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SPSC GS Exam Preparation Strategy

Jul 29, 2025

Overview

This lecture provides a comprehensive strategy and booklist for preparing General Studies (GS) for Sikkim Public Service Commission (SPSC) and related state exams, emphasizing key resources, study techniques, and exam-specific tips.

Syllabus & Exam Structure

  • SPSC exams typically have two papers: General Studies and Aptitude (Mathematics & English), each worth 200 marks.
  • The GS syllabus includes History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Science, and Current Affairs; difficulty varies by exam.
  • The Aptitude section is essential and should not be neglected, especially mathematics and English.

Recommended Study Approach

  • Arts background students can start with standard books; science background students should first cover NCERTs (classes 6–12).
  • NCERTs are vital for conceptual clarity and are a frequent source of exam questions.
  • All NCERT books (classes 6–12) are available for free at ncert.nic.in.

Booklist & Resources by Subject

Indian Polity

  • Use "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth (preferably after reading relevant NCERTs).
  • Focus on chapters: Fundamental Rights, DPSP, Panchayats, Municipalities, President, and key articles of the Constitution.

History

  • Ancient & Medieval: Use Class 11th Tamil Nadu NCRT.
  • Modern: "Spectrum's Brief History of Modern India."
  • Art & Culture (for higher posts): Nitin Singhania (emphasize chapters on art, architecture, dance forms, music, and philosophy).

Geography

  • Class 11 NCRT "India Physical Environment."
  • Class 12 NCRT "Fundamentals of Human Geography" and "India: People and Economy."
  • Always use maps for better understanding and retention.

Economics

  • Class 11 NCRT "Indian Economic Development."
  • Class 12 NCRT "Introducing Macroeconomics."
  • Understand concepts like inflation, GDP, and repo rate; supplement with relevant YouTube videos and current affairs.

Science & Technology

  • Study NCERTs from classes 6–10 for basics.
  • For technology, follow current developments and Nobel Prize updates via the internet.

Environment

  • "Shankar IAS Environment" book.
  • Last chapters of class 12 Biology NCRT (ecosystem, endangered species, laws).
  • Stay updated on current affairs (conventions, climate projects).

Current Affairs & Sikkim GK

  • Use Sikkim-specific sources (e.g., MonoShot, R. Gupta’s Sikkim GK book).
  • Read monthly magazines (Adda 247), watch current affairs YouTube channels (Parcham, Adda 247).
  • Read one newspaper daily if possible (The Hindu, Indian Express, or Sikkim-specific).

Key Terms & Definitions

  • CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) — Paper testing mathematics and English, qualifying in nature.
  • DPSP (Directive Principles of State Policy) — Guidelines for the framing of laws by the government.
  • Ecotone — A transition area between two biological communities.
  • IUCN List — International Union for Conservation of Nature's list categorizing endangered species.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Download and read relevant NCERT textbooks (classes 6–12) from ncert.nic.in.
  • Acquire recommended standard books for each subject.
  • Incorporate daily map practice and current affairs review.
  • Join SPSC exam communities (WhatsApp) for shared resources and updates.
  • Allocate at least 30–60 minutes daily for current affairs.
  • Focus on Sikkim-specific events, awards, and government schemes.

Full transcript