Preparing for competitive exams like PPSC, FPSC, and NTS is a major step toward securing a government job in Pakistan. These tests are held to recruit candidates for various public sector positions — from teaching and clerical posts to high-ranking administrative and technical roles.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare effectively for these tests and increase your chances of success.
🏛️ What Are PPSC, FPSC, and NTS?
- PPSC (Punjab Public Service Commission) – for government jobs in Punjab.
- FPSC (Federal Public Service Commission) – for federal government jobs across Pakistan.
- NTS (National Testing Service) – a private body that conducts exams for admissions, scholarships, and public/private sector jobs.
Each has its own format, syllabus, and eligibility criteria — but the core preparation approach is largely similar.
📘 Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Step 1: Know the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
✅ Go to the official websites:
📌 Download the syllabus and understand the test format. Most exams include:
- General Knowledge (Pak Studies, Current Affairs, Geography)
- English Grammar & Vocabulary
- Islamic Studies
- Basic Math/Quantitative
- Analytical/Logical Reasoning
- Computer/IT (for relevant posts)
- Job-Specific Questions (e.g., subject tests for teachers, law for legal posts)
Step 2: Use the Right Study Material
Recommended books and sources:
📚 For all general tests:
- Caravan MCQs Book
- Advanced PPSC Model Papers (Dogar or Ilmi)
- JWT (Jahangir’s World Times) MCQs Series
- Current Affairs Digest (monthly)
- Who is Who & What is What (latest edition)
📌 Past papers are gold. Practice them thoroughly.
Step 3: Build a Study Routine
🕐 Suggested Schedule:
- 2 hours daily if you’re working/studying full-time
- 4–6 hours daily if you’re preparing full-time
Divide time:
- 30% for English
- 25% for General Knowledge
- 20% for Analytical/Math
- 25% for Subject-relevant material
📆 Use a calendar or planner to track weekly progress.
Step 4: Strengthen English Skills
English is a key section in all exams.
📘 Focus on:
- Vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms)
- Prepositions & Tenses
- Sentence Correction
- Comprehension Passages
🧠 Tip: Read editorials from Dawn newspaper to improve both English and current affairs.
Step 5: Stay Updated on Current Affairs
Essential for FPSC and PPSC.
Follow:
- Dawn & Express Tribune for news
- Monthly current affairs magazines (JWT or Imtiaz Shahid)
- YouTube channels and Telegram groups with current affairs quizzes
Step 6: Practice Full-Length Tests
📌 Simulate real tests with:
- Online mock tests (available for free or on platforms like Dogar.pk, IlmKiDunya)
- Timer-based MCQ apps
- Self-assessment sheets
🧠 Key tip: Don’t just study — practice under time pressure.
💡 Bonus Tips for Success
- Stay consistent – Even 1 hour daily is better than cramming once a week.
- Solve past papers – At least 5 years’ worth.
- Avoid social distractions – Study in a focused environment.
- Join a study group – For accountability and discussion.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not checking the official syllabus
❌ Memorizing facts without understanding
❌ Ignoring English and Math sections
❌ Preparing only from YouTube without written material
❌ Last-minute preparation
🎯 Final Thoughts
Cracking the PPSC, FPSC, or NTS exam isn’t about being a genius — it’s about strategy, consistency, and smart preparation. Start early, stay focused, and keep testing yourself. Even one good attempt can land you a secure, respectable government job in Pakistan.