The general knowledge and the current affairs component are crucial in an administrative services examination. They say that the golden rule of Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC) KAS exam preparation is to read the newspaper every day and keep oneself updated with current events. The Hindu is usually recognized as the most useful newspaper for civil service preparation and it applies for the Kerala PCS KAS preparation too. 

Some sources to refer 

Several coaching institutes and experts state that referring to the Thozhil Vartha Magazine, Manorama and Mathrubhumi Yearbooks and the Kerala Administrative services (KAS) Rank File will be useful for the exam. One must even refer to yearly current affairs books published by academics such as Talent, Lakshya, Brilliance etc. 

The Kerala Administrative services (KAS) rank files contain questions that are in tune with the syllabus of the examination. The weekly Thozhil Vartha, though targeted for the general public, is very useful for civil services aspirants. It has been observed that they have a history of predicting question paper patterns and often have questions that are on point when compared to the actual exam. The Manorama and Mathrubhumi Yearbooks, on the other hand, compile all the events that have transpired in the previous year and present it to the reader. It is rather useful during revision time.

Points to be kept in mind while preparing current affairs

1. Nearly one fifth of the examination mark’s is from current affairs and hence, ignoring that section is not a wise idea. 
2. While preparing for current affairs ensure that it is at least one year old. Also, prepare all contemporary general knowledge. For example, if the Olympics has been in the news in the past one year, then ensure that all the general knowledge relevant to this sporting event is studied.
3. Some areas that are commonly asked when it comes to general knowledge are Sports, Awards, Health and Development schemes and Appointments.
4. Make sure that you dedicate some time for current affairs on a daily basis and not keep it toward the end, cramming from a single compilation.
5. Reading the newspaper is an indispensable part of your preparation, so do not sideline it at any cost. Make sort notes from it and reverse it constantly.

To conclude

There is no ideal book, or exam shortcut that will help a candidate reach the top. Consistent efforts coupled with the right sources and guidance, can go a long way in helping the candidate secure the requisite marks and rank in the exam to get a post of his or her choice.