Preparing for the UPSC exam, especially the PSIR optional, can be tough. But don’t worry! There are many online resources to help you get ready. From foundation courses to booklists, these tools will guide you step by step. Let’s explore the top online resources that will make your PSIR preparation for UPSC 2024-25 effective and easier.
Key Takeaways
- Sleepy Classes offers a full PSIR foundation program with video lectures, notes, and current affairs coverage.
- Prerna Ma’am’s mentorship course includes detailed lectures, weekly tests, and personal feedback.
- UPSC PSIR toppers recommend a specific booklist that covers all essential topics.
- Staying updated with current affairs is crucial for PSIR, and specialized courses can help.
- Books like ‘Choices’ by Shivshankar Menon and ‘Can the Elephant Dance?’ by David Malone are valuable resources.
1. Sleepy Classes PSIR Foundation Programs
Sleepy Classes offers specialized programs that include video lectures, doubt-clearing sessions, continuous assessments, and mentorship. These resources are designed to provide in-depth understanding and strategic preparation for the PSIR optional.
Sleepy Classes provides a range of comprehensive UPSC mains coaching programs designed to help you excel in PSIR. Our courses emphasize analytical skills and answer writing, supported by video lectures, doubt-clearing sessions, and continuous assessments. This holistic approach ensures that you are well-prepared for every aspect of the exam.
Sleepy Classes offers a range of study materials specifically designed for PSIR optional. Their resources include:
- Comprehensive video lectures covering every aspect of the syllabus.
- Regular coverage of current issues of relevance for PSIR.
- 8 sectional tests and 2 full-length tests to help you gauge your preparation level.
- Detailed notes and PDFs that are easy to understand and retain.
Leveraging these resources can significantly enhance your preparation.
Sleepy Classes’ Political Science and International Relations Foundation Programs offer a 360-degree roadmap to ensure comprehensive preparation for the UPSC aspirants. Our PSIR Optional Classes have produced a multitude of Top Scoring PSIR UPSC Rank Holders, like Pouravi Gupta (AIR 213, UPSC 2023 – 285 marks), Anirudha Pandey (AIR 64, UPSC 2022 – 295 marks), Vikas Ruhela (AIR 221, UPSC 2021 – 288 marks) and many more like them. Our PSIR Course offers in-depth syllabus clarity, extensive coverage of current affairs, regular answer writing and mentorship, to provide students complete understanding of all aspects of PSIR Optional, making a high score in PSIR possible.
2. Prerna Ma’am’s PSIR Mentorship Foundation Course
Prerna Ma’am’s PSIR Mentorship Foundation Course is a comprehensive program designed to help UPSC aspirants excel in the Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) optional paper. This course offers detailed video lectures by Prerna Ma’am, covering every topic in the PSIR syllabus. Students also receive topic-wise discussions of previous years’ questions (PYQs) and one-stop solution PDF notes.
The course includes:
- Monthly Current Affairs Lectures to keep up with the dynamic nature of the PSIR optional, covering periodicals like Indian Express, The Hindu, and Foreign Affairs.
- Step-by-step answer writing practice through weekly mini-tests, half-length tests, and full-length tests.
- Detailed evaluation and feedback by experts, along with model answers.
- Quick and dedicated doubt resolution through a private Telegram group.
- Routine interactive live Zoom sessions with Prerna Ma’am for PSIR strategy guidance.
- Strategic mentorship by selected UPSC officers.
- Complete interview guidance and access to mock interview sessions.
The mentorship program ensures continuous support throughout your preparation journey, making it easier to tackle contemporary issues in the exam.
This course is ideal for those looking for a structured and supportive environment to prepare for the PSIR optional paper in the UPSC exam.
3. UPSC PSIR Toppers Booklist
Choosing the right books is crucial for PSIR Optional preparation. A comprehensive list of the best PSIR books for UPSC preparation is provided here. These books help cover the syllabus thoroughly and are recommended by UPSC toppers.
Paper 1 Part A – Western Political Thought, Indian Political Thought, and Political Theory
Essential Books and Sources:
- MPSE 003 – Western Political Thought (Plato to Marx)
- MPSE 004 – IGNOU Material- Social and Political Thought in Modern India
- An Introduction to Political Theory by O.P Gauba, 7th Edition, Mayur Publications
- Editorials on important personalities, theoretical concepts, and book reviews in news
- Justice series by Michael Sandel on YouTube
- See Our free lectures on Political Thought and Theory: Click Here
Additional Books and Sources:
- A History of Political Thought: Plato to Marx by Subrata Mukherjee and Sushila Ramaswamy
- Western Political Thought: From Socrates to the age of Ideology by Brian R. Nelson
- Modern Indian Political Thought: Text and Context by Bidyut Chakrabarty and Rajendra Kumar Pandey
- Political Theory: An Introduction by Rajeev Bhargava and Ashok Acharya, 2nd edition, Pearson
- Political Theory: An Introduction by Andrew Heywood
Paper 1 Part B – Indian Government and Politics
Essential Books and Sources:
- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipin Chandra
- Indian Polity by Laxmikanth
Paper 2 – Comparative Politics and International Relations
Essential Books and Sources:
- Global Politics by Andrew Heywood
- Comparative Politics by Rod Hague and Martin Harrop
- IGNOU Material on Comparative Politics
- The Globalization of World Politics by John Baylis, Steve Smith, and Patricia Owens
Additional Books and Sources:
- International Relations by Joshua S. Goldstein and Jon C. Pevehouse
- Global Politics by M. Nicholson
- IGNOU Material on International Relations
- Does the Elephant Dance? by David Malone
- Choices: Inside the Making of Indian Foreign Policy by Shivshankar Menon
Following this booklist can significantly enhance your understanding and preparation for the PSIR optional paper. Stick to these topper-recommended books to cover the syllabus comprehensively.
4. PSIR Current Affairs for UPSC 2025
Current affairs are a crucial part of UPSC preparation, especially for the PSIR optional. Our PSIR Current Affairs Program offers a comprehensive solution to keep you updated with all the important events from January 2023 up to the Mains 2025. Monthly lectures analyze current events and provide detailed notes, ensuring you stay ahead.
We integrate current topics with theoretical arguments and the static syllabus, helping you understand their relevance. This approach not only boosts your knowledge but also enhances your answer writing skills by teaching you the art of quoting scholars and public intellectuals.
Key Features
- Monthly Lectures: Each month, we provide 5-6 hours of lectures covering the previous month’s current affairs.
- Detailed Notes: Accompanying PDFs and other reading materials are provided to supplement your learning.
- Book Review Summaries: Concise summaries of important books to enrich your understanding.
- Interlinkage of Topics: Learn to connect current events with theoretical frameworks and static syllabus topics.
Our program ensures you are well-prepared for any question that may arise in the exam, making your responses more robust and informed.
5. PSIR Combination Courses for UPSC 2025
Our PSIR Combination Courses for UPSC 2025 are designed to provide comprehensive preparation and support for your PSIR Optional attempt. These courses are tailored to meet the diverse needs of aspirants by offering a blend of PSIR with other essential subjects.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Coverage: These programs cover the entire PSIR syllabus along with General Studies, Essay, and CSAT, ensuring a holistic preparation approach.
- Flexible Learning: The courses are structured to accommodate different learning paces and schedules, making it easier for aspirants to balance their studies.
- Expert Guidance: Continuous mentorship and guidance from experienced faculty help in mastering the subject and improving answer writing skills.
Benefits
- Integrated Preparation: Combining PSIR with other subjects helps in better time management and a more integrated study plan.
- Access to Quality Materials: Get access to high-quality study materials, including video lectures, notes, and practice tests.
- Community Support: Join a community of like-minded aspirants for peer support and motivation.
Preparing for UPSC while working as a GST inspector requires effective time management and access to quality study materials. Our combination courses are designed to cater to such needs, providing flexibility and comprehensive coverage.
Course Options
| Course Name | Inclusions | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PSIR Mentorship | Full syllabus coverage, video lectures, notes, tests | ₹26,400 |
| PSIR with Evaluation | Essay writing practice, model answers, feedback | ₹21,600 |
| PSIR without Evaluation | CSAT practice tests, detailed solutions | ₹14,400 |
Choose the combination that best fits your preparation strategy and start your journey towards success in UPSC 2025.
6. PSIR Without Evaluation Foundation Course
The PSIR Without Evaluation Foundation Course is designed for those who prefer a self-paced learning approach. This course offers comprehensive video lectures and detailed PDF notes, covering the entire PSIR syllabus. Students will have access to live sessions with faculty, model answers, and video solutions to help them prepare for the UPSC Mains. However, this course does not include test evaluation, feedback, or mentorship.
Key Features
- Complete content video lectures
- Detailed PDF notes
- Answer writing preparation for UPSC Mains
- Faculty live sessions
- Model answers with video solutions
- All-round support through Telegram
This course is ideal for students who are confident in their self-assessment abilities and do not require continuous evaluation or mentorship. It provides all the necessary resources to build a strong foundation in PSIR, making it a valuable option for UPSC aspirants.
Course Delivery
- Concept building classes
- Integration of current and static elements
- Timely course completion
The PSIR Without Evaluation Foundation Course spans 4.5 months and offers a structured approach to cover the entire UPSC syllabus of PSIR. Beyond just knowledge enhancement, opting for this course proves utilitarian as it extensively covers a significant portion of the General Studies Mains syllabus as well.
7. PSIR With Evaluation Foundation Course
The PSIR With Evaluation Foundation Course is designed to provide a comprehensive preparation experience for UPSC aspirants. This course includes detailed content and tests, along with thorough evaluation and feedback. Students receive all-round support through a dedicated Telegram group, ensuring they are well-prepared for the exam.
Key Features
- Concept Building Classes: These classes help in solidifying the conceptual part of PSIR and linking it with the dynamic portion and GS Mains syllabus.
- Exam Readiness: Techniques to build confidence, strong writing skills, and enhanced analytical abilities are integrated into the course.
- Continuous Assessment: Regular tests and evaluations ensure continuous improvement and timely course completion.
- Current Affairs Integration: The course includes the integration of current affairs with static elements, making it highly relevant for the exam.
- Answer Writing Practice: Regular answer writing sessions are conducted to improve writing skills and exam readiness.
- Personalized Feedback: Detailed feedback is provided for each test, helping students identify and work on their weak areas.
This course is a one-stop solution for PSIR mains preparation with comprehensive coverage of important topics through synoptic notes, live answer writing sessions, and previous year question (PYQ) coverage.
The PSIR With Evaluation Foundation Course is ideal for those who want a structured and thorough preparation plan, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the UPSC exam with confidence.
8. IGNOU Material for PSIR
The IGNOU study materials for Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) are a valuable resource for UPSC aspirants. These materials are comprehensive and cover a wide range of topics essential for the PSIR syllabus. One of the best parts is that these materials are available for free and can be easily downloaded without any registration. This makes them accessible to everyone, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to benefit from high-quality content.
The IGNOU materials include detailed notes on various subjects such as Western Political Thought, Indian Political Thought, and International Relations. These notes are well-structured and provide in-depth knowledge, making them an excellent supplement to standard textbooks.
- Western Political Thought: Covers thinkers from Plato to Marx.
- Indian Political Thought: Includes modern and ancient political ideas from India.
- International Relations: Discusses global politics, theories, and India’s foreign policy.
Using IGNOU materials can significantly boost your preparation by providing a solid foundation in PSIR topics. They are especially useful for understanding complex theories and concepts in a simplified manner.
In conclusion, IGNOU study materials are a must-have for anyone preparing for the PSIR optional in UPSC. They offer a cost-effective and comprehensive way to cover the syllabus thoroughly.
9. Choices: Inside the Making of Indian Foreign Policy by Shivshankar Menon
Shivshankar Menon’s book, Choices: Inside the Making of Indian Foreign Policy, is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding India’s foreign policy. The book provides a detailed account of the decision-making processes behind some of India’s most significant foreign policy choices. Menon, a former National Security Advisor and Foreign Secretary, offers an insider’s perspective on the complexities and challenges faced by India in the global arena.
The book covers various critical events and decisions, such as the India-Pakistan relations, the nuclear deal with the United States, and India’s stance on the crises in Afghanistan and Iraq. Menon’s insights are invaluable for UPSC aspirants preparing for the PSIR optional, as they offer a nuanced understanding of India’s foreign policy dynamics.
For those preparing for the UPSC exam, this book is particularly useful as it helps in linking theoretical concepts with real-world applications, making it easier to grasp the intricacies of international relations.
10. Can the Elephant Dance? by David Malone
In his thought-provoking book, “Does the Elephant Dance?: Contemporary Indian Foreign Policy,” David M. Malone delves into the complex and multifaceted nature of India’s foreign policy. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand India’s role on the global stage. Malone, a seasoned diplomat, provides a detailed analysis of India’s international relations, exploring how historical, cultural, and political factors shape its foreign policy decisions.
The book covers various aspects of India’s foreign policy, including its relationships with major powers, regional dynamics, and its role in international organizations. Malone’s insights are particularly valuable for UPSC aspirants, as they offer a nuanced understanding of the subject, which is crucial for the PSIR optional.
Can the Elephant Dance? is not just a book; it’s a comprehensive guide that helps readers grasp the intricacies of India’s foreign policy. The author’s in-depth research and clear writing style make complex topics accessible, making it an excellent resource for both beginners and advanced students of political science and international relations.
In his insightful piece, “Can the Elephant Dance?”, David Malone explores the complexities and potential of large organizations adapting to change. If you’re eager to dive deeper into such thought-provoking topics, visit our website for a wealth of resources and expert guidance. Start your journey towards success with us today!
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing for the PSIR optional for UPSC 2024-25 can be made more effective by leveraging the right online resources. From comprehensive courses to current affairs updates, these tools can provide a well-rounded preparation strategy. Remember, consistency and regular practice are key. Utilize the resources mentioned in this article to stay updated and enhance your understanding of the subject. With dedication and the right approach, you can achieve success in your UPSC journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PSIR optional in UPSC?
PSIR stands for Political Science and International Relations. It’s a popular optional subject for the UPSC exam that covers topics related to political theories, Indian politics, international relations, and more.
Why should I choose PSIR as my optional subject?
Many UPSC toppers have chosen PSIR because it overlaps with the General Studies papers and helps in essay writing. It’s also a subject with a lot of available resources and consistent high scores.
What is the Sleepy Classes PSIR Foundation Program?
The Sleepy Classes PSIR Foundation Program offers a complete roadmap for PSIR preparation. It includes video lectures, current affairs coverage, answer writing practice, and mentorship.
Who is Prerna Ma’am and what does her mentorship program include?
Prerna Ma’am is a well-known PSIR educator. Her mentorship program includes detailed video lectures, current affairs updates, answer writing practice, and personalized feedback. It also offers interview guidance and support through live sessions and a private Telegram group.
What is included in the PSIR Current Affairs program?
The PSIR Current Affairs program covers important current events from January 2023 to the UPSC Mains 2025. It includes monthly lectures, PDF notes, and book review summaries to help link current affairs with the PSIR syllabus.
Are there any books recommended by UPSC toppers for PSIR?
Yes, UPSC toppers recommend several books for PSIR, including ‘An Introduction to Political Theory’ by O.P. Gauba and IGNOU materials like MPSE-003 for Western Political Thought.
What is the difference between the PSIR With Evaluation and Without Evaluation courses?
The PSIR With Evaluation course includes test evaluations, feedback, and mentorship by selected UPSC officers. The Without Evaluation course provides video lectures, notes, and model answers but does not include test evaluations or mentorship.
How can IGNOU material help in PSIR preparation?
IGNOU materials are highly recommended for PSIR preparation. They cover essential topics in a detailed manner and are often suggested by UPSC toppers for their comprehensive content.
