Guide to reading newspapers for IAS preparation

 UPSC candidates need to read different books and study materials to gather knowledge on various subjects. However, current affairs constitute the major part of the UPSC exam syllabus. So, how will you prepare yourself to attend to questions related to these current events? You need to stay updated about the latest happenings in the country.

Most commonly, toppers say that it is essential to grow the habit of reading newspapers. Especially The Indian Express and The Hindu are the best newspapers to prepare for current affairs for UPSC exam.

Which sections of newspapers should you read?

Daily newspapers can comprise more than 15 papers. It is really challenging to read every part of those papers. Beginners will find it much more time-consuming. That is why you must learn the technique for reading newspapers for UPSC's current affairs. You should go through the papers from an examination perspective.

Some headlines and news in the newspapers are not crucial for IAS preparation. As you already know the syllabus, you can identify what to choose and what to skip during everyday newspaper reading. It will be a time-saving solution for you.

The most important parts of your newspapers are

• Front Page

• Pages on International and National News 

• Editorials and Opinions

• Business Section and Economics 

• Agriculture and Science 

The most important news headlines are present on the front page. Thus, you must not overlook any part of the front page of your newspapers. Some relevant news is also mentioned on other pages. The news on your city and local regions is not much significant. Still, you should at least check those headlines. The editorial section also holds importance for IAS candidates. However, some beginners say that thoughts and views are expressed in the editorial section. Thus, it may need time to comprehend these parts.With time, when newspaper reading becomes your habit, you will be able to overcome these obstacles. Again, the Economy part provides you with news about banking, finance, inflation, and the overall Indian economy. It is also essential to know about significant trade agreements and economic agencies in other countries. Some IAS questions also come from political events and global organizations. The Hindu and other newspapers can inform you about the latest innovations, Indians’ contribution to science, the Space Program, communication technologies, and biotechnology.

More tips for reading newspapers-

• Your major focus needs to be on defense news, environments, constitutional amendments, Government schemes, bills, International affairs, court rulings, social issues, and other topics already mentioned.

• The news on politics, hyper-local events, sports, and celebrities (sports and entertainments are crucial for those who have chosen these topics as their hobbies)

• You must highlight the essential parts of different articles. It is also good to obtain information from reliable sources like Yojana magazines. Some candidates watch online videos to know the latest news.

• Note down the facts, themes, and benefits related to the chosen articles of the newspapers. 

• While making notes, you must pay attention to the social challenges and issues discussed in the newspapers.

• You can also make digital notes to save time. Evernote and other similar apps will be useful for recording notes. It may take time to write your notes on paper. 

The notes on current affairs can be categorized in 2 ways- subjective and objective information. Indian Government and other reputed agencies provide some factual data, which covers the objective notes for your IAS current affairs. You can use the data to substantiate your answers in the UPSC Main exam. While writing essays, the data will be highly valuable to you. On the contrary, subjective information is related to prominent personalities' critical thoughts and opinions. You may also develop your own views by analyzing this information. 

How much time should you allot for newspaper reading?

While creating your study timetable, you have to allow a particular timeframe for reading newspapers. For instance, you must try to finish reading these papers within 2 to 3 hours. Do not go beyond this time limit, as you must read other subjects for the IAS exam. 

These few tips will give you the utmost value from your newspaper reading habits. While reading the English newspapers, you may also strengthen your vocabulary.