Best Books for MPSC 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
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- 07 May 2025
Preparing for the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) State Service Examination (SSE) 2025 requires a strategic approach, and the cornerstone of that strategy is selecting the right MPSC books. With a wide syllabus and intense competition, the best way to stay ahead is by choosing the right resources tailored to each stage of the exam.
In this blog, we’ll break down the best books for MPSC Prelims, Mains, and other recommended MPSC study material to guide you toward success.
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Understanding the MPSC Examination Structure
The MPSC State Services Exam consists of three phases:
- Prelims – Objective-based, qualifying exam.
- Mains – Descriptive papers including general studies Language and Optional subjects.
- Interview – Final personality assessment.
Each phase requires specific preparation strategies and subject mastery, making it essential to refer to high-quality MPSC books at each stage.
Best Books for MPSC Prelims
The Prelims exam comprises two papers: General Studies (Paper I) and CSAT (Paper II).
The focus should be on conceptual clarity, accuracy, and state-specific content.
General Studies – Paper I
| Subject | Books/Resources |
| History |
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| Geography |
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| Polity |
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| Economy |
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| Environment |
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| Science & Tech |
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| Current Affairs |
|
CSAT – Paper II
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
- Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Previous Year CSAT Papers
Although CSAT is only qualifying in nature, many candidates tend to underestimate it and face setbacks. It is important to include regular CSAT practice in your preparation routine.
Best Books for MPSC Mains
The Mains examination comprises nine papers, including two language papers, four General Studies papers, two Optional subject papers, and one Essay paper.
Language Papers (Marathi & English)
- Wren & Martin’s High School English Grammar—for grammar and writing skills.
- Balbharti State Board Grammar Books—for Marathi grammar and composition.
- Practice comprehension, précis, and translation regularly.
Essay Writing
- Practice writing on current events and socio-political issues.
- Read editorials from newspapers like Loksatta and The Hindu.
- Refer to Drishti IAS’s model essays for practice.
General Studies Papers I–IV
The General Studies Mains syllabus overlaps with Prelims but requires analytical depth.
- Use the same base books from Prelims but supplement them with:
- India Year Book (refer to IYB summary on Drishti IAS)
- Yojana and Kurukshetra Magazines – For social development topics.
- Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) Reports – For administration-related questions.
- India Year Book (refer to IYB summary on Drishti IAS)
Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude (GS Paper IV)
- Lexicon for Ethics – Simple and beginner-friendly.
- Drishti IAS Ethics Notes – Covers case studies and theory.
Optional Subject Books for MPSC
Your Optional subject can significantly boost your score. Choose one based on your graduation background or personal interest.
Recommended Books for Some of the Optional Subjects
- History:
- History of Modern India – Bipan Chandra
Covers the Indian freedom struggle, colonial policies, and reform movements in depth. - Ancient India – R. S. Sharma
Detailed analysis of early Indian history, including Harappan, Vedic, Mauryan, and Gupta periods. - Medieval India – Satish Chandra
Focuses on the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, regional powers, and socio-economic developments. - Maharashtra and Indian History – Anil Kathare / Dnyandeep Academy Notes
Comprehensive coverage of Maharashtra's historical role along with Indian context, tailored for MPSC. - A New Look at Modern Indian History – Grover & Mehta
Analytical and chronological study of modern Indian history with exam-oriented presentation.
- History of Modern India – Bipan Chandra
- Geography:
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography – G.C. Leong
Covers fundamental concepts of physical geography with clear explanations and diagrams. - Geography of India—Majid Husain
Comprehensive book for Indian geography, including resources, agriculture, industries, and regional planning. - World Geography—Majid Husain
Useful for understanding climatic regions, landforms, and global geographical patterns. - Maharashtra Bhugol (Geography of Maharashtra)—Anil Kathare / Dnyandeep Academy Notes
The material provided is focused on state-specific geography, which is important for MPSC optional and General Studies papers. - NCERT Geography Books (Class 11th & 12th)
The course provides a strong base for physical, human, and Indian geography; it is excellent for conceptual clarity.
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography – G.C. Leong
- Political Science:
- An Introduction to the Constitution of India – D.D. Basu
Covers constitutional provisions, their interpretation, and evolution. - Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth
Comprehensive and exam-focused guide covering all aspects of Indian political system. - Political Theory – O.P. Gauba
Explains fundamental political concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and democracy in a clear manner. - Foundations of Indian Political Thought – V.R. Mehta
In-depth study of Indian political thinkers from ancient to modern times. - Comparative Politics and Government – J.C. Johari
Covers comparative political systems, ideologies, and institutions in a structured way.
- An Introduction to the Constitution of India – D.D. Basu
- Marathi (Literature Paper)
- Tukaram Gatha – by Sant Tukaram
Collection of Abhangas (devotional poetry) with deep philosophical insights. - Jnaneshwari – by Sant Dnyaneshwar
A spiritual and philosophical commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, written in lyrical Marathi. - Kosala – by Bhalchandra Nemade
A modern Marathi novel that explores existential angst and the rural-urban divide - Swami – by Ranjeet Desai
A historical novel based on Madhavrao Peshwa’s life; rich in detail and character depth. - Natsamrat – by V. V. Shirwadkar (Kusumagraj)
A powerful play about an aging actor and the tragedy of legacy and isolation.
- Tukaram Gatha – by Sant Tukaram
Additional MPSC Study Material and Effective Utilization Tips
- Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs)
- Studying PYQs is crucial for understanding the exam pattern. Analyze questions from at least the last 5 years.
- Mock Tests
- Join online test series or solve offline mocks. This builds confidence, boosts speed, and identifies weak areas.
- Notes and Flashcards
- Create your own notes. Use sticky notes, flashcards, and mind maps to revise faster.
Effective Tips
- Stick to limited but standard resources.
- Revise multiple times instead of collecting too many books.
- Read with the syllabus beside you.
- Keep updating current affairs daily.
- Integrate answer-writing with content learning for Mains.
Conclusion
Your choice of books will define the efficiency and depth of your preparation. By focusing on the best books for MPSC Prelims and Mains, and combining them with consistent practice and revision, you can stay ahead of the curve. Stick to authentic MPSC study material, state board resources, and reliable platforms like Drishti IAS to ensure you’re always on the right path.
