Economics is the science of production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services across the world. The subject is widely considered as an important component of administration and policy-making. Hence, UPSC aspirants are expected to have a basic idea about the subject.

Economics is a part of UPSC Prelims and UPSC Mains. In addition, Economics is one of the 48 optional subjects available for students. In this regard, economics books for UPSC are both simple and advanced. Students preparing for general studies can refer to the simple books, while those preparing for optional economics have to refer to advanced books.

A mix of regular reference books and current affairs updates, will help you navigate the economic landscape of the UPSC examination successfully.

Economics Books for UPSC General Studies

UPSC general studies requires candidates to have basic knowledge about economic concepts and the ability to analyse the concepts. The Economics books for UPSC general studies focus on the basics of the subject for a holistic understanding.

Economics Books for UPSC Optional

Economics books for UPSC Optional must  comprehensively cover the core concepts of Paper 1 and Paper 2 mentioned in Economics Syllabus.

Paper I

Economics books for Paper I focus on economic concepts and the basics of economics.

Economics books for Paper II mainly focus on the Indian Economy. There is also a dynamic aspect associated with the paper.

Effectively Reading Economic Books for UPSC

UPSC expects candidates to have a basic understanding of economics and its related concepts so that they can effectively use it in policy-making. To develop this basic understanding, one has to modify their approach while reading the subject. Following are some of the tips that candidates can follow while reading economy books for UPSC:

• Start with Basics: Start your preparation by reading basic books. NCERT books are best suited to address basic understanding of economics.
• Choose one Reference Book: After reading NCERTs, choose one reference book for further reading. Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh is one such reference book that candidates can read.
• Make Short Notes: Candidates are advised to make short notes while reading texts. These notes will enhance learning experience and also help in revision.
• Charts and Graphs: Do not ignore charts and graphs while reading economics. These will help you better understand concepts.
• Remember Trends: Candidates are not expected to remember exact numbers, but they must have an idea of economic trends. For example, candidates may not exactly remember India’s trade value with China, but they do need to remember if India’s trade with China is in deficit or surplus.
• Current Affairs Notes: Current affairs are an important part of economics. Along with static concepts, candidates must make a note of current events of importance.

Economics has applications in policy-making as well as in careers beyond civil services. This makes it one of the vital components of the UPSC exam. Candidates dreaming of becoming civil servants cannot ignore economics. Reading economics books for UPSC and understanding it completely in the very first attempt is indeed difficult. Hence, choosing the right books will not only help you score high marks in exams, it will also help you understand the basics of economics.

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