Hi.
I don’t understand why you have asked this anonymously. Nevertheless.
I had ample time to prepare for the CSE because I cleared the exam in my third attempt. Therefore by the third year, I was exclusively referring to only my notes and nothing else for most of the static portions. Therefore my memory is a little bit hazy on the primary material. Still, the following are the books that I have very thoroughly referred to.
- The list provided here( Vishnu H Prasad’s answer to What are the booklist (including NCERT) for the preparation of UPSC CSE? )
- For Environment & Ecology, I had primarily relied on NCERT books, selective reading of the IGNOU material and also heavily on the internet.
- Even though I have mentioned Economic Survey the other list, I would like to reemphasise the importance of this document. It gives you insights on the general direction of the economy and also on the policy thrust of the government. Very useful for attempting GS papers.
- Livemint Editorials on economy can do wonders for Economics. Try it for one month continuously and see how much you improve.
- In addition to this there was my optional history. This meant that I covered a lot of portions for Paper I while preparing for my optional itself. It is very well reflected in my paper I mark:- 109. Therefore I would not suggest any particular book for Art & Culture and Indian History. It might be overdoing it in your case.
Did I miss any particular subject? Or were you looking for some material for any specific topic? Do let me know. I shall reply at the earliest I can.
All the Best.