Top 5 Resources to Excel in RAS Prelims
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- 26 Nov 2024
Preparing for the Rajasthan Administrative Services (RAS) can feel like embarking on an adventurous journey—challenging yet incredibly rewarding. The exam for recruitment in RAS is conducted in three stages – the Preliminary examination (Pre), Main examination (Mains) and Personality Test (Interview). The Preliminary stage of the RAS exam tests your knowledge across a wide range of topics, from Rajasthan-specific history and geography to Indian polity, economy, science, and current affairs.
With RAS 2024 prelims coming up soon, now is the time to focus and get organized. The good thing is, with a clear plan, the right study material, and consistent effort, you can absolutely crack this stage. We’ll walk you through the top 5 important resources that will not only simplify your preparation but also boost your confidence. From mastering the basics with NCERTs to sharpening your skills with PYQs (Previous Years' Questions) and mock tests.
How This Guide Will Streamline Your RAS Prelims Preparation?
RAS Prelims is a competitive exam with questions that range from Rajasthan-specific topics like history, culture, and geography to national-level subjects like polity, economy, and current affairs. To stand out:
- You need a mix of conceptual clarity, factual knowledge, and current affairs expertise.
- Smart preparation (choosing the right resources) is as important as hard work.
- Highlight Top 5 Must-Have Resources to prepare efficiently.
1. NCERT Books
NCERT books are essential for their conceptual clarity and comprehensive coverage of foundational topics in history, geography, polity, economy, and science. They are simple to understand and ideal for both beginners and advanced aspirants looking to strengthen their basics. (A significant portion of the exam (approx 20-25 questions) revolves around NCERTs).
- History
- Ancient India: Class 6 – Our Past and Class 12 – Themes in Indian History Part 1.
- Medieval India: Class 7 – Our Past II and Class 12 – Themes in Indian History Part 2.
- Modern India: Class 8 – Our Past III and Class 12 – Themes in Indian History Part 3.
- Geography
- Physical Geography: Class 6 – The Earth Our Habitat Class 11- Fundamental of Human Geography and Class 12 – Fundamentals of Physical Geography.
- Indian Geography: Class 9 – Contemporary India, Class 11- India Physical Environment and Class 12 – India: People and Economy.
- Polity
- Basics of the Indian Constitution: Class 9 and 10 Political Science textbooks.
- Governance: Class 11 – Indian Constitution at Work.
- Economy
- Macroeconomic Concepts: Class 12 – Introductory Macroeconomics.
- Class 11 NCERT
- Science
- General Science Concepts: Class 6–10 Science textbooks. Focus on application-based topics like energy, environment, and biology.
2. Standard Books for Rajasthan
Rajasthan-specific questions dominate the Prelims paper, making these textbooks crucial. They provide in-depth coverage of Rajasthan’s history, geography, art, culture, and economy. A significant portion of the exam (approx 35-40 questions in 2023) revolves around Rajasthan GK; mostly questions are directly from these resources.
- Rajasthan Adhyayan
- Bhag 1 (Class 9th)
- Bhag 2 (Class 10th)
- Bhag 3 (Class 11th)
- Bhag 4 (Class 12th)
- Books by Drishti – RAS Series:
- Geography of Rajasthan, India & World and Environment & Ecology
- Economy of Rajasthan, India & World
- Indian Polity, World Politics and Public Administration
- General Hindi and General English
- Sociology, Management, Accounting & Auditing, Administrative Ethics, Behaviour, Law, Sports & Yoga
- History of Rajasthan, India & World and Art & Culture
- Reasoning & Mental Ability
3. Economic Survey and Rajasthan Economic Review
Government publications like the Economic Survey and Rajasthan Economic Review are key for understanding government schemes, policies, and economic indicators at both national and state levels.
Economic Survey
- Chapters on government schemes, rural development, and important sectors like health, education, and agriculture.
- Recent developments in infrastructure, industries, and renewable energy.
Rajasthan Economic Review
- State GDP trends, major industries, and Rajasthan-specific schemes like the Mukhyamantri Rajshree Yojana.
- Social indicators such as literacy, health, and employment trends.
- 10-12 questions directly from Rajasthan Economic Survey and approx 10-12 questions indirectly.
4. Previous Years’ Question Papers and Mock Tests
Previous years’ papers give insight into important topics, exam patterns, and the types of questions asked. Mock tests help you simulate the exam environment, improve time management, and identify weak areas.
- Solve Prelims PYQs of RAS (last 10 years)
- Enroll in Drishti RAS Prelims Test Series 2024
- Approximately 8-10 questions repeated directly from Previous Year Questions and 5-10 indirectly from themes like Rajasthan’s Festivals, Folk Arts, Dance, Music, physiography and Questions related to the Indian Constitution, important Articles, Governance, Federalism, Amendments, and Administrative structures.
5. Monthly Current Affairs Magazines and Online Portals
Around 20–30% of the RAS Prelims questions are based on current affairs (22 questions in 2023), including both Rajasthan-specific and national topics. Monthly magazines and online portals offer concise updates and analysis. You can refer to sources like:
- Current Affairs Monthly Compilation and magazine:
- “Rajasthan Current Affair Today Magazine” by Drishti PCS
- Daily news updates and Monthly consolidation available on Drishti State PCS
- Rajasthan state-specific portals
- You can also refer to Youtube videos of Drishti PCS for news updates and revision of important topics
Trends for Strategic Preparation
The RAS Prelims exam trends highlight the importance of having a well-rounded preparation strategy. By focusing on the right resources:
- Build a strong conceptual foundation with NCERTs.
- Deepen your understanding of Rajasthan’s history, culture, and geography through state textbooks.
- Stay updated with current affairs and government schemes.
- Regularly practice with previous years’ papers to recognize patterns.
Conclusion
Preparing for the RAS Prelims is not about studying everything under the sun—it’s about studying the right resources effectively. By mastering NCERTs, Rajasthan Board textbooks, government publications, PYQs, and current affairs, you’ll be equipped to tackle any question the exam throws your way.
