Whether you're in the early phase of your preparation or revising before prelims, multiple-choice question (MCQ) practice plays a critical role in reinforcing your knowledge and boosting exam confidence. But here's the real debate: should you focus more on NCERT books or turn to advanced reference materials?
In this guide, we’ll help you make the right choice, especially if you’re targeting every UPSC and PCS NCERT MCQ Question effectively.
Why NCERTs are a Game-Changer for Competitive Exams
When it comes to building a strong conceptual foundation, nothing beats NCERTs. These textbooks are not just school curriculum material — they are officially recommended by UPSC and most State Public Service Commissions for prelims.
Still wondering why?
- They are simple, authentic, and factually accurate.
- They are frequently referenced in actual UPSC and PCS question papers.
- They form the base for framing both direct and concept-based MCQs.
So, if you’re preparing for UPSC or any State PCS like BPSC, MPPSC, or UPPCS, your first priority should be completing NCERTs and solving MCQs based on them.
Are Reference Books Overrated for Beginners?
Reference books do have their place. They provide in-depth knowledge, analysis, and advanced insights on complex topics. But should you start with them?
Ask yourself:
- Are you already thorough with NCERTs?
- Do you find NCERT-based MCQs easy and accurate?
- Are you scoring consistently in mock tests?
If your answer is "no" — then reference books may actually do more harm than good by overwhelming you with excessive information.
The key to cracking the UPSC Prelims or any PCS exam is not knowing everything — it’s about mastering what is actually asked.
That’s why every UPSC and PCS NCERT MCQ Question you practice builds your fundamentals and exam readiness more effectively than randomly reading bulky texts.
NCERT-Based MCQ Practice: The Smarter Approach
You don’t just study NCERTs — you revise them through MCQs. Apps like PensBook offer a structured platform where you can practice thousands of chapter-wise questions from Class 6 to 12 NCERTs.
Here’s why MCQ practice based on NCERTs works so well:
Active recall
Rather than passively reading, you actively engage your brain.
Concept clarity
Explanations help you understand where and why you went wrong.
Pattern recognition
You get familiar with how UPSC frames questions — be it factual, analytical, or conceptual.
Time management
Timed tests simulate real exam conditions, making you quicker and more efficient.
So, NCERT or Reference Books — What Should You Prioritize?
Let’s not complicate it. Here’s a simple formula:
Begin with NCERTs. Master them. Solve 1000s of MCQs. Then move to selected reference books.
That’s the strategy smart toppers follow — and so should you.
No matter how good your reference material is, it’s the basics that matter most in prelims. And basics come from the NCERTs. You’ll find that most UPSC and PCS NCERT MCQ Questions are either directly lifted or conceptually built from these books.