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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.

CSS 2019 – Anthropology: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Anthropology is a relatively new CSS optional that quickly gained popularity because of its concise syllabus, relevance to Pakistan’s social issues, and scoring potential. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that while some candidates prepared it well, the majority lacked conceptual clarity and failed to apply anthropological knowledge to Pakistan’s context. Let’s break down the examiner’s insights, mistakes, and strategies to help future aspirants. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner observed: Performance was disappointing overall. Candidates showed weak conceptual understanding of anthropological theories and approaches. Many wrote generic social science essays instead of answering questions through an anthropological lens. Pakistan-specific application (tribal systems, kinship, cultural diversity, extremism) was largely missing. Language problems and disorganized answers further reduced marks. A few candidates who used theories, case studies, and Pakistan’s examples stood out and scored well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L96-L103】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Superficial preparation Many relied on academy notes instead of studying standard anthropology texts. Weak grasp of theories Candidates could not explain Functionalism, Structuralism, Cultural Materialism, or apply them. No application to Pakistan Very few connected concepts to tribal justice systems, family structures, or gender roles in Pakistan. Writing sociology instead of anthropology Answers read like general sociology papers, not focused on anthropology’s unique approach. Poor presentation Unclear outlines, weak headings, and poor English reduced effectiveness. Practical Preparation Strategies Master anthropological theories Learn Functionalism (Malinowski), Structuralism (Lévi-Strauss), Symbolic Anthropology (Geertz), and Cultural Materialism (Marvin Harris). Apply to Pakistan’s society Use anthropology to analyze: Tribal justice systems (Pashtunwali, Jirga) Rural-urban migration Gender inequality in traditional societies Extremism and cultural resistance Use case studies Quote examples from Kalash tribes, Baloch kinship structures, Sindhi Sufi traditions, and global anthropology studies. Structure answers effectively Intro → theory → application → Pakistan’s case → conclusion. Avoid sociology-style writing Always answer from an anthropological perspective — focus on culture, kinship, rituals, symbols. Use visuals where possible Diagrams, cultural models, or kinship charts add clarity. Read standard texts Ember & Ember – Anthropology, Kottak – Cultural Anthropology, and supplementary articles on Pakistani culture. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report proves that Anthropology is not a shortcut subject. It rewards those who study theories seriously and apply them critically to Pakistan. Candidates who confused it with Sociology failed, while those who used theories, examples, and analysis excelled. Remember: Anthropology is about understanding people, cultures, and change. If you show the examiner that you can analyze Pakistan’s society through an anthropological lens, you will stand out. Stay motivated: every theory you master, every case study you apply, every cultural insight you develop takes you closer to success in this paper. With consistent effort, Anthropology can be one of your strongest scoring optionals.

CSS 2019 – Agriculture & Forestry: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Agriculture & Forestry is often considered a scoring and practical subject in CSS because of its relevance to Pakistan’s economy, food security, and environmental challenges. It appeals to candidates with backgrounds in natural sciences or those aiming for overlap with Environmental Science. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 revealed that many aspirants underperformed because they lacked scientific depth and ignored the forestry portion. Let’s break down the examiner’s observations, common mistakes, and strategies for success. Examiner Feedback (2019) The examiner noted: Performance was generally poor. Candidates attempted the paper with partial or shallow preparation. While some showed awareness of agricultural issues, their answers lacked scientific explanation and data. Forestry was neglected by most candidates; they either skipped it or wrote irrelevant material. Many candidates produced repetitive, descriptive content instead of structured, analytical answers. Only a small number of well-prepared candidates who used facts, figures, case studies, and scientific reasoning performed well【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L89-L95】. Common Mistakes by Candidates Ignoring the forestry portion Many studied agriculture only, leaving forestry questions blank or poorly attempted. Superficial answers Candidates described general issues like “climate change affects crops” without scientific mechanisms or data. No Pakistan-specific examples Very few linked answers to Pakistani case studies (e.g., Indus Basin irrigation, KPK afforestation programs). Weak diagrams and flowcharts Lack of visuals made answers less examiner-friendly. Poor structure Answers lacked introductions, headings, and conclusions. Practical Preparation Strategies Cover the full syllabus Agriculture: cropping patterns, irrigation, soil fertility, biotechnology, pest management, food security. Forestry: afforestation, deforestation, biodiversity, forest management policies, climate change impacts. Use data and case studies Quote Pakistan Economic Survey, FAO reports, and government projects like the Billion Tree Tsunami. Write scientifically Explain with cause-and-effect logic. For example: how high temperatures → evapotranspiration → water stress → reduced yields. Integrate forestry strongly Don’t neglect forestry questions; they are often straightforward and can earn high marks. Practice diagrams and flowcharts Nutrient cycles, irrigation systems, and forestry maps can make answers more appealing. Propose practical solutions Divide solutions into short-term (technology, subsidies, better seeds) and long-term (policy reforms, climate adaptation). Organize answers systematically Intro → core issue → data/examples → solutions → conclusion. Encouraging Closing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report shows that Agriculture & Forestry punishes partial preparation but rewards holistic, scientific, and data-driven answers. Candidates who ignored forestry or relied on narrative writing failed, while those who used facts, diagrams, and Pakistan-specific examples performed very well. Remember: This is a subject where preparation can directly translate into marks. Every statistic you quote, every diagram you draw, and every scientific explanation you provide strengthens your answer. Stay motivated: Agriculture & Forestry is not just about passing CSS — it’s about understanding the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and environment. If you prepare it seriously, it can easily become one of your highest-scoring optionals.

CSS 2019 – Accountancy & Auditing: Examiner’s Feedback and Student Guide Introduction Accountancy & Auditing isconsidered one of the most technical but scoring optionals in CSS. It isusually chosen by candidates with a background in commerce, business, orfinance. However, the examiner’s report for CE-2019 showed that whilesome candidates demonstrated solid preparation, the majority struggled due toweak concepts, poor practice in numerical problems, and lack of balance betweentheory and application. Let’s unpack the examiner’s insights, the mistakesaspirants made, and strategies to prepare effectively.     ExaminerFeedback (2019) The examiner observed: Overall performance was unsatisfactory. Candidates performed slightly better in numericalquestions, but most failed in theoretical/analytical questions. Many answers lacked conceptual clarity andcontained irrelevant material. Auditing and Accounting Standards questions were eitheravoided or attempted very poorly. A significant number of candidates could not managetime properly and left questions unanswered. The few high scorers were those who combined conceptualclarity, practical application, and neat presentation【Examiner-Reports-CE-2019.pdf†L81-L88】.     CommonMistakes by Candidates Weak theoretical knowledge Many could not explain basic concepts of auditing,IFRS, or accounting principles. Over-reliance on numericals Candidates focused only on problem-solving but failedin theoretical parts. Selective preparation Ignoring cost accounting, management accounting, orauditing portions. Time mismanagement Spending too much time on one numerical question andleaving others incomplete. Weak presentation Lack of structured formats, headings, and neatworkings.     PracticalPreparation Strategies Build strong conceptual foundations Revise accounting standards (IFRS), auditingprinciples, cost and management accounting basics. Balance numericals and theory Allocate equal time to practicing both problem-solvingand conceptual topics. Practice past papers extensively Solve numericals under timed conditions. Presentsolutions step by step for partial credit. Master auditing Focus on internal controls, types of audits, responsibilitiesof auditors, and practical examples from Pakistan. Improve presentation Use proper formats for journal entries, ledgers,balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Stay updated Keep track of changes in international accountingstandards and auditing practices. Time management practice Attempt mock exams to build speed and accuracy.     EncouragingClosing Note The CSS 2019 examiner’s report showsthat Accountancy & Auditing is not for half-hearted preparation.Those who treated it selectively failed, while those who prepared holistically— combining theory, numericals, and auditing — scored well. Remember: This is a subject of clarity and practice. Every balancesheet you solve, every auditing concept you master, every numerical youpractice makes you examiner-ready. With discipline and smart preparation,Accountancy can become one of your most scoring optionals. Stay consistent: precision,neatness, and balance between theory and practice are the keys to success here.