THE result of the Central Superior Service (CSS) written examination has been announced recently, with a success rate of only 2.11 per cent. It is important to do some serious introspection on where the problem lies.

Over the years, the ratio of candidates appearing in the exam has increased, but the quality has gone down, with a small percentage being able to succeed in the compulsory English subjects, such as English Composition and English Essay. One common reason for failure in the compulsory English subjects is that many CSS preparation academies focus only on the question papers of the last few years as if it will guarantee candidates’ success. It is fine to study the past papers to see the trend, but it is better to prepare the candidates for newer topics.

It is also worth noting that besides good preparation, it is the brain that we take into the exam hall, and it should be fresh enough to deliver the best. It has been largely observed that CSS aspirants keep preparing till the last moment and are stressed out and exhausted. Hence, they are unable to perform well.

Many candidates do their best to be successful in the examination, but when it comes to giving the sacrifices needed to qualify, they hardly do themselves any good. Little do they know that CSS is the examination of nerves apart from smart work and commitment.

In recent years, the writing practice, which is a prerequisite for success in this examination, has decreased among the aspirants. There is a need to guide the CSS aspirants to dedicate more of their time in reading and writing as CSS examination is not just about knowledge, but also takes a look at expression and articulation levels.

Riaz Mahar
Sukkur

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2021