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

1. Weak theoretical clarity
   • Confusing Keynesian vs Classical models, demand-supply mechanisms, or IS-LM framework.
2. No graphs or diagrams
   • Many explained theories verbally without supporting visuals, losing easy marks.
3. Lack of empirical evidence
   • Candidates ignored data from Pakistan Economic Survey, IMF, or SBP reports.
4. Descriptive writing
   • Narrating economic issues without analyzing causes, effects, and solutions.
5. Selective preparation
   • Ignoring development economics, international trade, or public finance.
6. Poor presentation
   • Unstructured answers with weak English reduced clarity.

Practical Preparation Strategies

1. Strengthen theoretical base
   • Revise micro (consumer theory, market structures) and macro (monetary/fiscal policy, growth models) thoroughly.
2. Use diagrams and models
   • Practice neat diagrams: demand-supply curves, IS-LM model, Phillips curve, trade theory graphs.
3. Incorporate empirical data
   • Quote Pakistan’s GDP growth rate, inflation, unemployment, current account deficit, remittances. Use authentic sources like SBP, IMF, World Bank.
4. 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.
5. Cover full syllabus
   • Don’t skip development economics, trade, or global institutions (WTO, IMF).
6. Practice analytical writing
   • Structure answers as: Intro → theory → diagram/model → application → conclusion with policy suggestions.
7. 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.