Hello,
Everyone will agree that without investing in some books, one cannot clear IAS exam. Thats right. The syllabus is vast, the aspirant should develop the habit of reading. To start with, we recommend buying some useful books (likeIndian Polity by Laxmikanth) in addition to all the NCERT books. List ofessential books for IAS preparation is compiledin this website, taking inputs from many toppers. Links are also provided tobuy online at discounted prices. Order a few basic books on the list today itself, so that you will feel that you are into it. Also, make newspaper reading a habit.

Cheers !!

Either you choose coaching or self study.
Starting your preparation is to get familiar with the Prelims syllabus first. Doing this you will know exactly what you need to cover within this time frame to crack the prelims.

You need to prepare history, geography, current affairs, mental ability etc. Only thing is don't prepare all at once. Chunk it down. Pick one subject, lets say Polity and combine it with current affairs which you should cover for some time everyday. Current affairs preparation consists of reading the newspaper, a good current events magazine and a year book.

You can read a good newspaper like The Hindu, magazine like Civil Services Chronicle or Pratyogita Darpan and the Manorama Year Book. Schedule a particular time for newspaper reading.

Constantly evaluate yourself after going through every topic rather than waiting till the end hoping to finish the entire syllabus before going through the question papers.

You should also refer to NCERT material for UPSC preparation as they will not only form your base but will also take you in the depth and background.

All the best!

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