How to Crack CSS MPT

Central Superior Services (CSS) exam is one of the most prestigious and challenging exam of Pakistan, designed to recruit talented individuals for nations top bureaucratic positions. With thousands of candidates vying for a few slots, the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) introduced a Multiple-Preliminary Test (MPT) in 2022. The purpose of the test is to validate students and narrow down the pool of candidates, ensuring that only those with requisite knowledge proceed to the next phase.

Race Against the Clock: A Strategic Approach to Time Management in MPT Exams

Competitive exams are often designed to challenge not only candidate’s knowledge but also their ability to manage time effectively. The common test format involves answering 200 multaiple-choice questions (MCQs) within 2 hours. The test is designed to access the fundamental concepts, analytical skills, reasoning, ability and aptitude. This phase is very critical as only those who qualify MPT are allowed to appear for written exams.

Syllabus for MCQ-Based Preliminary Test

The syllabus for MPT is not defined or constrained to few topics. Generally, following topics are covered in MPT based test covering a wide range of topics:

1. Islamic studies: For Muslim candidates and Ethics for Non-Muslim candidates
2. Urdu:  Comprises Urdu grammar, vocabulary and Urdu literature including literature of key figures and their work.
3. English: Includes grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, reading comprehension and analogy portion.
4. Basic Mathematics and Analytical reasoning: Tests general mathematical ability, logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
5. General knowledge: encompasses
6. Current Affairs: covers national and international topics, political developments and current trends.
7. Pakistan Affairs: focuses on Pre-partition and post-partition history, region, culture, geography, and politics of Pakistan including parliamentary acts, treaties, constitutional developments and amendments.
8. Everyday Science: comprises scientific knowledge and principles
9. Computer Science: The test may include portion of computer comprising MS Word, Excel, Power Point and Basic MCQs.

Key things to keep in mind on Exam Day

• Prepare the night before. Print all the required documents before a day as MPT exam is usually on Sunday, there’s a chance that shops are closed on Sunday.
• Keep your original Identity card (CNIC) in your pouch or container. Without this you will not be allowed to enter the examination center.
• Also, don’t forget to bring official fee payment slip as candidates have to submit the challan at the examination center.
• Wake up early, eat a healthy breakfast and plan your travel.
• Arrive at the examination center an hour before in order to avoid any rush to the center.
• Once entered, avoid distractions and sit in your assigned seat.

An easy approach to attempt CSS screening test

Given the time constraints and large number of questions, effective time management is crucial for qualifying this test. Once you have question paper in your hand, read all the instructions written on question paper. Skim through the entire exam paper. Identify the sections you find easiest and divide your time strategically, based on sections.

Ø    Stage 1

First, answer the questions that you find easiest and are confident about, spending no time more than 30-35 seconds on each. Use the process of elimination and leave the ability portion for next phase. Note:  Don’t stick on difficult questions as you may experience self-doubt and become discouraged. For your convenience, simply mark the correct option with a dot. Once you have looked over all the questions, fill the bubble sheet answers in one shot.

Ø    Stage 2

Now, return to the question paper and answer the remaining questions you were unsure about previously. You can spend a little more time here. Try solving ability questions restricted to 2-3 minutes. Now fill the correct answers in bubble sheet as you did previously.

Ø    Stage 3

As you may already know that you can quality MCQ-Based Preliminary Test by merely securing 66 marks. For this, it is of no use to waste time solving every single question. For your self-assurance, count the marked answer choices. If you are close to completing 150 answers, confidently leave the remaining ones unanswered. Use the remaining time to double-check for any error or skipped questions.

An important notice: Don’t erase an answer and fill the bubble again as it may be marked as incorrect in computerized checking. Equally significant is to take timed mocks before the actual exam; it will allow you to identify areas you may lag behind and getting used to answering 200 MCQs in 2 hours.

Remember, the key is to stay calm and focused. Only a calm mind can allow you to think more clearly and manage things skillfully. With these time-management strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to approach the CSS MPT exam day with greater confidence, also it will maximize your chance of success.