NEET 2026 is one of the most important exams for students who want to pursue medical courses at the best medical colleges of India. One of the best ways to prepare is to select appropriate NCERT books to prepare for NEET 2026. Since the NEET syllabus is mostly based on Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT textbooks, these books are considered to be the most reliable source for subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
However, recent changes in NCERT editions have created confusion among students about whether to follow the old NCERT or the new NCERT for NEET 2026. The NTA usually follows the latest syllabus, but sometimes questions may still reflect older topics.
Knowing which NCERT to follow for NEET 2026 can help students stay focused and avoid missing important topics. Students should check complete details about which NCERT to follow for NEET 2026, old vs new NCERT NEET 2026, importance of NCERT, Is NCERT enough for NEET 2026 and more below.
Which NCERT to Follow For NEET 2026?
To prepare well for NEET 2026, the official NCERT textbooks recommended by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) are required. These books are aligned with the NEET syllabus and cover fundamental concepts required for the exam. The following NCERT textbooks for Class 11 and Class 12 must be referred to in each subject:
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NCERT textbooks for Class 11 and Class 12 |
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|---|---|---|
|
Subject |
Class 11 NCERT Book |
Class 12 NCERT Book |
|
Biology |
Biology Textbook for Class XI |
Biology Textbook for Class XII |
|
Chemistry |
Chemistry Part I & Part II for Class XI |
Chemistry Part I & Part II for Class XII |
|
Physics |
Physics Part I & Part II for Class XI |
Physics Part I & Part II for Class XII |
These NCERT books form the foundation of NEET preparation and contain important topics, diagrams, definitions, and concepts that appear the most in the exam. Regular reading and thorough understanding of these books are highly recommended by subject experts and NEET toppers.
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Old vs New NCERT NEET 2026
For NEET 2026 preparation, the new NCERT textbooks must be used. The New NCERT of NEET 2026 contains some significant revision of facts, terminology, classifications, and scientific accuracy. These changes are based on current scientific knowledge and have already been reflected in recent NEET exams. Studying from the old NCERT editions may lead to confusion or factual errors in high-stakes questions.
Only the new NCERT textbooks should be followed for NEET 2026, as they align with the latest syllabus and question trends set by the NTA.
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Is NCERT Enough For NEET 2026?
NCERT is the backbone of NEET 2026 preparation and strongly aligns with the official syllabus, especially given recent NEET 2026 NCERT syllabus changes. It is fully sufficient for Biology, where 85–90% of questions are directly based on NCERT content. In Inorganic Chemistry, NCERT alone is usually enough, while Organic and Physical Chemistry require extra resources for deeper understanding and numerical practice.
In the case of Physics, NCERT is useful to develop basic knowledge, but not problem-solving and application based questions. To score highly, students should use reference books and past year papers.
So, while NCERT is essential, it should be combined with additional practice for full preparation, especially in Physics and parts of Chemistry.
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Importance of NCERT Based Preparation For NEET 2026
NCERT books are the most important resource for NEET 2026 preparation. The National Testing Agency (NTA) designs the NEET exam based mainly on the NCERT syllabus for Classes 11 and 12. Most NEET questions, especially in Biology and Chemistry, are either directly picked from NCERT or based on its concepts.
1. Biology: Nearly 85–90% of questions come straight from NCERT. Every line, diagram, and example in the NCERT Biology books must be studied carefully. Toppers revise it multiple times to score high.
2. Chemistry:
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Inorganic Chemistry is almost fully covered by NCERT.
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Organic Chemistry basics are explained well, but extra practice is needed for exceptions and mechanisms.
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Physical Chemistry needs practice from other books, but the theory should start with NCERT.
3. Physics: NCERT gives a clear understanding of basic laws, units, and formulas. However, it is not enough for numerical problems. Use it to build concepts and then refer to advanced books for problem-solving.
4. Syllabus Match: NCERT strictly follows the NEET syllabus, so students don’t waste time on out-of-syllabus topics.
5. Trusted by Toppers: Every year, NEET toppers say NCERT is their main resource. Most coaching institutes also recommend starting with NCERT.
NCERT-based preparation for NEET should be your first priority. Master it well, and then use other books only to strengthen practice and understanding.
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Which NCERT to Follow For NEET 2026 FAQs
Q1: Which NCERT is best for NEET 2026?
Ans: Students should follow the latest NCERT Class 11 and 12 textbooks published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training. These are generally considered the foundation for NEET preparation, especially in Biology and Chemistry.
Q2: Is NCERT changed for NEET 2026?
Ans: As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding changes to the NCERT syllabus specifically for NEET 2026. Students are advised to stay updated with announcements from NTA, NMC, or NCERT.
Q3: Will NCERT books change in 2026?
Ans: There is no confirmed update about changes in NCERT books for the academic session 2026. Any revisions, if planned, will likely be announced officially and should be monitored by aspirants.
Q4: Is there any change in the NEET 2026 syllabus?
Ans: The NEET 2026 syllabus has not been officially released yet. Until it is, students can continue preparing based on the previous year's syllabus and keep an eye on NTA/NMC notifications.
Q5: Are NCERT diagrams important for NEET 2026?
Ans: Yes, NCERT diagrams are often helpful, particularly in Biology. While nothing is officially confirmed for 2026, past NEET papers have frequently included diagram-based questions.
