Table of Contents13 sections
All CSS candidates must appear in 6 compulsory papers carrying 600 marks total (100 marks each). Understanding the detailed syllabus of each compulsory subject is crucial for focused preparation and maximizing your score.
Complete Compulsory Subjects Overview
| Paper No. | Subject | Marks | MCQs | Subjective | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | English Essay | 100 | 0 | 100 | 3 hours |
| 2 | English (Precis & Composition) | 100 | 20 | 80 | 3 hours |
| 3 | General Science & Ability | 100 | 20 | 80 | 3 hours |
| 4 | Current Affairs | 100 | 20 | 80 | 3 hours |
| 5 | Pakistan Affairs | 100 | 20 | 80 | 3 hours |
| 6 | Islamiat / Comparative Religion | 100 | 20 | 80 | 3 hours |
Key Points:
- All papers are 3 hours duration
- Qualifying marks: 40% in each paper (must score at least 40/100)
- MCQ Pattern: 20 MCQs in each paper except English Essay
- Papers can be attempted in English or Urdu except English papers (English only) and Islamiat (English or Urdu)
- Failure in even one compulsory paper means disqualification
Paper 1: English Essay (100 Marks)
Format & Requirements
- No MCQs - entirely subjective
- Write one or more essays on given topics
- Wide choice of topics covering national, international, social, economic, political, and philosophical themes
- Topics may include current issues, historical events, scientific developments, or abstract concepts
What is Expected?
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Comprehensive and research-based knowledge on the chosen topic
- Strong articulation and expression skills
- Technical treatment of essay writing style
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Coherent structure with introduction, body, and conclusion
- Proper grammar, vocabulary, and sentence construction
Scoring Strategy
- Choose topics you know well - don't attempt unfamiliar topics
- Plan before writing: Outline main points, arguments, examples
- Introduction matters: Hook the examiner with a strong opening
- Use facts, figures, examples: Shows research and depth
- Balanced arguments: Present multiple perspectives
- Conclusion should summarize key points effectively
- Time management: Allocate time for planning, writing, and review
Common Essay Topics Categories
- National Issues: Democracy, governance, corruption, education reform
- International Affairs: Globalization, terrorism, climate change, UN role
- Social Topics: Gender equality, poverty, youth unemployment
- Science & Technology: Social media impact, AI, space exploration
- Philosophy: Justice, freedom, ethics, human rights
- Economic: Economic development, trade, inflation, inequality
Paper 2: English (Precis & Composition) (100 Marks)
Marks Distribution
| Section | Topic | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| I | MCQs | 20 |
| II | Precis Writing | 20 (15 for precis + 5 for title) |
| III | Reading Comprehension | 20 (5 questions × 4 marks) |
| IV | Grammar and Vocabulary | 20 |
| V | Sentence Correction | 10 |
| VI | Grouping of Words | 10 |
| VII | Pairs of Words | 10 |
| VIII | Translation (Urdu to English) | 10 |
Section-wise Breakdown
1. Precis Writing (20 Marks)
- Given a passage of 250-300 words
- Write précis in one-third length (80-100 words)
- 15 marks for précis quality, 5 marks for appropriate title
- Must capture main ideas, eliminate examples and elaborations
- Use your own words, maintain original meaning
- Third-person, past tense, indirect speech
2. Reading Comprehension (20 Marks)
- Passage rich in substance but not discipline-specific
- 5 questions, 4 marks each
- Tests understanding, inference, vocabulary in context
- Answer in complete sentences using passage context
3. Grammar and Vocabulary (20 Marks)
Tests:
- Tense usage (present, past, future, perfect tenses)
- Articles (a, an, the)
- Prepositions (in, on, at, by, with, etc.)
- Conjunctions (and, but, because, although, etc.)
- Punctuation (commas, semicolons, apostrophes, etc.)
- Phrasal verbs (look after, give up, put off, etc.)
- Synonyms and Antonyms
4. Sentence Correction (10 Marks)
- Given sentences with grammatical or punctuation errors
- Rewrite with necessary corrections only
- Don't make unnecessary alterations
- 2-3 sentences test punctuation correction
5. Grouping of Words (10 Marks)
- List of 20 words (moderate difficulty)
- Group in pairs of similar or opposite meanings
- Tests vocabulary and word relationships
6. Pairs of Words (10 Marks)
- 10 pairs of seemingly similar words with different meanings
- Choose 5 pairs
- Explain meaning in parenthesis
- Use each word in a sentence
- Example: Accept/Except, Affect/Effect, Principal/Principle
7. Translation (10 Marks)
- 10 short Urdu sentences
- Translate accurately into English
- Tests structural composition, idiomatic expressions
- Maintain meaning and nuance
Recommended Books for English Papers
- English Grammar in Use - Raymond Murphy (Cambridge University Press)
- Practical English Usage - M. Swan (Oxford University Press)
- The Little, Brown Handbook - H. Ramsey Fowler & Jane Aaron
- A University English Grammar - R. Quirk & S. Greenbaum
- Write Better, Speak Better - Reader's Digest Association
- Modern English in Action - Henry Christ
Paper 3: General Science & Ability (100 Marks)
Marks Distribution
| Part | Section | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Part-I | General Science | 60 marks |
| Physical Sciences | ~15 marks | |
| Biological Sciences | ~15 marks | |
| Environmental Science | ~15 marks | |
| Food Science | ~10 marks | |
| Information Technology | ~5 marks | |
| Part-II | General Ability | 40 marks |
| Quantitative Ability/Reasoning | ~15 marks | |
| Logical & Analytical Reasoning | ~15 marks | |
| Mental Abilities | ~10 marks |
Part-I: General Science (60 Marks)
I. Physical Sciences
Constituents and Structure:
- Universe, Galaxy, Light Year concepts
- Solar System, Sun, Earth
- Astronomical System of Units
Processes of Nature:
- Solar and Lunar Eclipses
- Rotation and Revolution of Earth
- Weather Variables: Temperature, Pressure, Circulation, Precipitation, Humidity
- Weather Variations
Natural Hazards and Disasters:
- Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions, Tsunamis
- Floods, Avalanche
- Cyclones: Tropical Cyclone, Middle Latitude Cyclone, Tornadoes
- Drought, Wildfire, Urban Fire
- Disaster Risk Management
Energy Resources:
- Renewable Energy: LED Energy, Solar Energy, Wind Energy
- Non-Renewable Energy
- Energy conservation and sustainable use
Modern Chemistry:
- Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding
- Electromagnetic Radiations
- Modern Materials: Ceramics, Plastics, Semiconductors
- Chemicals: Antibiotics, Vaccines, Fertilizers, Pesticides
II. Biological Sciences
The Basis of Life:
- Cell Structures and Functions
- Subcellular Organelles: Nucleus, Mitochondria, Ribosomes
Biomolecules:
- Proteins, Lipids, Carbohydrates, Enzymes
Plant and Animal Kingdom:
- Survey of similarities and diversities in nature
Human Physiology:
- Brief account of major body systems
Common Diseases and Epidemics:
- Polio, Diarrhea, Malaria, Hepatitis, Dengue
- Causes and Prevention
- New Bio Fuel Production Methods
III. Environmental Science
Environment Components:
- Atmosphere: Layered Structure and Composition
- Hydrosphere: Water Cycle, Major Water Compartments
- Biosphere: Major Biomes
- Lithosphere: Minerals, Rocks, Plate Tectonics
Atmospheric Pollution:
- Major Air Pollutants: COx, Particulate Matter, NOx, SOx, Tropospheric Ozone, VOCs, Dioxins
- Regional Issues: Acid Rain, Ozone Depletion
- Global Issues: Greenhouse Effect, Global Warming
- International Agreements: Montreal Protocol, Kyoto Protocol
Water Pollution:
- Pollutants: Synthetic Organic Chemicals, Oxygen Demanding Wastes, Plant Nutrients
- Thermal Pollution, Infectious Agents
- Heavy Metals, Radioactivity, Sediments, Acids
- Drinking water quality and standards
Land Pollution:
- Solid waste management and disposal
Tools:
- Role of Remote Sensing and GIS
- Population Planning
IV. Food Science
Balanced Diet:
- Vitamins, Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats and Oils
- Minerals, Fiber
Food Quality:
- Bioavailability of Nutrients
- Appearance, Texture, Flavor
- Quality of Packed and Frozen Food
- Food Additives, Preservatives, Antioxidants
Food Deterioration:
- Causes of deterioration
- Adulteration
- Food Preservation methods
V. Information Technology
Computer Fundamentals:
- Hardware & Software Fundamentals
- I/O Processing and data storage
- Networking & Internet Standards
- Application and Business Software
- Social Media Websites
- Information Systems
- Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence
Telecommunications:
- Basics of Wireless Communication
- Mobile, Satellite, Surveillance, GPS
- Fiber Optic technology
Part-II: General Ability (40 Marks)
VI. Quantitative Ability/Reasoning
Basic Mathematical Skills:
- Arithmetic: Average, Ratios, Rates, Percentage
- Geometry: Angles, Triangles
- Algebra: Sets, Remainders, Equations, Symbols
- Rounding of Numbers
- Random Sampling
Tests ability to:
- Reason quantitatively
- Solve problems in quantitative settings
- Apply mathematical procedures
VII. Logical and Analytical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning:
- Using rational, systematic series of steps
- Based on mathematical procedures
- Drawing conclusions from given statements
Analytical Reasoning:
- Visualizing and articulating problems
- Solving complex and uncomplicated problems
- Making sensible decisions based on available information
- Gathering and analyzing information logically
VIII. Mental Abilities
Measures specific constructs:
- Verbal ability
- Mechanical ability
- Numerical ability
- Social ability
Paper 4: Current Affairs (100 Marks)
Syllabus Coverage
National Affairs
- Political Developments: Government policies, legislative changes, political events
- Economic Issues: Budget, inflation, trade, economic policies
- Social Issues: Education, health, poverty, unemployment
- Law and Order: Security situation, terrorism, crime statistics
- Infrastructure: Development projects, CPEC, energy sector
International Affairs
- Regional Developments: South Asia, Middle East, Central Asia
- Global Politics: Major international events, conflicts, diplomacy
- International Organizations: UN, WTO, IMF, World Bank activities
- Global Economic Issues: Trade wars, economic crises, sanctions
- Environmental Issues: Climate change conferences, global agreements
Science and Technology
- Scientific Discoveries: Recent breakthroughs in science
- Technology Trends: AI, Machine Learning, Quantum Computing
- Space Exploration: Missions, discoveries
- Medical Advances: New treatments, vaccines, health technologies
Sports and Culture
- Major Sporting Events: Olympics, World Cups, Championships
- Cultural Developments: Arts, literature, cinema
- Awards and Recognitions: Nobel Prizes, international awards
Preparation Strategy
- Read newspapers daily: Dawn, The News, Express Tribune
- Follow current affairs magazines: The Economist, Time, Newsweek
- Stay updated on Pakistan's official websites: Ministry websites, PBS, SBP
- Make monthly notes: Organize events by category
- Focus on last 12-18 months: Events from 1-1.5 years before exam
- Understand context: Don't just memorize facts, understand why events matter
Paper 5: Pakistan Affairs (100 Marks)
Syllabus Coverage
Historical Background
- Creation of Pakistan: Pakistan Movement, Two-Nation Theory
- Founding Fathers: Quaid-e-Azam, Allama Iqbal, Liaquat Ali Khan
- Initial Challenges: Refugee crisis, economic challenges
- Constitutional Development: 1956, 1962, 1973 Constitutions
Political System
- Form of Government: Parliamentary system
- State Institutions: President, Prime Minister, Parliament
- Provincial Governments: Structure and functions
- Judicial System: Supreme Court, High Courts, lower courts
- Electoral System: Election Commission, electoral process
Economic System
- Agriculture: Major crops, agricultural policies
- Industry: Major industries, industrial development
- Trade: Exports, imports, trade balance
- Economic Challenges: Debt, inflation, unemployment
- Development Plans: Five-Year Plans, Vision 2025
- CPEC: Benefits, challenges, projects
Foreign Policy
- Principles: Sovereignty, non-interference, peaceful coexistence
- Relations with Neighbors: India, China, Afghanistan, Iran
- Relations with Muslim World: OIC, Saudi Arabia, Turkey
- Relations with Major Powers: USA, Russia, EU
- Kashmir Issue: Historical background, current status
- Afghan Situation: Pakistan's role, challenges
Social and Cultural Aspects
- Education System: Levels, challenges, reforms
- Health System: Public health, major diseases, healthcare challenges
- Population: Demographics, population policies
- Culture: Languages, literature, arts, traditions
- Media: Role, freedom, challenges
Natural Resources
- Water Resources: Rivers, dams, water disputes
- Mineral Resources: Coal, gas, oil, other minerals
- Energy Resources: Power generation, energy crisis
Key Topics for Preparation
- Pakistan Movement: Detailed timeline and key events
- Constitutional History: Major features of all constitutions
- Foreign Policy Landmarks: Major treaties, agreements
- Economic Indicators: GDP, inflation, exports, debt
- CPEC Projects: Routes, economic zones, benefits
- Kashmir Dispute: UN resolutions, bilateral talks
- Current Challenges: Terrorism, extremism, separatism
Paper 6: Islamic Studies / Comparative Study of Religions (100 Marks)
Islamic Studies (For Muslim Candidates)
Quran and Hadith
- Basic Concepts: Wahy, Tafseer, Hadith, Sunnah
- Sources of Islamic Law: Quran, Hadith, Ijma, Qiyas
- Selected Study of Surahs: Major themes and lessons
- Study of Selected Ahadith: Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim
Islamic History
- Life of Holy Prophet (PBUH): Makkan period, Madinan period
- Khulafa-e-Rashideen: Era of four Caliphs
- Umayyad and Abbasid Periods: Major developments
- Muslim Rule in Spain and India
- Decline of Muslim Power: Causes and factors
Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh)
- Ibadat: Five Pillars - Shahadah, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, Hajj
- Muamlat: Transactions, contracts, trade
- Family Law: Marriage, divorce, inheritance
- Criminal Law: Hudood, Qisas, Diyat
Islamic Political and Economic System
- Concept of State: Islamic state, Caliphate
- Rights and Duties: Individual and collective
- Economic Principles: Prohibition of interest, Zakat system
- Social Justice: Distribution of wealth, care for poor
Contemporary Issues
- Islamophobia: Western perceptions, media portrayal
- Terrorism: Islamic perspective, misinterpretations
- Extremism: Causes, solutions
- Islamic Renaissance: Modern revival movementsWomen's Rights: Education, employment, political participation in Islam
- Science and Islam: Contributions of Muslim scientists
Comparative Study of Major Religions (For Non-Muslim Candidates)
Coverage of Major Religions
- Hinduism
- Buddhism
- Judaism
- Christianity
- Islam
- Sikhism
- Zoroastrianism
What to Study for Each Religion
- Founder and Historical Background
- Holy Books and Scriptures
- Core Beliefs and Teachings
- Rituals and Practices
- Moral and Ethical Code
- Impact on Society and Culture
Comparative Analysis
- Similarities among major religions
- Differences in beliefs and practices
- Peaceful Coexistence and interfaith harmony
- Role in Modern Society
MCQ Pattern in Compulsory Papers
MCQ Distribution (CE-2016 Onwards)
- 20 MCQs in each compulsory paper (except English Essay - no MCQs)
- Total 100 MCQs across 5 papers
- Each MCQ typically carries 1 mark
- MCQs in Subjective + MCQ format papers
Paper-wise MCQ Coverage
| Paper | MCQs | Subjective Marks | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Essay | 0 | 100 | 100 |
| English (Precis & Composition) | 20 | 80 | 100 |
| General Science & Ability | 20 | 80 | 100 |
| Current Affairs | 20 | 80 | 100 |
| Pakistan Affairs | 20 | 80 | 100 |
| Islamic Studies | 20 | 80 | 100 |
MCQ Preparation Strategy
- Practice past papers: FPSC CSS past MCQs
- Cover entire syllabus: MCQs can come from any topic
- Eliminate wrong options: Improves chances if uncertain
- Time management: Don't spend too much time on MCQs
- No negative marking: Answer all MCQs (as of current pattern, verify before exam)
Qualifying Marks & Strategy
Minimum Requirements
- 40% in each compulsory paper (40 out of 100)
- 50% aggregate in combined compulsory + optional subjects (600 out of 1200)
- Failure in even one paper means disqualification
Scoring Strategy
- English papers are critical: Strong English gives huge advantage
- Current Affairs: Easiest to score if you stay updated
- General Science: Broad syllabus, but predictable topics
- Pakistan Affairs: Well-defined syllabus, can score high
- Islamiat: Requires proper study, not relying on general knowledge
Time Allocation Per Paper (3 hours = 180 minutes)
For papers with MCQs:
- MCQs: 20-25 minutes (20 MCQs)
- Subjective: 150-155 minutes
- Review: 5 minutes
For English Essay:
- Planning: 10-15 minutes
- Writing: 155-160 minutes
- Review: 10 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
English Papers
- Attempting unfamiliar essay topics
- Not planning essay structure
- Poor time management
- Ignoring grammar and vocabulary practice
- Weak précis writing skills
General Science & Ability
- Only studying one part (science/ability) deeply
- Ignoring quantitative reasoning practice
- Not covering current environmental issues
- Neglecting IT and technology topics
Current Affairs
- Only reading headlines, not understanding context
- F focusing only on Pakistan, ignoring international affairs
- Not making organized notes
- Covering too old or too recent events (focus on last 12-18 months)
Pakistan Affairs
- Memorizing dates without understanding events
- Ignoring economic and foreign policy
- Not studying constitutional development
- Weak on current Pakistan challenges
Islamic Studies
- Relying only on general knowledge
- Not studying Fiqh and jurisprudence topics
- Ignoring contemporary Islamic issues
- Weak on Islamic history periods
Recommended Preparation Timeline
12 Months Before Exam
- Complete one reading of all compulsory subjects
- Start newspaper reading habit
- Build strong English Essay writing practice
6 Months Before Exam
- Revision of all compulsory subjects
- Intensive current affairs notes compilation
- Mock essay writing weekly
- Practice MCQs from past papers
3 Months Before Exam
- Final revision of all subjects
- Mock tests under exam conditions
- Identify and strengthen weak areas
- Speed and accuracy improvement
1 Month Before Exam
- Quick revision using notes
- Daily current affairs updates
- Final mock tests
- Build exam temperament and confidence
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attempt compulsory papers in Urdu?
Yes, except English papers which must be in English. Islamiat/Comparative Religion can be in English or Urdu. All other compulsory papers can be attempted in English or Urdu.
Are there negative marks for MCQs in CSS?
As per current pattern, there is no negative marking in CSS MCQs (verify with FPSC's latest notification before your exam).
How many essays do I need to write in English Essay paper?
Typically one comprehensive essay of 2000-2500 words. The paper gives multiple topics to choose from.
What if I fail in one compulsory subject but pass others?
You will be disqualified. All 6 compulsory papers must be cleared with minimum 40% in each.
Can non-Muslims attempt Islamic Studies instead of Comparative Religion?
Non-Muslims can choose either Islamic Studies or Comparative Study of Major Religions.
How much should I score in compulsory papers to be safe?
Aim for 60-70% in compulsory papers (360-420 out of 600) to have a comfortable buffer for final merit.
Final Tips for Success
Consistent Preparation:
- Start early, don't wait for last 2-3 months
- Make daily study routine
- Cover entire syllabus systematically
Focus on English:
- English Essay and Precis can fetch high marks
- Strong English is biggest advantage in CSS
- Practice writing regularly
Stay Updated:
- Read quality newspapers daily
- Follow reliable current affairs sources
- Make organized monthly notes
Practice Writing:
- CSS is a writing exam, not just knowledge test
- Practice timed writing
- Improve speed and handwriting
Mock Tests:
- Simulate exam conditions
- Identify weak areas
- Build exam temperamentThink quality over quantity
- Focus on understanding, not rote learning
Good Luck with Your CSS Preparation!
This guide is based on the official FPSC CSS Syllabus for CE-2016 onwards. Always verify the latest examination scheme from FPSC's official website before your examination.