In Conversation with Dr. Mishkat Mubashir (PAS) 8th in Pakistan; CSS 2024-25

Jahangir's World Times (JWT): First of all, please tell us about your educational background.

Dr. Mishkat Mubashir (DMM): I graduated from KEMU, Lahore, in 2023 with an MBBS degree. Besides, I hold an Associate Degree in Science. I have the honour of securing first position in Pakistan in my FSc exam conducted by Federal Board, Islamabad.

JWT: What feature of the Pakistan Administrative Service attracted you most?

DMM: PAS was my top priority, as its multidimensional nature, spanning across socioeconomic, public policy and governance domains, allows one to be, truly, of public value and develop a life-long learning.

JWT: How much helpful did you find JWT magazine during your preparation? Also, how was your experience at the World Times Institute?

DMM: JWT magazine is a great source of concise, relevant and coherent information that the aspirants require for solid preparation. One can cover multiple aspects of General Science & Ability, Current Affairs and Pakistan Affairs by regularly reading the magazine.  

Insofar as WTI, my experience of mock exam and interview there was pleasant and rewarding.

JWT: What was the significance of newspaper reading in your preparation? How did staying updated with current affairs shape your success?

DMM: Reading newspapers is a fundamental aspect of one's preparation. You need to be aware of the national and international happenings that are one of the key components of exam preparation. I used to keep updating my notes with reading newspaper. Scoring high in current affairs requires a critical and analytical lens that I developed over time by reading relevant opinions and editorials.

JWT: What was your overall strategy for cracking the CSS exam?

DMM: Staying disciplined, focused and committed to my preparation was the main strategy. I adhered to my schedule and tried smart studying. Timed written practice with critical approach to answering questions helped me a lot.

JWT: Generally, compulsory subjects are considered low-scoring; what was your strategy to get through these very papers?

DMM: Compulsory subjects should be dealt with a clear strategy. Try preparing overlapping topics first. Then, prioritize your syllabus in view of national and international happenings.  Read standard magazines and newspapers. Update your notes. Do maximum written practice.

JWT: What was your approach to time management during the exam?

DMM: Analyzing the syllabi and identifying my strengths and weaknesses gave me a perspective about what needs more time. Then, accordingly, I divided my days into dedicated proportions for the subjects. I prepared Essay, Précis and Composition throughout my days, while managing them with other subjects. I used to prioritize topics and prepare accordingly.

JWT: What was the importance of revision in your preparation strategy? How did you manage to revise effectively while covering such a vast syllabus?

DMM: I used to study daily for an average of eight hours or more that helped me cover the syllabus before my deadline. Then, I reserved time for 3-4 revisions.

JWT: How did you structure your Essay, and what was your strategy for Précis and Composition paper?

DMM: I took my time for the selection of a right topic. Afterwards, I made a very comprehensive outline. I was largely focused on brainstorming the aspects of my essay when I was writing the outline. Writing clearly with correct grammar is important. The Précis paper demands daily preparation with adequate written practice.

JWT: How should answers be written to get maximum marks?

DMM: The answers should be relevant and must address all the aspects asked in the question. Give self-explanatory headings and supplement your answers with necessary tables, diagrams and flowcharts with apt analysis.

JWT: How should new aspirants start their preparation for the CSS exam?

DMM: New aspirant should take their time to understand the expectations of the exam. Do an analysis of past papers to prioritize key areas. Start by developing a habit of reading newspapers and taking notes. Lastly, gradually increase your pace and study time.

JWT: What areas should the new aspirants focus on while preparing for the CSS exam?

DMM: Since English is the medium of examination, learning to write clear, simple and error-free English is imperative. Focus particularly on Essay, P&C, Islamiat. Optional subjects should be chosen wisely since they are, generally, the scoring ones.

JWT: What should be an ideal time table for a new aspirant to make sound preparation for the CSS exam?

DMM: First, give yourself enough time in which you can prepare well. Then add in your schedule a daily dedicated time for Essay, P&C and reading newspaper. Give each subject due time. Once syllabus is covered, focus on written practice.

JWT: Should there be some word limit kept in mind while writing answers?

DMM: The answer must adequately address all the facets of the question. One should write at least 7 pages.

My Interview Experience

My interview experience was very pleasant. It was neither conventionally structured nor based on rote answers in any way. The panel was very encouraging, and appreciative. They had a balanced approach. They touched every possible facet from personal life choices to national and international strategic matters, to economy, security, gendered analyses, from my subjects, to some broad opinion-based questions on the distribution of power in Pakistan, social landscape and perception of civil services to name a few.

My Tips on

Selection of optional subjects

Keep your interest in mind but do not ignore the scoring trends.

Notes-making

Understand a topic well. Make concise notes with maps, diagrams, flowcharts and figures. Keep updating – and pruning them – so at the end, you don't have a heap of papers.

Revision

Stick by your timetable. Cover your syllabus then spare two months for repetitive good revisions with written practice.

My Advice for Fresh Aspirants

Have faith in Almighty Allah and be honest with yourself. Keep in mind your goal and work towards it daily. Develop a habit of writing.