Old NCERT books have long been cherished by students, teachers, and exam aspirants alike for their simplicity, depth of content, and clarity. Whether you're preparing for school exams or competitive exams, these books are an invaluable resource. But why exactly are old NCERT books so revered? What sets them apart from newer editions or other study materials?
In this article, we will explore the significance of old NCERT books, their structure, the subjects they cover, and why many experts recommend them for students preparing for a range of academic challenges.
What Makes Old NCERT Books Special?
Old NCERT books have been recognized for their systematic approach to content delivery. Unlike modern textbooks that sometimes focus on more complex language or current trends, the old versions of NCERT books are simple, direct, and focus on building a solid foundation. For this reason, they are widely regarded as a go-to source for mastering fundamental concepts in various subjects.
The simplicity of language and focus on conceptual clarity makes old NCERT books an excellent choice for students of all ages. Their methodical progression from basic concepts to more advanced topics ensures that learners are never overwhelmed and can build confidence as they progress through the content.
Another reason for their continued popularity is the fact that old NCERT books were designed to be universally accessible. The content is often structured in a way that requires minimal external references, allowing students to grasp the material with minimal additional help. This is particularly beneficial for students who may not have access to private tutoring or additional study materials.
Subjects Covered in Old NCERT Books
Old NCERT books cover a variety of subjects, each designed to cater to different aspects of a student's academic journey. Below is a list of some of the most commonly used old NCERT books:
History – NCERT’s history books are foundational for students aiming for a deep understanding of historical events, periods, and figures. The old editions of these books focus on key events in Indian and world history, breaking them down in a manner that is both informative and easy to follow.
Geography – Geography is another subject in which old NCERT books excel. With their clear diagrams, maps, and explanations, these books help students visualize geographic features and gain a thorough understanding of the Earth’s physical, economic, and social aspects.
Political Science – Old NCERT books for political science cover topics such as political structures, democracy, governance, and rights. These books help students not only understand political systems but also apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Economics – The old economics books are perfect for building foundational knowledge of economic systems, policies, and principles. The focus is on both micro and macroeconomic theories, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the economy.
Science – Old NCERT science books cover topics from physics, chemistry, and biology. These textbooks emphasize clarity, helping students grasp the essential concepts behind natural phenomena, chemical reactions, and biological processes.
Mathematics – NCERT mathematics books are essential for mastering core concepts. The problems in these books help students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are key for success in competitive exams.
English and Hindi Literature – Old NCERT books for language and literature contain both prose and poetry sections. These books are designed to improve students’ language skills while also teaching them about literary forms, genres, and the importance of language in society.
Sociology – Sociology books delve into the study of society, social behavior, and institutions. Old NCERT sociology books are great for understanding the social structures and issues that influence human interactions and communities.
Why Should You Choose Old NCERT Books?
Clear and Concise Language: The language used in old NCERT books is simple, clear, and easy to understand. The absence of unnecessary jargon helps students focus on grasping the concepts rather than getting caught up in complicated terminology.
Systematic Approach: The way the content is organized in old NCERT books is logical and well-structured. Each chapter flows naturally into the next, allowing students to build on what they have already learned without confusion.
Conceptual Understanding: One of the major advantages of old NCERT books is that they focus on building conceptual understanding. These books often explain fundamental concepts in a way that encourages long-term learning, which is especially important for exams that require in-depth knowledge.
Cost-Effective: Old NCERT books are often more affordable compared to newer editions or other reference materials. This makes them an excellent option for students who are looking to keep costs low while receiving quality education.
Foundation for Competitive Exams: Many competitive exams, including UPSC, SSC, and others, require a strong grasp of fundamental concepts. Old NCERT books serve as an excellent starting point for students preparing for these exams, as they cover the essential topics in a clear and concise manner.
In-Depth Knowledge: These books tend to offer more detailed insights into each subject compared to other textbooks, helping students not only pass their exams but also truly understand the material.
Detailed Look at Key Old NCERT Books
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular old NCERT books, highlighting the chapters and content they cover.
1. History: Themes in World History (Class 12)
This book explores world history with a focus on themes such as the development of civilization, the rise of empires, and the effects of the industrial revolution. Some key chapters include:
The Industrial Revolution: Covers the changes in society, economy, and technology.
Colonialism and the First World War: Discusses the causes and consequences of colonialism, leading up to the First World War.
Nationalism and Revolution: Examines how nationalist movements shaped the political landscape in the 20th century.
2. Geography: Fundamentals of Physical Geography (Class 11)
This book covers physical geography in detail, with topics ranging from the Earth’s structure to climate change. The major chapters include:
The Earth’s Shape and Size: Discusses the Earth’s dimensions, shape, and its relationship to the solar system.
Climate and Vegetation: Explains the global climate zones and the different types of vegetation found around the world.
Landforms and Landscapes: Provides an in-depth look at how various landforms like mountains, plains, and plateaus are formed.
3. Economics: Introductory Microeconomics (Class 11)
This book introduces students to microeconomic concepts and theories, such as:
The Concept of Demand and Supply: Defines these fundamental concepts and discusses their relationship.
Production and Cost: Covers the factors involved in the production of goods and services.
Market Structures: Analyzes different market types such as monopoly, oligopoly, and perfect competition.
4. Political Science: Political Theory (Class 11)
The political science book for Class 11 lays the foundation for understanding political theory. Important chapters include:
What is Politics?: Introduces the concept of politics and its relevance to society.
Power and Authority: Explains the concepts of power, authority, and legitimacy.
Rights and Responsibilities: Discusses the role of rights in society and the responsibilities of citizens.
5. Science: Biology (Class 12)
NCERT's Biology book for Class 12 focuses on the complex processes of life. Key chapters include:
Reproduction: Explores different modes of reproduction in animals and plants.
Genetics and Evolution: Explains inheritance patterns and the theory of evolution.
Human Physiology: Covers the structure and function of human organs and systems.
6. Mathematics: Mathematics Textbook (Class 12)
The mathematics book for Class 12 provides a solid foundation in algebra, calculus, and trigonometry. Some important chapters include:
Integrals: Introduces definite and indefinite integrals and their applications.
Vectors: Explores the mathematical concepts behind vectors and their properties.
Probability: Teaches the principles of probability and statistical analysis.
Expert Recommendations for Using Old NCERT Books
Start with Basics: Begin by thoroughly studying the old NCERT books to establish a strong understanding of fundamental concepts. These books are ideal for building a solid foundation that can be expanded upon later with more complex resources.
Focus on Clarity: Don’t just memorize facts—ensure that you understand the reasoning behind concepts. This approach will help you retain information for longer and make it easier to apply during exams.
Use Old NCERT Books for Revision: Old NCERT books are excellent for quick revision before exams. Their concise content and focus on core concepts make them an ideal resource for last-minute preparation.
Practice Regularly: For subjects like mathematics and science, regular practice is essential. The problems and exercises in the old NCERT books are designed to help you improve your problem-solving skills.
Combine with Other Resources: While old NCERT books are great for conceptual understanding, supplementing them with reference books or online resources can provide additional insights into topics that are not covered in-depth.
By following these expert recommendations and diving deep into the content of old NCERT books, students can significantly improve their academic performance and set a strong foundation for future learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Old NCERT Books
1. What are old NCERT books?
Old NCERT books refer to the earlier editions of textbooks published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) in India. These books cover subjects like History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Science, and more. They are known for their clear, concise, and conceptual approach to learning.
2. Why should I use old NCERT books?
Old NCERT books are widely regarded for their simplicity and clarity. They focus on building a strong conceptual foundation, which is essential for understanding complex topics. Many students and experts recommend them for exam preparation, particularly for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and other entrance exams. They are also cost-effective compared to other reference books.
3. What subjects are covered in old NCERT books?
Old NCERT books cover a wide range of subjects including:
History
Geography
Political Science
Economics
Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
Mathematics
English and Hindi Literature
Sociology
Each subject is designed to provide a deep understanding of the concepts and theories, helping students build a strong academic foundation.
4. How are old NCERT books different from new ones?
Old NCERT books are known for their straightforward language and a more traditional approach to explaining concepts. The new editions often contain updates and revisions based on recent developments or changes in the curriculum, and sometimes, they include more advanced language and topics. Some students prefer old editions because they are more focused on the basics and provide clear explanations without overloading information.
5. Are old NCERT books still relevant?
Yes, old NCERT books remain relevant, especially for foundational learning. While new editions may include updated content or illustrations, the core concepts in subjects like History, Geography, and Economics have remained largely the same. For students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, many refer to older editions for their clear and conceptual explanations.
6. Where can I find old NCERT books?
Old NCERT books can be found through a variety of sources:
Online marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, and eBay.
Second-hand book stores in your locality or online platforms that sell used books.
NCERT's official website, where you can download PDF versions of some older editions.
If you're looking for physical copies, second-hand bookstores or online listings may be your best bet.
7. Are old NCERT books useful for competitive exams like UPSC?
Yes, old NCERT books are highly recommended for competitive exam preparation, especially for exams like UPSC, SSC, and various state-level exams. These books are ideal for developing a clear understanding of the basic concepts required for these exams. Many UPSC toppers have recommended reading old NCERT books, especially for subjects like History, Geography, and Economics, as they help build a strong conceptual foundation.
8. What is the difference between NCERT and reference books?
NCERT books are primarily designed for school students and focus on providing a basic understanding of subjects. They are ideal for conceptual clarity and are structured to meet the curriculum of different academic boards. Reference books, on the other hand, often delve deeper into specific topics and are usually recommended for exam preparation, offering additional information, practice questions, and advanced content.
9. How do old NCERT books help in building a strong foundation?
Old NCERT books excel in simplifying complex topics, making them ideal for students who want to build a strong foundation. They present concepts in an easy-to-understand manner, without overwhelming the reader with too much information. The focus is on building basic knowledge that can later be expanded upon with advanced materials or reference books.
10. Can I rely solely on old NCERT books for exam preparation?
While old NCERT books are a great resource for understanding the basics, relying solely on them for advanced exams like UPSC or JEE may not be enough. These books are often not exhaustive in their coverage of complex topics. Therefore, it is recommended to supplement them with additional reference books, study materials, and current affairs to ensure comprehensive preparation.
11. Are there any specific chapters I should focus on in old NCERT books for competitive exams?
The chapters to focus on will depend on the exam you're preparing for, but generally, for competitive exams like UPSC or SSC, some important chapters from old NCERT books include:
History: The history of India, Medieval India, The Indian National Movement.
Geography: Physical Geography, Economic Geography, Map work.
Economics: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Indian Economic Development.
Political Science: Political Theory, Constitution of India, Governance.
These topics form the backbone of many competitive exams, and mastering them from old NCERT books can significantly improve your chances of success.
12. Are there any differences between NCERT books for CBSE and other boards?
NCERT books for CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) are largely similar to the ones used in other boards like ICSE or State Boards. However, the focus of the content might vary slightly depending on the board's curriculum. CBSE textbooks are often more standardized and focused on uniformity, while other boards may have more flexibility in the topics covered.
13. Can old NCERT books help in clearing class 12 board exams?
Yes, old NCERT books are excellent resources for students preparing for class 12 board exams. The books are designed in a way that helps students understand key concepts clearly and effectively. For subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics, the old editions of NCERT books provide in-depth knowledge and problem-solving techniques that can help students perform well in their exams.
14. What are some recommended old NCERT books for History?
For History, the following old NCERT books are widely recommended:
Class 12 – Themes in World History
Class 12 – Modern India
Class 11 – An Introduction to World History
These books cover important periods like the Industrial Revolution, the Rise of Nationalism, and key events in the history of India and the world, providing a solid foundation for understanding global and Indian history.
15. Are there any old NCERT books for competitive exams available in PDF format?
Yes, many old NCERT books are available in PDF format on the official NCERT website. These can be downloaded for free, making them easily accessible to students and exam aspirants. The PDFs are a great option for students who want to study on the go or those who prefer digital formats.
16. How can I make the most of old NCERT books for exam preparation?
To make the most of old NCERT books for exam preparation:
Read carefully: Focus on understanding the concepts and their applications rather than just memorizing facts.
Take notes: Jot down important points and definitions for quick revision later.
Solve exercises: Practice solving the problems and exercises at the end of chapters to reinforce your learning.
Revise regularly: Go over your notes and key chapters frequently to retain the information.
17. Can I use old NCERT books for subjects like Sociology and Psychology?
Yes, old NCERT books for Sociology and Psychology are very helpful, especially for students preparing for UPSC or other social science-related exams. NCERT’s Sociology books offer clear insights into society, institutions, and social behavior, while Psychology books cover fundamental concepts related to human behavior, making them great resources for these subjects.
18. What should I do if I can’t find a specific old NCERT book?
If you're unable to find a specific old NCERT book, consider checking second-hand bookstores, online book selling platforms, or NCERT’s official site for digital copies. If the book is unavailable, you can try searching for similar titles from other publishers that cover the same syllabus or consult your teachers for guidance on alternative resources.
By understanding the benefits and practical applications of old NCERT books, students can utilize these valuable resources to build a strong academic foundation and prepare effectively for exams. Whether you're aiming for school exams, board exams, or competitive exams, these books remain an excellent study companion.
