Practical tips to excel in the current affairs section of the UPSC exam include regularly reading reputable newspapers like The Hindu and The Indian Express, which provide comprehensive coverage of national and international events. Maintaining a dedicated current affairs notebook can help summarize key points and concepts from news articles and reports. Joining online forums can also facilitate discussions and insights into important topics. Candidates should also integrate current affairs into their answers, linking them to relevant subjects within the syllabus, ensuring that they exhibit a well-rounded knowledge base during the examination.