi cover the topic of what happened to India post-independence but this is the book that answers all your questions. The book explains the economic, political, and religious conditions of India and the rise of the nation from the zero to zenith.  

4) A Short History of Nearly Everything

This is the book that explains the logic through science. The book by Bill Bryson educate the readers about the fundamentals of general science in an interesting way. This book also explains time through Big Bang theory and Quantum of Physics. What makes it engrossing to the readers is the story of the discoverers like Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton.

5) Losing my Virginity: The Autobiography

At the end of reading this book, you will for sure not afraid of committing mistakes. Richard Branson amazingly advocates committing mistakes because it gives you important lessons in life. According to Richard, If you want to get something fruitful from life, you should not afraid of taking chances and doing mistakes.

6) Memoirs and Musings of an IAS officer

This book tells you about the early story of IAS in India when the nation was struggling to find its identity as a developing country in the world. The author of the book, Shri K. V. Natarajan, who is the former Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh, portrays its journey and work in the state and transformation of Sikkim from the Himalayan Kingdom to an independent Indian State.

7) What Young India Wants

It is quite a popular book from Chetan Bhagat which is about growing India, its culture, and changes in the education system and the brief about the ideas of him that he wants to see in the country. It is worth reading as every young people in India can relate himself to the book.

8) I Do What I Do

The book is written by the scholar, and the former Governor of Reserve Bank of India, Mr. Raghuram G. Rajan. He describes the past, current, and prospective economy of India, the changes needed and how we can head towards the better and shining India.

9) The Great Indian Novel

Shashi Tharoor, an Indian politician and the author of the book has written this piece in a satirical way on the story of Mahabharat. The unique part of this novel is Shashi Tharoor recasts and resets the great Hindi epic in terms of Indian independence and the decades after independence.

10) As I See By Kiran Bedi

The first woman IPS of the country, Kiran Bedi, is writing about the issues of India, the inspirations, and the things that fascinate her about India. The book is writing in a straightforward style that makes the readers connect them with the book on a daily basis. The sole purpose of Kiran Bedi is to highlight the endless social and ethical issues in India hoping that the readers will bring some change that is needed for the betterment of the country.

books to read for essay upsc

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20 Non-Fiction Books for IAS Preparation

Goaltide IAS Quiz

The preparation of UPSC civil services is a journey in itself. The beauty of this journey is its scope. UPSC exam syllabus is such that you cannot read a list of standard IAS Preparation books and guides and say that the syllabus is covered. The UPSC preparation goes way beyond the reading of standard textbooks and guides.

Ias preparation books: 20 non-fiction books list.

  • 10 Judgments That Changed India by Zia Mody
  • Advice and Dissent: My Life in Public Service by Y.V. Reddy
  • Battles Half Won: India’s Improbable Democracy by Ashutosh Varshney
  • Everybody Loves a Good Drought by P. Sainath
  • Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
  • How India Sees the World: From Kautilya to Modi: Kautilya to the 21st Century written by Shyam Saran
  • In Spite Of The Gods: The Strange Rise of Modern India by Edward Luce
  • India After Gandhi: The History Of The World’s Largest Democracy by Ramachandra Guha
  • India Shastra: Reflections on the Nation in Our Time by Shashi Tharoor
  • India: Priorities for the Future by Bimal Jalan
  • Mistaken Modernity: India between Worlds by Dipankar Gupta
  • No Full Stops in India by Mark Tully
  • Pax Indica: India and the World of the 21st Century
  • Rebooting India: Realizing a Billion Aspirations by Nandan Nilekani
  • Sapiens : by Yuval Noah Harari “ Best in the list ”
  • The Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity by Amartya Sen
  • The Difficulty of Being Good: On the Subtle Art of Dharma by Gurcharan Das
  • The Sixth Extinction : An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert 2015 Pulitzer Prize Winner
  • The Wonder That Was India by A.L. Basham
  • Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity and Poverty by James A. Robinson Daron Acemoglu

Please note this IAS Preparation books list of non-fiction books is not an all exhaustive list. There are many other books which are as good as the ones given above. Hope this helps.

Happy Learning!

Prelims Test Series by Veda IAS

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3 thoughts on “20 Non-Fiction Books for IAS Preparation”

You are doing great job sir ……sir please provide shubhra ranjan mam’s coaching center quality enrichment notes of gs1 to gs4 in question answer format for 2018

A very good List.. Indeed.. Sapiens is the masterpiece. I have already read 6 books from above list. Going to read PAX INDICA by Shashi Tharoor…

Thanks for ur work.

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  • IAS Preparation
  • UPSC Preparation Strategy
  • Topic Wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains 1994 2018

Last 25 Years Topic-wise Essay Questions From UPSC Mains (1994 - 2018)

Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services mains exam is the Essay. Here, prelims-qualified IAS aspirants have to write two essays out of a few given topics. The paper is for a total of 250 marks and its marks are taken into consideration for the Final Merit List. In this article, we have listed all the essay topics asked in the UPSC mains exam from 1994 to 2018. We have also classified the last 25 years essay questions into topics to make your preparation easier.

Latest – See the UPSC Essay Topics in the IAS Mains 2020 Essay Paper. Download UPSC Mains 2020 Essay Paper from the linked article.

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UPSC Essay Topics

Administration.

  • Politics, bureaucracy and business – fatal triangle. (1994)
  • Politics without ethics is a disaster. (1995)
  • The VIP cult is a bane of Indian democracy. (1996)
  • Need for transparency in public administration. (1996)
  • The country’s need for a better disaster management system. (2000)
  • How should a civil servant conduct himself? (2003)

Democracy/India since independence

  • Whither Indian democracy? (1995)
  • What we have not learnt during fifty years of independence. (1997)
  • Why should we be proud of being Indians? (2000)
  • What have we gained from our democratic set-up? (2001)
  • How far has democracy in India delivered the goods? (2003)
  • National identity and patriotism. (2008)
  • In the context of Gandhiji’s views on the matter, explore, on an evolutionary scale, the terms ‘Swadhinata’, ‘Swaraj’ and ‘Dharmarajya’. Critically comment on their contemporary relevance to Indian democracy. (2012)
  • Is the colonial mentality hindering India’s success? (2013)
  • Dreams which should not let India sleep. (2015)
  • Management of Indian border disputes – a complex task. (2018)

Economic growth and development

  • Resource management in the Indian context. (1999)
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product) along with GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness) would be the right indices for judging the wellbeing of a country. (2013)
  • Was it the policy paralysis or the paralysis of implementation which slowed the growth of our country? (2014)
  • Crisis faced in India – moral or economic. (2015)
  • Near jobless growth in India: An anomaly or an outcome of economic reforms. (2016)
  • Digital economy: A leveller or a source of economic inequality. (2016)
  • Innovation is the key determinant of economic growth and social welfare. (2016)
  • Impact of the new economic measures on fiscal ties between the union and states in India. (2017)

Federalism, Decentralisation

  • The language problem in India: its past, present and prospects. (1998)
  • Water resources should be under the control of the central government. (2004)
  • Evaluation of panchayati raj system in India from the point of view of eradication of power to people. (2007)
  • Is autonomy the best answer to combat balkanization? (2007)
  • Creation of smaller states and the consequent administrative, economic and developmental implication. (2011)
  • Cooperative federalism: Myth or reality. (2016)
  • Water disputes between States in federal India. (2016)

Indian Culture & Society

  • The Indian society at the crossroads. (1994)
  • New cults and godmen: a threat to traditional religion. (1996)
  • The composite culture of India. (1998)
  • Youth culture today. (1999)
  • Modernism and our traditional socio-ethical values. (2000)
  • Indian culture today: a myth or a reality? (2000)
  • As civilization advances culture declines. (2003)
  • From traditional Indian philanthropy to the gates-buffet model-a natural progression or a paradigm shift? (2010)
  • Judicial activism. (1997)
  • Judicial activism and Indian democracy. (2004)
  • Justice must reach the poor. (2005)

Social justice/Poverty

  • Reservation, politics and empowerment. (1999)
  • Food security for sustainable national development. (2005)
  • The focus of health care is increasingly getting skewed towards the ‘haves’ of our society. (2009)
  • Farming has lost the ability to be a source of subsistence for the majority of farmers in India. (2017)
  • Poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. (2018)

Media & Society

  • Misinterpretation and misuse of freedom in India. (1998)
  • Mass media and cultural invasion. (1999)
  • Responsibility of media in a democracy. (2002)
  • How has satellite television brought about cultural change in Indian mindsets? (2007)
  • Role of media in good governance. (2008)
  • Does Indian cinema shape our popular culture or merely reflect it? (2011)
  • Is sting operation an invasion on privacy? (2014)

Environment/Urbanisation

  • Urbanization is a blessing in disguise. (1997)
  • Protection of ecology and environment is essential for sustained economic development. (2006)
  • Urbanisation and its hazards. (2008)
  • Should a moratorium be imposed on all fresh mining in tribal areas of the country? (2010)
  • We may brave human laws but cannot resist natural laws. (2017)

Economic sectors/MNCs

  • Multinational corporations – saviours or saboteurs. (1994)
  • Globalization would finish small-scale industries in India. (2006)
  • BPO boom in India. (2007)
  • Special economic zone: boon or bane? (2008)
  • Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to a slow death? (2009)
  • Is the criticism that the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model for development is more of a bane than a boon in the Indian context, justified? (2012)
  • Tourism: Can this be the next big thing for India? (2014)
  • Restructuring of Indian education system. (1995)
  • Literacy is growing very fast, but there is no corresponding growth in education. (1996)
  • Irrelevance of the classroom. (2001)
  • Privatization of higher education in India. (2002)
  • Modern technological education and human values. (2002)
  • What is real education? (2005)
  • “Education for all” campaign in India: myth or reality. (2006)
  • Independent thinking should be encouraged right from the childhood. (2007)
  • Is an egalitarian society possible by educating the masses? (2008)
  • Credit – based higher education system – status, opportunities and challenges. (2011)
  • Is the growing level of competition good for the youth? (2014)
  • Are the standardized tests good measure of academic ability or progress? (2014)
  • Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man more clever devil. (2015)
  • Destiny of a nation is shaped in its classrooms. (2017)
  • The new emerging women power: the ground realities. (1995)
  • Greater political power alone will not improve women’s plight. (1997)
  • Woman is god’s best creation. (1998)
  • Women empowerment: challenges and prospects. (1999)
  • Empowerment alone cannot help our women. (2001)
  • Whither women’s emancipation? (2004)
  • If women ruled the world. (2005)
  • The hand that rocks the cradle. (2005)
  • Women’s reservation bill would usher in empowerment for women in India. (2006)
  • Managing work and home – is the Indian working woman getting a fair deal? (2012)
  • If development is not engendered, it is endangered. (2016)
  • Fulfillment of ‘new woman’ in India is a myth. (2017)

Quotes-based/Philosophy

  • Youth is a blunder, manhood a struggle, old age a regret. (1994)
  • Useless life is an early death. (1994)
  • Disinterested intellectual curiosity is the lifeblood of civilisation. (1995)
  • When money speaks, the truth is silent. (1995)
  • Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. (1995)
  • Truth is lived, not taught. (1996)
  • True religion cannot be misused. (1997)
  • Search for truth can only be a spiritual problem. (2002)
  • The paths of glory lead but to the grave. (2002)
  • If youth knew, if age could. (2002)
  • There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so. (2003)
  • Be the change you want to see in others. (2013)
  • With greater power comes greater responsibility. (2014)
  • Words are sharper than the two-edged sword. (2014)
  • Lending hands to someone is better than giving a dole. (2015)
  • “The past’ is a permanent dimension of human consciousness and values. (2018)
  • Reality does not conform to the ideal, but confirms it. (2018)
  • Attitude makes habit, habit makes character and character makes a man. (2007)
  • Discipline means success, anarchy means ruin. (2008)
  • Character of an institution is reflected in its leader. (2015)
  • Need brings greed, if greed increases it spoils breed. (2016)
  • Joy is the simplest form of gratitude. (2017)
  • A good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. (2018)
  • A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both. (2018)
  • Customary morality cannot be a guide to modern life. (2018)

Globalisation

  • Modernisation and westernisation are not identical concepts. (1994)
  • The world of the twenty-first century. (1998)
  • The implications of globalization for India. (2000)
  • My vision of an ideal world order. (2001)
  • The masks of new imperialism. (2003)
  • Globalizations and its impact on Indian culture. (2004)
  • ‘Globalization’ vs. ‘nationalism’. (2009)
  • Preparedness of our society for India’s global leadership role. (2010)

Science & Tech

  • The modern doctor and his patients. (1997)
  • Value-based science and education. (1999)
  • The march of science and the erosion of human values. (2001)
  • Spirituality and scientific temper. (2003)
  • The lure of space. (2004)
  • Science and Mysticism: Are they compatible? (2012)
  • Science and technology is the panacea for the growth and security of the nation. (2013)
  • Technology cannot replace manpower. (2015)
  • Alternative technologies for a climate change resilient India. (2018)

Internet/IT

  • The cyberworld: its charms and challenges. (2000)
  • Increasing computerization would lead to the creation of a dehumanized society. (2006)
  • Cyberspace and Internet: Blessing or curse to the human civilization in the long run. (2016)
  • Social media is inherently a selfish medium. (2017)

International organisations/relations

  • Restructuring of UNO reflect present realities. (1996)
  • India’s role in promoting ASEAN cooperation. (2004)
  • Importance of Indo-US nuclear agreement. (2006)
  • Has the Non- Alignment Movement (NAM) lost its relevance in a multipolar world. (2017)
  • Terrorism and world peace. (2005)
  • Are we a ‘soft’ state? (2009)
  • Good fences make good neighbours. (2009)
  • In the Indian context, both human intelligence and technical intelligence are crucial in combating terrorism. (2011)

Miscellaneous

  • India’s contribution to world wisdom. (1998)
  • The pursuit of excellence. (2001)
  • Geography may remain the same; history need not. (2010)
  • Fifty Golds in Olympics: Can this be a reality for India? (2014)
  • Quick but steady wins the race. (2015)

When preparing for IAS Mains, aspirants must focus on UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practise as this will improve one’s speed, efficiency and writing skills. It will automatically help in essay writing as well. 

Also, read:

Frequently Asked Questions on UPSC Essay Topics for UPSC Mains

Q 1. how can i write a good essay in upsc, q 2. does handwriting matter in upsc.

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15 Best Books for UPSC in India [March, 2024]

15 Best Books for UPSC in India [March, 2024]

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest and most prestigious exams in India. It is the exam one must crack to become an IAS, IPS or IFS officer. Preparing for this exam is an arduous journey that requires hard work, perseverance and most importantly, the right preparation strategy and resources. Amongst the most pivotal tools for UPSC prep are the books and study material that you choose.

With the right books, structuring your UPSC prep becomes easy. Your understanding of concepts deepens, practice questions help assess your knowledge, and previous years’ papers give insights on the rapidly changing exam trends and patterns. Choosing what books to study from can have a significant impact on your exam success.

In this blog, we bring to you an extensively researched list of the 15 best books for UPSC preparation recommended by toppers, experts and reputed coaching institutes. We have categorized the handpicked books basis their specific purpose like comprehensive prep guides, subject-wise texts, question banks, test series and more so that you can make informed choices as per your prep stage needs.

For each listed book, we have provided the key description, highlights, features and our detailed review analyzing its relevance, usefulness and differentiators so that you can determine if it will add value to your exam readiness. Additional tips on using UPSC prep books optimally further helps you derive maximum utility from these guides. Let’s get started!

/ IN THIS ARTICLE   [ hide ]

  • All About UPSC Civil Services Exam
  • NCERT Summary
  • Indian Economy for UPSC
  • NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12
  • The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations
  • Oxford Map Activity Book For UPSC and Other Exams
  • Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus For IAS Examination
  • UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024
  • 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers 1 & 2
  • UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book
  • World History for UPSC
  • Indian Art And Culture for UPSC
  • NCERT Notes Bhartiya Itihas Class 6-12
  • Arihant Magbook Indian History
  • Drishti IAS Nibandh 9th Edition

Comparison for Best Books for UPSC in India

How to choose the best upsc books, different types of upsc books, how to use upsc books in prep, frequently asked questions (faqs) about best books for upsc, guide on usage, maintenance and care, 1. all about upsc civil services exam a complete preparation for upsc civil services exam.

1. All About UPSC Civil Services Exam: A Complete Preparation for UPSC Civil Services Exam

Description

This book provides a comprehensive overview and preparation guide for the UPSC Civil Services Exam. It covers the entire exam format, syllabus, eligibility criteria, application process, previous year question papers, and expert strategies to crack the exam in the first attempt.

Key Features

  • Complete analysis of the latest exam pattern and syllabus
  • Tips and strategies by UPSC toppers and experts
  • Chapter-wise quizzes and mock tests for self-evaluation
  • Solved examples of questions asked in previous year papers
  • Insightful answers with explanations for prelims and mains exam

Our Expert Opinion

This is undoubtedly one of the best books available for UPSC exam preparation. The book simplifies the entire exam process and equips an aspirant with the right techniques and approaches to tackle this highly competitive exam effectively. From prelims to personality test, it covers every stage meticulously.

2. NCERT Summary (Class VI – XII) One Liner for UPSC/IAS Preparation, State Civil Services, Competitive Examinations

2. NCERT Summary (Class VI - XII) One Liner for UPSC/IAS Preparation, State Civil Services, Competitive Examinations

Price ₹255 ₹475

Amazon.in price: ₹ 255 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book provides one-liner notes and summaries of NCERT textbooks from Class 6th to 12th. The crisp pointers help in quick revision of the NCERT material for exams like UPSC Civil Services, State PCS, and other competitive exams where NCERT texts are important.

  • One-line summaries for quick grasp of concepts
  • Chapters arranged topic-wise for easy understanding
  • Additional inputs provided wherever relevant
  • Easy to memorize points facilitate quick revision
  • Light-weight book enables carrying it anywhere for reading

NCERT texts form the foundation for many competitive exams in India. This book is a must-have guide for students as the one-liners judiciously summarize the concepts for exam perspective. The notes are crisp yet cover all key takeaways from the textbooks. An excellent companion for Prelims and Mains.

3. Indian Economy for UPSC (English)| 15th Edition|Civil Services Exam|State Administrative Exams

3. Indian Economy for UPSC (English)| 15th Edition|Civil Services Exam|State Administrative Exams

Price ₹569 ₹775

Amazon.in price: ₹ 569 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book offers an in-depth analysis of the major topics in Indian Economy with special focus on their examination suitability for UPSC & State PSC exams. The 15th updated edition provides the latest data and recap of contemporary changes in economic policies and financial trends.

  • Exam-oriented presentation of macro & micro topics
  • Chapter-wise questions for practice
  • Coverage of Budget 2023-24 announcements
  • Past exam questions with authentic answers
  • Chapters summarised in tables, diagrams

For any competitive exam in India, a strong grasp of the Indian Economy is essential. This book stands out with its exam-centric approach, aligned perfectly for aspirants aiming for high scores. The latest financial data and policy changes equip students with contemporary knowledge. The authentic solutions provide insights into the examiner’s perspective. Highly recommended.

4. NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams

4. NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams

Price ₹170 ₹250

Amazon.in price: ₹ 170 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book contains detailed notes for Indian History as covered in NCERT textbooks of Class 6th to 12th (old and new editions). It simplifies the facts and events of history for easy understanding and retention.

  • Chapter-wise outlines of full NCERT history content
  • Summary notes for quick revision
  • Inherently exam-focused perspectives of events
  • Useful for both prelims and mains requirements
  • Covers latest updates from new NCERT editions

UPSC and other competitive exams will undoubtedly have a significant share of questions on ancient and medieval history of India. This book equips students with all historical facts precisely as intended for the exams. The exam-oriented outlook makes it easier for aspirants to prepare the history portion with higher efficiency.

5. The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations

5. The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations

Price ₹405 ₹450

Amazon.in price: ₹ 405 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book imparts techniques to craft model answers for the UPSC Main exam, adhering to demands of the examiner, word limits and latest trends of the exam. Answer writing for GS Papers I, II, III & IV included.

  • Edition updated with recent UPSC exam feedback
  • Expert guidelines as per latest syllabus
  • Tips for structuring, introducing and concluding answers
  • Insights on scoring high marks in answer writing
  • Dos and don’ts highlighted from real exam hall experiences

Mastering the technique to write impressively scored answers is what distinguishes an aspirant in clearing UPSC CSE exam. This book fills that crucial gap by elucidating the essentials of the answer writing skill set for subject papers, case studies and essays. Follows latest exam patterns and expectations. Highly recommended guide.

6. Oxford Map Activity Book For UPSC and Other Exams Includes Practice Exercises based on questions of competitive exams

6. Oxford Map Activity Book For UPSC and Other Exams | Includes Practice Exercises based on questions of competitive exams

Price ₹177 ₹250

Amazon.in price: ₹ 177 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This activity book contains detailed political and physical maps of India and the World along with map reading exercises derived from previous years’ questions from UPSC and other competitive exams.

  • Detailed India and World political maps
  • Thematic maps on physical geography
  • Map interpretation questions from past exam papers
  • Explanations and solutions to map questions

Map based questions form an integral part of General Studies papers in UPSC & other competitive exams. This activity book helps students master map reading skills and learn vital aspects of physical and political geography. With exam-like map questions and detailed explanations, it is an important self-assessment tool for exam readiness.

7. Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus For IAS Examination Prelims And Mains Exam Books | UPSC Exams Important Book [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti

7. Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus For IAS Examination | Prelims And Mains Exam Books | UPSC Exams Important Book [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti

Price ₹94.5 ₹140

Amazon.in price: ₹ 94.5 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book published by Drishti IAS covers the detailed syllabus and exam pattern for UPSC Civil Services Prelims and Mains examination in an easy to understand presentation.

  • Clearly structured Prelims and Mains syllabus
  • Insights on updated exam formats
  • Change analysis from previous years’ papers
  • Topic-wise preparation tips and strategies
  • Last minute revision guidance

For any competitive exam, the starting point is always to comprehend the syllabus, exam pattern and strategies accurately. This book does exactly that in a crisp and structured manner for both Prelims and Mains exams. The change analysis and tips equip students to orient their preparation accordingly. Vital read before planning preparation.

8. UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024 410 DAYS Full Detailed Topper TIMETABLE Month-wise, Day-wise and Subject-wise STRATEGY Important Tricks, Hacks and Cheatcodes (Mnemonics)

8. UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024 410 DAYS Full Detailed Topper TIMETABLE: Month-wise, Day-wise and Subject-wise STRATEGY Important Tricks, Hacks and Cheatcodes (Mnemonics)

This book provides a 410 days detailed preparation timetable for UPSC CSE 2024 Prelims and Mains exam as per latest pattern changes. Guidelines include daily schedules, subject-wise planning, shortcuts, tricks and memory tools for efficient implementation.

  • Structured daily, weekly and monthly timetables
  • Separate routine for weekdays and weekends
  • Topper preparation strategies with proven templates
  • Import tricks, hacks and mnemonics
  • Recommended books and online resources

For comprehensive and holistic planning, this UPSC book delivers an end-to-end strategy spanning daily schedules to specific techniques for subject-level mastery. The shared hacks and memory tools boost productivity multifold. Implementing its structured approach under guidance of mentors will definitely yield positive results. Worth investing!

9. 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers 1 & 2 (1995 – 2023) 14th Edition | General Studies & Aptitude (CSAT) PYQs Question Bank |

9. 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers 1 & 2 (1995 - 2023) 14th Edition | General Studies & Aptitude (CSAT) PYQs Question Bank |

Price ₹471 ₹790

Amazon.in price: ₹ 471 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

As the name suggests, this book compiles fully solved and detailed solutions to question papers of 29 Previous Years of UPSC Preliminary Exam held between 1995 to 2023, with in-depth analysis.

  • Fully solved GS Paper 1 & 2 (CSAT) 1995-2023 papers
  • Detailed explanations to all questions
  • Topic-wise analysis & subject-specific insights
  • Trends & priority analysis of previous year questions
  • Pointers to aid revision for 2024 exam

The relevance of practicing with previous years’ papers prior to UPSC CSE exam cannot be emphasized enough. This book provides fully solved papers of past 29 years along with deep insights into nature, trends and priority of UPSC questions. Thorough practice with these intricately explained PYQs will surely boost 2024 exam preparation to next level.

10. UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book All Previous Year Solved Papers, Video Lessons, Access to 7000+ Qs with Test Series & Detailed Notes | Civil Services IAS | General Studies & CSAT | Gyaniversity

10. UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book: All Previous Year Solved Papers, Video Lessons, Access to 7000+ Qs with Test Series & Detailed Notes | Civil Services IAS | General Studies & CSAT | Gyaniversity

Price ₹450 ₹750

Amazon.in price: ₹ 450 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This preparatory guide book from Gyaniversity provides all-inclusive study material and practice resources for assured success in UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2024 including solved papers, online test series, video lectures, detailed notes etc.

  • Fully solved previous years general studies & CSAT papers
  • Complete video lectures on entire UPSC syllabus
  • Topic-wise PDF notes for Prelims & Mains
  • MCQ database access with 7000+ questions
  • Sectional/Full-length mock tests for self-assessment

This UPSC book bundles the widest range of preparatory resources like solved papers, notes, videos and test series – all integrated in one place. Such comprehensive coverage of the entire syllabus and exam aspects makes it extremely convenient for students to succeed in this highly competitive exam in one attempt. Highly recommended.

11. World History for UPSC (English)|3rd Edition|Civil Services Exam| State Administrative Exams

11. World History for UPSC (English)|3rd Edition|Civil Services Exam| State Administrative Exams

Price ₹367 ₹500

Amazon.in price: ₹ 367 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book imparts world history from civilization perspectives relevant for UPSC Civil Services and other competitive exams. It covers key historical events chronologically, aligned to evolving global economic and political institutions.

  • Chronological analysis of civilizations – ancient to modern
  • Focus on socio-economic institutions and power centers
  • Exam-oriented snapshot of important historical events
  • Captures transitions in global world order over centuries
  • 3rd Edition updated with latest trends

For UPSC and State PSC exams, revising vast portions of world history within limited timeframes is hugely challenging. This book alleviates the pressure by contextualising events from exam suitability standpoint. The thematic representations of power dynamics make retention and correlation easier. Indeed one of the must-reads for exam preparation.

12. Indian Art And Culture for UPSC (English)| 5th Edition|Civil Services Exam| State Administrative Exams

12. Indian Art And Culture for UPSC (English)| 5th Edition|Civil Services Exam| State Administrative Exams

Price ₹669 ₹925

Amazon.in price: ₹ 669 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book provides exhaustive coverage of the rich Intangible Cultural Heritage of India with special emphasis on art forms, architecture, literature, religions and philosophical precepts for UPSC & State PSC exam requirements.

  • Comprehensive insights on India’s art, temples, monuments
  • Introduction to classical dances, music genres
  • Details of key religious and literary works
  • Updated as per latest UPSC-UPPSC exam trends
  • Chapter-wise objective questions for practice

The art, culture and architectural heritage of India has gained increased importance in competitive exams like UPSC-CSE over recent years. This book stands out for its well-researched content which is structurally oriented for exam suitability, especially Prelims and Mains. The latest edition has captured UPSC’s emerging focus in this subject area.

13. NCERT Notes Bhartiya Itihas Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams

13. NCERT Notes Bhartiya Itihas Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams

Price ₹159 ₹225

Amazon.in price: ₹ 159 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This book contains chapter-wise detailed notes of NCERT textbooks in Ancient and Medieval history as prescribed for classes 6-12 (old and new editions). It focuses on key historical characters and events for exam-oriented preparation.

  • Precise, exam-focused NCERT history content
  • Concise notes for quick last minute revision
  • Chapters arranged chronologically – Ancient to Medieval
  • Coverage of old and latest editions of textbooks
  • Includes additional inputs for better understanding

NCERT history textbooks contain the foundational matter concerning India’s rich culture and heritage spanning centuries, which UPSC frequently tests candidates on. This guide streamlines the lengthy content into concise pointers that capture the essence, for accelerated revision and retention. Its exam-ready layout sharpens preparation.

14. Arihant Magbook Indian History India & World Geography,Indian Constitution & Polity,General Science & Technology,Indian Economics for UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims/State PCS & other Competitive Exam|IAS Mains PYQs( Sets of 5 Books)

14. Arihant Magbook Indian History,India & World Geography,Indian Constitution & Polity,General Science & Technology,Indian Economics for UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims/State PCS & other Competitive Exam|IAS Mains PYQs( Sets of 5 Books)

Price ₹1543 ₹2465

Amazon.in price: ₹ 1543 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

This Magbook comprises 5 exhaustive books covering complete theory and latest exam trends in core subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Science & Technology and Economics for UPSC & State PSC Prelims and Mains, authored by panel of experts.

  • Topic-wise theory content with charts, graphics
  • Chapter-wise MCQs for practice
  • Previous Years questions from 2013-2022
  • Model test papers included in all books
  • Dedicated section on current affairs

This Magbook bundles full course content for UPSC CSE exam across 5 major areas, authored by subject experts, in concise text for exam preparation. The inclusion of PYQs, MCQs and model tests ensures aspirants can self-evaluate their progress holistically. Eliminates need for multiple books. Worth the money!

15. Drishti IAS Nibandh 9th Edition Hindi Essay | UPSC Exam Books [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti

15. Drishti IAS Nibandh 9th Edition | Hindi Essay | UPSC Exam Books [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti [Perfect Paperback] Team Drishti

Price ₹322.99 ₹450

Amazon.in price: ₹ 322.99 (as of 04/03/2024 01:48 IST - more info )

Published by Drishti IAS, this book imparts structured guidance to candidates on effectively writing essays in Hindi language for UPSC Civil Services Main Exam and other competitive exams as per latest paper requirements.

  • Updated content as per UPSC exam trends
  • Variety of model essays in Hindi
  • Tips for introduction and conclusion writing
  • Techniques for expanding essay word limit
  • Brainstorming tools for essay topics

The importance of essay paper in UPSC Personality Test is paramount since it assesses aspirants’ ideas, creativity and language proficiency. This book stands true to its purpose of teaching students essay writing skills, helping organize thoughts methodically. Follows latest UPSC expectations and prepares aspirants to excel. Worth buying!

With UPSC Civil Services Exam being highly competitive, choosing the right books and preparation material which aligns with the latest exam pattern and evolving trends is extremely crucial. Students should base their choices on content accuracy, exam relevance and revision suitability besides relying upon mentors, toppers and expert recommendations. Reputed publications known to update frequently such as McGraw Hill, Pearson, Disha, Drishti IAS should be preferred.

There are abundant options in UPSC focused books, broadly across categories like:

  • Comprehensive exam guides
  • Subject-specific books for Prelims & Mains
  • Previous years’ solved papers
  • Model test papers
  • Notes compilation for quick revision
  • Essay writing guides
  • Current affairs digests
  • Timetable planners
  • Comply fully with daily and monthly schedules outlined
  • Solve previous papers with timed conditions
  • Consolidate notes from books for concise revision
  • Attend test series and assess improvement areas
  • Focus maximum on books for your weaker areas
  • Revise current affairs compilations daily

Q. Which books are best for upsc ?

The best books for upsc include:

  • NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams
  • Indian Economy for UPSC (English)| 15th Edition|Civil Services Exam|State Administrative Exams
  • UPSC IAS/IPS Civil Service EXAM PRELIMS and MAINS 2024 410 DAYS Full Detailed Topper TIMETABLE
  • Arihant Magbook Sets of 5 Books

Q. Which books is best for upsc ?

The NCERT Notes Indian History Class 6-12 (Old+New) for UPSC , State PSC and Other Competitive Exams is considered one of the best books for UPSC preparation due to its exam-focused content of precise history facts as intended for competitive exams. It captures the evolution of crucial events and characters spanning ancient to medieval India, helping students consolidate preparation.

Q. Which books are best for upsc preparation?

Some of the best books for UPSC preparation recommended by experts are:

  • 29 Previous Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers by Disha Experts
  • Indian Economy for UPSC (English) by Ramesh Singh

These provide fully solved past exam analysis, updated economy topics, and answer writing skills respectively to crack the exam.

Q. Which books are best for upsc prelims?

The best books for UPSC Prelims preparation are:

  • UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide Book – for its comprehensive coverage with solved papers, notes, online material
  • NCERT Summary by Cengage – for quickly grasping textbook concepts
  • Oxford Map Activity Book – to learn map-reading skills important for GS paper

Q. Which books are best for upsc for beginners?

For UPSC beginners, the best books include:

  • All About UPSC Civil Services Exam by McGraw Hill – for complete exam pattern and strategy insights
  • Drishti IAS UPSC Syllabus Book – for understanding the latest syllabus of prelims and mains
  • UPSC IAS PRE Academy Lectures videos – ease self-learning with expert guidance

Q. Which are the top 3 best books for UPSC CSE?

The top 3 best books for assured success in UPSC Civil Services Exam recommended by experts are:

  • 29 Previous Years UPSC Prelims Solved Papers by Disha Experts
  • UPSC Prelims Ultimate Guide by Gyaniversity
  • UPSC Syllabus & Strategy by Drishti IAS

These books provide fully explained past papers, complete subject notes with revision aids and the latest exam pattern analysis respectively, essential for exam preparation.

Q. How many books should one refer to clear IAS?

As per UPSC toppers and coaching experts, one should limit book count to 4 or 5 books per subject area comprising 1 textbook for in-depth study, 1 for revision notes, 1 PYQ practice book and 1 forecasting latest trends. Any more breeds confusion. Stick to NCERTs majorly.

Q. Which publisher books are best for UPSC 2024?

Based on consistency in incorporating latest exam patterns and student feedback, some noteworthy publishers of best UPSC books are:

  • McGraw Hill
  • Drishti IAS

Aspirants should shortlist their book purchases from these trusted publishers for 2024 exam preparation after comparing table of contents.

Q. What are the basic books needed for IAS?

The basic books needed for assured UPSC CSE preparation are:

  • NCERT textbooks from 6-12 grade
  • Previous Years Solved papers of Prelims & Mains
  • CSAT Manual for Paper 2 practice
  • Notes compilations for Revision
  • Current Affairs monthly digests

Reading these sets of books is fundamental for students to gain domain mastery, test themselves through past papers and stay updated.

  • Read UPSC books attentively without any distractions
  • Comprehend concepts and memorize key points
  • Make short notes for revision
  • Follow test series guidelines religiously
  • Solve previous papers with a timer
  • Ensure 6-8 hours of daily reading
  • Revise current affairs from compilations

On Maintenance

  • Handle books with care, don’t fold pages
  • Avoid eating/drinking while reading
  • Don’t add external notes on original content
  • Use paper bookmarks to mark pages
  • Maintain books in cool, dry conditions
  • Wipe covers with dry cloth only
  • Dust books gently to upkeep condition
  • Treat damage issues like torn pages promptly
  • Adopt pest control measures for book safety
  • Consider lamination for long lasting usage
  • When not using books, pack appropriately

We hope these guidelines help you use, maintain and care for your precious UPSC preparation books optimally so that they can aid your success journey for years together. Please reach out for any other assistance required. Wish you the very best!

Preparing for an exam as vast and complex as the UPSC Civil Services is a challenging task. The exam tests not only your knowledge across a diverse set of topics but also evaluates your cognitive skills, situational judgement, mental ability and aptitude. Hence, choosing the right preparation books and resources becomes vital.

Through this blog, we aimed to compile an exhaustive list of the best books for UPSC based on expert research and genuine aspirant reviews. We have covered specific texts for prelims and mains, solved papers, current affairs digests, test series and more to aid your UPSC journey. The detailed description and feature analysis hopes to have provided you clarity to pick books that suit your individual prep needs.

Additionally, we offered targeted tips on optimally using UPSC guides for maximum productivity. Recommendations on their ideal usage, careful maintenance and safety precautions intends to ensure you derive full value from these books. As you get into diligent reading and practice, do remember to take breaks, follow timetables, attempt mock tests and complement your prep with online learning tools.

We trust this blog served the purpose of simplifying and supporting your book selections for UPSC CSE exam preparation. We wish the very best in your endeavor to succeed and remind you to persistently work towards your goals with determination and positivity. You have it in you to master this exam!

About the author

Aravind pai    contributing writer.

Aravind Pai is a passionate blogger and content creator who has been writing extensively on technology topics since 2020, with a focus on Online shopping deals and product reviews. He graduated as a B.Tech 4 years ago and enjoys road trips and exploring latest gadgets.

Certain portions of the text in this article might have been created using AI tools and subsequently edited by the author to improve the overall quality and clarity of the content for readers.

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When is forgetting normal — and when is it worrisome? A neuroscientist weighs in

Terry Gross square 2017

Terry Gross

books to read for essay upsc

Cognitive neuroscientist Charan Ranganath says the human brain isn't programmed to remember everything. Rather, it's designed to "carry what we need and to deploy it rapidly when we need it." Bulat Silvia/iStock / Getty Images Plus hide caption

Cognitive neuroscientist Charan Ranganath says the human brain isn't programmed to remember everything. Rather, it's designed to "carry what we need and to deploy it rapidly when we need it."

When cognitive neuroscientist Charan Ranganath meets someone for the first time, he's often asked, "Why am I so forgetful?" But Ranganath says he's more interested in what we remember, rather than the things we forget.

"We're not designed to carry tons and tons of junk with us. I don't know that anyone would want to remember every temporary password that they've ever had," he says. "I think what [the human brain is] designed for is to carry what we need and to deploy it rapidly when we need it."

Ranganath directs the Dynamic Memory Lab at the University of California, Davis, where he's a professor of psychology and neuroscience. In the new book, Why We Remember, he writes about the fundamental mechanisms of memory — and why memories often change over time.

Ranganath recently wrote an op-ed for The New York Times in which he reflected on President Biden's memory gaffes — and the role that memory plays in the current election cycle.

Recent gaffes by Biden and Trump may be signs of normal aging — or may be nothing

Shots - Health News

Recent gaffes by biden and trump may be signs of normal aging — or may be nothing.

"I'm just not in the position to say anything about the specifics of [either Biden or Trump's] memory problems," he says. "This is really more of an issue of people understanding what happens with aging. And, one of the nice things about writing this editorial is I got a lot of feedback from people who felt personally relieved by this because they're worried about their own memories."

Interview highlights

On instituting a cognitive test for candidates running for president

Why We Remember, by Charan Ranganath

I think it would be a good idea to have a comprehensive physical and mental health evaluation that's fairly transparent. We certainly have transparency or seek transparency about other things like a candidate's finances, for instance. And obviously health is a very important factor. And I think at the end of the day, we'll still be in a position of saying, "OK, what's enough? What's the line between healthy and unhealthy?" But I think it's important to do because yes, as we get older we do have memory problems. ...

On why you can sometimes only remember the first letter of something, like a name

You get what's called partial retrieval, where you get a piece of the information but not the whole thing. ... Memories compete with each other. And this is true for a name. ... And so if you have learned multiple names that start with the letter K, now what happens is you have this competition where essentially they're fighting with each other.

On the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon

For 'time cells' in the brain, what matters is what happens in the moment

For 'time cells' in the brain, what matters is what happens in the moment

They call it the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon ... where you know the information is there, you're aware of something, but it just doesn't. You don't have proof of its existence. You're just working on this complete faith that it exists. There's many reasons why this happened. One of the big ones is you pull out the wrong information. When you pull out the wrong information, what happens is it makes it much harder to find the right information. So in other words, if you're looking for someone named "Fred" and you accidentally pull out "Frank" and you know that's not the name. Now, Frank is very big in your consciousness, and it's fighting against the other memory that you have. And so as a result, you're going to have some trouble. Now, later on, what happens is your mindset changes and you're no longer stuck in that previous mistake. And that's why it can pop up. So what can sometimes happen is that we're looking for something, but then we get the wrong thing. And that leads us so far in the wrong direction that the competition in memory works against us.

On how interruption hurts our ability to remember

This is the reality of modern life, is that we're constantly being interrupted. Now, sometimes those interruptions are in our world and not of our own making. So any person with a newborn child, for instance, can relate to this idea of you're trying to do something and all of a sudden your child starts crying and your brain is telling you, "Forget everything else. Let's focus on this." Then there's things that we do to ourselves, like, we just have other thoughts that come into our head or we start daydreaming about things. But then I think the most insidious of all are the alerts and the distractions that we put upon ourselves with smartphones and smartwatches where there's things constantly buzzing and grabbing our attention, and then people start to get bad habits like checking texts and emails. For instance, I'll sit in academic talks and I see people checking email during a talk, and I can guarantee you they're not remembering either the email or the talk after they've left the place.

On how stress interferes with memory

Stress has a bunch of complex effects on memory. So if you have a severely stressful experience, sometimes you can remember that experience better than if it was not stressful. And so this happens a lot in cases of traumatic memories. But the other part of it is that stress makes it harder to pull out the information you need when you need it. ... It shuts down the prefrontal cortex. And under those states of stress, you're prioritizing things that are more immediate, your knee-jerk responses to things. And so that makes it harder to remember stuff that happened before you were under stress.

Scientists zap sleeping humans' brains with electricity to improve their memory

Scientists zap sleeping humans' brains with electricity to improve their memory

Then there's the issue of chronic stress, where we know that chronic stress can be actually neurotoxic for areas of the brain that are important for memory, like the prefrontal cortex and another area called the hippocampus. And that is really, I think, part of the problem that you see in people with PTSD, for instance. If you're under chronic stress for a long period of time, there's a whole series of stress-related hormones that are bathing your brain in these stress-related hormones. And what can happen is, this can be causing damage to areas like the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex so that they're no longer functioning as efficiently as you would hope they would. And you can see this in many different animal models of stress.

On why sleep is so important to memory

One of the fascinating things about sleep is we tend to think, oh, nothing's happening. I'm not getting anything done. But your brain is hugely at work. There are all these different stages of sleep where you can see these symphony of waves, where different parts of the brain are talking to each other, essentially. And so, we know for a fact that some of these stages of sleep, what happens is the brain will flush out toxins, like the amyloid protein that can build up over the course of a day. So just by virtue of that function, sleep is very important. But then on top of it, what we can see is that the neurons that were active during a particular experience, have come back alive during sleep. And so there seems to be some processing of memories that happen during sleep, and that the processing of memories can sometimes lead to some parts of the memory being strengthened, or sometimes you're better able to integrate what happened recently with things that happened in the past. And so, sleep scientist Matt Walker likes to say that sleep converts memory into wisdom, for instance.

Sam Briger and Thea Chaloner produced and edited this interview for broadcast. Bridget Bentz, Molly Seavy-Nesper and Carmel Wroth adapted it for the web.

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Guest Essay

We Need to Read the Forgotten Geniuses, Not Rescue Them

books to read for essay upsc

By Apoorva Tadepalli

Ms. Tadepalli is a critic.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that literary critics are the most annoying people in the world. They’re elitist, or undignified . They’re divisive . They’re snobs . Their profession is, in fact, dead , and has been for decades. And upon realizing that they are irrelevant, they take themselves way too seriously .

Overseeing the development of a literary culture, which is part of a critic’s job, is a process of fits and starts. Critics play a role in determining which books published today should be branded “instant classics,” which authors are best described as “little-known” and which books published in past decades or centuries merit re-examination. Beginning in the early 20th century, reissues complicated those categories. Older books like “The Dud Avocado” and “Stoner” — and even “Moby-Dick” and “The Great Gatsby” — became more famous upon reprinting than they had been when originally published.

The canon itself is in a constant, ongoing process of being shaped by book lovers who are often in disagreement not only about what qualifies as literature but also about the purpose of reading literature. But this is a feature, not a bug: The journey of discovering literature — for critics and also for everyday readers — is made of detours. A reissue, more often than not published after the author is deceased, rebalances the purpose of literature away from writer intent and more toward reader intent. Reissues are about readers recovering what is worthy about another world. As one early 2000s reissue of a perhaps forgotten 1953 classic had it, “the past is a foreign country.”

Early last year, the small magazine n+1 reiterated a longstanding policy : No dead people. Reading work from dead authors may be inevitable, but as literary critics tasked with creating and shaping the conversation, writing about dead people was considered unacceptable — because it was unfair to expect that contemporary writers, already struggling to secure attention for their work, compete with their predecessors. We need, n+1 argued, to “redirect the public’s attention to the under-read work of the living.”

The magazine has amended this policy over the years, but it was not alone in the general idea that many dead authors are often overhyped. Every so often a new list of overrated classics presents itself, identifying authors who have had “ more than enough time in the sun ,” crowdsourcing titles that deserve to be demoted, giving readers “ permission ” to not read them. This, too, is how the canon is made and remade.

Such is also the case with underrated classics. “Enough with the ‘forgotten’ writers,” a writer in The Week implored in 2017: It’s a tired excuse to talk about an author or subject we like, and it shouldn’t be necessary. Sometimes the critic rebels against the publisher and its publicist. Last summer, a review of Susan Taubes’s novel “Lament for Julia” criticized the way editors decide (seemingly capriciously) which authors deserve to be republished: by humoring the critic’s tendency to pontificate on an arbitrary subject with “indirect self-presentation,” to “hoist his reputation by raising another’s.”

It’s true that the literary world — perhaps egged on by editors, publishers and critics alike — also frequently talks about reviving “ unjustly neglected ” voices from the depths of history, trying to ensure they are “ rescued from oblivion .” And it’s true that sometimes we have ridiculous ideas of who has been forgotten or overlooked. Has John O’Hara been unjustly forgotten three years after a flurry of reissue-related press? Are Alice Munro, James Salter and Langston Hughes really “ notoriously underrated ”?

The urgent need to slot historical works of literature into some sort of forced contemporary relevance, whether by insisting on their prophetic nature or wiping them from the collective memory in order to rescue them, seems to miss the idea that reissues may have inherent value because they have aged, or even simply because they are enjoyable. Perhaps Ms. Taubes has something different or more to offer without being reduced to an early example of autofiction. Perhaps a Marguerite Duras novel of rural French poverty and exhaustion does not need to be introduced and contextualized within a story of being a tired mother in a white-collar home in the United States. Perhaps Elsa Morante deserves better than to be remembered in the shadow of Elena Ferrante .

Critics and readers tend to be insufferable nostalgics. In a letter he sent from exile in 1513, Niccolò Machiavelli described his evening routine: After coming home from the “vulgarity” and “trifles” of daily life, he donned “garments regal and courtly” to commune with the dead. Reading those before him, he was “not frightened by death,” and instead gave himself “over to them,” his literary forebears.

I am fond of this folly, of this excessive ego combined with excessive sentimentality. But seeking counsel from the dead is to take comfort not only in how relatable or similar to us they were, but also in how different they were, how differently they experienced poverty or sexuality or sexual politics or wartime. There is a deranged, eerie magic, a breathless mania, to the women of Ms. Taubes’s and Ms. Duras’s and Ms. Morante’s fiction that speaks for itself — and is magnetic not because it’s familiar but because it isn’t familiar in the slightest.

We don’t rescue and recirculate authors in order to do right by them, but because their work is a piece of history. We need to understand literature in its own right and as an expression of its own time and context, even if that context is horrifying or alien or uninviting or problematic. Perhaps there will always be something unscientific about how we decide whom to bring back into the conversation, but who cares?

The constant negotiation with history is itself the most critical aspect of a constantly developing canon. And so the questions never cease: Why rescue dead white men instead of marginalized writers? Why edit problematic dead authors? Why force dead writers to keep publishing books from beyond the grave? What do we do with writers who don’t want to be read ?

To even be asking these questions is a kind of communing with the past, and critics must do that. But to live a rich reading life, all readers, not just critics, should resist the imperative to treat reissues as particularly pertinent to our current moment, and instead view them as objects through which to experience a different moment. We should welcome the critic’s sentimentality and enthusiasm, her insistence on talking about books and authors she fears no one cares about — because we should resist the impulse to justify every moment of time we spend, and more importantly because to only consume art that was created in our lifetimes is a terrifying thought.

Reading well — and writing good criticism — brings a sense of wonder to history, and despite the egotism or sentimentality that may sometimes inspire reissues, what they uniquely do is compel an experience of and negotiation with the past that will always be important.

Apoorva Tadepalli (@ storyshaped ) is a critic based in Queens. She has written for publications including The Atlantic, The New Republic, The Point, Bookforum and The Nation.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , X and Threads .

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COMMENTS

  1. Essay

    What are the most recommended books for Essay preparation for UPSC Mains Exam? How to write a good essay? Read further to know. UPSC Civil Service Mains Paper 1 (popularly known as essay paper) is now of 250 marks. Candidates may be required to write essays on multiple topics (two topics as of now). They will be expected to keep close to the ...

  2. Essay Books For UPSC: Important Essay Topics, Tips & More!

    Essay Book for UPSC is a critical exam resource for aspirants preparing for the upcoming Civil Services examination 2023. All candidates must be well-versed in Essay Writing for the UPSC Civil Services Mains examination. UPSC Mains Paper 1 is Essay. Candidates will need to attempt 2 essays within 3 hours of duration for the UPSC Essay paper.

  3. IAS Books for UPSC Civil Services Prelims and Mains Exam

    Prelims Manual for CSAT (All-in-One Guide) Cracking the CSAT Paper-2 - by Arihant Experts. 11. IAS Books for Essay (UPSC Mains Essay Paper) Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing - by Anudeep Durishetty. The Answer Writing Manual - by Srushti Deshmukh Gowda. Mastering Essay and Answer Writing - by Awdesh Singh. 12.

  4. Best Essay Books for UPSC: Perfect the Art of IAS Essay Writing

    UPSC Essay Paper. This paper is the very first paper of the UPSC mains. The paper consists of two sections: Section A; Section B; Each section has four topics. A candidate has to choose one topic from both the sections for essay writing. Each section carries 125 marks that make a total of 250 marks. The word count for each essay should be in ...

  5. Essay

    UPSC Essay Books for Prelims and Mains. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination is a highly competitive exam in India that is conducted in three stages - Prelims, Mains, and Interview. ... UPSC aspirants often read books, articles, and essays by renowned authors, both Indian and international, to develop a well-rounded ...

  6. UPSC Books

    UPSC Books - [Download IAS Book List PDF] know the best books for UPSC Prelims and Mains 2024 preparation. Get UPSC Study Material, IAS books for optional subjects and more at BYJU'S ... Go through the UPSC syllabus and old UPSC question papers and then start reading. We are aiming to provide a comprehensive booklist as everyone has a different ...

  7. Essay books for UPSC exams: Get better at writing essays in exams

    Kiran's UPSC Essays Solved Papers of 1993 Till Date. Reading the essays topics that have been asked over the years in UPSC exams can help you a lot in understanding the exam pattern. If you want ...

  8. 5 Non-Fiction Books to Read Before You Even Think of UPSC: Click Here

    5. Argumentative Indian by Amartya Sen. A Nobel Prize-winning Economist, Amartya Sen has written this insightful book that is a collection of essays on India's history and identity with a focus on its traditions of public debate and intellectual pluralism. This is one of the must-read books for UPSC.

  9. Books for UPSC Civil Service Main Exam Preparation

    UPSC Books for Current Affairs. India 2021 Yearbook - by Rajiv Mehrishi ( Click to buy from Amazon) The Malayala Manorama English Yearbook 2021 - by Mammen Mathew ( Click to buy from Amazon) India 2021 - Publications Division Paperback - by Publications Division ( Click to buy from Amazon)

  10. 5 Best Books that can Help in Essay Writing for UPSC CSE Exams

    Kiran's UPSC Essays Solved Papers of 1993 till Date: Reading the essays topics that have been asked over the years in UPSC exams can help you a lot in understanding the exam pattern. If you want ...

  11. ESSAY STRATEGY By Anudeep Durishetty, UPSC Civil Services ...

    So my suggestion is, apart from UPSC related material, develop the hobby of reading non-fiction books. I do not mean to suggest that you should start reading one non-fiction book per topic to get good scores in Essay, but reading them occasionally in your free time will benefit you in the long run.

  12. Essay Writing for UPSC: Books, Syllabus, How to Write Essay?

    Essay Writing for UPSC: Candidates preparing for the 2023 Civil Services exam must be well versed in Essay Writing for UPSC as it is an important paper in the Mains exam.In the UPSC essay paper, 2 essays have to be written in 3 hours of time.Each essay carries 125 marks in total, which makes this paper worth 250 marks. The word limit for each essay is 1000 to 1200 words.

  13. Top 15 Important books to be read by every UPSC Aspirant

    3. Indian Art and Culture - Nitin Singhania (Culture) This book is an excellent resource for UPSC aspirants at all levels of the examination: preliminary, mains, and interviews. Nitin Singhania's new edition of Indian Art & Culture is now available to buy in both online and offline locations.

  14. Best Books for IAS Preparation

    3. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth. (Must-read book for UPSC - Polity/Laxmikant book for IAS) Why you must read it: This is one book that is sure to find a place in the IAS aspirants list of books for the UPSC exam. Polity is a tough subject to get into. Unfortunately, Laxmikanth won't make it easier.

  15. 9 must-read books for aspiring UPSC candidates

    However, this challenging road leads to a beautiful destination for becoming a successful civil servant. The Oxford University Press offers a comprehensive list of highly recommended UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation books, covering History, Geography, Civics, Environmental Science, and more. advertisement. 1. INDIA'S ANCIENT PAST BY R S SHARMA.

  16. WEEKLY UPSC IAS ESSAY WRITING CHALLENGE

    UPSC IAS Essay writing practice for Mains essay paper is crucial in getting good marks in essay paper. Insights posts new essay topic every sunday. ... December 04, 2022 : My best friend is a person who will give me a book I have not read; November 27, 2022 : Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits; November 20, 2022 : We are always ...

  17. Essay Paper UPSC 2021 (Mains): Question Paper and Analysis

    UPSC conducted the Essay Paper, as part of the Civil Services Main Exam 2021 on 07-01-2022. There were 8 Essay topics, out of which candidates were asked to write on two topics in 3 hours. Candidates were supposed to answer about 1000 words for each essay (about 10-12 pages).

  18. Mastering Essay & Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services IAS/ IPS

    Amazon.in - Buy Mastering Essay & Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services IAS/ IPS & State PSC Main Exam book online at best prices in India on Amazon.in. Read Mastering Essay & Answer Writing for UPSC Civil Services IAS/ IPS & State PSC Main Exam book reviews & author details and more at Amazon.in. Free delivery on qualified orders.

  19. 10 Non-Fiction Books Every IAS Aspirant Should Read Beyond ...

    6) Memoirs and Musings of an IAS officer. This book tells you about the early story of IAS in India when the nation was struggling to find its identity as a developing country in the world. The author of the book, Shri K. V. Natarajan, who is the former Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh, portrays its journey and work in the state and ...

  20. 20 Non-Fiction Books for IAS Preparation

    The beauty of this journey is its scope. UPSC exam syllabus is such that you cannot read a list of standard IAS Preparation books and guides and say that the syllabus is covered. The UPSC preparation goes way beyond the reading of standard textbooks and guides. IAS Preparation Books: 20 Non-Fiction Books list. 10 Judgments That Changed Indiaby ...

  21. UPSC Essay Topics From Last 25 Years

    Download The E-Book Now! UPSC Essay Topics Administration. Politics, bureaucracy and business - fatal triangle. (1994) Politics without ethics is a disaster. (1995) ... It will automatically help in essay writing as well. Also, read: How to Write the Essay Paper: UPSC Civil Services Preparation: UPSC Essay Paper 2019: Essay Paper Strategy ...

  22. Model Essays

    UPSC IFOS Notification - 2024 UPSC CSE Notification 2024. close. Home; Blogs; ... NCERT BOOKS; CSAT; Mains & Interview. Optional Subjects; Mains Special. Sambhav - 2024; Mains Marathon 2023; ... Model Essays. Home; Model Essays; filter Hide Menu. Values Are Not What Humanity Is, But What Humanity Ought To Be.

  23. 15 Best Books for UPSC in India [March, 2024]

    Reading these sets of books is fundamental for students to gain domain mastery, test themselves through past papers and stay updated. Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care On Usage. Read UPSC books attentively without any distractions; Comprehend concepts and memorize key points; Make short notes for revision; Follow test series guidelines ...

  24. Neuroscientist Charan Ranganath discusses the science of memory : NPR

    Charan Ranganath recently wrote an op-ed about President Biden's memory gaffes. He says forgetting is a normal part of aging. His new book is Why We Remember.

  25. We Need to Read the Forgotten Geniuses, Not Rescue Them

    Ms. Tadepalli is a critic. It is a truth universally acknowledged that literary critics are the most annoying people in the world. They're elitist, or undignified. They're divisive. They're ...