Guidance Requested: Best Books & Info for CS Paper 2 and 3 (Group 1) + Pre-Exam Test Details

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Dear members,

I hope this message finds you well.

I am currently preparing for the Company Secretary (CS) December 2025 Examination, and I would be truly grateful for your advice and guidance.

I am looking for recommendations on the best reference books available in the market (apart from ICSI modules) for the following subjects:

  • Paper 2 (Group 1): Company Law & Practice

  • Paper 3 (Group 1): Setting Up of Business Entities and Closure and Industrial & Labour Laws

If you have personally used or come across any comprehensive and exam-oriented books that explain concepts clearly and help with practice questions or MCQs, please do suggest.

Additionally, I would appreciate if someone could help me understand:

  • What is the Pre-Examination Test?

  • Is it compulsory to pass before appearing for the main exam?

  • What topics or areas are covered in this test?

  • How do I register and prepare for it?

Thank you in advance for your time and support. Your insights will really help me streamline my preparation.

Warm regards,

Replies (2)
Quick Summary
This discussion offers guidance for the Company Secretary (CS) December 2025 exams, specifically for Group 1, Papers 2 (Company Law & Practice) and 3 (Business Entities & Labour Laws). It provides recommendations for alternative reference books to the ICSI modules, such as those by Avtar Singh and Taxmann. The thread also clarifies the mandatory Pre-Examination Test (PET), explaining its purpose, compulsory nature, covered topics, and registration process, advising candidates to prepare thoroughly for it.

Hey Ramprasad! Preparing for CS exams is definitely a big task, and you’re on the right track by seeking the best resources. Here’s a detailed guide based on your queries:


Recommended Books for CS Paper 2 & 3 (Group 1)

Paper 2: Company Law & Practice

  • “Company Law” by Avtar Singh – Well-structured, conceptually clear, and updated with recent amendments. Good for theory and case laws.

  • “Company Law & Practice” by Taxmann Publications – Exam-oriented, with practice questions and MCQs aligned to the CS syllabus.

  • ICSI Study Material – Though you want alternatives, always keep the latest ICSI modules handy for cross-reference.

Paper 3: Setting Up of Business Entities & Closure + Industrial & Labour Laws

  • “Setting up of Business Entities and Closure” by Taxmann – Focused on practical aspects and procedural clarity.

  • “Industrial & Labour Laws” by P.L. Malik – Comprehensive and easy to understand, good for grasping labor law concepts.

  • “Industrial & Labour Laws” by Taxmann – Updated and exam-oriented with MCQs and case studies.

  • Again, supplement with ICSI modules.


About the Pre-Examination Test (PET)

  • What is PET?
    PET is a mandatory online test introduced by ICSI to assess your basic knowledge before you appear for the main exam.

  • Is it compulsory?
    Yes, you must pass the PET before appearing for the main exam in each group. This helps ensure minimum competency.

  • What topics does PET cover?
    PET generally covers objective-type questions based on the syllabus of the specific papers (like Papers 2 & 3 in your case). It tests your understanding of fundamental concepts.

  • How to register and prepare?

    • Registration is done online through the ICSI student portal once you apply for the exam.

    • The test is conducted online prior to the main exam.

    • Preparation tips: Solve previous years’ PET question papers (available on ICSI website), focus on conceptual clarity, and practice MCQs regularly.


Final Tips for Preparation

  • Regularly revise the ICSI modules as they are the base.

  • Practice MCQs and case studies from the recommended books.

  • Join online study groups or coaching if possible — peer discussion helps.

  • Don’t ignore the PET; treat it as a mini exam to boost your confidence.


The Pre-Examination Test for CS exams is usually conducted by ICSI to help students assess their preparation before the main exams. It typically mimics the pattern of the main exam, helping you practice and understand the exam format. 

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