Best Books & Mock Tests for UPSC ESE 2026

TestsYou recommends the EduJha UPSC ESE mock test series as its top pick (featured partner) — full-length tests on the latest pattern, topic-wise practice sets and previous year papers with solutions. Aim for at least 15–20 full mocks before the exam and analyse every test.

The most recommended books for UPSC ESE are: Previous Years' Solved Papers (branch-wise) by MADE EASY Editorial Board; Higher Engineering Mathematics by B.S. Grewal; Mechanical Engineering (Objective Type) by R.K. Jain; Objective Electrical Technology / Electrical Engineering by J.B. Gupta. Start with the EduJha UPSC ESE book set for syllabus-aligned practice, then use the standard books for depth. Read one good book per subject multiple times instead of many books once.

UPSC Engineering Services Examination (IES) (UPSC ESE) is conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Recruitment of Group A engineers in Railways, CPWD, MES, CWC, Telecom and other technical services in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and E&T streams.

Engineering degree; age 21–30. Always verify the latest criteria in the official notification at https://upsc.gov.in.

UPSC ESE is conducted in the following stage(s): Preliminary (GS & Engineering Aptitude + discipline paper); Mains (2 descriptive discipline papers); Personality Test. Mode: Offline (objective + descriptive).

The main subjects/sections of UPSC ESE are: General Studies & Engineering Aptitude, Discipline-specific engineering subjects. Download the detailed syllabus from https://upsc.gov.in.

UPSC ESE is held once a year. Dates are announced by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in the official notification.

(1) Download the official syllabus and previous papers. (2) Build concepts from one standard book per subject. (3) Practise topic-wise sets daily. (4) Start full-length mock tests at least 3 months before the exam and analyse each one. (5) Revise weak areas and keep a short-notes register. (6) Take the last 15 days only for revision and mocks.