Every IAS candidate knows how crucial the NCERT books are for their preparation for the IAS Exam and how imperative it is to make notes during preparation and while revising before the exam. Candidates should know how to learn and sort out information from NCERT books for IAS preparation. Here are some important tips on how to make NCERT notes for UPSC.
The NCERTs Book List for UPSC
| Class | Textbooks |
| 6th |
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| 7th |
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| 8th |
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| 9th |
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| 10th |
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| 11th |
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| 12th |
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Also Read: Complete Study Material for IAS Examination
Note Making Process for NCERTs
There are many ways to make notes you have probably been doing so since your school life. But making notes in a way that makes it easier to understand and more efficient is better. The first thing to understand is that reading only the NCERT is not enough for this exam. The preparation for UPSC has to be extensive and more in-depth however NCERT books are commissioned directly by the government and are very good for learning basic concepts and laying down the foundation for your studies.
Also Read: How To Read NCERTs More Effectively
Division of Topics and Subtopics
Divide topics into subtopics and different subtopics further into more subtopics to remember things easily. Make use of flow-charts, graphs, bullets, and pointers to make it easier to access information at first glance. It will make things easily picturable in your mind and you won’t forget it easily.
Avoid Making Your Notes Wordy
It is very easy to forget important words so cut down on using words in your notes until necessary. Make use of points and single word structures. I know it is difficult as there is too much information but it has been advised by many past aspirants that they found it easier to manage their revisions in this way.
Cue Cards and Mind Maps
Create cue cards and mind maps for every topic with important points and keywords as these are handier and take less time. They also work as answer cues so you don’t have to waste time during your exam to remember all the points and related information for an answer.
Ready an Introduction and Conclusion
Create a good introduction and conclusion for your answers according to every topic that can directly be used when needed. Then you only need to spend time writing the body on the spot during your exam. Also, create short notes for topics that could double as an answer.
Apart from NCERT Information
NCERTs are only good for learning the crux of the matter or the concept behind it. It is just one part of the answer. The answer has to be further backed by research and information and also relevant current affairs. Then the candidate is also expected to include case studies, personal opinions and suggest intelligent reforms. All of this has to be prepared beforehand. Thus the note-making doesn’t end at NCERTs. Before moving on to a new topic, make sure to conduct in-depth research on the topic, read about different opinions, and approach the issue from different perspectives. Then all of these points and content are supposed to be collected together.
Also Read: 5 Books That Are A Must Read For UPSC
Be Systematic
Make sure to be very systematic and keep your notes proper and together and not haphazardly divided all over the place. It is recommended to use loose sheets that can be filed together instead of a notebook so you can go back and add or remove papers as and when edits are needed, new information is unearthed or old information is made redundant. If possible then keep the notes in soft copy format with backups at different places.
Conclusions
Proper notes lead to successful revision and a successful exam. The importance of notes is very much needed and thus it takes a lot of care and time. Many people are unable to make their notes and thus, sign up for courses or coaching that provide them with relevant notes as well. There is nothing wrong with this as no one can be perfect. If you feel like you need help as well then accept your shortcomings and try to solve your problem because only that can help you achieve your dream of being a civil servant.
Also Read : Best Book for History Optional: Boost Your Scores for UPSC Optional History
