CSS 2019 – General Science & Ability (GSA): Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide
Introduction
General Science & Ability (GSA) is one of the most balanced compulsory papers in CSS. It checks not only your awareness of everyday science but also your skills in basic mathematics, logical reasoning, and analytical problem-solving. Many aspirants consider it a scoring paper, yet the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that a large number of candidates underperformed. Weak conceptual preparation, careless mistakes, and poor presentation cost them valuable marks. Let’s explore what examiners highlighted, common mistakes, and strategies to master this paper.
Examiner Feedback (2019)
The examiner observed:
- Overall performance was below expectations.
- Many candidates attempted the paper in a casual and careless manner, ignoring accuracy and neatness.
- Basic science concepts (e.g., human physiology, environmental issues, space science) were poorly understood.
- The analytical reasoning and mathematics section was especially challenging for most; many left these questions blank.
- Instead of giving precise answers, aspirants often wrote irrelevant or long, descriptive content.
- Few used diagrams, tables, or formulas even when they could have made answers clearer【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L47-L55】.
Common Mistakes by Candidates
- Weak basics of science
- Candidates failed to explain simple concepts like greenhouse effect, blood circulation, or photosynthesis.
- Poor math skills
- Many struggled with basic percentages, ratios, and probability questions.
- Skipping reasoning questions
- Instead of attempting, candidates left logical puzzles blank, showing lack of practice.
- Over-explaining
- Instead of concise answers, aspirants filled pages with irrelevant details.
- Lack of visuals
- Very few used diagrams, charts, or labeled sketches, which could have earned easy marks.
- Untidy presentation
- Scattered answers across the paper confused examiners.
Practical Preparation Strategies
- Strengthen scientific basics
- Revise matric/O-level level Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Focus on human body systems, environmental science, space science, and energy resources.
- Practice mathematics daily
- Work on arithmetic, algebra, percentages, ratios, averages, and probability. Use past CSS papers and aptitude books.
- Sharpen reasoning skills
- Solve puzzles, analogies, series completion, and logic questions. Regular practice builds speed.
- Use diagrams and visuals
- Draw neat diagrams for processes like water cycle, blood circulation, or solar system. Simple visuals make answers examiner-friendly.
- Be precise
- Write short, to-the-point answers. Avoid unnecessary explanations.
- Mock practice
- Attempt full-length past papers in exam conditions to improve time management and presentation.
Encouraging Closing Note
The CSS 2019 examiner’s report confirms that GSA is a scoring paper if taken seriously. Those who ignored preparation or treated it casually lost marks, while those who revised basics and practiced problem-solving did well.
Remember: This paper rewards clarity, accuracy, and neatness. Every formula you practice, every diagram you draw, every logical puzzle you solve builds confidence. Approach it methodically, and you can easily make GSA a high-scoring advantage in your CSS attempt.
Stay consistent: science and math are all about practice. With patience and discipline, you can turn this compulsory paper into one of your strongest.