Best Books for BPSC Preparation: Subject-wise List

The biggest mistake in BPSC preparation is buying too many books. Choose one standard book per subject, read it three times and add notes from current affairs. This is a simple subject-wise list that works for most aspirants.

Base building: NCERT books

NCERT textbooks of Class 6 to 12 give a clear foundation in history, geography, science, polity and economics. Read them first, in simple language, before moving to advanced books.

Subject-wise books

• Indian Polity: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth.
• Modern History: A Brief History of Modern India (Spectrum).
• Economy: Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh, and the Bihar Economic Survey for the state.
• Geography: NCERT Geography books and a good atlas.
• General Science: NCERT Science (Class 6–10) and a general knowledge book such as Lucent's General Knowledge.
• English vocabulary: Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis.
• Bihar GK: a recent Bihar GK book plus the notes on this website – see Bihar special.
• Hindi: a standard Hindi grammar book and our Hindi notes.

How to read a book

1. First read: understand, do not memorise.
2. Second read: underline facts and make short notes.
3. Third read: revise only your notes and solve questions.

Free resources to pair with books

• Previous year papers to learn the exam style.
• Quizzes and practice papers for weekly testing.

Browse the full books page for suggested titles. Editions change often, so check the latest edition before buying.