Reading a newspaper for UPSC is not like reading it with a cup of morning tea. Many aspirants read The Hindu or The Indian Express every day, yet still struggle to connect it with the exam. Ever wondered why? The problem is not what you read—it’s how you read.
At LaEx IAS Academy, regarded as the Top UPSC Coaching in Kompally, we often hear students say, “I read the newspaper daily, but I don’t know what to note or remember.” If you feel the same, you’re not alone.
This article will guide you step by step on how to read The Hindu or Indian Express effectively for UPSC success, without stress, confusion, or wasted time.
1. Why Newspaper Reading Is Important for UPSC
UPSC is not a test of memory—it’s a test of understanding and awareness. Newspapers help you:
- Understand current affairs
- Build opinions for mains answers
- Improve analytical thinking
- Learn how issues are discussed in public life
Think of the newspaper as a bridge connecting static subjects like Polity and Economy with real-world events.
2. The Hindu vs Indian Express – Which One to Choose?
This is one of the most common questions among aspirants.
The simple answer:
👉 Choose one and stick to it.
The Hindu is known for:
- Neutral tone
- Strong editorials
- Clear explanations
Indian Express is known for:
- Excellent explainers
- UPSC-friendly coverage
- Background context
Both are good. What matters is consistency, not comparison.
3. How Much Time Should You Spend on the Newspaper?
Many aspirants spend 2–3 hours on the newspaper. That’s unnecessary.
Ideal time:
🕒 60–90 minutes daily
If you’re a beginner, it may take slightly longer. Over time, speed improves naturally.
4. Sections You Must Read Daily
Focus only on sections relevant to UPSC.
Must-read sections:
- Front Page – Important national and international news
- Editorial Page – Opinions, arguments, analysis
- Explained / Op-Ed Articles
- Economy-related news
- Polity, Governance, Environment, International Relations
Read these sections with the UPSC syllabus in mind.
5. Sections You Can Safely Skip
Not everything in the newspaper is useful.
You can skip:
- Crime news
- Entertainment pages
- Local city news (unless policy-related)
- Political gossip
- Sports (except major events or policies)
Skipping irrelevant sections saves time and energy.
6. How to Read the Editorial Page
Editorials are the heart of UPSC preparation.
How to read editorials properly:
- Understand the issue
- Identify causes and consequences
- Note solutions and suggestions
- Observe how arguments are structured
Don’t memorize editorials—understand them. This will directly help in mains answers.
7. Identifying UPSC-Relevant News
Ask yourself three simple questions while reading:
- Is this related to the UPSC syllabus?
- Does it involve government policy, constitution, economy, environment, or society?
- Can this be asked in prelims or mains?
If the answer is “yes,” it’s important.
8. How to Make Effective Notes from Newspapers
Avoid writing everything.
Smart note-making tips:
- Use keywords, not paragraphs
- Write notes under GS topics
- Keep notes short and crisp
- Prefer digital notes for easy revision
Remember: notes are for revision, not for rewriting the newspaper.
9. Linking Newspaper Content with the UPSC Syllabus
This is where most aspirants fail.
Example:
A news article on Supreme Court → Link it with:
- Polity: Judiciary
- Constitution Articles
- Landmark judgments
At LaEx IAS Academy, students are trained to make these connections naturally.
10. Using Newspapers for Prelims Preparation
For prelims, focus on:
- Government schemes
- New bills and acts
- International organizations
- Environment-related news
- Economic indicators
Avoid unnecessary details—facts and concepts matter most.
11. Using Newspapers for Mains Answer Writing
For mains, newspapers help you:
- Add current examples
- Improve answer quality
- Develop balanced opinions
Editorial arguments can be used to write better introductions and conclusions.
12. Common Newspaper Reading Mistakes
Avoid these common errors:
- Reading without purpose
- Making bulky notes
- Reading multiple newspapers
- Ignoring revision
- Panicking about missing news
Remember, UPSC does not expect you to know everything.
13. How Beginners Should Start Newspaper Reading
If you’re new:
- Start slow
- Read with syllabus beside you
- Don’t worry if you don’t understand everything
- Improvement comes with time
Newspaper reading is a skill, and skills develop with practice.
14. How Coaching Guidance Makes Newspaper Reading Easy
Self-reading can be confusing initially.
With proper guidance:
- You know what to read
- You know what to skip
- You understand how to use news in answers
This is why aspirants trust LaEx IAS Academy, the Top UPSC Coaching in Kompally, for structured current affairs guidance.
15. Daily Newspaper Reading Strategy by LaEx IAS Academy
A simple daily routine:
- Scan headlines – 5 minutes
- Read important news – 30 minutes
- Editorials & explainers – 20 minutes
- Note-making – 15 minutes
That’s it. No overload. No stress.
Conclusion
Reading The Hindu or Indian Express for UPSC is not about reading more—it’s about reading right. When done properly, the newspaper becomes your strongest companion in the UPSC journey.
With expert mentorship, structured guidance, and proven strategies, LaEx IAS Academy helps aspirants turn daily news into exam success.
Admissions Open for 2026–27
Contact Details – LaEx IAS Academy
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Hyderabad, Telangana – 500100
📞 Phone: +91 90524 02929
📧 Email: laexiaskompally@gmail.com
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it compulsory to read The Hindu or Indian Express for UPSC?
No, but reading one standard newspaper is highly recommended for current affairs.
2. Can I read both newspapers together?
No. Reading one newspaper consistently is more than enough.
3. How long does it take to master newspaper reading for UPSC?
Usually 2–3 months of regular practice.
4. Should I make daily notes from the newspaper?
Yes, but keep them short and syllabus-oriented.
5. Why is LaEx IAS Academy considered the Top UPSC Coaching in Kompally?
Because of expert faculty, structured current affairs guidance, and student-focused mentorship.