CSS FAQs

CSS Information: 

What is the CSS exam?

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

• CSS stands for Central Superior Services. CSS officers become leaders in bureaucracy, policy-makers and policy executors in an executive branch of the government.
• There are 12 groups of the Civil Services of Pakistan including Administrative Services, Police Services, Foreign Services, Inland Revenue Services, etc.
• CSS Exam is conducted by FPSC for BS-17 which is a total of 1500 marks including 1200 for written and 300 for interview.
• Compulsory subjects are of 600 marks and optional subjects of 600 marks.
• Selection of the right optional subjects for yourself is important as it helps determine your merit number.

Can a CA student appear in CSS Exam?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

• A candidate for competitive examination must hold at least a second division or grade C bachelor‘s degree in any faculty of one of the Pakistani universities or an equivalent degree or comparable educational qualifications of a foreign university recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), subject to production of equivalence certificate issued by HEC.
• Where a candidate does not hold the required degree on or before the cut-off date, he shall be required to produce a certificate from the duly authorized officer of the concerned degree awarding institution, to the effect that the candidate has fulfilled all the requirements of the said degree and has cleared and passed the examination for the said degree on or before the cut-off date. The candidate however would be required to produce the said degree before the final result is declared by the Commission.
• A candidate who has obtained a third division or D grade in his bachelor‘s degree shall be eligible for the competitive examination in cases where he has obtained a higher division or grade in master‘s degree.

 

When do CSS Exams take place?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

CSS Exams Schedule: All aspirants may apply online for CSS examination during the period November to December. CSS Exam usually takes place in the month of February.

 

 

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team  (Source: FPSC)

What are the jobs after passing the CSS Examination?

CSS Examination | CSS Occupational Groups and Services

The competitive examination shall be conducted by the Commission in respect of the Occupational Groups and Services consisting of:

1. Commerce and Trade Group;
2. Foreign Service of Pakistan;
3. Information Group;
4. Inland Revenue Service;
5. Military Lands and Cantonments Group;
6. Office Management Group;
7. Pakistan Administrative Service;
8. Pakistan Audit and Accounts Service;
9. Pakistan Customs Service;
10. Police Service of Pakistan;
11. Postal Group; and
12. Railways (Commercial and Transportation) Group.

 

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

What is the link of the CSS Exam Syllabus Updated?

CSS Exam Syllabus Updated:

For the latest CSS 2020 Syllabus, please visit the FPSC Website.

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

What are the Imperative rules for a CSS admission | CSS exam | CSS Rules

CSS Rules:

CANDIDATES ARE ADVISED TO:

1. Carefully fill the online form and check it before online submission. Take printout and dispatch hardcopy to FPSC on or before closing date. Any correction in the printed hardcopy of online form may be made by hand and initialled, before dispatch/submission to FPSC. Thereafter, no request for change in any entry of online application or its hardcopy would be accepted.
2. Deposit, before the closing date, examination fee in the nearest Govt. Treasury/State Bank of Pakistan/National Bank of Pakistan.
3. Ensure that attested copies of all required documents, photographs & original treasury receipt are attached with the hardcopy of online application form, before dispatching to Secretary FPSC, Islamabad.
4. Choose the optional subjects correctly in accordance with Appendix-I of the Rules for CSS Competitive Examination
5. Download computer generated Admission Certificates from FPSC website i.e. www.fpsc.gov.pk. In this regard no intimation shall be sent through post.
6. Be informed that optional subjects & examination centre once selected shall not be changed. No request in this regard shall be entertained after receipt of hardcopy.
7. Correctly enter CNIC No. & date of birth in online form and in its hardcopy. Wrong entry shall lead to rejection of candidature.
8. Strictly comply with the rules of CSS Competitive Examination-2019 otherwise their candidature shall lead to rejection.
9. Hardcopy of the online application, must be dispatched in a separate envelope. Two or more applications in one envelope are not acceptable.
10. Be aware that detailed scrutiny of the applications will be carried out after conduct of written part of CSS Competitive Examination. If any candidate is found ineligible in any respect under rules for the examination, his/her candidature will be cancelled/ rejected regardless of the fact whether he/she has appeared in the examination or qualified therein, however his/her chance shall stand consumed. Therefore, to avoid inconvenience candidates are advised in their own interest to make sure before appearing in the examination that they fulfill all requirements of the rules, relating to the examination.

What is the procedure for appearing in the CSS Exam 2020?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

Procedure for appearing in the CSS Exam 2020

CSS Exam 2020 – Procedure for appearing in the CSS Exams : You have to apply online. All aspirants may apply online for CSS examination, followed by submission of hardcopy of online form along with all attested documents and original Treasury Receipt-, so as to reach the FPSC Headquarters, Islamabad within 10 days of the closing date.

Online Application facility, Challan Form, Rules & Syllabus for CSS Competitive Examination are available on FPSC Website

 

Can a medical student appear in CSS exam? CSS Eligibility Criteria

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

CSS Eligibility Criteria

CSS Eligibility Criteria is given below:

A candidate for competitive examination must hold at least a second division or grade C bachelor‘s degree in any faculty of one of the Pakistani universities or an equivalent degree or comparable educational qualifications of a foreign university recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), subject to production of equivalence certificate issued by HEC.

 

 

 

 

 

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team  (Source: FPSC)

 

What are the Occupational Groups and Services in Civil Services of Pakistan

There are different Occupational Groups and Services are included in Civil Services of Pakistan. The competitive examination shall be conducted by the Commission in respect of the Occupational Groups and Services consisting of :

1. Commerce and Trade Group;
2. Foreign Service of Pakistan;
3. Information Group;
4. Inland Revenue Service;
5. Military Lands and Cantonments Group;
6. Office Management Group;
7. Pakistan Administrative Service;
8. Pakistan Audit and Accounts Service;
9. Pakistan Customs Service;
10. Police Service of Pakistan;
11. Postal Group; and
12. Railways (Commercial and Transportation) Group.

 

Is the CSS exam important for the customs?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team

Pakistan Customs Service and CSS Exam:

Yes, CSS Exam is important for the allocation in Pakistan Customs Service.

 

 

Can I appear for the CSS exam after doing a bachelor’s in film and television?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

CSS Exam Eligibility Criteria:

Yes. A candidate for competitive examination must hold at least a second division or grade C bachelor‘s degree in any faculty of one of the Pakistani universities or an equivalent degree or comparable educational qualifications of a foreign university recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), subject to production of equivalence certificate issued by HEC.

What are the Stages to qualify CSS Exam? | CSS Exam Steps

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team  (Source: FPSC)

Stages to qualify CSS Exam | CSS Exam Steps

CSS Exam Steps:

The competitive examination shall comprise the following stages, namely:-

1. Written examination;

2. Medical examination:

3. Psychological assessment; and

4. Viva voce

Can I change my CSS Exam Centre? CSS Exam Centers

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team  (Source: FPSC)

CSS Exam Centers: Written examination‘s center once selected by the candidate shall not be changed, unless allowed by the Commission or a committee thereof on an application made in this behalf by the candidate.

What Nationality is required to apply in CSS 2020? Can a foreigner apply in CSS?

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

Nationality requirement for CSS 2020:

• Candidates for competitive examination must be a citizen of Pakistan or a person deriving his nationality from the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

• A candidate who has married a person who is not a citizen of Pakistan shall not be eligible for appointment provided that a person who marries a foreign national of any country recognized by Federal Government with the prior permission of Government may be regarded as eligible for appointment.

 

Answered by Dogar Brothers Editorial Team (Source: FPSC)

What is the CSS Psychological Assessment Test?

CSS Psychological Assessment Test:

All candidates called for viva-voce shall be required to undergo a psychological assessment, comprising written tests and group tasks, designed to assess abilities, attitude and personality characteristics of the candidates with special regard to their aptitude for the civil services. Separate marks are not awarded for the psychological assessment. However, 300 marks assigned to viva voce also reflect the performance on psychological assessment. Candidates must bring their CNIC and two recent photographs when summoned for psychological assessment. If a candidate remains absent in the psychological assessment, he shall not be allowed to appear for viva voce.

 

CSS Preparation:

What CSS notes making techniques to follow for the exams?

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

CSS Notes Technique:

• Identify the topics that you will be covering from the syllabus for every compulsory and optional subject
• Go through the past papers of the last 5 years before delving into the study material. Add the key themes of the topic to your syllabus.
• Refer to your selected books for every topic. Take help from the internet where information is limited.
• Always stick to a structured path e.g.
• Add background or context to the topic
• Refer to cause and effect for every sub-topic
• Alternatively, use the political-economic-social framework to jot down points
• Add 1-2 examples to back your argument in the paper
• Note down relevant data wherever necessary.
• Note down 1-2 relevant quotes that can be used as well as the author’s names (Can be very useful for essay as well)
• Add maps and diagrams wherever necessary.
• Note down solutions/recommendations/way forward from the material
• In case of Islamic studies, add relevant Quranic Ayaat and Ahadith
• Leave a little space at the end to add updated information from any useful article you find later
• Notes can be made electronically or manually based on personal preference.
• I preferred the manual route as it helps remembering easier
• 2 hours per topic should be the goal

What should be a standard length of answers in CSS Papers?

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018

Standard length of answers in CSS Papers:

• It depends on your writing
• Each question should be allocated 35 minutes at most + last 10 minutes should be allocated for revision
• The length of answers should be equal
• Number of extra sheets is not a barometer for a good answer
• 6 pages per question sufficient.
• Add headings, subheading, flowcharts, diagrams, maps and margins to improve paper presentation

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

How important is it to give references, facts and figures in CSS Exam?

CSS Exam:

• Facts, figures and references are the real distinguishing factor between a good and bad answer
• E.g. Everyone will give the same cause and effect of problems related to energy crisis of Pakistan. But adding relevant data and references to your answer will take your answer to the next level.
• Make sure you highlight the relevant data and references by writing it down with a black pointer
• One fact, figure or reference is sufficient with every sub-point

Helpful CSS Resources available on Dogar.com.pk

 

 

 

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

Have you passed the CSS exam? Share your experience of CSS Preparation.

Have you passed the CSS exam? Share your experience of CSS Preparation. Answer: Asalam O Alikum. My name is Abrahim Shah. I secured third position in CSS 2018 in my first attempt. I have done my bachelors in Economics and History from Cornell University and from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. I returned to Pakistan after completing my Bachelors in 2017 and gave the CSS exam in 2018, went through the entire process and now here I am.

It was very tough for me. The first thing that comes to my mind is a lot of stress. There was a lot of pressure on me after I returned from America. I had just left my fellowship. I was unemployed and focusing all my energy on something very unpredictable, you cannot predict the result of CSS, so there was a lot of pressure on me due to which I lost a lot of weight as well. There are a lot of pressure factors, the time is very limited, the syllabus is very lengthy and tough, there’s a lot of competition so basically it is a very difficult journey but it is also very rewarding, the people you meet, the things you learn and hopefully if the result is in your favor, the exuberance and joy that you feel in the end, it’s all worth it. But I will also recommend that you keep your options open, don’t make this ‘be all end all’ for yourself. Please realize that this is not the benchmark for your success. If your clear it or not, that is not reflective of your personality or potential.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What are some tips to get success in the CSS exam?

What are some tips to get success in the CSS exam? Answer: My number one tip would be to structure your preparation. Make a timeline, try to complete your preparation by November 15 or December 1 at most and then use the remaining two months for revision. Try to use less sources for preparation. Don’t waste time reading 5 or 6 books for one subject. For each subject, try to read 2 books for each subject but make sure these two books are the best books to prepare from. Practice writing with the remaining time. Focus on making good notes that will help you in efficient revision. Focus on time management. Give as many test series and mock exams as you can and most importantly, focus on English Essays. In the end it all comes down to your technique. If you can own your technique, then you’re good to go and the only way to own your technique is through practice. Practice your answers, essays and time management. Collect knowledge from few but good sources. Now is the time that you start preparing for it properly. Give 8-9 hours a day to preparation. Work hard and just keep on practicing. InShaAllah things will go your way.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How does one prepare for the CSS exam in Pakistan?

How does one prepare for the CSS exam in Pakistan? I think that’s a very tricky question. You’ll hear about people who have done it in two months, you’ll hear about people who have done it in five months with a job. Speaking from personal experience, it took me 6 months. It was very tough for me, I had to fully commit to studying a lot. I think if you want to comfortably prepare for it, give time to other things as well, give time to your health then the whole preparation would require 7-8 months without a job.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What kind of routine and resources should one follow? Recommended Books for CSS 2020

Recommended Books for CSS 2020. Answer: There are two kinds of books, one is related to CSS and one is not. In my opinion, a CSS aspirant should have some basic knowledge of the world and of Pakistan. If you have 9-10 months, then I would recommend Ayesha Jalal’s Struggle for Pakistan to know better about the history of Pakistan and Norman Lowe’s Mastering Modern World History to get a better understanding of global 20th century history. These books will help you understand how Pakistan evolved and how the world evolved in the 20th century. In addition to this, if your English is weak, then I would recommend that you read English fiction books. Don’t go for tough English nonfiction or books on international relations, otherwise you would lose interest. You should start with books like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games trilogy, Game of Thrones and anything in English that is basically related to your interest. Fall in love with the English language, learn how the English language flows, how are sentences structured and written. Once you have command over language, move toward syllabus oriented books and prepare.

Here is a list of highly recommended books and preparation series for CSS preparation:

1. High Scoring CSS Essays Online Series by Abrahim Shah

2. CSS High Scoring English Precis & Composition by Career Finder

3. CSS Current Affairs Package (with Online Learning) by Dogar Brothers

4. Integrated CSS Pakistan Affairs Preparation Package

5. Who is Who and What Is What Book by Dogar Brothers

 

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

Should I apply for BS English to qualify CSS exams?

Should I apply for BS English to qualify CSS exams? Answer: Again, you’ll see a lot of variation in the trend. I personally know someone from my batch who is from a very humble background and has recently been allocated. So the answer is yes and no. It does have an impact to some extent in terms of the way you speak especially in the interview. But then again, it’s a competitive exam. The amount of effort you put in does pay off since it’s a merit based exam. It’s not like if you are from a humble and less privileged background then you are at a disadvantage. It’s just one of the many hurdles that you can easily overcome with honest efforts.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What technique did you follow for scoring high in current affairs and international affairs?

What technique did you follow for scoring high in current affairs and international affairs?

I did not have international affairs, I had economics instead. I did have current affairs. For current affairs, I relied on 2 or 3 things mostly. Number 1 was looking at very good sources. I did not engage much with locally authored books. I used different recognized think tanks and publications to collect knowledge and then build analysis. The analysis that you do should stand out. It should be a 360-degree analysis. For instance, you have a question on US-China trade. You’ll have to look into its causes, original causes, contemporary causes, economic causes and political causes and then you’ll have to analyse its effects on the US, on China, on Pakistan, on the world in general and then you will have to look into its solutions. This is how you should go building an analysis. Alhamdulillah, I scored 67 in current affairs which is a decent score. The reason behind scoring this much was that I focused a lot on my knowledge, the sources that I was using, the structure of the answer, I gave good headings and then in my opinion, your success somewhat depends on your writing skills as well.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

Initial CSS preparation

Initial CSS preparation

In my opinion, a CSS aspirant should have some basic knowledge of the world and of Pakistan. If you have enough time then I would recommend Ayesha Jalal’s Struggle for Pakistan to know better about the history of Pakistan and Norman Lowe’s Mastering Modern World History to get a better understanding of global 20th century history. These books will help you understand how Pakistan evolved and how the world evolved in the 20th century. In addition to this, if your English is weak, then I would recommend that you read English fiction books. Don’t go for tough English nonfiction or books on international relations, otherwise you would lose interest. You should start with books like Harry Potter, The Hunger Games trilogy, Game of Thrones and anything in English that is basically related to your interest. Fall in love with the English language, learn how the English language flows, how are sentences structured and written. Once you have command over language, move toward syllabus oriented books and prepare.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How much time is enough to top in CSS exam in Pakistan?

Time to top in CSS exam in Pakistan:

I think that’s a very tricky question. You’ll hear about people who have done it in two months, you’ll hear about people who have done it in five months with a job. Speaking from personal experience, it took me 6 months. It was very tough for me, I had to fully commit to studying a lot. I think if you want to comfortably prepare for it, give time to other things as well, give time to your health then the whole preparation would require 7-8 months without a job.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What is the key to success in the CSS exams? CSS Tips

CSS Tips

My number one tip would be to structure your preparation. Make a timeline, try to complete your preparation by November 15 or December 1 at most and then use the remaining two months for revision. Try to use less sources for preparation. Don’t waste time reading 5 or 6 books for one subject. For each subject, try to read 2 books for each subject but make sure these two books are the best books to prepare from. Practice writing with the remaining time. Focus on making good notes that will help you in efficient revision. Focus on time management. Give as many test series and mock exams as you can and most importantly, focus on English Essays. In the end it all comes down to your technique. If you can own your technique, then you’re good to go and the only way to own your technique is through practice. Practice your answers, essays and time management. Collect knowledge from few but good sources. Now is the time that you start preparing for it properly. Give 8-9 hours a day to preparation. Work hard and just keep on practicing. Insha Allah things will go your way.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How should candidates choose the CSS optional subjects in terms of the trade-off between high scoring and interests?

I think subject selection is instrumental in CSS preparation and this is the first thing that you engage with when preparing. In my opinion, the ‘subject wasn’t high scoring’ narrative that we hear is somewhat true and does exist but these things are highly unpredictable. For instance, one year the average score for Public Administration might be in 40s but the following year, it might be in 80s, and hence it becomes so arbitrary that it gets difficult to judge on this basis. In my opinion, the first thing that you should consider while selecting subjects is your own aptitude and strength. For instance, I had an Economics and History background so I opted for 200 marks Economics and 100 marks US History. This not only made preparation easier for me, but also saved my time. Just like this, you should also consider your background, if it’s in physics, computer science, international relations whatever it is, take your education background into consideration. You should also take your strengths into account. Some people are good at writing scientific answers, some are good with writing to the point answers, some are good at writing long answers like those in social sciences and humanities. Again in my case, since I had history in my bachelors, I was used to writing long answers and I selected Anthropology as one of my CSS optional subjects. Likewise, you should also see if you’re good at writing long answers then you should select subjects like sociology and anthropology, if you are good at writing to the point answers then you should select subjects like environmental sciences. Basically, you should play on your strengths and try to focus less on the scoring trend. Look for what suits you and your strengths. If it’s related to your background it will help you prepare effectively in the limited time you have.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What should be the standard length of CSS answers considering time management?

The standard length of CSS Answers:

People often say that the answers should be very long. In my opinion, this is not the case. It is in fact your writing style, analysis and structure that is more important than your length. In my opinion, the adequate length for an answer is 6-7 sides of pages (3 and a half pages). Length of answers is not important, for some answers, you might write 5-6 sides of pages, for others you might end up writing 8-9 sides of pages. However, you should try to not give answers shorter than 5-6 sides of pages and focus on headings. In addition to this, your answers should be measured so that you don’t end up having answers to some questions as short as 3 sides of pages while others covering 12 sides of pages. All answers should be more or less the same length so that you can manage your time. Try to give 30-35 minutes to each answer in the exam hall.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What notes making technique and sources do you think is most effective for scoring well in CSS?

Scoring well in CSS

Note making is a very essential part of CSS preparation. In my opinion, you should be very particular about your notes. I recommend that you make notes everyday covering the topics that you’ve read up on and you should move chronologically in this process. You should have a separate notebook for every subject. Your notes should be a reflection of the way you’ll be attempting the exam. Let’s say in Pakistan Affairs, you’re making notes on the War of Independence. Your notes on one topic should be 1 to 2 pages long at most. Keep it as short as possible while at the same time making sure that you have covered all the important points. Structure your notes in a way that reflects how you’ll be answering the question. Coming back to the War of Independence, your answer should consist of the following headings: causes, solutions, background of Pakistani movement, background of Muslims, background of relations between Muslims and British. All these headings should be in your notes along with two or three lines with each heading that will help you memorize the important points. In the last 10-15 days, when you’re revising all your subjects, then this proper and organized note making is definitely going to help you.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How important is it to give references, facts and figures in CSS Exam Answers?

I think it is very important, references less so than facts and figures. In most of my exams, I barely gave any references. However, you can give references in Islamic Studies. I used both Arabic and English references in my Islamic Studies exam. As for the facts and figures, make sure that you quote a lot of these in your Essay to make it more authentic. I used 12-13 quotations in my Essay. I used the help of figures in my Current Affairs exam. So these things are very important. One thing to remember is that CSS is a competitive exam. 13000+ people are going to appear in this exam with you. It’s up to you to figure out how to come in the top 3, the top 10 or the top 100 for that matter. One way to do that is by standing out with the answers that you’re giving and then one way to do that is by presenting analysis and by presenting good facts and figures, so yes, these things are important.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

 

What are the CSS scoring subjects?

 I think subject selection is instrumental in CSS preparation and this is the first thing that you engage with when preparing. In my opinion, the ‘subject wasn’t high scoring’ narrative that we hear is somewhat true and does exist but these things are highly unpredictable. For instance, one year the average score for Public Administration might be in 40s but the following year, it might be in 80s, and hence it becomes so arbitrary that it gets difficult to judge on this basis. In my opinion, the first thing that you should consider while selecting subjects is your own aptitude and strength. For instance, I had an Economics and History background so I opted for 200 marks Economics and 100 marks US History. This not only made preparation easier for me, but also saved my time. Just like this, you should also consider your background, if it’s in physics, computer science, international relations whatever it is, take your education background into consideration. You should also take your strengths into account. Some people are good at writing scientific answers, some are good with writing to the point answers, some are good at writing long answers like those in social sciences and humanities. Again in my case, since I had history in my bachelors, I was used to writing long answers and I selected Anthropology as one of my optional subjects. Likewise, you should also see if you’re good at writing long answers then you should select subjects like sociology and anthropology, if you are good at writing to the point answers then you should select subjects like environmental sciences. Basically, you should play on your strengths and try to focus less on the scoring trend. Look for what suits you and your strengths. If it’s related to your background it will help you prepare effectively in the limited time you have.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How can I easily qualify for the CSS exam?

My number one tip would be to structure your preparation. Make a timeline, try to complete your preparation by November 15 or December 1 at most and then use the remaining two months for revision. Try to use less sources for preparation. Don’t waste time reading 5 or 6 books for one subject. For each subject, try to read 2 books for each subject but make sure these two books are the best books to prepare from. Practice writing with the remaining time. Focus on making good notes that will help you in efficient revision. Focus on time management. Give as many test series and mock exams as you can and most importantly, focus on English Essays. In the end it all comes down to your technique. If you can own your technique, then you’re good to go and the only way to own your technique is through practice. Practice your answers, essays and time management. Collect knowledge from few but good sources. Now is the time that you start preparing for it properly. Give 8-9 hours a day to preparation. Work hard and just keep on practicing. InShaAllah things will go your way.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How do you recommend that aspirants prepare for CSS MCQs?

Prepare for CSS MCQs

For MCQs, what I find most helpful is using different sources. There are a lot of books available in the market that help you in preparing for MCQs of compulsory subjects. For compulsory MCQs, I used Pak Affairs and Islamiat books. You can also consider Ilmi. All these books are easily available at Urdu Bazar, Lahore. As for optional subjects, MCQs are often repeated so I used past papers for preparing optional subject MCQs.

CSS MCQs book by Dogar.pk

 

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How should candidates prepare for the CSS interview?

Interview is a completely different ballgame. There are two ways to go about its preparation. The first way is to work on your speaking skills. Get a partner, recite your answers to them, try speaking in front of the mirror, record yourself and then see where you can improve. The second thing to focus on is expanding your knowledge. There is this misconception that people have where they believe that you need more knowledge for the written exam. I believe that it is the other way around. You need more knowledge for the interview. You can easily pass the written test if you have a good technique but with the interview, you need a lot of knowledge. For this I would recommend that you read a few good books that you believe are relevant and you will be able to quote in your interview. I quoted three books in my interview which were then discussed in depth in the interview. I was asked questions on topics which would have gotten me in trouble if I wasn’t well read on them. So, my suggestion to you would be to read a lot. Read different books, engage with different authors and sources and then build an analysis along with practicing answers. The thing that helped me most was assessing myself individually. I would stand in front of the mirror, ask myself questions that I thought I’d be asked in the interview and record myself. This is how I believe one should go about the interview process.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

Do you teach CSS aspirants? What is your teaching methodology?

So I teach the essay exam and again, my methodology stems from my belief that we need to focus on the technique. I divide up my classes into sections on introduction, sections on paragraph structures, sections on developing the body, sections on developing the outline, developing a conclusion and building your argument as well. It’s a very tailor-made process I would say where every aspirant is focused on individually so that every candidate’s individual needs are fulfilled. So I focus on what the individual aspirant’s needs even if it is something as basic as writing a thesis statement, how the introduction should be completed, what the link between introduction and outline is, what the link between outline and conclusion is. All in all, the idea is to make it easier for aspirants and to focus on their individual needs and hopefully, I will be able to do that in the future as well.

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

How do I score well in CSS Exams?

Techniques to score well in the CSS Exams-

• Exam preparation in my opinion can be divided into several phases:
• Identifying the topics to prepare based on syllabus and past papers
• Making a study schedule based on the topic list for better planning
• Making comprehensive notes (electronic or hand-written) to cover the selected topics and making one-pagers in the revision phase
• Practicing MCQ past papers as it covers 220 marks out of the total 1200
• Appearing for mock exams in a real-time test environment to evaluate progress
• Working on the weaknesses especially paper presentation
• Allocating equal time to ALL questions in the paper. Cannot stress this fact enough.

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

What necessary skills are required to pass the CSS Exam?

Skills required to pass CSS Exam

• Make sure you have the passion for it
• It is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you are not passionate about it, you should think twice before going for it.
• Determination & dedication
• Commitment
• Stress Management
• Time Management
• Ability to effectively communicate your opinions and arguments
• Remember that it is not the only career option in case you don’t succeed.
• You should also try to explore other passions and interests.

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

How does one go about preparing for CSS in Pakistan?

Preparing for CSS:

• CSS Exam preparation in my opinion can be divided into several phases:
• Identifying the topics to prepare based on syllabus and past papers
• Making a study schedule based on the topic list for better planning
• Making comprehensive notes (electronic or hand-written) to cover the selected topics and making one-pagers in the revision phase
• Practicing MCQ past papers as it covers 220 marks out of the total 1200
• Appearing for mock exams in a real-time test environment to evaluate progress
• Working on the weaknesses especially paper presentation
• Allocating equal time to ALL questions in the paper. Cannot stress this fact enough.

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

Is it easy to pass the CSS exams in Pakistan? How to pass the CSS Exam?

• It is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you are not passionate about it, you should think twice before going for it.
• Make sure you have the passion for it
• Remember that it is not the only career option in case you don’t succeed.
• You should also try to explore other passions and interests.

 

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

How can I clear the CSS exams (civil services examination of Pakistan) in the first attempt?

Clear the CSS exams in the first attempt:

• Make sure you have the passion for it
• It is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you are not passionate about it, you should think twice before going for it.
• With enough determination, dedication and knowledge you can clear the CSS Exam in the first attempt.

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

What CSS optional subjects should I select for the CSS exam?

CSS Optional Subjects

• Syllabus was last revised in 2016 where one subject each can be chosen from the 8 groups outlined on the FPSC website.
• Academic background is important – DO NOT go after so-called high-scoring subjects at the expense of your academic background.
• Look at the linkage between different optional subjects e.g. International Relations, International Law & US History combine really well with Current Affairs.
• This, however, does NOT mean that you don’t have to study for any particular subject but inter-linkage helps.
• Open recent past papers and syllabus to see which syllabus is compact and for which books and sources of information will be readily available
• Recent experience shows that the previous trend does not matter much.
• So go with what is easier for you while taking academic background and your interests into consideration.

 

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

Do CSS academies matter for doing well in CSS?

CSS Academies:

• As I said, for students with good English and sound academic background, it is not advisable.
• For those with a weak academic background and weak English, it is highly recommended.
• Regardless, identify 2-3 mentors that you can always call to ask for advice and suggestions with regard to subject selection, books/reference material, paper review, etc.

How should I start preparing for CSS 2021? | CSS 2021 Preparation

CSS 2021 Preparation:

Exam preparation in my opinion can be divided into several phases:

• Identifying the topics to prepare based on syllabus and past papers
• Making a study schedule based on the topic list for better planning
• Making comprehensive notes (electronic or hand-written) to cover the selected topics and making one-pagers in the revision phase
• Practicing MCQ past papers as it covers 220 marks out of the total 1200
• Appearing for mock exams in a real-time test environment to evaluate progress
• Working on the weaknesses especially paper presentation
• Allocating equal time to ALL questions in the paper. Cannot stress this fact enough.

 

Answered by Farooq Zahid (61st Position in CSS 2018)

How much time is required to join a CSS Academy before the CSS exam?

• For someone with a good grasp over English and a sound academic background, 6 months are sufficient. This includes covering the syllabus along with notes, MCQs preparation and going through mock past papers in a real-time test environment.
• For those with a weak academic background and weak English, it is highly recommended to join academy.
• Regardless, identify 2-3 mentors that you can always call to ask for advice and suggestions with regard to subject selection, books/reference material, paper review, etc.

 

 

 

 

CSS English:

How to prepare for CSS English Essays and Composition?

CSS English Essays and Composition:

• The highest fail ratio is related to English essays historically so most focus should be on this.
• There is a certain pattern and structure in your essay that FPSC looks for and you need to learn and practice that regardless of how good your English is.
• Essay is not a test of English rather how well you can structure and present your argument
• A dedicated mentor is required for essays so going for a tuition is recommended even if for a month
• Start off by jotting down outlines of essays along with thesis statement and getting it checked
• Write short introductions based on the outlines and get it checked
• The next step involves writing one complete essay every week. Decide a topic you wish to write on and gather all the relevant material including references, examples, quotes and data and take your time in completing your essay.
• After 3-5 essays, start writing essays in the given time of 3 hours to test your writing speed.
• Get the essays checked and reviewed by a mentor.

Sign up for Essay Online Preparation Series by Abrahim Shah on Tabir.pk by Dogar Brothers to get lecture series and assignment evaluation.

 

Posted by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How do we write a good and big English Essay for CSS exam?

How we write a good and big English Essay for CSS exam? Answer: There are three things that are very important in my opinion. The first thing is that you have to understand the topic very crucially. Crucial understanding of the topic is extremely essential. If you fail to do this, then you might have a problem even clearing the exam. Make sure that you’re picking the topic on which you can write a minimum of 15-16 pages and on which you have sufficient knowledge and background. The second thing is the overall structure of your essay. Structure of the essay is even more important than vocabulary. You should focus on vocabulary for the precis and composition part however, for the essay, nothing is as important as its structure. You should be able to judge if you can write a good and coherent paragraph, if you can write well-structured sentences and then connect them, if you’re able to connect paragraphs, if you can write a good introduction and conclusion and if you can make a good outline. If you are able to understand the topic crucially and do all these things and if your language is not plagued with grammatical errors, then you will be able to clear the English essay InShaAllah.

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

How to prepare for CSS English Essays and composition when you’re aiming for 60+ marks?

CSS English Essays and composition:

60+ marks are a rarity. My suggestion to you would be to focus on clearing it. There are three things that are very important in my opinion. The first thing is that you have to understand the topic very crucially. Crucial understanding of the topic is extremely essential. If you fail to do this, then you might have a problem even clearing the exam. Make sure that you’re picking the topic on which you can write a minimum of 15-16 pages and on which you have sufficient knowledge and background. The second thing is the overall structure of your essay. Structure of the essay is even more important than vocabulary. You should focus on vocabulary for the precis and composition part however, for the essay, nothing is as important as its structure. You should be able to judge if you can write a good and coherent paragraph, if you can write well-structured sentences and then connect them, if you’re able to connect paragraphs, if you can write a good introduction and conclusion and if you can make a good outline. If you are able to understand the topic crucially and do all these things and if your language is not plagued with grammatical errors, then you will be able to clear the English essay InShaAllah.

Join Essay Preparation Series by Abrahim Shah

 

Answered by Muhammad Abrahim Shah (3rd Position in CSS 2018)

What is the tip to write a Precis in the CSS Exam?

Tip to write a Precis

You should focus on vocabulary for the precis and composition part. 

To prepare in detail:

High Scoring Precis and Composition Online Preparation Series on Tabir.pk by Dogar Brothers