Blog

The Role of Current Affairs in UPSC Interviews: Stay Informed

In preparation for the UPSC interview, commonly referred to as the Personality Test, current affairs play an important role. Acing this phase necessitates a nuanced focus on multiple pivotal facets. Primarily, an exhaustive comprehension of the Detailed Application Form (DAF) becomes imperative, given that interview questions frequently orbit around it. Furthermore, aspirants ought to remain abreast of domestic and international contemporary developments while adeptly articulating well-informed viewpoints on diverse subjects.

The sharing of opinions on current events and general knowledge has become more instantaneous and wide through the use of social media and web platforms, causing both constructive dialogue and polarization. Some take the current events as a chance for positive change and progress, but for others, they are merely concerns and insecurities. In the UPSC interview on current affairs, critical thinking ability concerning current events is essential. You will be asked about opinions on certain current events, no matter what kind of opinion you keep, always remember to maintain a neutral approach in the UPSC interview. Keep these things in mind while preparing for the UPSC interview.

 

1.       Before entering the UPSC-CSE interview, it is crucial to stay informed about current events for UPSC.  As a prospective civil servant, your awareness should extend beyond local affairs to encompass national and global happenings. The interview assesses candidates' general awareness, a quality vital for civil service roles.

2.       In your preparation, consider what to read and what to skip. While materials, notes, newspapers, and magazines from Prelims and Mains are valuable sources, watching discussions on Rajya Sabha TV (now Sansad TV) can provide additional insights into specific issues.

3.       It's essential to note that the nature of current affairs questions in the interview differs from those in Prelims and Mains. Interview questions may require you to express personal opinions on current issues. The purpose is not just to test your knowledge but also to assess your awareness and thought process, revealing qualities such as honesty, integrity, balance, morality, ethical perspective, and emotional intelligence.

4.       In terms of approach, aim to cover current affairs from the past six months to a year to understand the chronological sequence of events with national and international significance.

5.       When responding to current affairs questions, remain composed. Assess whether you have enough content and arguments for the question. If not, honestly admit your lack of awareness or express difficulty recalling the facts. If confident in your knowledge, provide a well-justified answer. Be cautious in addressing controversial issues. Excessive criticism may leave a negative impression.

Bottomline

As current affairs are pivotal in the UPSC interview, It is essential to strike a balance in your responses to present a thoughtful and informed perspective. We at UPSC Network wish you the best of luck for your UPSC interview.