The NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books are often called the foundation stones for any civil services exam, including the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) exam. These government-published textbooks are factually accurate, conceptually clear, and written in a simple, easy-to-understand language — making them perfect for both beginners and serious aspirants.
This article explains how to use NCERTs effectively for GPSC Prelims and Mains, including which books to read, how to read them, and how to integrate them with other resources for optimal results.
📘 Why NCERTs are Important for GPSC
🧠 Concept Clarity – NCERTs explain subjects like History, Geography, Polity, and Economics in a simple yet accurate manner.
✅ Reliable Source – Government-authored content ensures no factual errors or biases.
📊 Direct Questions – Many questions in Prelims are directly picked or framed from NCERT lines.
📚 Easy Language – Suitable for both Gujarati and English medium students.
🧭 Step-by-Step Reading Strategy for NCERTs
Step 1: Start with Basics (Class 6–8)
Focus on understanding basic concepts.
Read like a story to build foundational interest.
Step 2: Move to Advanced NCERTs (Class 9–12)
These are more aligned with the GPSC syllabus.
Highlight important points and make notes.
Step 3: Align Topics with GPSC Syllabus
Don’t read blindly. Check the GPSC syllabus first and map it to NCERT chapters.
Example: Indian Polity from NCERT Class 11 & 12 → match with GPSC GS Paper 1 or 2.
Step 4: Make Concise Notes
Don’t copy everything.
Create summary notes in your own words.
Use bullet points, timelines, and mind maps.
Step 5: Revise Multiple Times
First reading: Understand the concept.
Second reading: Highlight important areas.
Third reading: Make micro-notes for revision.
📚 Subject-wise NCERT Reading Plan for GPSC
🏛️ History
| Class | Book Title | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 | Our Past Series | Basics of Ancient & Medieval history |
| 9 | India and the Contemporary World – I | Modern Indian History (foundation) |
| 10 | India and the Contemporary World – II | National Movement & British Rule |
| 11 | Themes in World History | Optional for broad perspective |
| 12 | Themes in Indian History I, II, III | Important for Mains GS |
🌍 Geography
| Class | Book Title | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 | The Earth Our Habitat Series | Basics of physical and social geography |
| 9 | Contemporary India – I | Indian geography (start here) |
| 10 | Contemporary India – II | Resources, Agriculture, Industries |
| 11 | Fundamentals of Physical Geography & India – Physical Environment | Crucial for understanding maps, monsoons, soils |
| 12 | India – People and Economy & Human Geography | For advanced GS questions and Mains |
📖 Polity
| Class | Book Title | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Democratic Politics – I | Introduction to Indian Constitution |
| 10 | Democratic Politics – II | Rights, Judiciary, Federalism |
| 11 | Indian Constitution at Work | Very important for GS & Mains |
| 12 | Political Science: Contemporary World Politics | Optional but useful for global awareness |
💰 Economics
| Class | Book Title | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Economics | Basics: Demand, Supply, Sectors |
| 10 | Understanding Economic Development | Poverty, Unemployment, GDP |
| 11 | Indian Economic Development | Indian economy since independence |
| 12 | Introductory Macroeconomics & Microeconomics | For Mains & deeper understanding |
🧪 Science
| Class | Book Title | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 6–10 | Science (All Books) | Basics for Prelims & CSAT |
| 11–12 | Optional | Only important chapters like Environment, Biotechnology, etc. |
Note: No need to study advanced Physics/Chemistry unless you have a science background.
🧰 Pro Tips to Maximize Your NCERT Reading
✅ Use color coding (e.g., blue for facts, red for definitions)
📝 Practice writing mains-style answers using NCERT content
🔄 Revise frequently with self-made notes
📌 Cross-reference with current affairs and government reports
🗂️ Where to Access NCERTs for Free
🔗 Official NCERT Website
📱 Mobile Apps (Official)
ePathshala App (NCERT + Govt. of India initiative)
DIKSHA App (for additional lessons)
Both are available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t try to read all NCERTs at once
❌ Don’t skip Class 6–10 books — they’re very important
❌ Don’t rely on summaries or shortcuts from coaching apps
❌ Avoid pirated or modified NCERTs — always use official sources
🧠 Conclusion
Using NCERTs effectively for GPSC preparation is not about reading everything, but about reading the right way. These books are:
Government-approved
Aligned with exam needs
Perfect for conceptual clarity
By building a structured plan, making smart notes, and aligning topics with the GPSC syllabus, you can turn NCERTs into your strongest preparation tool.