Candidates can effectively summarize current affairs for the UPSC exam by focusing on key elements such as who, what, when, where, and why. Structuring summaries around these elements ensures comprehensive yet concise coverage. Utilizing news digests or compilation resources can help distill complex information into manageable points. Keeping track of major themes, government initiatives, and global events is also crucial. Creating a dedicated notebook or digital document for summaries allows for easy revision before the exam. Furthermore, discussing these summaries with peers can reinforce understanding and retention.