The first decision that the aspirants have to make is to decide between the UPSC preparation books and online resources. Both options offer unique advantages. Traditional books have a systematic way of presenting information and are more authentic as compared to the digital platforms which offer more freedom and a vast range of information. It all depends on your learning approach, subject, and the phase of preparations.
Is it enough to rely on UPSC preparation books to clear the examination?
The UPSC preparation books serve as the initial building blocks particularly for the subjects such as History, Geography, Polity and Economics. However, for the beginners, to prepare for the UPSC they should go through all the books of NCERT for class 6 to 12. These books are easy to understand, contain a lot of facts and help in the development of a strong concept about the subject.
However, the UPSC exam is dynamic. This is something that current affairs, government reports, and other issues of the present time cannot be substituted by books. That is where online resources come in handy as they present daily new information, editorials, and video debates.
Read More: Can Solving UPSC Prelims PYQs Improve My Score?
What does UPSC benefit from the use of online resources?
Online resources are mobile and dynamic in nature as compared to the traditional modes of learning. Some of the resources are video lectures, mock tests, e-books, mobile applications, and news analysis. These resources can help you in your reading of the best books for UPSC prelims by providing doubts clearance, tests and group discussions.
|
Feature |
UPSC Preparation Books |
Online Resources |
|
Content Authenticity |
High (especially NCERT & standard sources) |
Varies (Needs careful selection) |
|
Flexibility |
Fixed schedule, requires planning |
Highly flexible and accessible anytime |
|
Cost |
One-time investment |
Many free, some paid subscriptions |
|
Depth of Content |
Deep and subject-specific |
Broad, with quick revision tools |
|
Current Affairs Coverage |
Limited |
Real-time updates available |
Should I read NCERT all books for UPSC 6 to 12 or follow online summaries?
For the beginners, reading all the books of NCERT class 6 to 12 for UPSC in History, Geography, Science and Polity is necessary. These books are fundamental and most of the times these books are listed in the UPSC IAS book lists and the online study material. Nevertheless, a summary and a video can be useful during revision, but it is more effective to read the text at least once.
Can I completely rely on online UPSC coaching?
These days online coaching is on the rise, comprehensive with individual lessons, frequently asked doubt-solving sessions and live sessions. Though, it is quite alluring to depend on digital content only, UPSC IAS book materials should not be completely overlooked by the aspirants. Books help to gain deeper knowledge and information which is stored in the long-term memory. Both are good — get information in books, and revise it with the help of online platforms.
Which option is better – Books or the Online Resources?
The best approach that one would consider is a combination of both. For preparing the static portion of the syllabus, one should refer to the UPSC preparation books. Then, use the available online resources and try to solve MCQs and give mock tests. Use technology to revise and make concepts clear, but do not forget to refer standard books for UPSC preparation like best books for UPSC prelims.
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Final Thought
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. When it comes to choosing between the two, it is crucial to recognize that the most important thing is consistency and thinking about the lesson in advance. Incorporating UPSC IAS book reading and online tools is a great way to develop an effective approach to pass the needed exam.
