Jahangir's World Times First Comprehensive Magazine for students/teachers of competitive exams and general readers as well.
In Conversation With Muhammad Shakaib Sarwar 11th in Punjab, PMS 2017-18
Jahangir’s World Times (JWT): First of all, please tell us about your educational background?
Muhammad Shakaib Sarwar (MSS): I did my matriculation from Fauji Foundation Model School Bahawalnagar. Later, I did BSc (Building and Architectural Engineering) from BZU, Multan.
JWT: How much helpful did you find Jahangir’s World Times (JWT) in your preparation for PMS exam?
MSS: World Times magazine proved extremely instrumental as it contained highly pertinent articles related to current affairs which helped me a great deal in essay and general knowledge papers.
JWT: What, in your opinion, is the key to getting through compulsory papers of PMS exam, especially that of General Knowledge?
MSS: I believe an aspirant should keep three things in mind:
- Read at least one recommended book for each subject.
- Intelligent use of internet for extensive study on any topic (only from authentic sources.)
- Consulting past papers is a must.
For General Knowledge
For GK paper, consult past papers and while doing so, understand how the examiner divides GK paper into different portions. Then, prepare these portions from different sources to score exceptionally well in this crucial paper.
JWT: How answers should be written to get maximum marks in the written part of PMS exam?
MSS: Firstly, understand what is being asked in the question. Secondly, write a well-structured answer with a succinct introduction. Add relevant headings, diagrams, flowcharts and maps in the body. Thirdly, try to add a paragraph of critical analysis prior to the conclusion.
JWT: What is the key to scoring high in English Essay paper?
MSS: In essay paper, I believe your outline and introduction are of pivotal importance in your success. I wrote well-structured outline with succinct but lucid introduction. Moreover, I tried to build arguments from multiple angles and substantiated them with appropriate examples.
JWT: What was your strategy for the General Knowledge paper?
MSS: I solved as many PPSC past papers as I could. Moreover, I read newspaper to stay updated on day-to-day events happening around the world.
JWT: Should there be some word limit kept in mind while writing answers?
MSS: No! Write as much as you can to justify your answer. However, the only limit one should keep in mind is that of time.
JWT: Is it better to attempt optional papers in Urdu or one should go with English only?
MSS: I believe it is more convenient to attempt optional papers in English.
JWT: How one should choose Optional Subjects?
MSS: Two things should be kept in mind while choosing optional subjects for PMS:
- Scoring trend of the subject; and
- Your interest in the subject.
JWT: Who deserves the credit for your success?
MSS: The credit for my success goes to my parents who always prayed for me. My brother Fraz Ismail as he always encouraged and motivated me. Lastly, my friend and mentor Mr Sarmad Jabbar whose guidance remained exceptionally helpful during my preparation for the this prestigious competitive exam.
JWT: As interviewers usually grill the interview candidates, how did you manage the situation?
MSS: It was the first-ever interview of my life. I was extremely nervous before entering the room. At that time, only one thought was running through my mind: “no guts, no glory”. Although I dropped first three questions, I kept a strong hold on my nerves. I didn’t lose my confidence and eventually it turned out extremely good for me.
Advice for Fresh Aspirants
- Have faith in Allah, and in your abilities.
- Do some physical activities (running and jogging) to stay active and healthy.
- Add some music in your life; just to relax your mind.
- And, lastly, you persist you prevail; you desist you fail.
My Interview Experience
My interview experience was excellent. The panel was very welcoming and supportive. As I mentioned earlier, I was nervous before entering the interview room. However, as I sat in front of the panel, I felt very confident. After introduction, they asked questions on multiple subjects like engineering, philosophy, current affairs, as well as from my optional subjects. I remained calm and composed throughout the process. I firmly believe that your confidence and critical thinking are the real key to ace an interview.
