Books for UPSSSC Lower PCS Exam 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
1. General Studies
1.1 History
- Ancient India:
- Ancient India by R.S. Sharma
- A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India by R.C. Majumdar
- India’s Ancient Past by R.S. Sharma
- Medieval India:
- Medieval India by Satish Chandra
- History of Medieval India by K.A. Nizami
- The Mughal Empire by John F. Richards
- Modern India:
- Modern India by Bipan Chandra
- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra
- A History of Modern India by S.N. Sen
1.2 Geography
- NCERT Geography Textbooks (Class 6-12)
- India: A Comprehensive Geography by D.R. Khullar
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong
- Geography of India by Majid Husain
1.3 Polity
- Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
- Introduction to the Constitution of India by D.D. Basu
- Indian Governance and Politics by B.L. Fadia
- The Constitution of India by P.M. Bakshi
1.4 Economics
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
- Economic Survey of India (Published annually by the Ministry of Finance)
- Indian Economy by Sanjiv Verma
- Principles of Economics by N. Gregory Mankiw
1.5 General Science
- NCERT Science Textbooks (Class 6-10)
- General Science by Lucent
- Manorama Yearbook
- Science Reporter (Published by CSIR)
1.6 Current Affairs
- The Hindu
- The Indian Express
- Yojana
- Kurukshetra
- Pratiyogita Darpan
- Monthly Current Affairs Magazines
1.7 Uttar Pradesh Specific
- Uttar Pradesh: A History by R.C. Majumdar
- Uttar Pradesh: A Geography by D.R. Khullar
- Uttar Pradesh: A Polity by B.L. Fadia
- Uttar Pradesh: An Economy by Ramesh Singh
- Uttar Pradesh: Current Affairs (Various publications)
2. Optional Subjects
2.1 Optional Subjects List
The UPSSSC Lower PCS exam offers a wide range of optional subjects. Some of the popular choices include:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| History | Covers ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history |
| Geography | Focuses on physical, human, and economic geography of India |
| Political Science | Explores Indian political system, institutions, and processes |
| Economics | Covers Indian economy, economic policies, and development |
| Sociology | Examines social structures, institutions, and processes in India |
| Public Administration | Deals with principles, theories, and practices of public administration |
| Agriculture | Covers agricultural practices, policies, and development in India |
| Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science | Focuses on animal breeding, management, and veterinary care |
| Botany | Explores plant life, structure, and functions |
| Zoology | Covers animal life, structure, and functions |
| Mathematics | Covers basic mathematical concepts and applications |
| Physics | Explores fundamental laws and principles of physics |
| Chemistry | Covers chemical principles, reactions, and properties |
| Law | Deals with legal principles, concepts, and procedures |
| Philosophy | Explores philosophical concepts, theories, and systems |
| Psychology | Focuses on human behavior, cognition, and development |
2.2 Choosing an Optional Subject
- Interest and Passion: Choose a subject you are genuinely interested in and passionate about. This will make your preparation more enjoyable and effective.
- Previous Knowledge: Select a subject you have some prior knowledge of or have studied in the past. This will give you a head start in your preparation.
- Availability of Resources: Ensure that there are sufficient study materials, coaching classes, and online resources available for the chosen subject.
- Syllabus Coverage: Analyze the syllabus of the optional subject and ensure it aligns with your interests and strengths.
- Exam Pattern: Consider the exam pattern and weightage given to different topics within the optional subject.
3. Study Plan and Strategy
3.1 Time Management
- Create a Realistic Schedule: Allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic based on their weightage and your understanding.
- Prioritize Subjects: Focus on the most important and high-scoring subjects first.
- Regular Study Sessions: Maintain a consistent study routine with regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Time-Bound Practice: Set time limits for solving mock tests and previous years’ papers to improve speed and accuracy.
3.2 Effective Study Techniques
- Active Reading: Engage with the study material by highlighting key points, taking notes, and summarizing concepts.
- Concept Mapping: Use diagrams, flowcharts, and mind maps to visualize and connect different concepts.
- Practice Questions: Solve numerous practice questions and mock tests to assess your understanding and identify areas for improvement.
- Revision and Consolidation: Regularly revise the studied material to reinforce your learning and ensure retention.
3.3 Mock Tests and Previous Years’ Papers
- Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment and assess your performance.
- Previous Years’ Papers: Analyze previous years’ papers to understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and important topics.
- Time Management: Practice solving mock tests and previous years’ papers within the stipulated time limit.
- Error Analysis: Analyze your mistakes and identify areas where you need to improve.
4. Resources and Guidance
4.1 Online Resources
- UPSSSC Official Website: Access the latest syllabus, exam pattern, and notifications.
- Online Study Platforms: Utilize online platforms like Unacademy, Byju’s, and Gradeup for video lectures, mock tests, and study materials.
- E-books and Study Materials: Download e-books and study materials from websites like PDF Drive, Scribd, and Google Books.
- Online Forums and Groups: Join online forums and groups to interact with other aspirants, share resources, and seek guidance.
4.2 Coaching Classes
- Reputed Coaching Institutes: Enroll in coaching classes offered by reputed institutes like Chanakya IAS Academy, Vajiram and Ravi, and Shankar IAS Academy.
- Experienced Faculty: Choose coaching classes with experienced and qualified faculty who can provide comprehensive guidance and mentorship.
- Structured Curriculum: Opt for coaching classes with a well-structured curriculum that covers all the important topics.
- Mock Tests and Feedback: Look for coaching classes that provide regular mock tests and detailed feedback to help you improve your performance.
4.3 Books and Study Materials
- Standard Textbooks: Refer to standard textbooks recommended by experts and toppers.
- Previous Years’ Papers: Solve previous years’ papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Current Affairs Magazines: Stay updated with current affairs through magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan, Yojana, and Kurukshetra.
- Newspapers: Read newspapers like The Hindu and The Indian Express to stay informed about national and international events.
5. Tips for Success
- Stay Focused and Disciplined: Maintain a consistent study routine and avoid distractions.
- Time Management: Allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic based on their weightage.
- Practice Regularly: Solve numerous practice questions and mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Revision and Consolidation: Regularly revise the studied material to reinforce your learning and ensure retention.
- Stay Positive and Motivated: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Stay positive and motivated throughout your preparation journey.
6. Sample Table of Books for General Studies
| Subject | Book | Author | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| History | Ancient India | R.S. Sharma | Orient Longman |
| History | Medieval India | Satish Chandra | NCERT |
| History | Modern India | Bipan Chandra | Penguin Random House |
| Geography | India: A Comprehensive Geography | D.R. Khullar | Vikas Publishing House |
| Polity | Indian Polity | M. Laxmikanth | McGraw Hill Education |
| Economics | Indian Economy | Ramesh Singh | McGraw Hill Education |
| General Science | NCERT Science Textbooks (Class 6-10) | NCERT | NCERT |
| Current Affairs | The Hindu | The Hindu | The Hindu |
7. Sample Table of Books for Optional Subjects
| Subject | Book | Author | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| History | A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India | R.C. Majumdar | Motilal Banarsidass |
| Geography | Certificate Physical and Human Geography | Goh Cheng Leong | Oxford University Press |
| Political Science | Introduction to the Constitution of India | D.D. Basu | Prentice Hall |
| Economics | Economic Survey of India | Ministry of Finance | Government of India |
| Sociology | Sociology | Anthony Giddens | Polity Press |
| Public Administration | Public Administration | M. Laxmikanth | McGraw Hill Education |
Note: This is a general guide, and the specific books and resources may vary depending on individual preferences and learning styles. It is always advisable to consult with experienced faculty, toppers, and online resources to get personalized recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:
1. What are the best books for the UPSSSC Lower PCS exam?
- General Studies: Refer to standard textbooks and current affairs resources. NCERT books, Laxmikanth’s Indian Polity, and Ramesh Singh’s Indian Economy are highly recommended.
- Optional Subjects: Choose books based on your chosen subject and consult with experts or toppers for recommendations.
2. How many books should I refer to for each subject?
- Focus on a few key books for each subject rather than trying to cover too many. Choose books that are comprehensive, updated, and well-written.
3. Should I buy new books or used ones?
- It depends on your budget and preference. Used books can be a cost-effective option, but ensure they are in good condition and contain the latest updates.
4. Are online resources sufficient for preparation?
- Online resources can be helpful, but they should complement your textbook studies. Utilize online platforms for video lectures, mock tests, and current affairs updates.
5. How important are previous years’ papers?
- Solving previous years’ papers is crucial to understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and important topics. Analyze your mistakes and identify areas for improvement.
6. Should I join coaching classes?
- Coaching classes can provide structured guidance, experienced faculty, and a competitive environment. However, they are not mandatory and can be expensive.
7. How much time should I dedicate to each subject?
- Allocate time based on the weightage of each subject and your understanding. Prioritize subjects that are more important and challenging.
8. What are some effective study techniques?
- Active reading, concept mapping, practice questions, and regular revision are effective study techniques.
9. How can I stay motivated during preparation?
- Set realistic goals, celebrate small victories, and seek support from friends, family, or mentors.
10. What are some tips for success in the exam?
- Stay focused, manage time effectively, practice regularly, revise thoroughly, and stay positive.
Note: These are just a few examples of frequently asked questions. The specific questions may vary depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances. It is always advisable to seek guidance from experienced faculty, toppers, and online resources for personalized advice.