­­­In Conversation with Muqaddas Fatima 4th in Punjab; PMS 2024-25

Jahangir's World Times (JWT): First of all, please tell something about your educational background.

Muqaddas Fatima (MF): I have done an LLB from Punjab University Law College, Lahore.

JWT: How helpful did you find Jahangir's World Times (JWT) magazine in your preparation for the PMS exam?

MF: It was very helpful in providing me the right path and guidance during my preparation for the PMS exam. The structured presentation of content made it easier for me to revise and retain key information efficiently.

JWT: What was the significance of newspaper reading in your preparation? How did staying updated with current affairs shape your success?

MF: Reading the newspaper is highly significant. I had prepared my own factbook. The opinions from the newspaper provided me more than enough quotes and relevant, updated data. It helped sharpen my critical and analytical skills.

JWT: What was your overall strategy for cracking the PMS exam?

MF: My strategy revolved around relevant reading and excessive writing. For the PMS exam, written practice is very important. I covered the syllabus and analyzed past papers to understand how the questions are asked.

JWT: What was your approach to time management throughout the preparation process? How did you balance multiple subjects and cover the vast syllabus?

MF: It is important that every subject be given its due time. I divided the subjects into three categories. I prepared for Essay and précis on alternate days, one compulsory and one optional subject per day, to prepare accordingly.

JWT: What, in your opinion, is the key to getting through compulsory papers of the PMS exam?

MF: For General Knowledge paper, I consulted a large number of past papers of the PMS and those of one-paper exams conducted by the PPSC in the previous year. I made short notes and used to revise them daily. For compulsory subjects, practice is the key. I did rigorous practice for essay and précis. Moreover, for Islamiyat, Urdu and Pakistan Studies, I collected relevant data and jotted down relevant verses, quotes and references.

JWT: How should answers be written to get maximum marks in the written part of the PMS exam?

MF: Paper presentation is the key to getting higher marks in the PMS exam. One should maintain an equal length for all the five answers. Not too short, not too long answers. I used to write 8-10 pages per question. Flowcharts, diagrams and maps should be added to enhance the paper presentation. Use black and blue markers. Major headings must be distinguished from the minor ones.

JWT: How did you structure your Essay?

MF: Outline is the most important part of the essay. It should be very well structured and must convey the message. I wrote essay on the topic 'Societal stereotypes rather than economic factors are barriers to female education'. Firstly, in the introduction part, I gave my stance. Secondly, I wrote how societal stereotypes are the actual barriers to female education and their impacts. Lastly, I wrote about how to mitigate this challenge. I added relevant stats, quotes and case studies with their references in my essay.

JWT: Since you have scored excellent marks in the Essay paper, what was your strategy for this very paper?

MF: I have secured 62 marks in the essay paper. So, in my view, the basic structure of the essay must be kept intact. I used to practice essays from the past papers. The factbook provided me with the relevant data. One should never write irrelevant data and information in the essay.

JWT: Should there be some word limit kept in mind while writing answers?

MF: Yes, one should keep in mind how to attempt all the questions in three hours. I believe the last question must never get compromised. The ideal length of 7-9 pages is more than enough for the PMS papers.

JWT: How should one choose Optional Subjects?

MF: While choosing optional subjects, one should keep in mind one's educational background, interests and scoring trends.

JWT: Is it better to attempt optional papers in Urdu or should one go with English only?

MF: It does not really matter whether the optional subjects are attempted in English or Urdu. However, it gets easier to attempt in English, as one already has enough practice and command in writing English.

JWT: As interviewers usually grill the interview candidates, how did you manage the situation?

MF: My interview went smooth. I did not panic and stayed calm and composed throughout the interview. The panel asked about current affairs and the token questions mainly.

JWT: Who deserves the credit for your success?

MF: My parents and my siblings! They supported me throughout this journey. I am truly grateful for their presence in my life. Without them, my journey towards success would not have been possible.