Preparing for the CLAT 2026 exam demands a thorough understanding of current events. Current affairs contribute significantly to your overall score, making it essential to stay informed. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of current affairs, key topics to focus on, and effective strategies to ace this section.
Why Current Affairs Matter in CLAT 2026
Current affairs form about 25% of the CLAT exam and assess a candidate’s awareness of global and national events. This section is not only a test of general knowledge but also helps candidates connect current events with legal principles in the Legal Reasoning section.
Weightage of Current Affairs
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Current Affairs | 28–32 | 28–32 |
| Legal Reasoning | 28–32 | 28–32 |
| English Language | 22–26 | 22–26 |
| Logical Reasoning | 22–26 | 22–26 |
| Quantitative Techniques | 10–14 | 10–14 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Excelling in current affairs is a game-changer, as this section is both scoring and interconnected with other sections like legal reasoning.
Key Topics to Focus on for Current Affairs
1. National Events
Focus on:
- Political developments
- Government schemes
- Social movements
- Economic policies
2. International Events
Look for:
- Global treaties and summits
- Diplomatic relations
- Conflicts and resolutions
3. Legal Developments
This is a priority for CLAT aspirants. Keep an eye on:
- Landmark judgments
- New laws and amendments
- Legal reforms
How to Stay Updated on Current Affairs
Recommended Resources
- Newspapers:
- The Hindu
- The Indian Express
- Magazines:
- Manorama Year Book
- Pratiyogita Darpan
- Arihant’s Current Affairs Yearly
- Online Platforms:
- Books:
Daily Habits for Staying Informed
- Dedicate 30–45 minutes daily to reading the news.
- Focus on key sections: national, international, and legal.
- Summarize and note down key points for revision.
Effective Strategies to Ace Current Affairs
1. Memorization Techniques
- Concise Notes: Maintain organized notes by category (e.g., politics, environment, law).
- Flashcards: Use apps like Anki to create flashcards for quick revisions.
2. Regular Revision
- Revise daily summaries at the end of the week.
- Use monthly current affairs magazines to consolidate knowledge.
3. Practice Mock Tests
- Attempt regular mock tests and analyze your performance.
- Focus on improving weak areas and time management.
Previous Years’ Trends in CLAT Current Affairs
Understanding past question patterns can guide your preparation:
- Common Topics:
- Elections and political events
- International agreements
- Legal judgments
- Difficulty Level:Difficulty LevelPercentage of QuestionsEasy30%Moderate50%Difficult20%
Balancing Current Affairs with Other CLAT Sections
Time Management Tips
- Create a timetable allocating 30% of your preparation time to current affairs.
- Integrate reading habits with other subjects.
Combining Legal Reasoning and Current Affairs
- Relate current events to legal principles to deepen your understanding.
- Discuss with peers to explore different interpretations.
Mock Tests and Practice Papers
Mock tests simulate the actual exam environment, helping you:
- Familiarize yourself with the question pattern.
- Improve your speed and accuracy.
- Identify weak areas.
Best Sources for Mock Tests
- Online platforms like CLAT Possible.
- Books with previous years’ papers.
- Coaching institute materials.
Technology for CLAT Current Affairs
Useful Apps and Platforms
- News Apps: The Hindu, BBC News
- Quiz Apps:
- Interactive Tools:
Online Forums and Groups
- Join Telegram or WhatsApp groups to share resources and quiz each other.
Legal Current Affairs: A Special Focus
Legal events are crucial for CLAT. Focus on:
- Recent Supreme Court Rulings
- Important Legislation
- Legal Reforms and Bills
Understanding Legal Jargon
Familiarize yourself with key terms like:
- Amicus Curiae
- Habeas Corpus
- Judicial Activism
Expert Tips for CLAT Current Affairs
- Stay Consistent: Make current affairs a daily habit.
- Focus on Quality: Rely on credible sources like The Hindu and Indian Express.
- Practice Regularly: Mock tests and quizzes help you retain information.
Conclusion
Mastering current affairs for CLAT 2025 requires consistent effort, a structured approach, and the use of the right resources. By integrating daily reading, mock tests, and effective revision techniques, you can boost your performance and confidence in this section.
FAQs
1. How much time should I dedicate to current affairs daily?
30–45 minutes of focused reading is ideal.
2. Which are the best newspapers for CLAT current affairs?
The Hindu and The Indian Express are highly recommended.
3. How far back should I prepare for current affairs?
Focus on events from the past year leading up to the exam.
4. Are mock tests essential for current affairs preparation?
Yes, they help you practice time management and identify weak areas.
Start your preparation now and give yourself the edge to ace CLAT 2025!