10 Tips to Score High in CSS Written Exam

CSS examination is not just about your knowledge and grip over the subject; it also requires some skills to present your piece of writing in a manner that the examiner has no option but to award you excellent marks. Here, we present 12 tips to boost your score in written part of CSS exam.

1. Manage your time properly

With exception of English papers, you are usually asked to answer four questions of 80 marks in a paper within 150 minutes. You should spend approximately 30 minutes to answer each question. Since all questions carry equal marks, try to keep the length of all four answers same. Spend last 30 minutes on reviewing your paper.

2. Plan your answer structure

The framework of your answer should clearly convey the examiner that you know the answer well. Make sure that reading your answers is a pleasure, not a pain, for him.

Plan what should be included in the introduction, body, and conclusion to make your answer stand out. Make sure you include multiple dimensions of the question topic – social, political, economical, etc. – in your answer body.

3. Write answers based on directives and keywords

Don’t beat around the bush. Always be focused. Check the specific keywords used in the question. Also, keep a note on the directive words (e.g. Critically Examine, Elaborate, Comment, etc.). Answer as per the demand of the question.

Key Words to Understand

Word	What you should do?
Define	Bring to attention any problems posed with the definition and different interpretations that may exist.
Describe	Provide a detailed explanation as to how and why something happens.
Discuss	Give a written debate by using your reasoning skills, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument. Remember to arrive at a conclusion.
Explain	Clarify a topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurs, or what is meant by the use of this term in a particular context. Your writing should have clarity so that complex procedures or sequences of events are understood; defining key terms where appropriate, and be substantiated with relevant research.
Elaborate	Give more detail, provide more information.
Illustrate	Show the working of something, making use of definite examples and statistic, if appropriate.
Demonstrate	Show how, with examples to illustrate.
Analyse [Critically]	Break an issue into its constituent parts. Look in depth at each part using supporting arguments and evidence for and against as well as how these interrelate to one another.
Assess	Weigh up to what extent something is true. Persuade the examiner by citing relevant research but also remember to point out any flaws and counter-arguments as well. Conclude by stating clearly how far you are in agreement with the original proposition.
Compare	Identify the similarities and differences between two or more phenomena. Say if any of the shared similarities or differences are more important than others.
Contrast	Similar to compare but concentrate on the dissimilarities between two or more phenomena, or what sets them apart. Point out differences that are particularly significant.
Examine [Critically]	Look in close detail and establish the key fact and important issues surrounding a topic. Offer reasons as to why the facts and issues you have identified are the most important, as well as explain the different way they could be construed.
Comment	Risk out the main points on a subject and give your opinion, reinforcing your point of view using logic and reference to relevant evidence including any wider reading you have done.

4. Give an attention-grabbing introduction

Your introduction should give a hint about what you are going to write in the body. In 1-2 lines, make the examiner curious about what you are trying to present.

5. Connect your answers with current affairs

Many questions in GK papers and Islamiat, as well as some optional papers, are some way related to current affairs – even if not explicitly mentioned. Wherever possible, connect static information with current affairs. For example, in Pakistan Affairs paper, if there is a question on causes of Pakistan’s economic downfall, do write the current scenario as well.

6. Present your answers well

Presentation of the answer is really important. Use diagrams, flowcharts, maps, tables, etc. whenever suitable. Use of bullet points in questions where it is appropriate is suggested. For other questions, use paragraph format with headings and sub-headings. Underlining the keywords is also a good idea. The easier you make your answer readable for the examiner, the more marks you get.

7. Don’t use extreme statements

Use moderate statements. For example, if the question is about a particular scheme, never present “XYZ” scheme as a complete failure. Instead, write “The XYZ scheme did not achieve the desired results because of so and so reasons”.

8. Don’t generalise too much

It is said that one who generalises, generally lies. Each situation is different. So, unless, you are absolutely sure, don’t generalise.

9. Give examples and practical solutions

Always try to substantiate your answer with relevant examples. Also, if you can provide realistic solutions to problems, you are proving yourself as a capable officer before the examiner. Always keep this golden rule in mind.

10. Provide a Positive Conclusion

Everyone loves positive people. It would be great if your conclusion is optimistic. After all, FPSC is looking for candidates who can DO something. Here too, don’t go overboard. Just conclude what you have already mentioned in the intro and body, maintaining the flow of your answer.

Some Last Minute Tips

1. Be confident

Confidence is a quality, a virtue which can do wonders in our lives. It is all about having faith in one’s own handwork and trust in destiny.

2. Be free from paper-pressure

Stay calm as much as possible. Avoid negative discussions and gird up your loins to do the best.

3. Read questions carefully

There should be no hustle-bustle while reading the questions. Plan your time accordingly and solve every question sincerely.

4. Do not revise just before examination

Do not take any book along with you in the examination hall. Trust your cognitive abilities and there is nothing more powerful than your thoughts. Be positive and hit the bull’s eye.

5. Stay salubrious

Cut on to the junk food, keep yourself hydrated and maintain your circadian rhythm. Have good sleep and good food.