Beat the Burnout: Make Monthly Compilations Manageable and Effective

Do you find it difficult to read monthly current affairs compilations like Vision IAS or Focus, which often span over 100 pages? It can be overwhelming to go through them after each month. Here’s a strategy I used that made the process more manageable and less mentally taxing.

Take the April 2025 Vision IAS compilation, for example—it has 103 pages. If I start reading from page 1, I constantly have the remaining number of pages looming in my mind. For instance, when I’m at page 23, I can’t help but think, “I still have 80 more pages to go.” This mindset can affect my concentration, reduce my productivity, and make reading feel like a chore.

Instead, I flip the approach.

I begin with sections I enjoy the most—like Science & Technology. That section only has 6 pages (pages 80–85). Since I know it’s just 6 pages, it feels easy and motivating to complete. Once I’m done with that, I move on to the Security section, which has about 10 pages (pages 54–63). Again, the short length makes it less daunting.

After that, I move to other interest-based or shorter sections like Environment, Art & Culture, International Relations, Polity, and Social Issues. Finally, I read the Economy section—which I personally find less interesting and which usually has more pages. But by saving it for last, I get a small psychological boost: “This is the final section—I’m almost done!” That makes even the toughest part easier to get through.

Bonus Tips:

• Spread it out: Instead of finishing the entire compilation in a single go, spread it across a week. Read 2–3 sections per day. This not only avoids burnout but also improves retention.
• Reward yourself: After completing each section, treat yourself with a short break, a snack, or a walk. This builds a positive association with studying and helps you stay consistent.
• Whenever you come across any terms, locations, species, protected areas, or unfamiliar concepts, try looking them up on Google. Check their location on Google Maps, view related images, and go through a few reliable websites. This process of actively exploring the information will help you retain it better. Instead of passively reading, make it an active learning experience. It not only improves your understanding but also makes the process less tiring and more engaging.

So, whenever you’re faced with something that feels too long or overwhelming, try breaking it down into smaller, interest-based segments. This way, you stay motivated and energized throughout. In the end, you’ll still read every page—but you won’t feel like you’re slogging through a 100-page document in one go.

Break it down, stay consistent, and make the process enjoyable