UPSC 2026: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re looking to join the ranks of the IAS, IPS, or IFS, you’re dealing with one of India's most respected institutions. The UPSC is a government-regulated body known for its fairness and integrity. It runs a rigorous selection process to find competent leaders who can serve the nation effectively in administrative roles.

Getting to Know the UPSC Exam Structure

The exam is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s split into three main stages:

The Prelims: This is your first hurdle. It’s all about testing your general awareness and mathematical aptitude. While it’s worth 400 marks and takes about 2 hours per paper, remember that it’s only qualifying—it’s your ticket to the next stage.

The Mains: This stage is where you show off your critical thinking. It’s a deep dive into nine papers—including GS I through IV and your chosen optional subject. Only the GS and optional papers count toward your merit, totaling 1750 marks.

The Interview: The final step! Here, the board looks at your problem-solving skills and personality. It’s worth 275 marks, and your final result depends on how you did in both the Mains and this interview.

Best UPSC Exam Preparation Books 2026

Preparing for the civil services doesn’t have to be exhausting. You can actually fast-track your progress with the right tools. Disha Publication offers a range of solution-based books covering history, economics, geography, and more. These are packed with model papers and solution-based PYQs designed to make your planning much smoother.

To help everyone succeed, Disha has also released these books in Hindi, making sure language isn't a barrier to your ambition.

Why aspirants are choosing these solutions:

They include mock tests and practice papers updated for the 2026 syllabus. Every book is curated by top UPSC experts. The language is simple, student-friendly, and easy to follow. You’ll find plenty of flowcharts, diagrams, and images to help things click.

Ready to dive in? Grab the latest solution-based study materials and get up to 40% off on selected 2026 prep bundles to get a head start!

FAQs

Q1. What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)?
Ans. It’s a national competitive exam used to recruit for prestigious roles like the IAS and IPS. You’ll go through the prelims, mains, and an interview.For more info read this blog.

Q2. What subjects should I focus on?
Ans. You’ll need to study core areas like History, Polity, Economics, and Geography, along with CSAT and current affairs. These help you build the analytical skills needed for the job.

Q3. How do Disha Publications books help?
Ans. They simplify the whole syllabus with structured practice questions and solution-based PYQs, so you feel truly exam-ready.

Q4. Can I get these books in Hindi?
Ans. Yes! Disha provides Hindi versions of their UPSC CSE books to make sure quality resources are available to a wider audience.

Q5. Why choose Disha over other options?
Ans. Because the books are written by experts and follow the very latest patterns. They use clear explanations and visual aids like diagrams to make learning actually stick.