Is there a single book which covers all topics for IAS exam (Prelims and Mains)?

“Is there a single book which covers all topics for IAS exam (Prelims and Mains)?”.

We get this query often from our readers.

Nothing wrong which such a line of thinking – as there are hundreds of books in the market for each specific area in the UPSC syllabus for Civil Services Exam, enough to confuse all beginners.

But is there such a book which covers all topics for IAS exam Prelims and Mains?

No. Unfortunately or fortunately – no. IAS exam is not like school or college exams, and there is no such all-in-one book which covers all possible questions in UPSC CSE.

Considering the vast UPSC syllabus, even if any publisher releases such a book, you can imagine how big and bulky it would be. Still, if an author creates a 10000-page all-in-one book, don’t you think that UPSC can frame questions outside the scope of the same? Yes, they can.

“Okay. There is no such thing as a complete all-in-one book. But can you suggest some books which can give proper directions for a beginner?”

Yes. We can. As a beginner, what you need is the proper direction. That’s why we always recommend a mix of three essential items – (1) ClearIAS mock exams (which include previous year questions), (2) ClearIAS study materials (which are easy-to-learn and free), and (3) good books.

In this post, we shall suggest some good guides and manuals (apart from textbooks) from leading publishers, which you should not miss. Though not a replacement of authentic textbooks, Civil Services Exam manuals can sometimes be very handy – for beginners and veterans.

For beginners who don’t know what to study and whatnot, these manuals give a proper direction and thus help save time. For veterans, these books are quick-revision materials.

All-in-one manuals are prepared solely with IAS exam syllabus in focus. Also, these are less expensive considering the cost of purchasing numerous different books.

Guides for UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Exam (Paper 1 and Paper 2)

General Studies for Civil Services Preliminary Examination Paper I by Pearson (combo of 6 books) is a good choice if you are looking for an all-in-one-manual for IAS prelims. This is a set of 6 books, each book in separate binding, which makes it handy. You can buy online English Edition or Hindi Edition.

For Prelims CS Paper 2 (CSAT), you may go for General Studies for Civil Services Preliminary Examination Paper 2 by Pearson.

There are similar manuals by many other leading publishers like McGraw Hill Education, Arihant etc. as well. See some of the popular options. Note: Just buy one book each for GS Paper 1 and GS Paper 2.