How Important is Current Affairs for UPSC Prelims?

Current Affairs is the most significant scoring section in the UPSC examination. There is no specified syllabus for current affairs as it tests the basic knowledge and aptitude of a candidate. While preparing for UPSC prelims many candidates struggle with the proposition of how to cover current affairs in hindi effectively. Need not worry as we have provided a comprehensive guide on strategies, study material, important topics, and the significance of current affairs for UPSC prelims in this post.

How To Prepare Current Affairs For UPSC Prelims

UPSC Prelims is the first and foremost step of the Civil Service examination conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). Candidates must plan out an apt strategy to score well in the exam. Candidates can practice current affairs in Hindi and English at their convenience. Check out a few strategies to understand how to prepare current affairs for UPSC prelims.

• Read Newspaper- Newspapers are the origin of all important events and incidents. Candidates must read newspapers on a daily basis and highlight important keywords.
• Read Current Affairs Magazines- Guided study material for current affairs is really helpful to prepare for current affairs. As it comprises all important yearly and monthly events.
• Create Chronological Notes- Date-wise notes are helpful to memorize events. As this will lead to less confusion and organized revision.
• Focus on Prime Events- Not every news is worth memorizing. Therefore, candidates must learn to differentiate between important events and events not worth the UPSC examination.
• Research Topics- One must interconnect topics and research important dates, individuals, figures, etc related to them. They must learn how to find all the information regarding important keywords that they stumble upon while practicing.
• Practice Mock Tests- To check the level of their preparation, a mock test is the most effective way. It will help candidates understand the weightage and types of questions asked in the exam.
• Revision is the Key- Consistent practice and revision of well-read topics are essential to qualify for the exam. The revision also leads to confidence and fewer examination jitters.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus For Current Affairs

UPSC Prelims syllabus is divided into two parts – General Studies and CSAT. Candidates qualifying in the prelims will be eligible to move ahead in the selection process. Check out the table mentioned below for a detailed UPSC prelims syllabus for current affairs.

Importance Of Current Affairs in UPSC Prelims

Current Affairs is one of the most essential aspects of the UPSC preparation. Continue reading to check out how important is current affairs for the UPSC Prelims exam.

• An average of 10-15 questions are based on current affairs in UPSC Prelims
• More than half of the paper is based on current events in some way or the other.
• Static questions also come under current affairs. Therefore, candidates must practice past 10-year questions for effective preparation.
• If prepared strategically, current affairs is the most scoring section of the UPSC Prelims exam.
• A thorough knowledge of current events also assists candidates in other sections of the UPSC prelims exam.

Best Books For Current Affairs

Quality resources and the best books play a major role to ace any exam meritoriously. Check out the expert-curated list of study material for current affairs here-

• India Year Book
• Newspaper- The Hindu, Indian Express
• Manorama Yearbook
• Economic Survey
• Arihant Current Affairs
• Yojana Magazine
• Kurukshetra Magazine
• Pratiyogita Darpan Magazine