The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most prestigious exams in India. Cracking it requires not just dedication and strategy, but also the right resources. With the market flooded with materials, choosing the best books can be overwhelming for any aspirant.
To make it easier, we’ve curated a list of the Top 10 UPSC books that every serious aspirant must have in their preparation arsenal. These books are highly recommended by toppers, mentors, and coaching institutes alike.
1. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
This book is a bible for Indian Polity. Its simple language, systematic presentation, and in-depth coverage make it a favorite among aspirants.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Covers the entire syllabus and helps build conceptual clarity, especially useful for both Prelims and Mains.
2. Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
Ramesh Singh’s book is great for understanding economic concepts in a way that is relevant to the UPSC syllabus.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Covers basic to advanced concepts with real-life examples, ideal for beginners and intermediate learners.
3. Certificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong
Geography is a core part of both the GS Paper and optional papers. G.C. Leong’s book simplifies complex geographical concepts beautifully.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Clear illustrations and explanations make it perfect for grasping physical geography fundamentals.
4. Indian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania
This book is a go-to source for Indian heritage, culture, and classical art forms, which are crucial for Prelims and GS Paper I.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Comprehensive, yet concise with illustrations and practice questions.
5. A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum (Rajiv Ahir)
Spectrum’s book on modern Indian history is concise, exam-oriented, and easy to revise.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Covers British rule, freedom struggle, and social reforms in a structured manner — excellent for both Prelims and Mains.
6. General Studies Paper I Manual by TMH or Arihant
These manuals offer a one-stop solution for GS Paper I preparation. They’re especially useful in the early stages of preparation.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Covers all GS topics under one roof with ample practice questions.
7. Environment by Shankar IAS Academy
Environmental topics are increasingly becoming significant in the UPSC exam. This book offers clarity and updated content.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Lucid coverage of ecology, biodiversity, climate change, and conservation initiatives.
8. Indian Year Book or Manorama Yearbook
Current affairs form the backbone of UPSC preparation. Yearbooks provide a comprehensive snapshot of all major national and international events.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Excellent for factual data, government schemes, and economic updates.
9. NCERT Books (Class 6–12)
Yes, the humble NCERTs are a goldmine for beginners. They build a solid foundation across all subjects — History, Geography, Economics, and Science.
🔹 Why they’re a must-have: Simple language, authentic information, and easy explanations of key concepts.
10. Lexicon for Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
For GS Paper IV (Ethics), Lexicon is one of the most referred books. It helps you understand ethical theories, case studies, and public administration ethics.
🔹 Why it’s a must-have: Compact, precise, and ideal for answer writing practice.