Paper: English (Precis and Composition)
Marks: 100
The examination in this subject is designed to test a candidate’s command over written English, including precis writing, comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, translation, and sentence structuring. This paper is often considered the backbone of CSS preparation because success here reflects directly in the Essay paper and overall performance.
Official FPSC Syllabus (Breakdown)
1. Precis Writing (20 Marks)
- A passage is given for summarizing to one-third length.
- Candidates must preserve the main idea and suggest a suitable title.
- Marks Distribution: 15 for precis + 5 for title.
2. Reading Comprehension (20 Marks)
- A rich but simple passage (non-technical) is provided.
- Followed by five questions (4 marks each) to check understanding.
3. Grammar & Vocabulary (20 Marks)
- Focus areas include:
- Tenses
- Articles
- Prepositions
- Conjunctions
- Punctuation
- Phrasal Verbs
- Synonyms & Antonyms
4. Sentence Correction (10 Marks)
- Sentences with structural flaws are given.
- Candidates must correct grammar/punctuation only, without unnecessary rewriting.
- At least 2–3 sentences test punctuation directly.
5. Grouping of Words (10 Marks)
- 20 words are provided.
- Candidates must group them into synonyms or antonyms, as directed.
6. Pairs of Words (10 Marks)
- 10 confusing pairs are given.
- Candidates must explain meanings (in parentheses) and use any five in sentences.
7. Translation (10 Marks)
- Ten short Urdu sentences are provided.
- Candidates must translate them into clear and correct English.
Suggested Readings
- English Grammar in Use – Raymond Murphy (Cambridge University Press)
- Practical English Usage – Michael Swan (Oxford University Press)
- The Little, Brown Handbook – H. Ramsey Flower & Jane Aaron
- A University English Grammar – R. Quirk & S. Greenbaum (Longmans)
- Write Better, Speak Better – Reader’s Digest Association
- Modern English in Action – Henry Christ (D.C. Heath & Co.)
How to Prepare for CSS Precis & Composition
- Practice daily precis writing using Dawn/Tribune editorials.
- Revise basic grammar rules (tenses, articles, punctuation).
- Expand vocabulary using word lists & flashcards.
- Translate short Urdu texts into English regularly.
- Attempt past papers to understand exam trends.