Best History Books for UPSC PDF Download

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)  Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most prestigious exams in India. It requires months of preparation, and for history, in particular, aspirants need to have a strong command over various historical events, movements, and their significance. Reading the right set of books can be instrumental in making that happen.

With so many history books out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to read for the UPSC exam. To help aspiring candidates make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the best history books for that cover a wide range of topics relevant to the UPSC exam.
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Importance of History as a subject in UPSC

History is a crucial subject in the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) examination because it provides insights into the social, economic, and political aspects of the country's past. The UPSC exam requires candidates to have a good understanding of the country's history and its impact on contemporary society.

History as a module in General Studies has the most weightage in UPSC ranging around 20 to 25% in prelims and 40% weightage in GS PAPER 1 in mains examination. It would help if you prepare this topic properly as such weightage gives a good chance for your selection in the exam.
Below, we will give you an exhaustive list of the best Indian History books for the UPSC IAS Exam. The stages of the IAS CSE Exam are given below:

• UPSC Prelims – objective-type questions
• UPSC Mains – descriptive-essay type questions
• IAS Interview

Also Check: 

• Complete Syllabus of UPSC CSE Prelims & Mains
• UPSC CSE 2023 Exam Pattern

Indian History Books for UPSC Prelims

The UPSC Preliminary examination syllabus includes the History of India and the Indian National Movement, which are further subdivided into:

Here are the best UPSC History books which can cover the syllabus of prelims stage of the examination:

Also Check: Best Books Recommended by Toppers for UPSC CSE 2023
EduRev Infinity Package for UPSC is a special pass that unlocks all the EduRev Infinity courses for preparing UPSC Prelims & Mains. With this package, you can study through thousands of videos & documents and take unlimited tests.

Indian History Books for UPSC Mains

UPSC Mains History Syllabus consists of the history syllabus in GS Paper 1. Every year 10-15 questions are asked in GS paper 1 syllabus from the history syllabus for UPSC. Here are the best UPSC History books which can cover the syllabus of Mains stage of the examination:

Also Check: Best Books Recommended by Toppers for UPSC CSE 2023

Indian History Books for History Optional

UPSC History Optional Syllabus includes all ancient, medieval, and modern Indian History syllabus along with the world history syllabus. Here are the best UPSC History books which can cover the syllabus of Mains stage of the examination:

The above mentioned booklists for UPSC History Prelims, Mains and Optional Paper  is recommended by almost all the toppers as well as UPSC experts. Now, that you have an entire list with you, there should be no worrying about what to read!
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How to Prepare for UPSC History?

Preparing for UPSC History requires a comprehensive understanding of the subject and thorough preparation. Here are some steps you can follow to prepare for UPSC History:

1. Understand the Syllabus of History: Before starting your preparation, you must understand the syllabus and the pattern of History Section of UPSC Prelims, Mains and Optional Subject. This will help you to understand what to focus on and how to plan your studies.
2. Analyze Previous Year Questions (PYQs): Once you’re through the syllabus, pick up the previous year's papers and skim through them to get an understanding of what is actually asked in the exam. You can get the last 10-years of UPSC Prelims & Mains papers from here - UPSC Previous Year Question Papers.
3. Build your Foundation through NCERTs: Read NCERT books thoroughly to build your foundation. Read Chapter Wise & Subject Wise NCERT summaries for quick revision. Attempt NCERT based tests to test your learnings and strengthen your foundation.
4. Read Important Reference Books: Spectrum, Nitin Singhania & Other books mentioned in the article above are important for UPSC Exam Preparation. Notes of Nitin Singhania book will cover everything in Art and Culture Portion and you will be good to go. Tables given in Spectrum for Modern History towards the end of the book are important for keeping important points in mind
5. Perfect Your Concepts through Video Lectures & Detailed Notes: Regular revisions through notes and video lectures can help strengthen the basics and boost one’s confidence in the subject. You can get topic-wise compiled notes & video lectures in the EduRev’s Course of  UPSC Civil Services Examination.
6. Attempt Topicwise Tests: Regular revision through Topicwise Tests can give a real boost to your preparation. You can get topic-wise tests in the History course on EduRev, available on this link.
7. Keep a Check on Newspapers & Current Affairs: Though History is not related to current affairs but you should keep a check on the historical & cultural events being discussed in news. Stay updated with current affairs from Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly course on EduRev and attempt daily MCQ tests of daily current affairs.
8. Improve Your Understanding by Answer Writing: As the pattern of the paper is evolving the candidate's horizontal expansion of the knowledge as well as the vertical limit of understanding of the topic is expected in a balanced proportion. EduRev’s course on Essays provides you with sample essays to help you understand the pattern of essays.
9. Attempt Mock Tests of History: Attempt mock tests to understand your level of preparation and for self-evaluation. You can find subject-wise mock tests of History in the UPSC CSE Prelims Mock Test Series.

Also Check: 

• UPSC Bible: 15 Steps to Clear UPSC CSE by Toppers
• How to Prepare for UPSC?

UPSC Preparation Material

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to Best History Books for UPSC

What are the best history books for UPSC preparation?

Some of the best history books for UPSC preparation include "India's Ancient Past" by R.S. Sharma, "India's Struggle for Independence" by Bipan Chandra, "A Brief History of Modern India" by Rajiv Ahir, "Medieval India: From Sultanat to the Mughals" by Satish Chandra, and "India After Gandhi" by Ramachandra Guha.

How do I choose the right history book for UPSC preparation?

When selecting a history book for UPSC preparation, it's important to take into account the author's credentials and knowledge, the book's scope and treatment of pertinent subjects and occurrences, and its comprehensibility and ease of use. Additionally, it may be beneficial to review the suggestions of past year toppers.

Can I rely solely on history books for UPSC preparation?

No, you cannot rely solely on history books for UPSC preparation. You also need to supplement your reading with current affairs and other study materials, as well as practice with previous years' question papers and mock tests.

How should I approach studying history for UPSC?

To approach studying history for UPSC, you should first understand the syllabus and exam pattern. Then, divide your time and resources accordingly, focusing on the most important topics and events. Take notes and revise regularly, and practice writing answers to essay and short-answer questions.

Is Ncert sufficient for UPSC history?

NCERT books are an important resource for UPSC history preparation, and many aspirants have successfully cleared the exam by relying solely on NCERTs. However, to get a better understanding of the topics and to have a more comprehensive preparation, it is recommended to supplement NCERTs with additional resources like standard reference books, online courses, and current affairs magazines. NCERTs alone may not be sufficient to cover all the nuances and depth required for the UPSC exam.