Best Sociology Books for UPSC Mains 2026: NCERT, Optional Paper I and II

Sociology Books for UPSC are essential tools for aspirants choosing this subject as an optional in their UPSC mains exam. Here’s a guide to some of the best Sociology Books for UPSC that can aid your preparation and enhance your understanding of the optional subject.

Sociology Books for UPSC: The UPSC Mains examination allows candidates to choose one optional subject from a diverse list, which includes subjects from various disciplines such as Literature, Social Sciences, and Engineering. Sociology is a crucial part of the UPSC Mains syllabus, especially for those choosing it as an optional subject. Read more as you will find the best Sociology Books for UPSC Mains preparation. 

Sociology Books for UPSC Mains Examination

Sociology is one of the optional subjects available in the UPSC Mains examination. Sociology Paper I addresses theoretical ideas. All of the fundamental principles of the subject, and the sociological thinkers are essentially covered. Paper II discusses the sociological analysis of the Indian context. The Sociology Books for UPSC explore the complex field of Sociology, highlighting many aspects and supporting you in understanding all aspects of social change and human behaviour.

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Sociology Books for UPSC- NCERT Books

The below table has the list of NCERT Sociology Books for UPSC from class 11 and 12:

How to Prepare with Sociology Books for UPSC?

To make the best use of Sociology books for UPSC, candidates must adopt a focused and strategic study approach. Given the analytical nature of the Civil Services Examination, smart reading and proper consolidation of sources are essential.

1. Understand Exam Challenges & Study Smartly

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is highly competitive, with questions that test conceptual clarity and application. Merely reading books is not enough—candidates must understand how to apply sociological theories and concepts in answer writing. Covering selected Sociology books in the right manner significantly improves performance.

2. Follow an Optimal Reading Strategy

While studying a topic from the UPSC Sociology syllabus, refer to two standard books at most—one primary and one supplementary. This helps in gaining depth without confusion. Important points, examples, and thinkers’ views should be compiled into concise self-made notes for easy revision.

3. Limit and Simplify Your Sources

Avoid the mistake of reading the same topic from multiple books. Instead, stick to recommended and trusted sources. A limited and well-defined booklist makes revision easier and improves retention, especially closer to the Mains examination.

4. Use One Core Book for Both Papers

Candidates are advised to treat “Essential Sociology” by Nitin Sangwan as a must-read book. It serves as an excellent foundation for both Paper I (Sociological Thinkers & Concepts) and Paper II (Indian Society), making it ideal for integrated preparation.

Sociology Books for UPSC Optional Paper I

Sociology Paper I covers the principles of sociology, the sociologists who have made major contributions to the discipline, and the many theories of sociology. The following table contains the list of Sociology Books for UPSC Optional Paper I: 

Sociology Books for UPSC Optional Paper II

The UPSC Sociology Optional Paper II focuses on the Indian society, its structure, and change. The below table is the complete list of Sociology Books for UPSC Optional Paper II:

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Sociology Books for UPSC: Toppers Suggestions

Toppers suggestion of Sociology Books for UPSC can significantly influence the Mains preparation and performance in the examination. Toppers recommend specific Sociology books that help them reach their goals and cover the syllabus of both theoretical and applied aspects of Sociology. Sociology Books for UPSC by Toppers are essential resources for achieving success in the UPSC exam.

Here are some of the highly endorsed Sociology Books for UPSC by toppers to guide aspirants through their Sociology optional preparation:

Study Tips for Sociology Optional in UPSC

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the UPSC Sociology syllabus to ensure you cover all topics.
• Regular Revision: Sociology involves understanding and memorizing many theories and concepts. Regular revision helps retain information.
• Answer Writing Practice: Practice writing answers to UPSC Mains PYQs. This helps in improving your writing skills and time management during the exam.
• Use Diagrams and Flowcharts: These can simplify complex concepts and make your answers more attractive to the examiner.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest research and developments in Sociology. Reading journals and online articles can be beneficial.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right Sociology Books for UPSC is crucial for effective exam preparation. The Sociology books mentioned above are well-regarded for their syllabus coverage and clarity. If you follow a structured study plan, and cover these resources along with Physics Wallah’s UPSC online courses, you can perform well in the UPSC examination.

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