Books for OPSC PGT Exam 2024
The OPSC PGT (Post Graduate Teacher) exam is a highly competitive exam for aspiring teachers in Odisha. To crack this exam, a well-structured study plan and a comprehensive set of books are essential. This article provides a detailed guide to the best books for the OPSC PGT exam in 2024, covering various subjects and topics.
General Knowledge and Current Affairs
1. Lucent’s General Knowledge: This book is a comprehensive guide to general knowledge, covering a wide range of topics like history, geography, science, polity, and current affairs. It is known for its concise explanations and numerous practice questions.
2. Manorama Yearbook: This annual publication provides a detailed overview of current events, national and international affairs, and important developments in various fields. It is an excellent resource for staying updated on current affairs.
3. NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): NCERT textbooks are the foundation for understanding various subjects. They provide a clear and concise explanation of concepts, making them ideal for building a strong base in general knowledge.
4. The Hindu/Indian Express: Reading newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express is crucial for staying updated on current affairs and developing analytical skills.
5. Arihant’s General Knowledge for Competitive Exams: This book covers a wide range of topics relevant to competitive exams, including general awareness, current affairs, and static GK.
Table 1: General Knowledge and Current Affairs Books
| Book Title | Author | Publisher | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lucent’s General Knowledge | Lucent | Lucent Publications | Comprehensive coverage, concise explanations, practice questions |
| Manorama Yearbook | Manorama Publications | Manorama Publications | Annual publication, detailed overview of current events |
| NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding various subjects, clear explanations |
| The Hindu/Indian Express | N/A | N/A | Daily updates on current affairs, analytical articles |
| Arihant’s General Knowledge for Competitive Exams | Arihant Experts | Arihant Publications | Wide range of topics, relevant to competitive exams |
English Language
1. Wren & Martin’s High School English Grammar and Composition: This classic textbook is a comprehensive guide to English grammar and composition. It covers all aspects of grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills.
2. Oxford Learner’s Dictionary: A reliable dictionary for understanding the meaning and usage of words. It provides clear definitions, examples, and pronunciation guides.
3. Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi: This book focuses on the English language section of competitive exams, covering topics like grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills.
4. Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis: This book helps improve vocabulary and enhance reading comprehension skills. It provides a systematic approach to learning new words and their usage.
5. English Grammar in Use by Raymond Murphy: This book is a practical guide to English grammar, with clear explanations and numerous exercises.
Table 2: English Language Books
| Book Title | Author | Publisher | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wren & Martin’s High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren & Martin | S. Chand | Comprehensive guide to English grammar and composition |
| Oxford Learner’s Dictionary | Oxford University Press | Oxford University Press | Reliable dictionary for understanding word meaning and usage |
| Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi | S.P. Bakshi | Arihant Publications | Focuses on English language section of competitive exams |
| Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis | Norman Lewis | Penguin Random House | Improves vocabulary and reading comprehension skills |
| English Grammar in Use by Raymond Murphy | Raymond Murphy | Cambridge University Press | Practical guide to English grammar, clear explanations, exercises |
Subject-Specific Books
The choice of subject-specific books depends on the specific subject you are applying for. Here are some general recommendations for different subjects:
1. History:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): Foundation for understanding Indian history.
- A Brief History of Modern India by Rajiv Ahir: Comprehensive overview of modern Indian history.
- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra: Detailed account of India’s freedom struggle.
- Ancient India by R.S. Sharma: Covers ancient Indian history and civilization.
- Medieval India by Satish Chandra: Explores the medieval period of Indian history.
2. Geography:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): Foundation for understanding geography concepts.
- Geography of India by Majid Husain: Comprehensive coverage of Indian geography.
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong: Explains physical and human geography concepts.
- India: A Comprehensive Geography by D.R. Khullar: Covers various aspects of Indian geography.
- Oxford School Atlas: Provides detailed maps and geographical information.
3. Political Science:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): Foundation for understanding political science concepts.
- Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth: Comprehensive guide to Indian polity and governance.
- Introduction to Political Science by O.P. Gauba: Explains fundamental concepts of political science.
- Politics in India by Rajni Kothari: Analyzes Indian politics and political system.
- The Indian Constitution by D.D. Basu: Detailed analysis of the Indian Constitution.
4. Economics:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): Foundation for understanding economic concepts.
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh: Comprehensive coverage of Indian economy.
- Economics by Paul Krugman and Robin Wells: Explains fundamental economic principles.
- Macroeconomics by N. Gregory Mankiw: Focuses on macroeconomic concepts and theories.
- Microeconomics by N. Gregory Mankiw: Focuses on microeconomic concepts and theories.
5. Commerce:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12): Foundation for understanding commerce concepts.
- Business Studies by T.S. Grewal: Comprehensive guide to business studies.
- Accounting for Management by M.C. Shukla and T.S. Grewal: Covers accounting principles and practices.
- Marketing Management by Philip Kotler: Explains marketing concepts and strategies.
- Financial Management by I.M. Pandey: Covers financial management principles and practices.
6. Mathematics:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12): Foundation for understanding mathematics concepts.
- R.D. Sharma’s Mathematics for Class 11 and 12: Comprehensive guide to mathematics for class 11 and 12.
- S. Chand’s Mathematics for Class 11 and 12: Covers various topics in mathematics for class 11 and 12.
- Arihant’s Mathematics for Competitive Exams: Focuses on mathematics for competitive exams.
- M.L. Khanna’s Objective Mathematics: Covers objective type questions in mathematics.
7. Science:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12): Foundation for understanding science concepts.
- Pradeep’s Fundamental Physics for Class 11 and 12: Comprehensive guide to physics for class 11 and 12.
- Pradeep’s Fundamental Chemistry for Class 11 and 12: Comprehensive guide to chemistry for class 11 and 12.
- Pradeep’s Fundamental Biology for Class 11 and 12: Comprehensive guide to biology for class 11 and 12.
- Trueman’s Objective Biology for NEET: Covers objective type questions in biology.
8. Physical Education:
- NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12): Foundation for understanding physical education concepts.
- Physical Education by V.K. Sharma: Comprehensive guide to physical education.
- Physical Education by B.K. Sharma: Covers various topics in physical education.
- Sports and Games by B.K. Sharma: Focuses on sports and games.
- Health and Fitness by B.K. Sharma: Covers health and fitness concepts.
Table 3: Subject-Specific Books
| Subject | Book Title | Author | Publisher | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History | NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding Indian history |
| Geography | NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding geography concepts |
| Political Science | NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding political science concepts |
| Economics | NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding economic concepts |
| Commerce | NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding commerce concepts |
| Mathematics | NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding mathematics concepts |
| Science | NCERT Textbooks (Class 6-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding science concepts |
| Physical Education | NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12) | NCERT | NCERT | Foundation for understanding physical education concepts |
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly study the OPSC PGT syllabus to identify the topics and areas to focus on.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that allocates sufficient time for each subject and topic.
- Practice Previous Years’ Papers: Solving previous years’ papers helps understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and important topics.
- Join Coaching Classes: Consider joining coaching classes to get expert guidance, study materials, and mock tests.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated on current events.
- Revise Regularly: Regular revision is crucial for retaining information and strengthening your understanding.
- Take Mock Tests: Mock tests help assess your preparation level and identify areas that need improvement.
- Stay Motivated: Maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
Conclusion
Preparing for the OPSC PGT exam requires a comprehensive approach, including a well-structured study plan, a good set of books, and consistent effort. By following the recommendations and tips provided in this article, you can enhance your chances of success in the exam. Remember to stay focused, dedicated, and confident throughout your preparation journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the best books for the OPSC PGT exam in 2024?
A: The best books depend on the specific subject you are applying for. However, NCERT textbooks (Class 6-12) are a good foundation for all subjects. For general knowledge and current affairs, Lucent’s General Knowledge and Manorama Yearbook are recommended. Subject-specific books like those by Arihant, S. Chand, and Pradeep are also helpful.
Q: Are coaching classes necessary for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: Coaching classes can be beneficial for providing expert guidance, study materials, and mock tests. However, they are not mandatory. You can prepare effectively with self-study and the right resources.
Q: How important is current affairs for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: Current affairs are crucial for the OPSC PGT exam. They are often tested in the General Knowledge and Current Affairs section. Stay updated by reading newspapers, magazines, and online resources.
Q: What is the best way to prepare for the English language section of the exam?
A: Focus on grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills. Books like Wren & Martin’s High School English Grammar and Composition, Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, and Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi are helpful.
Q: How can I improve my vocabulary for the exam?
A: Read extensively, use a dictionary, and practice vocabulary exercises. Books like Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis can be beneficial.
Q: How many hours should I study daily for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: The number of hours you need to study depends on your individual learning pace and the time you have available. Aim for a consistent study schedule that allows you to cover all the topics effectively.
Q: What are some tips for managing exam stress?
A: Practice relaxation techniques, get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Avoid procrastination and stay organized.
Q: What are the important dates for the OPSC PGT exam in 2024?
A: The OPSC releases the exam schedule and important dates on its official website. Keep checking the website for updates.
Q: What is the selection process for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: The selection process typically involves a written exam and an interview. The written exam evaluates your knowledge of the subject and general knowledge. The interview assesses your personality, communication skills, and teaching aptitude.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: The eligibility criteria are specified in the official notification released by the OPSC. Typically, candidates must have a postgraduate degree in the relevant subject and meet the age limit requirements.
Q: Where can I find the official notification for the OPSC PGT exam?
A: The official notification is usually released on the OPSC website. Keep checking the website for updates.