NCERT History Books 6-12th for UPSC Preparation: Comprehensive Guide with Download Links

NCERT History

Class	Book Title	Content Overview	Download Link
Class 6	Our Past – I	Introduction to ancient Indian history, including early human societies and the development of cities.	Download
Class 7	Our Past – II	Explores the medieval period in India, including the rise of regional kingdoms and cultural synthesis.	Download
Class 8	Our Past – III (Part 1 & Part 2)	Detailed exploration of modern India, colonialism, socio-political movements, and the struggle for independence.	Download Part 1 | Download Part 2
Class 9	India and the Contemporary World – I	Focuses on major global events, including revolutions and the impact of colonialism.	Download
Class 10	India and the Contemporary World – II	Discusses nationalism, world wars, and anti-imperial movements in India and globally.	Download
Class 11	Themes in World History	Ancient to modern world history, covering revolutions, empires, and major civilizations.	Download
Class 12	Themes in Indian History (Part I, II & III)	Comprehensive study of Indian history from ancient to post-independence times.	Download Part I | Download Part II | Download Part III

1. Why NCERT History Books Are Crucial for UPSC Preparation

NCERT History books are invaluable for UPSC aspirants because they provide a clear, concise understanding of Indian history. With their fact-based content and straightforward narrative, these books lay a solid foundation before moving on to advanced sources.

• Standardized Content: As NCERTs are government-published, the information is reliable and aligns with the UPSC syllabus.
• Clear Language: The books are written in accessible language, simplifying complex historical events.
• Conceptual Clarity: NCERTs cover history thematically and chronologically, making it easier to understand connections between different periods and events.

2. NCERT History Books List for UPSC

Here’s a list of the key NCERT History books recommended for UPSC, organized by historical period.

Ancient History

• Class 6: Our Past – I
• Class 7: Our Past – II
• Class 11: An Introduction to Indian Art Part I
• Class 11: Themes in Indian History Part I

Medieval History

• Class 7: Our Past – II
• Class 11: Themes in Indian History Part II

Modern History

• Class 8: Our Past – III
• Class 12: Themes in Indian History Part III

3. How to Approach NCERT History Books for UPSC: A Strategic Study Plan

To cover the entire NCERT History syllabus effectively, it’s essential to have a structured approach. Here’s a four-step strategy:

Step 1: Basic Reading and Understanding

Start by reading the books cover to cover to get a basic understanding. Take brief notes while reading, and highlight key terms, events, and personalities.

Step 2: Identify Important Themes

The UPSC syllabus for history highlights specific themes, like the Harappan civilization, Buddhism and Jainism, the Mauryan empire, Mughal administration, and India’s freedom struggle. After your initial reading, list the important themes.

Step 3: Make Consolidated Notes

Create concise notes summarizing each theme, including dates, key events, and important personalities. These notes should also include maps for historical places and timelines for each period.

Step 4: Revise Regularly

Revision is crucial for retaining history facts. Aim to revise these notes at least three times before the exams. Utilize flashcards or timeline charts for quick reference during revision.

4. Ancient History Strategy

Ancient history includes a variety of civilizations, kingdoms, and cultural developments. Here’s how to tackle it efficiently:

• Focus on Major Civilizations: Prioritize the Harappan Civilization, Vedic Age, and the Mauryan and Gupta empires.
• Key Concepts to Remember: Art, architecture, literature, and religious movements during each period are highly relevant for both Prelims and Mains.
• Visual Aids: Use maps to understand the locations of ancient kingdoms and the extent of empires.

5. Medieval History Strategy

Medieval history can be tricky due to its detailed descriptions of dynasties and rulers. Here’s a strategy for this section:

• Focus Areas: Prioritize the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, and regional kingdoms.
• Administrative Structures: Understand Mughal and Sultanate administrative structures, including the feudal system and cultural contributions.
• Art and Architecture: UPSC often includes questions on medieval architecture, such as forts, palaces, and monuments.

6. Modern History Strategy

Modern history is the most important for UPSC due to its direct relevance to India’s independence movement.

• Freedom Struggle Timeline: Break the freedom struggle into phases: the early resistance, the Revolt of 1857, and the rise of nationalist movements post-1900.
• Key Personalities and Movements: Focus on figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhagat Singh, and the contributions of movements like Non-Cooperation and Quit India.
• Socio-Religious Reform Movements: These movements set the foundation for the Indian freedom struggle, so give them extra attention.

7. Quick Revision Tips for NCERT History Books

Here are some tips to revise NCERT History books effectively:

1. Create Timeline Charts: For each period, create a timeline chart of major events and rulers.
2. Use Flashcards: Make flashcards with keywords and important dates for quick revision.
3. Practice Previous Years’ Questions: Refer to previous years’ UPSC question papers to understand the type of history questions asked.
4. Utilize NCERT Notes: Consolidate NCERT notes for each historical period, summarizing key points and events.