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What is a suitable current affairs strategy? I will be giving Prelims 2021 for the first time and I already have a huge FOMO with regard to various CA compilations.

I have recently begun preparing for the CSE 2021 in the last couple of months. Although I havent faced a problem with strategising subjects but Current Affairs feels a bit of a task. I read Indian Express everyday and attempt the 10 PM daily quiz on ForumIAS as well as Insights. At the end of the month I have tried reading various compilations but some have too much information while others have really less. On top of that we all know some are better suited for Prelims and some are Mains oriented. While I know there isnt one specific Bible out there regarding monthly CA but  I am definitely having a difficulty in strategising CA preparation. What all are your views and advice on the same? Any leads would definitely be appreciated. Thanks! 

DM,Hitman2021
9.7k views

18 comments

You are not alone. Can anyone help out here? 
3.7k views

Keep things simple. Follow one source for current affairs, read one newspaper and keep it on a repeat loop. The secret here is constant revision. Don't run to multiple sources, stick to one source for any subject (Although many chapters of different subjects have to be read from multiple books but those are an exception). No one remembers everything, all you need to do is to glance through facts and figures regularly.

agilescrum,Hitman2021
5.7k views
Deleted

.


3.8k views

Hey, 

I started preparing last May. Here is what I followed:

1. Newspaper everyday (no notes)

2. Insights daily current affairs (irregularly)

3. Vision monthly - this can be daunting but over time gets easier, as topics tend to get repeated and you figure out what’s important. Not each topic in the compilation has equal value. Many have facts and one or two insightful points interspersed with fairly obvious points. I revised these monthlies for prelims. I started full-time prelims-focused prep in February and had only read them once each before that. But I would advise you to read each at least twice. By July this year each month took me about only about 1.5 hour to complete.

Now if you’ve heard anything about prelims this time you will know that nothing could have fully prepared you for it. I’m coming around to believe that the purpose of studying current affairs - even for prelims - is not so much to acquire information, as it is to get a general perspective on the issue, and develop an understanding of the scope. By multiple readings and absorbing the material, you develop a sense of what is plausible and possible, and what isn’t. I think this will make sense to you a bit later. 

Some things to keep in mind while reading current affairs:

1. Read actively and take your time with it - ask yourself questions. For example while reading about Legal Service Authorities, typically in the Vision monthly you’ll find it in a box to the side. They’ll mention who qualifies for legal aid. As soon as you see a list, that’s your cue. Identify the converse list. Who isn’t covered? (Was helpful to me in prelims this year - I had noted down that OBCs and minorities are NOT covered)

2. Think about how a bit of knowledge you have gained can be useful in prelims and in mains - what kind of question can be asked? For this you need to go through the PYQs and spend some time analysing them for patterns. The parts that seem like they might be exam questions will naturally be focused on more.

3. Try to really care about the issue - whether it’s farm bills or even something as boring as ocean levels. You know how you would care about the National Medical Commission stuff if a close friend were studying to be a doctor - it wouldn’t feel like a burden. Figure out a way to maximise what issues come inside your circle of concern. I’m saying this because you have time. Soon enough when you start prelims prep you’ll feel jaded and tired of current affairs. But now you have the chance to enjoy it. Plus memory worked better for me if I felt something about the issue.

4. Make sure you use PYQs often. I printed out papers since 2014 and spiral-bound them and put them on my desk, and leafed through it randomly. 

If in the coming months I have any more realisations, I shall update. All the best and happy studying. :D

DM,Raillifeand13 otherslike this
4.9k views

Things lie in your understanding, not in Some Current Affairs materials. e.g.- what is important , you can only understand with good base. so repeat static with madness[quality of static source is deciding factor].

Bcoz questions are based on the analysis of current happenings spread through credible reports and news. practice is must[unless u r lucky!].

e.g- in 2020 prelims paper , I forgot weather Siachin is above Gilgit or Nubra Valley? FDI is debt creating or not? May be it can spoil my whole year. These types of silly mistakes prevent a good candidate to get through. Current Affairs are problem only for those having weak base. 

Hope I answered the question.


Hitman2021,
5.3k views
@amarjeetpaul199326223  "Current affairs are a problem only for those having weak base" That completely makes sense to me! I can actually imagine what must have gone in your mind when you couldnt recall the small things in the 2020 prelims paper! Thanks for the advice. And All the best for your result. :) 


Hitman2021,Un_Worded
5.6k views
@whatonly That was a very qualitatively experiential and comprehensive advice. There is so much to learn from others experiences! I would definitely imbibe a thing or two in my preparation. Thanks for sharing your realisations :)
All the best to you too and Happy studying! :D


whatonly,Hitman2021
5.6k views

Hey, 

I started preparing last May. Here is what I followed:

1. Newspaper everyday (no notes)

2. Insights daily current affairs (irregularly)

3. Vision monthly - this can be daunting but over time gets easier, as topics tend to get repeated and you figure out what’s important. Not each topic in the compilation has equal value. Many have facts and one or two insightful points interspersed with fairly obvious points. I revised these monthlies for prelims. I started full-time prelims-focused prep in February and had only read them once each before that. But I would advise you to read each at least twice. By July this year each month took me about only about 1.5 hour to complete.

Now if you’ve heard anything about prelims this time you will know that nothing could have fully prepared you for it. I’m coming around to believe that the purpose of studying current affairs - even for prelims - is not so much to acquire information, as it is to get a general perspective on the issue, and develop an understanding of the scope. By multiple readings and absorbing the material, you develop a sense of what is plausible and possible, and what isn’t. I think this will make sense to you a bit later. 

Some things to keep in mind while reading current affairs:

1. Read actively and take your time with it - ask yourself questions. For example while reading about Legal Service Authorities, typically in the Vision monthly you’ll find it in a box to the side. They’ll mention who qualifies for legal aid. As soon as you see a list, that’s your cue. Identify the converse list. Who isn’t covered? (Was helpful to me in prelims this year - I had noted down that OBCs and minorities are NOT covered)

2. Think about how a bit of knowledge you have gained can be useful in prelims and in mains - what kind of question can be asked? For this you need to go through the PYQs and spend some time analysing them for patterns. The parts that seem like they might be exam questions will naturally be focused on more.

3. Try to really care about the issue - whether it’s farm bills or even something as boring as ocean levels. You know how you would care about the National Medical Commission stuff if a close friend were studying to be a doctor - it wouldn’t feel like a burden. Figure out a way to maximise what issues come inside your circle of concern. I’m saying this because you have time. Soon enough when you start prelims prep you’ll feel jaded and tired of current affairs. But now you have the chance to enjoy it. Plus memory worked better for me if I felt something about the issue.

4. Make sure you use PYQs often. I printed out papers since 2014 and spiral-bound them and put them on my desk, and leafed through it randomly. 

If in the coming months I have any more realisations, I shall update. All the best and happy studying. :D

This is exactly what I have started to follow.

The holistic understanding of issues is important which is useful for both prelims and mains.

I dont know why newspaper is ignored.

This year prelims paper was like objective mains. The preparation of mains would have helped many.

But you are going in right direction mate.

I will just add DNS to your suggestions.

Thanks@whatonly.

whatonly,akshayed
4.6k views

Things lie in your understanding, not in Some Current Affairs materials. e.g.- what is important , you can only understand with good base. so repeat static with madness[quality of static source is deciding factor].

Bcoz questions are based on the analysis of current happenings spread through credible reports and news. practice is must[unless u r lucky!].

e.g- in 2020 prelims paper , I forgot weather Siachin is above Gilgit or Nubra Valley? FDI is debt creating or not? May be it can spoil my whole year. These types of silly mistakes prevent a good candidate to get through. Current Affairs are problem only for those having weak base. 

Hope I answered the question.


Exactly. Understanding is the key.

3.4k views
@akshayed Hey there i think you mistakenly tagged me instead of@Un_Worded . Anyways, thank you for your reply.


4.2k views

If you take my advice, read newspaper daily (preferably Indian Express, The Hindu on Sundays). Then read following monthly magazines:

1. Monthly CA magazine of any coaching or you can join Dipin sir's classes.

2. Yojana

3. Kurukshetra

4. Science Reporter

And yearly issue of Economic Survey and Budget.

You can also refer some selected orf articles.

Raillife,GreenArrowand3 otherslike this
4.4k views
Can anyone suggest how you prepared for social justice GS 2,.. the topics seem quite general open ended and dynamic. Any specific source?
4k views
Can anyone suggest how you prepared for social justice GS 2,.. the topics seem quite general open ended and dynamic. Any specific source?

Have you been able to see what questions are asked from these topics? 


If you can compile or copy paste, we will be able to make an open inference for the source or even not doing it altogether.

3k views

@akshayed In the first six months, do read the newspaper. You will know the vocabulary and lexicon of the exam. Like repo reverse repo, RBI , MSP etc. Especially for Econony.

DM,akshayedand1 otherslike this
4.2k views
@Neyawn Topic 12 : Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
Q.1) “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self- government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment. [200 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]
Q.2) Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections is not so effective due to absence of their awareness and active involvement at all stages of policy process – Discuss. [200 Words] [15 Marks] [2019]
Q.3) Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections of the society leads to problems of overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission? Argue your case. [200 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]
Q.4) Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2017]
Q.5) Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]
Q.6) Do government’s schemes for up-lifting vulnerable and backward communities by protecting required social resources for them, lead to their exclusion in establishing businesses in urban economies? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2014]
Topic 13 : Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Q.1) Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]
Q.2) Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. . [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2018]
Q.3) Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016] Q.4) “Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2016]
Q.5) The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]
Q.6) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]
Q.7) Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challenges. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2014]
Q.8) Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same. [200 Words] [10 Marks] [2013]
Topic 14 : Issues relating to poverty and hunger.
Q.1) There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to spend more on Non- Food essential items squeezing their food – budget.- Elucidate. [150 Words] [10 Marks] [2019]
Q.2) How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human development policies in India? [200 Words] [15 Marks] [2018]
Q.3) ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces until and unless they are backed by political will’. Discuss with reference to the performance of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India. [200 Words] [15 Marks] [2017]
Q.4) Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty over time. Do you agree. Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators. [200 Words] [12.5 Marks] [2015]


I google most of the keywords given under the syllabus....but i am not sure if i am summarizing it correctly or even reading from the right source.

is there a specific dimension that is to be covered in an answer?...

DM,
5.1k views

Wonderful advices already. I considered my CA prep to be really satisfying and at the end a candidate before prelims or mains has to feel confident (NOT COMPLETE) with his/her preparation. Hence sole aim of doing whatever is suggested here is to have confidence at the end. 


1) Newspaper ( helps in comprehension of CSAT also). Makes you aware of hot topics due to their recurrence.

2) Official magazines like Yojana (have not read kurukshetra). Really good introductions and conclusions here. Also useful in building flow of your arguments/essays/ answers.

3) Coaching magazines (take ONE ONLY whichever you want to. Yes, FOMO would be there but it's better to do one with multiple revision rather than many with one revision). I used vision monthlies as I find their mains POV good, you can check others too.

4) One video CA video daily. Can recommend Rau DNS here, been following them for two years now. (though you also have byjus/shankar).  Take screenshot and feed it into windows photos which has good OCR capabilities. Helpful for mains and prelims.

5) pt365: At the end for prelims exams, you can go through pt365 index only. But utility has decreased and it's difficult to remember whole of it in less time. I use it as an index for whole year to see if  I have missed out on anything in monthlies. Each pt can be done in 1-2 hours this way.

Also finally please do realise FOMO of CA is less painful than not revising static. If given an option to read static or one more CA magazine, go for static. You can solve CA questions based on static knowledge but not the other way round imo.



3k views
@Juggernaut I have heard this year's Prelims had a very poor Cost benefit ratio as merely 3 questions were asked from monthly Vision. Although yeah Pt365 is a good ready reckoner. 


3.7k views

@akshayed True. I think it is debatable but I feel the aim of choosing a CA source is not to directly expect a question from it in prelims. Similarly don't have such expectations from test series it's not 2016 anymore, no direct questions would be there.

I mentioned monthlies because they complete your checklist of what needs to be done by the month end and they build/ revise your concepts as all the issues need to be linked to static stuff. So checking monthlies utility only based on no. of hits in prelims is incorrect. I hope I was clear. ATB. 

2.8k views
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