The general notion among aspirants is that it is only by luck that few candidates can pass CSS exam in their first attempt; mostly it would require couple of years and multiple attempts to understand the dynamics of Competitive exams. But this is mere theory and many aspirants break this myth by acing CSS is their first attempt and quite a young age. Let’s delve into the skills required to crack the code of these exams in your first try.
Having Prior Understanding of the Nature of Exams:
This is without saying that the sooner you start preparing, the better outcomes you can expect. It is critical that once one has decided to take the exam, one starts digging the nuances of the exam and seeking prior guidance. Listening to news; rigorous writing practice for two exams in a day, and building up their vocabulary and language skills become their hobby. The common character of passers in first attempt is that throughout their academic career they have built capacity in English language through diverse reading.
Driven by Passion:
The amount of hard work, dedication and perseverance needed to ace CSS exam can only be achieved through having a self-goal towards pursuing a career in civil-services. If this motivational factor is lacking owing to the pieces of advice by the peers and family expectations, it becomes really difficult for the candidate to sit through daily 8 hours study sessions, and 9 months of consistent preparation. Therefore, inculcating passion towards hardcore studies and serving the nation through civil services is a key requirement to pass it in the first go.
Structure your preparation:
Make a timeline of your preparation phases. Initial three months for understanding the core concepts through classes, YouTube or self-study of books, and making basic notes; Second phase of three months is for diversifying your sources by reading foreign authors, magazines and articles and adding references to your notes. Try to complete your preparation by the end of November. Allocate last two months i.e January and February for thorough revisions, written tests and mock exams.
Combination for Optional subjects:
Scoring high in optional courses is the key to get desired allocation, which is possible only by giving due time and consideration for subject selection. If you have a degree in a particular subject that becomes a definite choice for selecting an optional. Few subjects in CSS have complementary syllabus that reduce time of preparation. Also, finding your own interest area and ease of learning is pertinent in opting a subject e.g Governance and Public Policy requires applicability of the concepts in the paper and if one is not adept with the policies of Pakistan government through news and institutional website, then only learning the theory will not give good marks. Analysing the previous marking trend of subjects is another criteria for choosing an optional e.g languages such as Punjabi and Pashto usually give good marks.
Diversify Sources for Exam Content:
Use official CSS exam preparation materials and past papers to familiarize yourself with the format and content of the exam. For each subject, try to read 2 books for each subject: one that is easy to comprehend and made on exam pattern, second of a foreign author recommended by FPSC. Always consult a foreign author for a good score as it is written by the subject expert and holds dimensions that are relevant to CSS exams.
Focus on Making Good Notes:
The benefit of making notes is threefold: the writing practice that it provides, improving the level of understanding about the concepts and knowledge retention for longer time. It is important to make notes that are individually tailored. Memorizing someone else notes that too written in short handwriting will not fetch you good marks. Dedicate two hours daily for jotting down everything that you have learned during the day. Good notes will help you in efficient revision in the final days.
Practice solving CSS problems regularly to improve your skills:
Whenever you learn a new topic, find the relevant question from the past papers on the same topic and try to solve it according to your understanding. Get it checked and if it is approved by the mentor, try to solve the question in thirty five minutes without any aid. This will gradually improve your time and enhance problem solving.
Give as many test series and mock exams as you can for better time management skills.
Avoid Procrastination by forming study circles:
During this long and arduous journey, form relations that are motivated and pursuing the same goal. When you feel down or face burn out, others will give you a sense of hope to keep on going. Focused group studies, following Instagram pages that are dedicated to CSS content and interacting with other CSPs is one way you can avoid shirking the work.
Take breaks and manage your stress levels:
To avoid burnout and improve your focus during the study session, take breaks and indulge in healthy activities e.g going out for a walk, spending time with family, or playing with your pet. Physical exercise is another good way to boost your energy levels. If you want to watch videos, make sure the content helps to broaden your perspective and not merely a time wasting activity.
Remember CSS is a journey of evolution and you will learn your own technique with time and practice. Have faith in your abilities and never shy away from seeking guidance. Good luck with your preparations!