History is a crucial component of the UPSC preparation, as you are probably aware. History is a required subject for the UPSC prelims and mains, even if you choose not to take it as an elective. For both the UPSC prelims and mains, a sizable portion of the questions are from this subject. It is not a hassle to read all of those books and materials if you enjoy history. However, the vast majority of people have either found history to be mildly boring or even hate it. You must be wondering how you will learn and remember all those names and dates for the UPSC civil services exams.
It can be challenging to get good grades in a subject you don’t particularly enjoy, which can prevent you from passing the IAS exam. If you want to get into the civil service, you must be knowledgeable about history. What if you could add some interest to history?
You may fall asleep if you read dates and names mindlessly. Let’s adopt a fresh perspective on history, which is after all our story. There are a few techniques that can make reading enjoyable.
How should I begin the History section of the UPSC exam?
Examining the UPSC syllabus for a subject is the first thing to do when starting a new one.
Polity, Geography, Economy, History, General Science, and Current Affairs are included in the General Studies section of the Civil Services Preliminary Exam. The histories and cultures of India are interconnected and extremely broad topics. Both the Civil Services Preliminary Exam and the Main Examination 2023 are thought to contain a significant amount of material on Indian History and Culture. In the IAS General Studies Paper I, questions about Indian history and culture make up a significant portion of the total questions.
The preparation for history will be made easier with a smart combination of effort and the appropriate approach. Here, we discuss the most effective method for studying history for the UPSC.
The benefits of taking History for UPSC’s optional paper
In the UPSC mains exam, history is a well-liked optional subject. In the UPSC, it is a crucial subject. The general studies papers for the IAS mains and prelims both cover history. You should study history if you’re getting ready for the IAS. Choosing history as an optional paper has many benefits.
Cross-referencing with GS subjects
General Studies includes history. Many topics also cover general studies. Studying history is necessary if you want to pass the UPSC exam. In the GS paper, history plays a significant role. History and economics, foreign relations, political science, geography, and public administration are related fields. So, if you choose history as an optional subject, you can cover a wide range of GS topics.
Study topics that are interesting
The study of history is fascinating. The history curriculum is spelt out in great detail. There are many interesting stories from ancient history that can be read. Candidate reading habits can be formed while studying history. Reading about historical subjects is fascinating.
Simple to comprehend
History-related subjects are simple to comprehend. There is no science or formula in it. The subjects are simple to read and comprehend. This subject is beneficial for you if you are interested in global history. Another advantage of selecting history as an optional paper is that you can watch the videos on the internet if you don’t enjoy reading.
Access to study materials
History study materials are readily available. Candidate Ias preparation for history should start with NCERT textbooks. These books cover all the fundamental ideas in general studies and history. Before moving on to other standard books, finish the NCERT books.
How Can I Prepare For The UPSC In History?
See motion pictures and documentaries
Accept it. Instead of reading a book, you’d rather watch a movie. It goes without saying that serious IAS aspirants cannot afford this luxury, but you are allowed to occasionally take a break from reading to watch a movie. However, be sure to watch one about any historical figure or event. You can learn in this way with little effort. Due to the fact that you remember things better when you see and hear them rather than just reading them, you can also remember names and dates more easily.
You can improve your understanding of history by watching any number of fantastic films. Earth (1998), The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002), Gandhi (1982), Alexander (2004), Asoka (2001), Julius Caesar (2002), The Legend of Alexander the Great (2002), Sardar (1993), Mangal Pandey (2005), Urumi (Malayalam), Raja Raja Chola (Tamil), etc. are some examples.
Reading historical fiction
Good stories are beloved by all. Even though it isn’t always presented that way, history is nothing more than a good story. Take a break and read some historical fiction when you feel overwhelmed by your course readings. By reading them, you can discover a lot about historical contexts, lifestyles, issues that people in that time faced, and even significant political developments. Silk and Steel by Stephen Alter, Lady of the Lotus by William E. Barrett, Train to Pakistan by Khushwant Singh, Sea of Poppies by Amitav Ghosh, Brothers at War by Alex Rutherford, Chanakya’s Chant by Ashwin Sanghi, Gods, Kings & Slaves: The Siege of Madurai by R. Venketesh, etc. are a few examples.
Know the curriculum
The study of history is very broad. It’s critical to first comprehend the syllabus. It is impossible to properly prepare without knowing the syllabus. The history curriculum is unambiguous. Topics are clearly defined. A candidate will undoubtedly perform well if they are interested in reading history. Candidates may select history as an elective subject even if they have never studied it before.
Differentiate the topics
To facilitate your preparation, divide the topics. It’s interesting to read about history. There are no concepts that are challenging to comprehend. Therefore, you can plan ahead. Simply divide the curriculum into manageable chunks and create a study schedule.
Make the foundational points clear
First, you must master the fundamentals. To understand things better, read NCERT books. These books cover all the fundamental ideas in general studies and history. Prior to beginning the standard text books for Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, finish the NCERT books. Avoid using too many books when studying. It will make your planning difficult.
Begin practising remembering the dates.
All of history is about remembering dates. You can do well in history if you have a good memory for dates. Divide up your course material, and review it frequently.
Take accurate notes.
Taking notes is beneficial for all subjects. For history classes in UPSC preparation, taking notes is essential. Making notes will help you remember important dates and topics. The breadth of the history curriculum renders it hard to cover every topic. Make notes based on which are most important.
When necessary, enroll in a coaching
An important factor in a student’s success is class UPSC coaching. Many students require direction as they prepare for the UPSC. Note-taking is assisted by coachings. They occasionally administer mock exams to help students prepare. The best IAS academy in India for Ias preparation, in my opinion, is Legacy IAS Academy. They offer well-organized study materials and a necessary competitive environment.
Relate to your interests
Make an effort to relate history to a topic that interests you. If you enjoy architecture, read about the advanced engineering employed in earlier times. Consider reading about the town planning and architecture of the Harappa Age and attempting to connect it to the way of life of the time. Learn about the Mughal and temple construction in ancient India. They can provide information about a person’s life, occupation, etc. Link history to literature, science, geography, architecture, etc.
Practice writing answers
History not required Answers to syllabus questions must be in-depth. There are numerous historical occurrences that you must thoroughly describe. It cannot be regarded as a well-written response if it is not properly described. Practice writing answers is crucial for this. To achieve high exam scores, practise frequently.
Recognize your strengths and weaknesses
Recognize your historical weaknesses and strengths. Some people are good at remembering dates, while there are many people who are not. Therefore, be aware and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Since we were in school, the idea that history is dull has become widespread. In reality, it is very different. One of the most fascinating things you can learn might be this. Additionally, history’s significance cannot ever be understated. After all, it tells the tale of our origins, the events that shaped us, the lifestyles of our ancestors, and the reasons behind how we live today. If you stop to consider it, history has a significant influence on our way of thinking, our ideologies—both personal and societal—and, to some extent, our free-will and compelled decisions in life. In fact, understanding the past is essential to understanding the present.
In addition to studying history, those aiming to ace the upcoming Civil Services Exam should carefully review the detailed and comprehensive UPSC Syllabus for both the prelims and UPSC mains exams.
