How to Read and Revise NCERTs Effectively for UPSC

By Indus IAS Academy, Bangalore, How to Read and Revise NCERTs Effectively for UPSC

For every UPSC aspirant, the NCERT textbooks are like the foundation blocks of preparation. These government-authored books not only offer authentic and simple content but also build the conceptual clarity needed to understand complex topics in General Studies and optional subjects. At Indus IAS Academy, we always emphasize the strategic importance of reading and revising NCERTs the right way.

Here’s a smart guide to help you read and revise NCERTs effectively during your UPSC preparation:

Why NCERTs Matter for UPSC?

• They are written in simple and lucid language.

• They offer factual accuracy, being official textbooks.

• Many questions in Prelims and Mains are directly or indirectly based on NCERT content.

• They help in building concepts for advanced reference books.

Step-by-Step Strategy to Read NCERTs Effectively

✅ 1. Choose the Right NCERTs First

Start with NCERTs from Class 6 to 12 for the following subjects:

• History (Old & New, especially Class 6–12)

• Geography (Class 6–12)

• Polity (Class 9, 10 and 11 – Indian Constitution at Work)

• Economy (Class 9–12)

• Science (Class 6–10 for basics)

• Sociology & Art & Culture (Class 11–12)

✅ 2. Follow the Right Order

Go from lower classes (6 or 8) to higher ones (11, 12). This builds conceptual clarity gradually. For example:

Class 6 → 8 → 9 → 10 → 11 → 12 for History and Geography.

✅ 3. Don’t Try to Memorize in the First Read

In your first reading, aim for understanding. Highlight important terms, definitions, and diagrams. Mark areas you’ll revise later.

✅ 4. Make Concise Notes After the Second Reading

Once you've completed one full reading, revisit and make crisp notes. Focus on:

• Dates, events, definitions (for Prelims)

• Causes, effects, and analysis (for Mains)

✅ 5. Use Mind Maps, Charts & Diagrams

Especially for Geography, Environment, Economy – make visual summaries. This improves retention and aids quick revision.

✅ 6. Link NCERTs with Current Affairs

While reading newspapers or watching current affairs videos, try to relate them with NCERT concepts. For instance:

An economic reform in news → Revise the basics from Class 11 Economics.

How to Revise NCERTs Smartly

📅 1. Follow a Weekly Revision Cycle

Fix 1–2 days per week only for revising NCERTs. Use your own notes to save time.

🔄 2. Use Online MCQs or Flashcards

Solve MCQs based on NCERT content. This tests your understanding and highlights weak areas for quick re-reading.

📌 3. Keep Revising with Exam-Oriented Focus

In the final months before Prelims, revise only what’s relevant and frequently asked. Focus more on

Class 9–12 NCERTs.

💡 Tips from Indus IAS Academy Faculty

• “Don’t skip NCERTs thinking they’re basic. They’re basic, but they are the base.”

• “Revise NCERTs regularly—even toppers keep coming back to them.”

• “Practice answer-writing using NCERT concepts to develop a strong foundation for GS Mains.”

📍 Final Thoughts

NCERTs are your first teachers in the UPSC journey. With a structured reading and revision plan, you can turn these simple textbooks into powerful tools for cracking the Prelims, Mains, and even the Interview.

At Indus IAS Academy, we integrate NCERT-based modules in our foundation courses to ensure every aspirant builds the right base before advancing. Need help planning your NCERT preparation?Join our NCERT Master Classes and get faculty-guided mentoring at Indus IAS Academy, Bangalore.

Media Team | Indus Academy

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