The Best Resources for UPSC Geography Optional: Previous Year Questions and Beyond
If you're preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) with Geography as your optional subject, you're in luck. There are several resources that can help you prepare effectively. This article focuses on the best books for previous year questions, as well as an all-inclusive study program that provides further support.
Best Books for Previous Year Questions in Geography
Dr. S. C. Ghosh’s book, "Geography Optional Previous Years' Solved Papers," is an excellent choice for UPSC aspirants. This comprehensive guide offers a vast collection of past exam questions along with detailed answers. This resource helps you understand the exam structure and enhances your analytical and practical skills. Additionally, the concepts are presented in a clear and organized manner, making it easier to digest.
Another highly recommended book is "Geography Optional Previous Year Question Papers" by K. S. K. K. Reddy. This book compiles past year question papers along with detailed solutions and explanations. It is a valuable resource for understanding the exam pattern and frequently asked topics.
A third top choice is "Geography: A Comprehensive Book" by Majid Husain. This book not only covers important concepts but also includes previous year questions in its practice sections. Using these resources in conjunction with standard geography textbooks like "Savindra Singh: Geography" and "R. D. Dikshit: Geography" provides a robust preparation strategy.
Comprehensive Study Program for UPSC Geography
While books are excellent, a well-rounded study program can complement them by providing additional support and personalized feedback. One such program offers a pendrive or a hard copy of four thick booklets of Geography. This means you won't need to carry any additional books, as the material is comprehensive and easily accessible.
The program also includes a dedicated WhatsApp number where you can ask any queries. Regular updates from various IAS magazines like Down to Earth, Geographical, Yojana, and relevant newspapers are provided. These updates help keep you informed about current affairs and important topics that are often tested in the UPSC examinations.
Additionally, the program includes video resources that are regularly updated. Perhaps the most unique aspect of this program is its testing and evaluation method. After completing a topic, such as geomorphology, you receive a question paper. You write the answers on paper, take a snapshot, and email the answer to the program's official mail ID.
The answers are personally evaluated by the program instructor, who provides detailed feedback. This method includes voice messages where the instructor reads your answer out loud, pointing out areas for improvement. Suggestions are given on structuring your answer, incorporating diagrams, and writing a strong introduction and conclusion. This ensures that your performance improves measurably with each test.
This personalized approach is the best part of the program, as it helps you understand not just the content but also how to present it in a way that maximizes your score. By regularly engaging with this program, you can expect significant improvement in your preparation and performance for the UPSC Geography optional paper.
Conclusion
For UPSC Geography aspirants, combining the best books with a comprehensive study program can provide a well-rounded and effective preparation strategy. Whether you choose Dr. S. C. Ghosh’s book, K. S. K. K. Reddy’s, or Majid Husain’s, these resources can help you familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve your analytical skills. Additionally, an all-inclusive program can offer invaluable support and personalized feedback to enhance your preparation further.