2019 Optional Subjects Long Format – Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide

CSS 2019 – Zoology: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide . . CSS Zoology CSS Zoology CSS Zoology CSS Zoology CSS Zoology CSS Zoology  Introduction Zoology is a science-based optional that attracts candidates with backgrounds in biology, medicine, or natural sciences. It is considered a manageable subject because of its defined syllabus and reliance on diagrams and scientific clarity. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed due to weak concepts, rote preparation, and poor use of visuals. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was disappointing. Many candidates lacked conceptual understanding of core topics like genetics, physiology, taxonomy, and ecology. Answers were often descriptive and bookish, without scientific reasoning. Diagrams and flowcharts were missing or poorly drawn, reducing marks. Candidates ignored applied aspects of zoology, such as biodiversity conservation and role in agriculture/medicine. A few well-prepared candidates who used neat diagrams, case studies, and scientific explanations scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L261-L268】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak grasp of core topics Poor explanations of genetics, developmental biology, and animal physiology. Narrative answers Writing descriptive essays instead of analytical, scientific answers. Neglect of diagrams Many skipped drawing structures (e.g., animal tissues, systems), losing easy marks. No application to Pakistan Ignoring Pakistan’s biodiversity, endangered species, or ecological challenges. Selective preparation Avoiding tough topics like chordates or applied zoology. Practical Preparation Strategies Revise core zoology systematically Cell biology, genetics, embryology, physiology, taxonomy, ecology, applied zoology. Use diagrams effectively Neat, labeled sketches of tissues, organs, life cycles, and ecological pyramids. Link with applied aspects Biodiversity conservation in Pakistan, wildlife management, zoonotic diseases, fisheries, livestock. Adopt a scientific approach Define → explain process → diagram → application → conclusion. Avoid rote learning Focus on understanding concepts and processes instead of memorizing definitions. Use authentic references E.P. Solomon – Biology Miller & Harley – Zoology Pakistani biodiversity reports for local examples. Practice past papers Write answers under exam conditions using structured outlines. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Zoology rewards clarity, diagrams, and scientific application. Candidates who memorized notes without understanding concepts failed, while those who combined knowledge with visuals and applied examples scored well. Remember: Zoology is about explaining life scientifically. Every diagram you draw, every concept you clarify, every biodiversity example you use makes your preparation stronger. Stay motivated: Zoology can be one of your highest-scoring optionals if you approach it with scientific clarity and examiner-friendly presentation.

CSS 2019 – Urdu Literature: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide CSS Urdu CSS Urdu CSS Urdu CSS Urdu CSS Urdu  . . Introduction Urdu Literature is a selective optional in CSS, usually chosen by candidates with strong command of Urdu or those with a background in literature. It is considered a rewarding subject for those who can combine literary appreciation, critical analysis, and historical context. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 showed that most candidates underperformed because they relied on rote learning, ignored literary criticism, and failed to structure their answers academically. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was below average. Many candidates reproduced memorized notes instead of presenting critical and original analysis. Answers lacked historical and literary context, with candidates failing to situate authors and poets within their times. Literary criticism and evaluation of texts were mostly missing. Many answers were narrative and descriptive, not analytical. Only a few well-prepared candidates who used references, criticism, and structured writing scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L254-L260】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Over-reliance on rote material Writing “what they remembered” instead of engaging critically with texts. Neglect of literary criticism Few cited critics like Shibli Nomani, Hali, Dr. Jameel Jalibi, or Intizar Hussain. Weak historical/literary context Ignoring how political, cultural, or social conditions shaped literary works. Narrative writing Describing poets’ biographies instead of analyzing themes, styles, and contributions. Poor organization Lack of headings, outlines, or examiner-friendly presentation. Practical Preparation Strategies Study history of Urdu literature From classical poetry (Mir, Ghalib) to modern prose (Prem Chand, Qurat-ul-Ain Hyder) and contemporary trends. Use literary criticism Reference critics and analytical works: Shibli Nomani’s Sher-ul-Ajam, Hali’s Muqaddama-e-Sher-o-Shaeri, Dr. Jameel Jalibi’s Tareekh-e-Adab-e-Urdu. Analyze, don’t narrate Instead of biography, focus on themes, stylistics, philosophical ideas, and socio-political impact. Cover all genres Poetry (ghazal, nazm, marsiya), prose (novels, short stories, essays, drama), and criticism. Incorporate context Connect literature with historical movements: Aligarh Movement, Progressive Writers Movement, Partition literature, post-modernism. Organize answers academically Intro → author/work → literary analysis → critical view → conclusion. Read authentic references Dr. Jameel Jalibi, Dr. Saleem Akhtar, Farman Fatehpuri, Muhammad Hasan Askari. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report confirms that Urdu Literature rewards critical analysis, not memorization. Candidates who wrote rote, narrative answers failed, while those who engaged with texts critically and referenced literary criticism stood out. Remember: Literature is about ideas, style, and impact — not just dates and names. Show the examiner you can appreciate, analyze, and critique Urdu literature, and you will shine. Stay motivated: every poet you analyze, every critic you reference, every movement you connect with history brings you closer to mastering this paper. With the right approach, Urdu Literature can become one of your most rewarding optionals.

CSS Examiner report 2019 – Town Planning & Urban Management: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide CSS Examiner report CSS Examiner report CSS Examiner report CSS Examiner report  . . Introduction Town Planning & Urban Management (TPUM) is a relatively new CSS optional that appeals to aspirants because of its short syllabus, relevance to Pakistan’s urban issues, and overlap with Environmental Science, Sociology, and Current Affairs. Many consider it “scoring.” However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 showed that most candidates underperformed because they treated it superficially, lacked technical depth, and failed to apply urban planning principles to Pakistan’s challenges. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was generally poor. Candidates gave descriptive, essay-type answers instead of technical, analytical responses. Many ignored urban planning theories, principles, and models, writing only about general problems like pollution and traffic. Application to Pakistan’s cities (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar) was missing. Diagrams, maps, and flowcharts were rarely used, even though they could have made answers stronger. A small group of well-prepared candidates who applied planning concepts + Pakistan-specific examples + visuals stood out and scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L247-L253】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Ignoring urban planning theories Few candidates mentioned planning models like Garden City, Concentric Zone, or Smart City concepts. Generalizing problems Writing long essays on traffic jams and pollution without offering structured planning solutions. No Pakistan-specific focus Neglecting to discuss Karachi’s informal settlements, Lahore’s transport crisis, or Islamabad’s master plan. Weak use of visuals Lack of city maps, zoning diagrams, or flowcharts. Poor structure Unorganized answers with weak outlines and examiner-unfriendly flow. Practical Preparation Strategies Learn core planning theories and models Garden City (Ebenezer Howard) Concentric Zone Model (Burgess) Sector Model (Hoyt) Multiple Nuclei Model Smart Cities and Sustainable Urbanism Apply to Pakistan’s urban challenges Karachi: katchi abadis, transport chaos, water scarcity. Lahore: smog, urban sprawl, BRT projects. Islamabad: poor implementation of CDA master plan. Use case studies and data Quote World Bank reports, UN-Habitat data, Pakistan’s Census and Economic Survey. Include diagrams and visuals Draw neat zoning diagrams, flowcharts of urban management processes, and maps. Propose structured solutions Short-term: waste management, traffic regulation, green belts. Long-term: sustainable housing, smart city planning, decentralization. Read authentic sources Peter Hall – Urban and Regional Planning UN-Habitat – State of World’s Cities Pakistan-specific planning commission reports. Organize answers logically Intro → theory/model → Pakistan’s problem → solution → conclusion. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Town Planning & Urban Management is scoring only when treated technically. Those who wrote vague essays failed, while those who applied models, case studies, and Pakistan’s context scored well. Remember: TPUM is not about describing problems — it’s about planning solutions. Every model you study, every city issue you analyze, every solution you propose makes your answer stand out. Stay motivated: Pakistan’s urban future depends on sound planning. By preparing this subject well, you not only improve your CSS chances but also understand real-world governance challenges.

CSS 2019 – Psychology: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide . . CSS Psychology CSS Psychology CSS Psychology CSS Psychology CSS Psychology   Introduction Psychology is a popular CSS optional because of its manageable syllabus, practical nature, and overlap with everyday human behavior. Many aspirants select it thinking it is scoring and “easy.” However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed because they treated it superficially. Weak understanding of theories, poor application, and absence of examples and experiments led to disappointing results. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was unsatisfactory. Candidates wrote general essays on human behavior instead of psychological analyses. Many failed to explain key theories and experiments (Freud, Skinner, Pavlov, Piaget, etc.). Some confused basic concepts like personality vs character, learning vs conditioning, or intelligence vs aptitude. Diagrams, models, and case studies were rarely used. A handful of well-prepared candidates who combined theories + experiments + application to Pakistan performed very well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L239-L246】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Superficial understanding Writing about “happiness” or “motivation” without referencing psychological theories. No mention of experiments Ignoring classical and modern studies: Pavlov’s dog experiment, Skinner’s operant conditioning, Milgram’s obedience study. Confusion in concepts Candidates mixed up cognitive psychology, behaviorism, psychoanalysis, and humanistic psychology. Weak application to Pakistan Few connected psychology to mental health, education, extremism, or workplace productivity in Pakistan. No visuals Lack of diagrams (e.g., brain parts, learning models) weakened answers. Practical Preparation Strategies Study core areas thoroughly Biological psychology (nervous system, brain), Learning & Memory, Personality, Abnormal Psychology, Social Psychology. Incorporate key theories and experiments Freud (psychoanalysis), Skinner (behaviorism), Piaget (cognitive development), Bandura (social learning). Apply psychology to Pakistan’s context Mental health awareness, suicide rates, education reforms, extremism, workplace stress. Use diagrams and visuals Neat brain diagrams, memory models, and conditioning flowcharts make answers clearer. Balance theory with practice Define → explain theory → cite experiment → apply to Pakistan → conclude. Use authentic references David Myers – Psychology Hilgard’s Introduction to Psychology Morgan & King – Introduction to Psychology. Practice analytical writing Attempt past paper questions under timed conditions. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: Psychology is scoring only if you prepare scientifically. Candidates who wrote general knowledge essays failed, while those who used theories, experiments, and applications excelled. Remember: Psychology is about explaining behavior with evidence. Every theory you study, every experiment you cite, every real-world application you provide strengthens your answers. Stay motivated: by mastering psychology, you not only secure good marks but also gain insights into human behavior that help in interviews, daily life, and public service.

CSS 2019 – Sociology: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide CSS SOciology CSS SOciology CSS SOciology CSS SOciology  . .  Introduction Sociology is one of the most frequently chosen CSS optionals because of its short syllabus, overlap with Current Affairs, and relevance to Pakistan’s social issues. It is often seen as a “safe scoring subject.” However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates performed poorly. The key reason: many confused sociology with general knowledge, relied on rote material, and ignored sociological theories and perspectives. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was disappointing. Candidates treated the subject like an essay on social problems, ignoring sociological frameworks. Very few referenced sociologists or theories (Durkheim, Weber, Marx). Many wrote generic content on poverty, crime, or inequality without analysis. Application to Pakistan’s context was weak — candidates did not link theories to local issues. A handful of well-prepared candidates who wrote with theoretical grounding + Pakistani examples stood out and scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L230-L238】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Treating sociology as general studies Writing about social problems without sociological perspectives. No use of theories Failing to reference thinkers like Durkheim (social solidarity), Weber (bureaucracy), or Marx (class conflict). Weak application to Pakistan Ignoring social realities like feudalism, extremism, rural-urban divide, and gender inequality. Over-reliance on notes Copying academy notes word-for-word, making answers repetitive. Unstructured answers Poor outlines, lack of headings, and examiner-unfriendly writing. Practical Preparation Strategies Learn sociological theories Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Feminist perspectives. Apply theories to Pakistan Poverty → Marxist class conflict Extremism → Durkheim’s anomie Bureaucracy → Weber’s model vs Pakistan’s administrative reality Use sociologists and quotations Referencing Durkheim, Weber, and Marx makes answers academically strong. Incorporate Pakistani case studies Rural-urban migration, education inequality, gender discrimination, and extremism. Use data and reports UNDP Human Development Reports, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, and World Bank social indicators. Organize answers analytically Intro → theory → analysis → Pakistan’s context → conclusion. Read authentic sources Anthony Giddens – Sociology Horton & Hunt – Sociology Pakistani sociological research for local examples. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report proves that Sociology is not just a common-sense subject. It requires theories, concepts, and analytical application. Candidates who ignored the academic framework failed, while those who combined theory with Pakistan-specific examples scored well. Remember: Sociology is about explaining society, not just describing it. If you use theories, apply them critically, and connect with Pakistan’s context, this subject can become one of your most scoring optionals. Stay motivated: every theory you master, every statistic you use, every issue you connect to sociology strengthens your preparation. With the right approach, Sociology can easily boost your CSS score.

CSS 2019 – Political Science: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Political Science is one of the oldest and most popular CSS optionals because of its overlap with Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs, International Relations, and Essay. It provides a strong framework to understand governance, constitutions, and political ideologies. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates failed to utilize its scoring potential. Weak understanding of theories, rote-based answers, and poor application to Pakistan’s politics led to disappointing performance. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was below average. Many candidates gave superficial, descriptive answers without conceptual depth. Candidates confused classical and modern political theories, misrepresenting thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau. Answers lacked application to Pakistan’s political system, especially in areas like federalism, democracy, and constitutional crises. Many candidates reproduced academy notes with repetitive content. A few well-prepared aspirants who used thinkers, theories, and Pakistani case studies performed far better【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L221-L229】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak grasp of political theory Candidates confused social contract theories, ignored modern political science debates, and mixed up ideologies. Narration instead of analysis Long descriptive answers without critical evaluation or arguments. Ignoring Pakistan’s context Few connected political theory to Pakistan’s democracy, constitutional development, or civil-military imbalance. Over-reliance on rote notes Repetition of memorized material from academies. Poor organization Weak outlines, lack of headings, and poor grammar diluted answers. Practical Preparation Strategies Master political theory Classical: Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau. Modern: Marx, Lenin, Fukuyama, Huntington. Political ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Fascism, Feminism. Apply to Pakistan Connect theory to issues like democracy, federalism, constitutional crises, governance, and civil-military relations. Use thinkers and quotations Cite philosophers and political scientists to strengthen arguments. Cover comparative politics Study constitutions of UK, USA, and Pakistan. Analyze separation of powers, rule of law, and judicial review. Structure answers analytically Intro → theory/thinker → application → Pakistan’s context → conclusion. Practice past papers Attempt answers under timed conditions to develop analytical clarity. Read standard references Andrew Heywood – Political Theory Dr. Roskin – Political Science: An Introduction Mazhar-ul-Haq – Political Science. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Political Science punishes rote learning but rewards critical thinkers. Those who wrote general essays failed, while those who linked theories with Pakistan’s realities excelled. Remember: Political Science is about ideas, systems, and governance. If you can analyze critically, connect theory to Pakistan, and write in a structured way, this subject can become one of your strongest scoring assets. Stay motivated: every thinker you study, every constitution you analyze, every lesson you connect with Pakistan brings you closer to success. With the right approach, Political Science can boost both your optional and compulsory performance.

CSS 2019 – Law Subjects (Constitutional, International, Muslim Law & Jurisprudence, Mercantile, etc.): Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Law subjects are a consistent choice for CSS aspirants with LLB or legal backgrounds. They offer precision, structured answers, and direct application to governance and international affairs. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that performance across most law papers was weak. Many candidates lacked conceptual clarity, case law references, and legal reasoning, leading to disappointing scores. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was unsatisfactory overall. Candidates wrote general knowledge essays instead of legal arguments. Many failed to cite constitutional articles, international conventions, or case law. Answers were often descriptive and narrative, lacking legal reasoning. Some ignored major sections of the syllabus (e.g., constitutional development in Pakistan, UN Charter in International Law). A small number of law graduates who used legal provisions + case law + structured arguments performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L213-L220】. Common Mistakes by Candidates No legal references Ignoring Articles of the Constitution, UN conventions, or statutory provisions. No case law citations Failing to strengthen arguments with landmark cases. Narrative writing Writing in story form instead of structured legal reasoning. Selective preparation Skipping important portions of the syllabus. Weak English and structure Poor grammar and unorganized answers reduced credibility. Practical Preparation Strategies Use legal provisions Always cite Articles of the Constitution (for Constitutional Law) or conventions (for International Law). Quote case law Example: Asma Jilani v Government of Punjab (1972) for Martial Law in Constitutional Law, or Nicaragua v USA (1986) for International Law. Organize answers in legal format Intro → Provision of law → Explanation → Case law → Application → Conclusion. Cover syllabus comprehensively Constitutional Law: US, UK, Pakistan. International Law: UN Charter, treaties, ICJ. Muslim Law: sources of Shariah, family law, inheritance. Mercantile Law: contracts, partnership, company law. Practice past papers Solve questions under timed conditions. Focus on precision and conciseness. Stay updated Relate answers to current constitutional crises, UN disputes, or WTO cases. Use standard references Hilaire Barnett – Constitutional & Administrative Law Starke – Introduction to International Law Fyzee – Outlines of Muhammadan Law Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: Law subjects reward legal reasoning, provisions, and case law, not general storytelling. Those who relied on notes without legal citations failed, while law graduates who wrote precise, structured answers scored well. Remember: Law is about reasoning and authority. Every Article you cite, every case you reference, every legal principle you apply adds weight to your answer. Stay motivated: if you prepare law subjects with discipline, they can become one of your most scoring optionals — and they train you for the analytical mindset needed in CSS and beyond.

CSS 2019 – International Relations (IR): Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction International Relations (IR) is one of the most popular CSS optionals because of its direct overlap with Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs, and Essay. It equips aspirants with theories and tools to analyze global politics. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates failed to perform well because they relied on rote material, lacked theoretical grounding, and struggled with analytical writing. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was generally poor. Many candidates lacked clarity of IR theories such as Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism. Answers were often descriptive and read like “general knowledge essays” rather than analytical responses. Candidates showed heavy dependence on academy notes, with repetitive, shallow content. Many failed to connect theory with contemporary global events (US-China trade war, Middle East conflicts, Brexit). Application to Pakistan’s foreign policy was mostly missing. A handful of candidates who demonstrated strong theoretical grounding, analytical skills, and use of examples performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L189-L196】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak grasp of theories Candidates confused or mixed up Realism, Liberalism, and other schools. Narrative writing Writing about wars, alliances, or conflicts without analyzing them through theoretical frameworks. Over-reliance on notes Reproducing coaching material without originality. Ignoring Pakistan’s perspective Failing to link global developments to Pakistan’s strategic interests. Poor organization and grammar Weak English and unstructured answers reduced marks. Practical Preparation Strategies Master IR theories Realism, Neorealism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxism, Feminism in IR. Practice applying them: e.g., Realism → US-China rivalry; Liberalism → EU integration. Stay updated on global events Cover issues like multipolarity, UN reforms, Middle East politics, US foreign policy, Sino-Pak ties. Apply theory to Pakistan Relate IR to Pakistan’s foreign policy: CPEC, Kashmir dispute, relations with US, China, India, Afghanistan. Organize analytically Intro → theory/context → analysis of issue → Pakistan’s perspective → conclusion with way forward. Avoid rote learning Develop your own notes with analysis from multiple sources. Use quality references Books: Baylis, Smith & Owens – The Globalization of World Politics, Joshua Goldstein – International Relations, Kegley – World Politics. Practice past papers Attempt answers in timed conditions focusing on theory + analysis. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that IR is not about narrating world history — it’s about analyzing world politics through theories. Those who crammed notes failed, while those who applied theory to contemporary events (and Pakistan’s foreign policy) performed well. Remember: IR is about connections. Every theory you master, every case study you analyze, every link you make with Pakistan’s interests strengthens your answers. Stay motivated: with proper preparation, IR not only boosts your optional score but also strengthens your grip on Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs, and Essay — making it the backbone of your CSS attempt.

CSS 2019 – Journalism & Mass Communication: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Journalism & Mass Communication is a popular CSS optional because of its short syllabus, overlap with Current Affairs, and relevance to modern media. Many aspirants expect it to be scoring, but the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed. The main reasons were confusion about media theories, lack of updated knowledge, and irrelevant content. Let’s break down the examiner’s insights, mistakes, and preparation strategies for this subject. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was below average. Many candidates had no clear understanding of communication theories and confused agenda-setting, framing, and cultivation theories. Answers were generic and descriptive, lacking analytical depth. Most candidates failed to connect theories to current issues in Pakistani media (fake news, social media, media ethics). Some scripts contained irrelevant and repetitive material, suggesting rote learning. Only a small number of candidates who wrote analytical answers with examples and case studies scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L205-L212】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Confusion in theories Mixing up or misdefining key theories (agenda-setting vs framing, powerful vs limited effects). Narrative answers Writing general essays on “media in Pakistan” instead of answering specific questions. No use of examples Few candidates referred to actual cases such as election coverage, PEMRA regulations, or social media campaigns. Outdated knowledge Ignoring digital journalism, citizen journalism, and global media developments. Weak structure and language Poor outlines, disorganized answers, and weak grammar. Practical Preparation Strategies Master media theories Study communication models (Shannon-Weaver, Lasswell). Effects theories: Agenda-Setting, Cultivation, Spiral of Silence, Uses & Gratification. Media sociology: propaganda, public opinion, framing. Apply theories to Pakistan Fake news → agenda-setting & framing. Social media activism (Aurat March, #MeToo) → uses & gratification. PEMRA regulation → media ethics and freedom of speech. Stay updated on global trends Digital media, citizen journalism, AI in newsrooms, misinformation campaigns. Use examples and case studies Refer to Pakistan’s media laws, coverage of elections, or global examples like Cambridge Analytica. Organize answers clearly Intro → theory → application → examples → conclusion. Read authentic sources Dennis McQuail – Mass Communication Theory Shannon & Weaver – Communication Model Journals like Journalism Studies and media reports. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Journalism & Mass Communication is not about writing generic essays. It rewards candidates who know theories, apply them, and use real-life examples. Those who treated it casually failed, while those who connected theory to Pakistan’s media landscape performed well. Remember: Media is dynamic — always evolving. If you prepare this subject with updated knowledge, case studies, and clear application, it can become one of your most scoring optionals. Stay motivated: every theory you understand, every example you collect, every case you analyze brings you closer to mastery. With a smart approach, Journalism can be a guaranteed scoring subject.

CSS 2019 – Islamic History & Culture: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Islamic History & Culture is a prestigious optional that attracts aspirants because of its rich content, overlap with Islamiat, and lessons for governance and society. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 showed that most candidates failed to utilize its scoring potential. Weak analytical skills, narrative writing, and lack of contemporary relevance were the main reasons for underperformance. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was unsatisfactory overall. Most candidates gave narrative-style answers, listing events and rulers without critical evaluation. Very few candidates connected Islamic history with modern-day lessons in governance, tolerance, or interfaith harmony. Candidates relied heavily on rote learning and guidebooks, producing repetitive answers. Some ignored large portions of the syllabus, focusing only on political history while neglecting cultural and intellectual contributions. A handful of candidates who gave multi-dimensional answers with analysis, Qur’anic references, and modern applications performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L197-L204】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Narrative answers Writing long stories of dynasties and battles without analyzing causes, impacts, or lessons. Ignoring cultural and intellectual aspects Few candidates discussed contributions in philosophy, literature, architecture, or sciences. No modern relevance Lack of connection between Islamic history and contemporary governance, justice, or interfaith harmony. Over-reliance on notes Repetition of low-quality, stereotypical academy material. Weak structure and expression Poorly organized answers with weak English diluted good content. Practical Preparation Strategies Cover syllabus holistically Political history: Early Caliphate, Umayyads, Abbasids, Ottomans, Muslim Spain. Cultural/intellectual: Philosophy, science, literature, architecture, Islamic civilization. Focus on analysis, not narration Instead of narrating events, analyze causes, impacts, and lessons. Example: Instead of just describing Abbasid decline, explain institutional weaknesses, Mongol invasions, and intellectual stagnation. Link with modern lessons Show relevance to today: governance, tolerance, justice, education, and decline of civilizations. Use authentic sources Books by Philip K. Hitti, Mazhar-ul-Haq, and Jurji Zaydan provide depth. Incorporate Qur’anic and Hadith references Use selectively to strengthen arguments about Islamic governance and ethics. Organize with clarity Intro → historical context → analysis → lessons for today → conclusion. Add diagrams/timelines Timelines of dynasties or maps of Islamic expansion can enhance presentation. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report confirms: Islamic History & Culture rewards analytical, lesson-oriented answers, not rote storytelling. Candidates who narrated battles failed, while those who drew lessons for governance, justice, and civilization stood out. Remember: This subject is not about memorizing rulers — it’s about understanding how Muslim civilization developed, flourished, and declined, and what lessons it holds for us today. Stay motivated: every dynasty you analyze, every cultural contribution you study, every lesson you connect with the modern world takes you closer to mastering this subject. With depth and analysis, this optional can become one of your most scoring assets.