In today’s digital age, preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) has become more convenient with the availability of mobile apps and websites. Aspirants no longer need to depend solely on bulky books or offline coaching — with the right online tools, they can access study material, current affairs, test series, and revision notes anytime, anywhere.
To save aspirants from information overload, we have compiled a list of the best mobile apps and websites for UPSC preparation that are trusted by toppers and serious candidates.
WHY USE APPS & WEBSITES FOR UPSC PREPARATION?
Accessibility – Study anytime, anywhere.
Updated Content – Regular updates on current affairs and exam patterns.
Interactive Learning – Quizzes, mock tests, and video lectures.
Saves Time – Quick access to notes, articles, and news analysis.
Affordable – Many apps/websites provide free or low-cost resources compared to coaching institutes.
BEST MOBILE APPS FOR UPSC PREPARATION
1. ClearIAS App
Offers Prelims test series, study notes, and exam strategies.
Good for beginners who need structured guidance.
2. Insights IAS App
Daily current affairs, editorial summaries, and Prelims + Mains quizzes.
Popular for its Secure Initiative (answer writing practice).
3. Vision IAS App
Access to Vision IAS monthly current affairs, test series, and lectures.
Widely used for current affairs coverage.
4. Unacademy App
Online video classes by top educators.
Includes free and paid UPSC courses.
5. BYJU’S Exam Prep App
Video lectures, practice tests, and revision modules.
Beginner-friendly interface.
6. Drishti IAS App
Hindi + English resources for UPSC aspirants.
Current affairs updates, mock tests, and free study material.
7. IASbaba App
Daily quiz, current affairs, and answer writing guidance.
Known for TLP (Think Learn Perform) initiative.
8. Evernote / Notion
Not directly UPSC apps but excellent for note-making and revision.
BEST WEBSITES FOR UPSC PREPARATION
1. PIB (Press Information Bureau) – pib.gov.in
Authentic source for government policies, schemes, and programs.
2. PRS India – prsindia.org
Best for legislative updates, bills, and parliamentary affairs.
3. RBI & SEBI Websites
For economic and financial news.
4. NITI Aayog – niti.gov.in
Official reports and policy papers.
5. InsightsIAS.com
Free quizzes, daily answer writing, current affairs summaries.
6. VisionIAS.in
Monthly current affairs and downloadable PDFs.
7. ForumIAS Blog
Great for answer writing guidance and community discussion.
8. Civilsdaily.com
Simplified news analysis, current affairs, and test series.
9. Mrunal.org
Popular for Economy, Polity, and General Studies lectures.
10. ClearIAS.com
Free resources, strategy articles, and test series.
TIPS TO USE UPSC APPS & WEBSITES EFFECTIVELY
Don’t overload with too many apps/websites — stick to 2–3 main sources.
Combine digital resources with standard books (NCERTs, Laxmikanth, Spectrum, etc.).
Revise downloaded notes regularly.
Use apps for daily current affairs & test practice.
Limit screen time — avoid distraction from social media.
FAQS ON BEST APPS & WEBSITES FOR UPSC
Q1. CAN I CRACK UPSC WITH APPS & WEBSITES ALONE?
No. Apps and websites are helpful, but standard books, notes, and answer writing are equally important.
Q2. WHICH IS THE BEST APP FOR DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS?
Insights IAS, Vision IAS, and IASbaba apps are widely used for daily current affairs.
Q3. WHICH WEBSITE IS BEST FOR GOVERNMENT SCHEMES?
PIB and NITI Aayog websites are the most authentic sources.
Q4. IS UNACADEMY ENOUGH FOR UPSC PREPARATION?
It is a good supplementary resource, but aspirants must also rely on standard UPSC books.
Q5. SHOULD I USE MULTIPLE CURRENT AFFAIRS SOURCES?
Stick to one reliable app/website + newspaper (The Hindu/Indian Express) to avoid duplication.
Q6. WHICH IS THE BEST APP FOR MOCK TESTS?
ClearIAS, Vision IAS, and Insights IAS apps provide quality test series.
FINAL WORDS
The best mobile apps and websites for UPSC preparation make learning more convenient and accessible. From daily current affairs to test series, these resources ensure that aspirants can study smartly, save time, and stay updated.
However, aspirants must remember: Digital resources are supplements, not substitutes. A balanced approach combining standard books, answer writing, and selective online resources is the key to UPSC success.
