Which NCERT Books to Refer for UPSC?

When preparing for the UPSC exam, NCERT books are considered as necessary reading material. The question that often arises is which NCERT books to refer to - the new or old ones? Let's discuss this in detail.

Advantages of Referring to the New NCERT Books

1. Updated Content: The new NCERT books are updated, and the information provided in them is more recent and relevant. The UPSC exam is known for asking current affairs questions, and the new NCERT books can be a helpful resource in this regard.

2. Improved Presentation: The new NCERT books have a better presentation with more graphics, diagrams, and charts, making the learning process more engaging and effective.

3. Availability: The new NCERT books are readily available in the market and can be easily purchased online or offline.

Advantages of Referring to the Old NCERT Books

1. In-Depth Coverage: The old NCERT books cover the topics in more depth and detail. They have more elaborate explanations and can help in building a strong foundation for understanding complex concepts.

2. Original Content: The old NCERT books contain the original content, which can be helpful in understanding the evolution of thoughts and ideas over time.

3. Cost-Effective: The old NCERT books are relatively cheaper than the new ones and can be a cost-effective option for students who want to save money.

Conclusion

Both the old and new NCERT books have their advantages, and it depends on the student's preference and requirements. However, it is advisable to refer to the latest edition of the NCERT books as they are more relevant and updated. Students can also refer to the old NCERT books for additional information and a deeper understanding of the topics.