How to Read the Newspaper for OPSC OAS Exam: The Smart Strategy That Toppers Use
Strategy Description
If you're preparing for the OPSC OAS exam and spending hours reading the newspaper cover to cover, chances are you're wasting time on what won’t be asked in the exam. Reading the newspaper isn't about reading everything — it’s about reading right and using that information wisely in your Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
Let’s break down exactly how to read the newspaper for OPSC, what to pick and skip, and how to turn news into marks.
Why Newspaper Reading Is Important for OPSC OAS
The OPSC OAS exam — especially GS Papers and Essay — expects you to:
- Be aware of current developments
- Link current issues with static syllabus topics
- Use real-world examples in answers
- Have opinions backed by facts and analysis
Reading newspapers daily sharpens your thinking, updates your knowledge, and adds depth to your answers.
Which Newspaper Is Best for OPSC OAS?
The Hindu – For analytical editorials, governance, economy, and international relations. (Highly recommended)
Indian Express – For clear explanation of issues, explained section, and science-tech
Odisha-based newspapers (like Sambad or The Samaja) – For state schemes, local developments, and Odisha-specific content (Just glance)
It does not mean that read 3 Newspaper. Stick to one only.
Avoid tabloid-style or political-biased papers — they won’t help in exam writing.
How to Read the Newspaper – Smart Strategy
Know What You’re Looking For
Instead of randomly reading, align news with the OPSC Mains syllabus:
- Polity & Governance: Bills, laws, SC judgments, policy decisions
- Economy: Budget, inflation, unemployment, schemes, RBI moves
- Environment: Cyclones, climate action, disasters, conservation steps
- Science & Tech: New innovations, ISRO missions, health breakthroughs
- Ethics & Society: Case studies, social movements, inspirational stories
- International Relations: India’s relations with neighbors, major summits
- Odisha Specific: State schemes, cultural events, economic initiatives
What to Skip Without Guilt
- Political blame games
- Celebrity news
- Local crimes (unless they reflect social issues)
- Advertisements
- Sports (unless policy-related like doping rules, Olympics schemes)
Remember: You’re reading like a civil servant, not for entertainment.
Make Short & Smart Notes
Use the GS Paper-wise or topic-wise approach:
- In a notebook or digital tool
- Under headers like Polity, Economy, Social Justice, etc.
- Keep it concise — just the issue, background, impact, and solution
Eg.
News: Supreme Court on same-sex marriage
Note: Rights vs. cultural norms, Article 14 & 21, impact on society
Connect News to the Static Syllabus
- Read news → Ask: Which part of the syllabus does this relate to?
- Link the issue to static concepts or constitutional principles
- Use current affairs to enrich your Mains answers and Essays
Example:
Static: Fundamental Rights
News: SC judgment on arrest under UAPA
Mains Link: "Right to Liberty in the Context of National Security"
How to Use Newspaper Content in OPSC Mains & Essay
- Use data from reliable sources like NFHS, NITI Aayog, RBI
- Quote personalities (like CJI, NITI members, Nobel winners)
- Refer to recent events (Cyclone in Odisha, SC verdicts, govt schemes)
- Apply real examples in Ethics paper case studies
Eg. In an Essay on "Digital India and Rural Development," quoting BharatNet coverage or Odisha’s Mo Seva Kendras adds huge value.
How Much Time to Spend on Newspaper?
45–60 minutes is enough if you read with purpose:
- 5 mins – Headlines overview
- 15 mins – Editorial & Op-Ed
- 15 mins – National news
- 10 mins – Economy/IR/Environment/Science
- 5 mins – Odisha State News
Stick to a routine. The key is not reading more — it's reading better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Reading randomly without link to syllabus
- Not making notes — relying on memory alone
- Skipping newspapers for weeks and trying to catch up
- Copy-pasting news instead of understanding context
Newspaper Is Not Optional — It’s Your Edge
“A well-read aspirant doesn’t just answer the question — they explain the context, solution, and future implications.”
Reading the newspaper the right way helps you:
- Handle dynamic questions confidently
- Write mature, balanced answers
- Show OPSC that you're ready to be an administrator
So, don’t skip this powerful habit. Learn to read smart, note smart, and write smart — and you’ll rise above the crowd.
FAQs: Newspaper Reading for OPSC OAS
Q. Should I make handwritten or digital notes?
Both work. Handwritten is good for retention. Digital is better for revision and organizing.
Q. How far back should I read news before the exam?
Ideally, cover last 12 months thoroughly — especially budget, flagship schemes, and important judgments.
Q. Can I rely only on monthly current affairs magazines?
They’re useful for revision but not a substitute for daily newspaper reading. Real understanding comes only through daily engagement.
Bonus Tip from Study OAS
We post daily The Hindu summaries in exam format with:
- News Title & Summary
- Background points
- Exam Relevance
Join our Telegram channel and app to get value-added news content without wasting time.
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