Mastering PSC Exams: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Books and Resources for Success


When preparing for PSC (Public Service Commission) exams, it’s crucial to have a well-rounded set of study materials that cover the relevant syllabus and provide comprehensive insights into the topics. Here are some recommendations for books, study materials, and resources specifically tailored for PSC exam preparation:

1. NCERT Books:

  • Subjects: Various (depending on the exam)
  • Why: NCERT books provide a strong foundation in subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Political Science, which are often part of PSC exam syllabi.

2. Lucent’s General Knowledge:

  • Subjects: General Knowledge
  • Why: An excellent resource for building a strong base in general knowledge, covering history, geography, science, and current affairs.

3. Manorama Yearbook:

  • Subjects: General Knowledge, Current Affairs
  • Why: A comprehensive yearbook that provides an overview of important events, government schemes, and general knowledge.

4. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth:

  • Subjects: Indian Polity
  • Why: Widely regarded as one of the best books for understanding the Indian political system and constitution.

5. Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh:

  • Subjects: Indian Economy
  • Why: A detailed and comprehensive book covering various aspects of the Indian economy, including economic policies and reforms.

6. Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal:

  • Subjects: Quantitative Aptitude
  • Why: A popular choice for mastering quantitative aptitude, a section commonly found in PSC exams.

7. Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal:

  • Subjects: Reasoning
  • Why: An essential resource for sharpening reasoning skills, crucial for many competitive exams.

8. A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal:

  • Subjects: Reasoning
  • Why: This book delves deeper into reasoning concepts, providing a modern approach to problem-solving.

9. Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi:

  • Subjects: English Language
  • Why: A comprehensive guide for improving English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.

10. PSC Exam-specific Guidebooks:

  • Subjects: Varies by guidebook
  • Why: There are many guidebooks available that are specifically designed for various PSC exams. These often provide targeted practice questions and strategies.

Online Resources:

  1. PSC Exam Websites:
    • Why: Official websites of PSCs often provide detailed syllabi, exam patterns, and notifications. For example, UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) and State PSC websites.
  2. Online Mock Tests:
    • Why: Websites and platforms offering mock tests can help you practice time management and assess your preparation.
  3. Current Affairs Websites and Apps:
    • Why: Stay updated with current affairs using websites and apps like The Hindu, PIB, and government news portals.
  4. Government Reports and Publications:
    • Why: Access reports and publications related to government policies and schemes from official websites.

Remember to check the syllabus of the specific PSC exam you are preparing for, as the recommended resources can vary based on the exam pattern and subjects. Additionally, solving previous years’ question papers is crucial for understanding the exam pattern and practicing time management.