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

CSS 2019 – History of USA: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction History of USA is one of the most widely chosen history optionals in CSS because of its short syllabus, overlap with Current Affairs and International Relations, and relevance to Pakistan-US relations. Many aspirants expect it to be “scoring.” However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed due to narrative-style writing, poor chronological grip, and lack of analytical depth. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was disappointing. Many candidates wrote long narratives of events (wars, presidents, reforms) without analyzing causes or consequences. Some showed confusion in chronology, mixing up events and presidencies. Answers often lacked evaluation of historical significance. Few candidates connected US history with Pakistan or global politics, missing an opportunity to enrich their answers. A small number of well-prepared candidates who wrote analytically, used timelines, and connected history with lessons performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L180-L188】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Narrative writing Simply retelling events instead of analyzing their significance. Chronological confusion Mixing up pre-Civil War, Civil War, and Reconstruction events. Ignoring themes beyond wars Neglecting civil rights, constitutional development, and economic history. No application to Pakistan/Current Affairs Not linking US foreign policy (e.g., Cold War, War on Terror) to Pakistan. Poor structure and language Answers lacked outlines, headings, and analytical flow. Practical Preparation Strategies Study chronologically + thematically Cover periods systematically: Colonial & Revolution (1607–1789) Civil War & Reconstruction (1860s) Industrialization & Progressive Era World Wars & Cold War Post-9/11 US foreign policy Analyze, don’t narrate Focus on causes → events → impacts → lessons. Example: Civil Rights Movement → causes (segregation), leaders (MLK Jr.), outcomes (Civil Rights Act), significance for democracy. Incorporate maps and timelines A simple timeline of presidents or wars makes answers examiner-friendly. Link to Pakistan Relate Cold War, War on Terror, US aid policies, and Trump-era relations to Pakistan. Quote historians Use scholarly opinions to strengthen arguments (e.g., Howard Zinn, Susan-Mary Grant). Organize answers Intro → background → analysis → modern relevance → conclusion. Use standard references Books: Majumdar’s History of USA, David Mauk & John Oakland – American Civilization. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: History of USA punishes rote learners but rewards analytical thinkers. Those who wrote narratives failed, while those who explained causes, impacts, and lessons scored better. Remember: History of USA is not just about memorizing events — it’s about showing how those events shaped America and the world. If you analyze critically, use timelines, and link with Pakistan’s foreign policy, you’ll stand out. Stay motivated: every timeline you prepare, every reform you analyze, every lesson you extract brings you closer to success. With discipline, this can be one of your most scoring optionals.

CSS 2019 – Gender Studies: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Gender Studies is one of the most popular new CSS optionals because of its short syllabus, contemporary relevance, and perceived scoring potential. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 showed that while many aspirants attempted this paper, most underperformed. The main issue was the inability to distinguish Gender Studies from general women’s issues, along with weak theoretical grounding and lack of application to Pakistan’s context. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was disappointing. Candidates wrote general essays on women’s rights instead of demonstrating understanding of gender theories and frameworks. Many confused Gender Studies with Women’s Studies, ignoring that gender includes men, masculinity, and broader social constructs. Very few applied gender concepts to Pakistan’s socio-economic and political context. Answers lacked data, reports, and contemporary examples. A small number of well-prepared candidates who used theories, case studies, and statistics performed far better【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L172-L179】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Confusing gender with women-only issues Ignoring masculinity, LGBTQ+ perspectives, and structural gender relations. Weak conceptual clarity Poor understanding of Feminism (waves), Patriarchy, Gender Mainstreaming, and Intersectionality. No Pakistan-specific examples Answers rarely included cases like women in parliament, workplace harassment, or literacy gaps. Over-reliance on rote notes Many reproduced academy notes word-for-word. No use of reports or data Candidates ignored Global Gender Gap Index, UNDP reports, and Pakistan-specific gender statistics. Poor analytical depth Narrating problems without proposing solutions. Practical Preparation Strategies Understand gender theories clearly Study Liberal, Marxist, Radical, and Postmodern Feminism. Learn concepts like Gender Roles, Gender Mainstreaming, and Social Construction of Gender. Apply theories to Pakistan’s context Discuss gender inequality in literacy, workplace, politics, and health. Use examples like Aurat March, workplace harassment laws, and women in civil services. Incorporate global + local data Quote Global Gender Gap Report, UN Women reports, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Balance analysis and solutions Always suggest reforms: education, economic empowerment, legal protections, cultural change. Organize answers with clarity Intro → theory/concept → Pakistan’s case → examples/data → way forward → conclusion. Stay updated on debates Follow issues like digital feminism, gender and climate change, and SDG-5 (gender equality). Read authentic sources Books: Judith Lorber – Gender Inequality, Sylvia Walby – Theorizing Patriarchy. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Gender Studies is scoring only if approached seriously and analytically. Those who treated it as a “women’s issues” paper failed, while those who applied theories and examples to Pakistan excelled. Remember: Gender Studies is about power relations, social roles, and equality — not just about women. If you master theories, apply them critically, and support with data, this can be one of your safest scoring optionals. Stay motivated: every concept you clarify, every statistic you memorize, every case study you analyze takes you closer to mastering this subject. With focused preparation, Gender Studies can become a paper where you secure high marks.

CSS 2019 – Environmental Science: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Environmental Science is a relatively new CSS optional that quickly became popular due to its manageable syllabus, relevance to global issues, and overlap with Current Affairs and Pakistan Affairs. Many aspirants assume it is an “easy and scoring” subject. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates performed poorly because they lacked scientific clarity and failed to apply knowledge to Pakistan’s context. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was unsatisfactory. Candidates lacked scientific understanding of basic environmental concepts such as ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change. Many wrote general, descriptive essays instead of analytical and scientific answers. Candidates failed to incorporate Pakistan-specific examples such as urban pollution, water scarcity, and deforestation. Diagrams, data, and flowcharts were rarely used, even though they could have improved answers. A few well-prepared candidates who combined scientific reasoning, data, and case studies scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L164-L171】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Superficial answers Writing general statements like “climate change is harmful” without explaining scientific processes. Ignoring Pakistan’s context Very few candidates discussed issues like Karachi’s waste management crisis, Lahore’s smog, or Indus water disputes. No use of data or reports Candidates rarely quoted UNEP, IPCC, or Pakistan Climate Ministry reports. Weak diagrams and visuals Lack of simple flowcharts or labeled diagrams reduced clarity. Poor organization Answers lacked outlines, headings, and logical structure. Practical Preparation Strategies Strengthen scientific basics Revise ecology, biodiversity, energy resources, environmental pollution, and climate change. Link with Pakistan’s issues Prepare notes on: Water scarcity and Indus Basin irrigation Air pollution in Lahore/Karachi Deforestation in KPK/Balochistan Climate change impact on agriculture and glaciers Use data and case studies Quote reports from UNDP, World Bank, and Pakistan’s Economic Survey. Practice diagrams and flowcharts Carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, energy pyramid, pollution sources — these visuals make answers examiner-friendly. Be concise and analytical Define → explain mechanism → analyze impact → propose solutions. Stay updated on global issues Follow COP conferences, SDGs progress, and Paris Agreement commitments. Use authentic references Books like Miller’s Environmental Science and Wright & Boorse are highly useful. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: Environmental Science is not about writing essays — it’s about scientific clarity and applied knowledge. Candidates who relied on vague descriptions failed, while those who combined science, Pakistan’s context, and solutions scored well. Remember: This subject rewards precision. Every diagram you draw, every statistic you cite, every Pakistan-specific example you give strengthens your case. Stay motivated: environmental challenges are central to Pakistan’s survival. If you prepare this subject seriously, you’ll not only score well but also develop insights into real-world policy challenges.

CSS 2019 – Economics: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Economics is a demanding but highly rewarding CSS optional. It requires not just theoretical knowledge but also the ability to analyze policies, apply models, and support arguments with data. Many candidates with backgrounds in economics, business, or commerce opt for it. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed, primarily because of weak concepts, lack of empirical support, and over-reliance on rote learning. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was poor. Many candidates displayed weak command of economic theories. Answers were largely descriptive rather than analytical. Very few used graphs, models, or equations to explain theories. Candidates failed to provide empirical data from Pakistan’s economy (inflation, unemployment, fiscal deficit, etc.). Answers lacked depth, organization, and policy evaluation. A few well-prepared candidates who combined theory with diagrams, statistics, and Pakistan-specific analysis performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L156-L163】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak theoretical clarity Confusing Keynesian vs Classical models, demand-supply mechanisms, or IS-LM framework. No graphs or diagrams Many explained theories verbally without supporting visuals, losing easy marks. Lack of empirical evidence Candidates ignored data from Pakistan Economic Survey, IMF, or SBP reports. Descriptive writing Narrating economic issues without analyzing causes, effects, and solutions. Selective preparation Ignoring development economics, international trade, or public finance. Poor presentation Unstructured answers with weak English reduced clarity. Practical Preparation Strategies Strengthen theoretical base Revise micro (consumer theory, market structures) and macro (monetary/fiscal policy, growth models) thoroughly. Use diagrams and models Practice neat diagrams: demand-supply curves, IS-LM model, Phillips curve, trade theory graphs. Incorporate empirical data Quote Pakistan’s GDP growth rate, inflation, unemployment, current account deficit, remittances. Use authentic sources like SBP, IMF, World Bank. Balance theory with application Always connect theory to Pakistan’s issues. Example: “Unemployment in Pakistan” → explain types of unemployment → link to textile industry job losses. Cover full syllabus Don’t skip development economics, trade, or global institutions (WTO, IMF). Practice analytical writing Structure answers as: Intro → theory → diagram/model → application → conclusion with policy suggestions. Use standard references Books like Mankiw – Principles of Economics, Todaro & Smith – Development Economics, and Blanchard – Macroeconomics. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Economics is not about rote knowledge — it rewards clarity, analysis, and evidence. Candidates who ignored graphs and data failed, while those who combined theory with Pakistan’s realities scored well. Remember: Economics is a subject of logic and evidence. Every graph you draw, every statistic you cite, every link you build between theory and Pakistan’s economy makes your answer stronger. Stay motivated: by mastering economics, you not only improve your CSS score but also develop insights into Pakistan’s economic challenges — a vital trait for any policymaker.

CSS 2019 – Criminology: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Criminology has become a popular CSS optional because of its relevance to law, policing, and social problems. Many aspirants consider it a “scoring subject.” However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that while the subject is manageable, most candidates underperformed due to weak conceptual knowledge, poor application of criminological theories, and lack of Pakistan-specific examples. Let’s unpack the examiner’s observations, the common mistakes, and preparation strategies for success. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was unsatisfactory. Many candidates lacked conceptual clarity about criminological theories and schools of thought. Answers were superficial, with more focus on generic crime-related issues than criminological analysis. Candidates failed to apply criminology to Pakistan’s context (e.g., terrorism, cybercrime, prison reforms). Scripts often contained irrelevant or repetitive content copied from notes. A few well-prepared candidates who combined theories + case studies + Pakistan-specific examples scored significantly higher【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L148-L155】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak understanding of criminological theories Many confused Classical, Positivist, and Sociological schools. Generalizing crime issues Answers became “essay-type” on law and order instead of criminology. No link to Pakistan Few candidates discussed terrorism, drug trafficking, or cybercrime with criminological frameworks. Over-reliance on coaching notes Repetition of identical, low-quality content. Poor presentation Lack of structured outlines, headings, and clear flow. Practical Preparation Strategies Master criminological theories Classical School (Beccaria, Bentham) Positivist School (Lombroso, Ferri) Sociological theories (strain theory, labeling theory, social disorganization) Apply to Pakistan’s context Terrorism and radicalization → strain/social disorganization theories Cybercrime → routine activity theory Prison overcrowding → rehabilitation and restorative justice approaches Use case studies and reports Quote UNODC reports, FIA cybercrime data, and Pakistan’s prison reform policies. Balance theory and practice Define → explain theory → apply to Pakistan → suggest reforms. Organize answers properly Use outlines, headings, and short paragraphs for clarity. Improve written expression Practice writing with criminological vocabulary: recidivism, deterrence, rehabilitation, penal policy. Use authentic sources Books like Criminology by Larry Siegel and Criminology: The Core provide a strong foundation. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report proves that Criminology is scoring only if studied seriously. Those who confused it with general law-and-order essays failed, while those who understood theories and applied them to Pakistan’s issues excelled. Remember: Criminology is about explaining crime, not just describing it. If you can analyze crimes in Pakistan through criminological lenses and propose reforms, you will impress the examiner. Stay motivated: every theory you learn, every case study you connect, every reform you propose makes your preparation stronger. With smart preparation, Criminology can become one of your safest scoring optionals.

CSS 2019 – Computer Science: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Computer Science has become a popular optional in CSS because of its relevance in the digital age, overlap with GSA, and technical scoring potential. It is particularly attractive to candidates with IT, engineering, or computer science backgrounds. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that many aspirants treated the subject superficially. Weak conceptual foundations, irrelevant content, and poor technical writing resulted in below-average performance. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was unsatisfactory overall. Many candidates lacked clarity of core concepts in operating systems, data structures, and algorithms. Answers were often filled with irrelevant material, wasting time and space. Candidates failed to demonstrate depth of understanding in database systems, networking, and programming. Instead of precise technical writing, many scripts contained vague, generalized statements. Only a few candidates who presented focused, well-structured, and technically accurate answers performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L140-L147】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Superficial preparation Memorizing definitions without true understanding of processes like scheduling, indexing, or OS management. Irrelevant or filler content Writing lengthy introductions or off-topic details instead of answering the question directly. Weak grasp of programming and algorithms Many could not explain time complexity, recursion, or sorting/searching methods. No use of diagrams/flowcharts Candidates failed to include visuals for database schemas, networking topologies, or process models. Poor technical writing Answers lacked proper use of technical terms, making explanations vague. Practical Preparation Strategies Strengthen fundamentals Revise data structures, algorithms, operating systems, networking, software engineering, and databases. Practice programming concepts Be comfortable with recursion, complexity analysis, OOP principles, and pseudocode writing. Use diagrams and visuals Database ER diagrams, OS scheduling charts, and network models add clarity and marks. Avoid filler content Stick strictly to the question’s demand. CSS rewards precision, not page-filling. Solve past papers Attempt at least the last 10 years’ papers to identify recurring concepts. Use authentic references Silberschatz – Operating System Concepts Kurose & Ross – Computer Networking Cormen et al. – Introduction to Algorithms Apply to modern trends Relate answers to current developments: AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, blockchain. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report proves that Computer Science is not about cramming notes — it’s about precision and understanding. Candidates who memorized vague definitions failed, while those who wrote clear, technical, and applied answers performed well. Remember: Computer Science rewards clarity, structure, and application. Every diagram you draw, every algorithm you analyze, every system you explain with precision increases your score. Stay motivated: this subject is a reflection of the modern world — if you prepare smartly, it can become one of your most rewarding optionals.

CSS 2019 – Business Administration: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Business Administration is a practical optional subject in CSS that appeals to candidates with backgrounds in commerce, management, and economics. It covers areas like management, HR, marketing, finance, and organizational behavior. While many aspirants choose it for its overlap with professional degrees, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates underperformed due to weak conceptual understanding and poor application of theories. Let’s break down the examiner’s insights, common mistakes, and strategies to prepare effectively. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was largely poor. Many candidates produced superficial answers, repeating memorized notes instead of analyzing. Numerical and finance-related questions were attempted very weakly; some candidates skipped them entirely. Candidates often confused management theories or misapplied them. Most answers lacked current business examples, both from Pakistan and globally. A few well-prepared candidates who combined concepts, practical examples, and organized writing scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L126-L132】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Superficial knowledge Candidates memorized definitions but could not explain concepts like SWOT, leadership theories, or financial ratios. Weak numericals Finance and quantitative questions were mishandled or left blank. Confusion in theories For example, mixing Maslow’s Hierarchy with Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory. Lack of examples Few candidates applied concepts to businesses like PIA, State Bank, or multinationals. Unstructured answers Many lacked headings, outlines, and proper conclusions. Practical Preparation Strategies Cover all core areas Management, HR, Marketing, Finance, Organizational Behavior, and Business Policy. Strengthen concepts Read standard references like: Stephen Robbins – Organizational Behavior Philip Kotler – Marketing Management Robbins & Coulter – Management Ross, Westerfield & Jordan – Corporate Finance Practice numericals Work on financial ratios, time value of money, NPV/IRR, and capital budgeting. Apply to Pakistan’s context Use examples from Pakistan’s business environment: privatization, banking reforms, CPEC projects, startups. Stay updated on trends Include modern developments like e-commerce, fintech, social media marketing, and globalization. Organize with clarity Intro → theory/concept → application → examples → conclusion. Mock practice Solve past paper questions in timed settings to balance speed and accuracy. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Business Administration punishes rote learning but rewards applied knowledge. Candidates who just defined terms failed, while those who explained concepts and applied them to Pakistan’s economy and businesses stood out. Remember: Business Administration is about solving problems, not writing stories. If you demonstrate conceptual clarity, back it with practical examples, and present in an organized way, this subject can become one of your scoring optionals. Stay motivated: every model you understand, every case study you learn, every numerical you solve makes you more confident. With steady preparation, Business Administration can work in your favor.

CSS 2019 – British History: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction British History has long been a reliable optional in CSS because of its structured syllabus, clear chronology, and overlap with Political Science and International Relations. Many aspirants choose it for its perceived scoring potential. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that while a few candidates performed reasonably, the majority failed to provide analytical, well-structured answers. Instead, most relied on memorized narratives. Let’s unpack the examiner’s insights, common mistakes, and strategies for success. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was below expectations. Many candidates produced bookish answers, repeating facts without analysis. Answers lacked critical evaluation of events and personalities (e.g., Industrial Revolution, Reforms Acts, British Imperialism). Most candidates ignored the “cause and effect” approach, reducing history to storytelling. Some left large portions of the syllabus unprepared, leading to incomplete attempts. A few candidates who combined analysis, chronology, and lessons for the modern world scored better【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L119-L125】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Narration instead of analysis Listing dates, wars, and rulers without explaining their significance or impact. Selective preparation Focusing only on political events while ignoring social, economic, and cultural dimensions. Ignoring modern relevance Candidates failed to link British reforms and revolutions with lessons for Pakistan or global politics. Weak structure Answers lacked introductions, headings, and coherent conclusions. Poor English expression Grammar and sentence issues weakened presentation. Practical Preparation Strategies Cover syllabus holistically Focus on politics (monarchy vs parliament, reforms), society (industrialization, labor movements), economy (capitalism, imperialism), and culture. Adopt an analytical approach Instead of “what happened,” focus on “why it happened” and “what it led to.” Example: The Glorious Revolution → causes, outcomes, and significance for democracy. Link history to lessons Relate British struggles for democracy, rule of law, and industrial progress to modern governance challenges in Pakistan. Use historian perspectives Adding opinions of scholars like Trevelyan, Hobsbawm, or Churchill strengthens credibility. Organize with clarity Intro → causes → events → consequences → critical evaluation → conclusion. Practice past papers Attempt answers under timed conditions to improve speed and structure. Use maps and timelines A simple timeline or chart can make answers stand out. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that British History rewards analytical thinkers but punishes rote learners. Those who wrote narrations failed, while those who explained causes, evaluated impacts, and drew lessons performed well. Remember: History is not just about dates and kings — it’s about processes, transformations, and lessons. Show the examiner you can think like a historian, and you’ll stand out. Stay motivated: every timeline you understand, every reform you analyze, every lesson you connect with today strengthens your preparation. British History, if handled analytically, can be one of your most scoring optionals.

CSS 2019 – Botany: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Botany is often considered a manageable optional for candidates with science backgrounds because of its clear syllabus, reliance on diagrams, and straightforward concepts. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that while some aspirants demonstrated reasonable preparation, the majority struggled with depth, clarity, and scientific application. Let’s explore the examiner’s insights, common mistakes, and practical strategies for success. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Overall performance was unsatisfactory. Many candidates lacked a conceptual understanding of fundamental topics such as genetics, plant physiology, and ecology. A large number attempted the paper with rote-learned material, which became repetitive and superficial. Diagrams were either missing or poorly drawn, reducing the impact of answers. Candidates failed to demonstrate the applied side of botany, such as its role in agriculture, industry, or environmental management. Only a handful of well-prepared candidates who used scientific clarity, neat diagrams, and examples scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L111-L118】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak understanding of core topics Genetics, evolution, taxonomy, and ecology were poorly attempted. Over-reliance on memorization Many wrote definitions and notes without analysis or explanation. Neglect of diagrams Poorly labeled or absent diagrams cost candidates easy marks. Failure to apply knowledge Few linked botany to real-world issues like food security, climate change, or biodiversity loss. Poor organization and presentation Answers lacked clear headings, flow, and scientific expression. Practical Preparation Strategies Master the fundamentals Focus on genetics, plant anatomy, physiology, taxonomy, and ecology. These areas form the backbone of the paper. Incorporate applied aspects Prepare notes on botany’s role in agriculture, forestry, biotechnology, and environmental conservation. Use diagrams effectively Practice drawing neat, labeled diagrams (cell division stages, leaf structures, root systems, nutrient cycles). Answer analytically Move beyond definitions. Example: When discussing photosynthesis, explain process → importance → applications in agriculture. Organize with headings Intro → core explanation → diagram/data → application → conclusion. Revise with past papers Practice structuring answers within the given time frame. Use quality references Standard texts like E.J.W. Barrington – Botany and Vashishta’s Botany series are helpful. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: Botany is not just about memorization. It rewards candidates who combine scientific clarity, neat diagrams, and practical application. Those who relied on rote learning and ignored diagrams underperformed, while those who wrote with depth and precision stood out. Remember: Every diagram you practice, every concept you understand, and every application you connect to real-world issues strengthens your chances. With consistency, Botany can become one of your most scoring optionals. Stay motivated: Botany is not only a CSS subject but also a way to understand the natural world. Treat it seriously, and it will reward you generously.

CSS 2019 – Applied Mathematics: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Applied Mathematics is one of the most technical optionals in CSS. It demands strong problem-solving skills, clarity of concepts, and the ability to apply formulas under exam pressure. It is usually attempted by candidates with mathematics, engineering, or physical sciences backgrounds. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that most candidates were not adequately prepared, and performance was unsatisfactory overall. Let’s break down the examiner’s insights, mistakes, and strategies for success. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Performance was poor overall. Most candidates attempted the paper with weak basics in algebra, calculus, and vector analysis. Many skipped step-by-step working and wrote only the final answer, losing marks. Some left numerical questions blank, showing lack of preparation or confidence. Errors in basic arithmetic and algebra were common. A small group of well-prepared candidates with strong math backgrounds solved questions accurately and scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L104-L110】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Weak fundamentals Struggling with calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra. Skipping steps Writing only final results without showing derivations or methods. Selective preparation Ignoring entire sections like Fourier series, PDEs, or numerical methods. Careless arithmetic errors Losing marks on otherwise simple problems. Time mismanagement Spending too much time on one lengthy problem while leaving others incomplete. Practical Preparation Strategies Attempt only with strong math background This subject is not recommended for those without mathematics at graduate level. Strengthen basics first Revise algebra, calculus, vector analysis, and ODEs before moving to advanced topics. Practice past papers thoroughly Solve at least 10 years’ worth of CSS papers under exam conditions. Show step-by-step working Even if the final answer is wrong, correct methods and derivations can earn partial credit. Cover the syllabus completely Don’t skip smaller topics like numerical methods — they often bring straightforward questions. Focus on accuracy and speed Train yourself with mock exams to avoid time mismanagement. Use quality references Books like Schaum’s Outlines in Applied Mathematics, Kreyszig – Advanced Engineering Mathematics, and CSS-specific notes are useful. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report makes it clear: Applied Mathematics is a high-risk, high-reward subject. Candidates with weak preparation struggled, but those with strong fundamentals and disciplined practice scored very well. Remember: This subject rewards precision and punishes guesswork. Every solved problem, every neat derivation, every practiced formula adds to your confidence. If you prepare comprehensively and practice rigorously, Applied Math can become a scoring advantage. Stay motivated: treat this subject like a skill to be mastered — with consistency and practice, you can turn it into one of your most rewarding optionals.