Best Books for NSEJS Preparation- With Expert Tips

Preparing for the National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS) is no small feat. It’s one of the most competitive science Olympiads in India, organized by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT). Thousands of bright minds across the country participate each year, but only a handful qualify for the next rounds of the International Olympiads. The secret sauce? Right preparation, right guidance, and most importantly, the right books.

In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the best books for NSEJS preparation, breaking it down subject-wise and giving you exclusive insights from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES, one of the most trusted names in NSEJS coaching. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your prep, this guide will walk you through everything you need – from books, study plans, expert tips, and even common pitfalls to avoid.

So, if you’re serious about cracking NSEJS and standing out among the brightest science minds in India, read this till the end. This could very well be the turning point in your preparation journey.

Introduction to NSEJS

If you’re new to this exam, let’s start with the basics. The NSEJS (National Standard Examination in Junior Science) is the first step towards representing India at the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO). It’s typically for students in Class 10 or below, although exceptionally talented Class 9 students can also appear.

What makes NSEJS challenging?

The syllabus goes beyond the NCERT curriculum.
Questions test conceptual clarity, analytical ability, and problem-solving.
There’s a healthy blend of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and a dash of Mathematics.

But here’s the catch: you don’t need to be a genius, you just need a well-planned strategy and the right books.

More importantly, it’s not just about clearing NSEJS. If you qualify, you move to INJSO (Indian National Junior Science Olympiad), then OCSC (Orientation-Cum-Selection Camp), and finally, the IJSO, where you represent India globally.

This journey begins with books – and that’s what this entire blog is about. So, buckle up.

Why Choosing the Right Book Matters

Ever felt overwhelmed standing in front of a bookstore or scrolling through Amazon trying to figure out which NSEJS book is “the best”? You’re not alone.

Here’s why choosing the right book matters:

Time is limited – You can’t read everything.
Books vary in difficulty – Some are too basic, others way too advanced.
Not all books match the NSEJS pattern – Many good books don’t cover the right kind of problems.

Let’s break it down:

A book that focuses too much on theoretical explanation but lacks problem-solving sections will weaken your application skills.
Conversely, books full of Olympiad-level questions but no clear theory will leave you confused and unprepared.

This is why CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES only recommends select titles, thoroughly reviewed and tailored for NSEJS’s unique difficulty level. Their curated lists are based on years of results, student feedback, and deep understanding of the exam pattern.

Bottom line: The right book can cut your preparation time in half and double your effectiveness. The wrong one? It’s just noise.

Expert Recommended Study Plan from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES

Books alone won’t get you there. You need a study plan. CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES has cracked this code for years and helped hundreds of students qualify for NSEJS and even make it to IJSO. Let’s look at their expert-backed weekly plan.

Week 1–4: Foundation Phase

Physics: NCERT Class 9 & 10 + HC Verma (selected chapters)
Chemistry: NCERT + Lakhmir Singh
Biology: CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES exclusive book
Maths: RD Sharma basics for problem-solving

Week 5–8: Concept Mastery

Move to advanced problem sets from previous NSEJS papers
Introduce Olympiad-style questions
Weekly tests every Sunday

Week 9–12: Testing & Analysis

3-hour mock tests twice a week
Doubt-clearing sessions
Timed revision using flashcards and mind maps

This 12-week plan is based on their flagship course and personalized for each student. According to them, consistency beats intensity, and following this method religiously brings real results.

Also, their mentorship system ensures that students don’t feel lost in the process. A dedicated teacher helps track progress, fix weak areas, and provide motivation when things get tough.

Best Books for NSEJS – Subject-wise Guide

Time to get into the heart of the matter. Here’s the ultimate subject-wise breakdown of the best books for NSEJS, handpicked and approved by CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES.

Physics

Physics in NSEJS is logical, tricky, and requires deep understanding, not just formulas. You’ll face conceptual questions that need clarity, not rote memorization.

Top Physics Books for NSEJS

Concepts of Physics by HC Verma (Volume 1) – A classic, great for building fundamental understanding.
NCERT Physics Class 9 & 10 – For basics and to cover school curriculum.
IAPT Previous Year Papers – The best way to understand exam pattern.
MTG NSEJS Physics Practice Workbook – Focused problem-solving book.
Halliday & Resnick (Selective Reading) – If you’re aiming for INJSO.

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES also suggests solving 10 physics questions daily from mixed topics. This builds stamina and improves topic retention.

Chemistry

Chemistry in NSEJS is usually more straightforward compared to Physics, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The challenge lies in grasping the concepts and applying them in unfamiliar contexts. A strong command over periodic table trends, basic reactions, and mole concepts is key.

Best Chemistry Books for Concept Building

NCERT Class 9 & 10 Chemistry – This is your primary textbook. NSEJS loves to twist questions from here.
Lakhmir Singh’s Science (Chemistry) – Ideal for strengthening basic concepts with lots of illustrations and practice.
Pradeep’s Chemistry for Class 9 & 10 – Covers topics with more depth for Olympiad-level prep.
MTG NSEJS Chemistry Workbook – A dedicated resource with problems aligned to NSEJS format.
IAPT Past Year Papers (with explanations) – Practicing these helps build exam temperament.

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES’ Tip: Learn to visualize reactions, not memorize them. They use a concept map system to help students link reactions across chapters, making recall faster and easier.

They also emphasize mastering:

Balancing equations
Stoichiometry
Acid-base concepts
Periodic trends

According to them, these are high-frequency areas in past NSEJS papers.

Biology

If there’s one subject where CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES completely dominates, it’s Biology. Their specially designed materials are tailored for NSEJS, keeping in mind the type of cross-topic questions often asked in Olympiads.

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES Exclusive Recommendations

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES NSEJS Biology Book – This is their proprietary guide. It includes:
- Topic-wise notes
- Practice MCQs
- NSEJS-style assertion-reason questions
- Flashcards for revision
NCERT Class 9 & 10 Biology – Always begin here. Many Olympiad questions are hidden in the small lines of NCERT.
Trueman’s Elementary Biology (select chapters) – For deeper understanding in genetics, cell biology, and plant physiology.
Campbell Biology (Olympiad-level reading) – For students aiming to reach the IJSO stage.
NSEJS Biology Question Bank by CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES – Specially curated with mock tests and detailed answer keys.

Their strategy? Learn Biology through real-life analogies, flowcharts, and illustrations. They also integrate animated videos in their classroom programs to make concepts stick longer.

According to their faculty, NSEJS Biology questions are mostly:

Application-based
Diagram oriented
Cross-linked (e.g., genetics + evolution)

So, rote learning doesn’t work. Their training method emphasizes active recall, visual memory tools, and smart mnemonics.

Mathematics

Math might seem like a side subject in NSEJS, but it often pops up unexpectedly in physics-based numerical questions or logical problems. A decent grip on middle school math is crucial for interpreting data and solving Olympiad-style word problems.

Mathematics Books for Logical Practice

RD Sharma Class 9 & 10 – Great for building a base in algebra, geometry, and number theory.
NCERT Mathematics Textbooks – Never skip these. Olympiad examiners love tweaking simple NCERT problems.
RMO Preparatory Problems (select topics) – For practicing advanced logic-based problems.
Maths Olympiad Books by MTG or Arihant – Targeted practice for high-level application.
Online problem banks suggested by CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES – They curate handpicked logical puzzles that appear in past NSEJS and INJSO stages.

Math Strategy from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES:

Practice one math puzzle daily, especially those involving data interpretation, combinatorics, and probability.
Maintain a math logbook where you record every mistake. Review it weekly to track patterns in your problem-solving errors.

Detailed Review of CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES Study Material

Let’s take a deeper look into why CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES is becoming the go-to coaching institute for NSEJS aspirants across India.

What Makes Their Study Material Stand Out?

Targeted Content: Unlike generic books, their material is designed specifically for NSEJS – not JEE, not NEET, not NTSE – but NSEJS.
Real Exam Patterns: Their mock tests simulate the actual difficulty and structure of NSEJS exams, making you exam-ready.
Quality over Quantity: Instead of bombarding students with 500-page books, they focus on concise, high-impact content that saves time and boosts retention.
Weekly Assignments + Discussion Videos: You don’t just read; you engage with the material through guided practice.
Assertion-Reason Based MCQs: NSEJS is known for such formats, and most coaching centers ignore them – CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES nails this aspect.

Their Biology module, in particular, has gained popularity because it uses:

Color-coded diagrams
Chapter-end flashcards
Infographics to summarize complex processes

Students consistently mention that the clarity and structure of their material is what helps them stand out from the crowd.

If you’re serious about cracking NSEJS, investing in their books might be the best decision you make.

Online vs Offline Preparation – What Works Best?

In today’s digital age, one of the most frequently asked questions by students and parents alike is: Should I go for online coaching or stick to traditional offline classes for NSEJS preparation?

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your learning style, location, and discipline.

Offline Preparation – The Traditional Way

Pros:

Face-to-face interaction with teachers
Peer group learning environment
Structured schedules and fixed routine
Less screen time, more paper-pen practice

Cons:

Limited access if you’re in a remote area
Travel time and fatigue
Fixed pace – you can’t always learn at your own speed

Online Preparation – The Modern Revolution

Pros:

Flexibility to learn at your pace and convenience
Access to top educators like CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES, regardless of location
Recorded lectures for unlimited revision
Tech-friendly tools like quizzes, PDFs, flashcards, mock tests, and progress tracking

Cons:

Requires strong self-discipline
Possible distractions at home
Lack of peer-to-peer discussion unless supplemented by online study groups

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES bridges this gap beautifully. They offer hybrid programs, combining the best of both worlds:

Live classes + recorded sessions
Printed books + digital PDFs
Online tests + weekly assignments with handwritten submission reviews

This flexibility has helped hundreds of students from tier-2 and tier-3 cities crack NSEJS without relocating or compromising on quality education.

If you’re tech-savvy and disciplined, online preparation with proper mentorship can work wonders.

How to Use Books Effectively for NSEJS Prep

Buying the best books is step one. But how you use them is what decides your score. Many students make the mistake of passive reading — going through chapters like novels without retaining anything.

Let’s change that.

1. Follow Active Reading Techniques

Underline & Highlight: Use color codes to mark definitions, formulas, and examples.
Summarize: Write 5-line summaries after each topic.
Create Flashcards: Use tools like Anki or physical cards for quick review.

2. Practice Spaced Repetition

Revise topics at 1-day, 3-day, 7-day intervals. This improves memory retention.
Don’t move to a new book before completing a revision cycle.

3. Solve MCQs Immediately After Studying a Topic

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES provides chapter-wise MCQs with solutions.
Try solving without looking at answers first. Check only after you’ve attempted all.

4. Keep a ‘Mistake Diary’

Whenever you make an error in a test or practice question, write it down.
Review this diary every week to spot patterns and weak areas.

5. Avoid Book Hopping

Stick to 2 books per subject max.
Quality practice trumps quantity. Don’t fall into the trap of trying every resource.

By being intentional and strategic in how you use your books, you’ll get 3x the value from your study time.

Common Mistakes Students Make While Preparing

Even the brightest students fall into common traps during their NSEJS preparation. Avoiding these mistakes can give you a real edge.

1. Ignoring NCERT Books

Students often assume NCERT is “too basic.” But NSEJS loves to pick tricky questions from simple NCERT lines. Don’t skip it.

2. Studying Too Many Books

More books don’t mean more knowledge. It often leads to confusion. Stick to a select few — ideally those recommended by CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES.

3. Avoiding Difficult Topics

Don’t run away from chapters like:

Genetics
Mole concept
Motion & Laws
These appear often in NSEJS. Instead, break them down and tackle one sub-topic at a time.

4. No Consistent Revision Schedule

Learning without revision is like pouring water into a leaking bucket. Schedule weekly revisions without fail.

5. Underestimating Biology

Many students focus only on Physics and Chemistry. But Biology has high weightage and is scoring if prepared well — especially using CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES notes.

6. Not Practicing Assertion-Reason Type MCQs

These are tricky but common in NSEJS. If you don’t practice them regularly, you’ll panic in the exam.

7. Last-Minute Cramming

NSEJS tests understanding, not mugging. Don’t leave preparation for the last few weeks.

Fix these errors early, and you’re already ahead of 70% of the competition.

Role of Mock Tests and Practice Papers

Want to know the real difference between a top scorer and an average one? It’s not just intelligence — it’s mock test practice.

Why Mock Tests Matter

Simulates real exam pressure
Helps identify weak areas
Improves time management
Builds confidence

How Often Should You Take Them?

Once every 10 days in the first two months
Twice a week in the final month before NSEJS

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES offers exclusive mock tests that:

Match NSEJS difficulty
Include detailed analysis reports
Highlight topic-wise performance

They also conduct All India Test Series (AITS), where you can benchmark yourself against other serious aspirants.

Where to Find Good Practice Papers

IAPT official website (past year papers)
CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES material
MTG or Arihant NSEJS guides
Telegram/Discord communities for Olympiad prep

When solving mocks:

Stick to exact 2-hour limit
Try in a distraction-free environment
Analyze each test thoroughly — don’t just check scores

Your first few tests will feel tough. But don’t be discouraged. The goal is progress, not perfection.

Toppers’ Tips from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES

Who better to guide you than those who’ve already cracked the code?

Here are some proven success tips from past toppers trained at CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES:

1. Focus on Understanding, Not Memorizing

“I made flowcharts for every biology chapter and revised them weekly. That helped me retain complex processes.” – Megha K., NSEJS Qualifier

2. Practice Daily Without Fail

“I solved 20 MCQs every morning before school. It became a habit.” – Aryan P., OCSC Camper

3. Learn in Groups

“Forming a study group with three friends helped me stay motivated. We discussed difficult questions every weekend.” – Sneha R., IJSO Silver Medalist

4. Don’t Skip Easy Topics

“Easy topics give you sure-shot marks. I focused a lot on human physiology and atomic structure.” – Rahul S., INJSO Qualifier

5. Believe in Your Mentor

“I followed CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES’ plan to the dot. I didn’t chase random resources or doubt their process.” – Ananya M., Top 10 All India Rank

Their message? Stay consistent, trust the process, and don’t burn out.

How Parents Can Support During NSEJS Prep

NSEJS preparation isn’t just a student’s journey—it’s a family effort. The right kind of support from parents can make a massive difference in performance and mental well-being.

1. Create a Peaceful Study Environment

Ensure your child has:

A dedicated, clutter-free study space
Noise-free surroundings during study hours
No interruptions from guests, TV, or phone calls

Even simple acts like keeping the room tidy or ensuring proper lighting can boost productivity.

2. Avoid Over-Pressurizing

Yes, NSEJS is competitive. But avoid treating it like a do-or-die situation. Constant pressure leads to:

Anxiety
Burnout
Poor performance

Instead, encourage effort over outcomes. Praise discipline, not just test scores.

3. Respect Their Study Plan

If your child has a timetable (especially one structured by CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES), respect their routine. Avoid dragging them into unnecessary errands or social events.

4. Offer Emotional Support

There will be low days—mock tests gone wrong, fatigue, or lack of motivation. Your words of encouragement at such times can help them bounce back faster.

5. Be Involved, Not Controlling

Ask them how their day went.
Celebrate small milestones (like completing a mock test series).
Avoid micromanaging or comparing them with others.

Remember, a child preparing for NSEJS needs not just books—but belief, and that often begins at home.

Tools and Apps That Help Alongside Books

Books are the foundation, but in the digital age, using smart tools and apps can amplify your preparation significantly. Here are some top tools used by successful NSEJS aspirants.

1. Anki or Quizlet (Flashcard Apps)

Perfect for:

Revising Biology terms
Remembering chemical reactions
Memorizing formulas

You can even create your own decks or use shared ones from fellow Olympiad aspirants.

2. YouTube Channels

Some recommended channels for quick revision:

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES YouTube – Quick concept revisions, diagrams, and mock discussions
Khan Academy – Strong conceptual videos
Physics Galaxy – Quick physics tricks

3. Telegram Groups

Join NSEJS-specific groups where students discuss:

Doubts
New questions
Paper leaks and analysis

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES often shares updates and resources in their exclusive Telegram group for enrolled students.

4. Google Keep or Notion

Use for making quick topic-wise notes
Syncs across devices
Helps in organizing your syllabus efficiently

5. Online Timers (Pomodoro Apps)

Focus Booster, Forest, or Pomofocus.io help with time-blocking.
Use 25-min focus + 5-min break technique to boost study productivity.

Using these tools in combination with the right books will give you a serious edge over students who rely solely on traditional methods.

How to Balance School and NSEJS Preparation

Balancing schoolwork with NSEJS prep can be a tough act. But it’s totally manageable if approached smartly.

1. Prioritize the Overlap

A large chunk of NSEJS syllabus overlaps with school topics—especially from Class 9 and 10 NCERT Science. Mastering school chapters thoroughly helps with both.

2. Don’t Skip School

Regular attendance helps maintain discipline and supports foundational learning. But try to:

Use free periods for revision
Discuss doubts with your science teachers
Avoid unnecessary distractions like idle chit-chat

3. Use Weekends Strategically

Follow the CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES model:

Saturday: Complete mock test + analysis
Sunday: Revisit weak areas + concept review + flashcards

Weekends are goldmines. Use them to do the heavy lifting.

4. Stay Organized

Maintain a planner with:

School assignments
NSEJS goals
Mock test schedules
This prevents last-minute stress.

5. Cut the Waste

Reduce time spent on:

Social media scrolling
TV/Netflix binges
Pointless textbook re-reading

Instead, channel that time into solving MCQs, reviewing errors, or revising flashcards.

With proper scheduling and focus, you’ll excel in both school and NSEJS without burning out.

Importance of a Study Group or Peer Discussions

Studying alone has its perks, but a study group can skyrocket your preparation—if done right.

Benefits of Study Groups

Discussing tricky questions strengthens your understanding.
Peer-to-peer teaching helps retain concepts better.
Group tests foster healthy competition.

CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES encourages batch-wise study pods, where 4–5 students form WhatsApp or Zoom groups for weekly discussions.

How to Build an Effective Study Group

Choose motivated peers with similar goals
Fix regular meeting times (e.g., Sundays 5–7 PM)
Discuss one topic per session
Keep a timekeeper and a moderator to stay on track

Things to Avoid

Don’t turn study groups into gossip sessions
Don’t rely on others to spoon-feed concepts
Don’t compare scores negatively

An ideal group is where each member grows, shares notes, and supports others. It can be the boost you need to push past plateaus in your preparation.

Conclusion

Cracking NSEJS isn’t about studying harder—it’s about studying smarter. With so many books and resources available, it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why guidance from trusted names like CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES becomes invaluable. Their curated book lists, exclusive Biology content, structured study plans, and personalized mentorship give students an edge that others often lack.

So whether you’re just starting or already halfway into your preparation, take a deep breath and:

Stick to the best books, not every book
Trust your plan and mentors
Practice relentlessly with mock tests
Revise consistently
And most importantly, enjoy the learning process

This journey isn’t just about qualifying for the next round—it’s about becoming a sharper, more curious, and resilient student.

FAQs

1. What are the top books for NSEJS Biology?
The best Biology books include NCERT Biology Class 9 & 10, CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES NSEJS Biology Guide, and Trueman’s Elementary Biology. These cover both conceptual clarity and Olympiad-style practice.

2. How can I get CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES study material?
You can visit their official website or contact them via their Telegram channel. They offer both printed and digital formats, including mock tests and workbooks.

3. Are NCERT books enough for NSEJS?
NCERT books are essential but not sufficient. You need additional practice from Olympiad workbooks and guidance-based materials like those from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES.

4. What is the best way to manage time for NSEJS and school?
Use overlapping topics to your advantage, make weekly plans, and dedicate weekends to mock tests and concept revisions. Time management is the key.

5. Is it necessary to join coaching for NSEJS?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended if you want structured preparation and expert mentorship. Programs like those from CHANDU BIOLOGY CLASSES significantly improve your chances.