How to Succeed in Loksewa Examinations: An Experience
From 2053 BS to 2073 BS, I consistently participated in and succeeded in the Public Service Commission (PSC) examinations for the posts of Non-Gazetted Officer, Section Officer, Under Secretary, and Joint Secretary. Believing that my experiences could be useful for aspiring candidates, I feel a sense of responsibility to share them with the new generation. Here, I attempt to present my insights.
Understanding Competitive Examinations
Competitive examinations like those conducted by the PSC are not merely about achieving a passing score. To succeed, one must score higher than other competitors. This means that the passing score varies each year depending on the average performance of candidates. In some years, a relatively low score may suffice if the competition is weak, while in others, even a high score may not guarantee success.
Every individual perceives their level of knowledge as their truth. However, truth is dynamic—what was true yesterday may be disproven today, and today’s truths may be further scrutinized tomorrow. The knowledge I gained from succeeding in PSC exams is my truth, which I share here. I request readers to interpret it within this context.
1. Analyzing Doubts During Exam Preparation
Most candidates are unlikely to succeed on their first attempt due to a lack of understanding of the competitive structure and strategies. Even academically excellent students often fail in competitive exams, while those considered average in school or social interactions succeed with ease. Such outcomes raise questions among candidates, leading to doubts about the examination system itself. Common concerns include:
- Why did my friend’s name appear on the list while mine didn’t, even though we studied together?
- We wrote similar answers, yet they passed, and I didn’t—why?
- I wrote exactly what was in the book, report, or taught by the teacher, but I didn’t pass—why?
- They didn’t seem to know much or study hard, yet they passed—how?
- I did everything, felt confident, and thought I did well, but I didn’t pass—why?
- I changed my style this year compared to last year, but still didn’t pass—why?
- One question was slightly off, or I couldn’t complete one question—did that cause my failure?
- Time management is tough; the questions are too long—how can I finish?
- Is my handwriting to blame? Did my handwriting worsen toward the end?
These questions haunt candidates, especially those who have attempted written exams but failed. Despite studying extensively, attending preparation classes, collecting books, reports, websites, articles, interviews, and solving past papers, failure leads to disappointment. Instead of recognizing the need to refine their skills, candidates often question the abilities of those who succeed, trapping themselves in a cycle of doubt. This article aims to provide some guidance to such candidates.
The focus in preparation is often on gathering knowledge and resources, but competitive exams differ from university exams. Knowledge alone is insufficient; presentation skills and time management play critical roles. Unlike university exams, PSC exams assess not only knowledge but also behavior, conduct, and presentation skills required in service, such as discipline, responsibility, positivity, and optimism. Candidates must develop these competitive skills holistically as per the PSC syllabus, rather than amassing unlimited knowledge.
In a 200-mark written exam with a 30-mark interview, the difference between passing and failing can be minute—sometimes even a fraction of a mark. Candidates must internalize this reality and approach preparation with utmost care, as even minor errors can lead to failure.
2. How to Prepare?
Competitive exams are not just about collecting information or knowledge but require a blend of three key skills: solid subject knowledge, refined presentation skills, and a positive mindset. While subject knowledge is essential, limitless knowledge is impractical within the available time. Instead, candidates should focus on core, precise knowledge, allocate time to hone skills, and maintain a positive, confident outlook.
The preparation process hinges on balancing four key aspects:
- Subject Knowledge: Gain core knowledge from textbooks rather than guides or reference books. Understand the essence of each topic: its meaning, origin, current national and international practices, legal provisions, efforts, and future directions. Focus on precise, relevant knowledge rather than collecting excessive details.
- Presentation Skills: The ability to convey knowledge effectively on paper is crucial. Many capable candidates fail due to poor presentation. This involves two key skills:
- Understanding the Question: Read questions carefully to grasp their demands. Many candidates rush to answer without fully understanding, leading to incomplete or irrelevant responses. Break questions into parts, identify key demands, and refer back to the question while writing to stay on track.
- Writing Relevant Answers: Answer what is asked, not what you know. Avoid writing generic responses based on reports or lectures without addressing the question’s specific requirements. Identify key terms in the question, break it into subheadings, and provide a complete, structured answer.
- Time Management: Exams test not only knowledge but also time management. Allocate time based on marks—for a 100-mark, 3-hour exam, allot approximately 9 minutes per 5 marks. Divide time for question sub-sections as needed. Lack of time planning, such as not wearing a watch or failing to allocate time per question, often leads to failure despite strong subject knowledge.
- Self-Confidence: A strong, positive mindset significantly enhances performance. Negative thoughts like “I haven’t studied enough,” “My handwriting is poor,” or “With so many candidates, how will I pass?” hinder success. While overconfidence without preparation can lead to failure, adequate effort combined with strong self-belief drives success.
3. Additional Tips to Avoid Missing
Candidates can enhance their preparation by adopting the following practices:
- Study the syllabus and past question papers for the desired post. Gain foundational knowledge from textbooks.
- Acquire basic management knowledge, as it is essential for all service groups. Study management stages, from pre-planning to monitoring and evaluation, thoroughly.
- Research and collect key facts for syllabus topics. Understand the meaning, core concepts, and technical jargon. For example, when studying decentralization, include the principle of subsidiarity to ensure comprehensive understanding.
- Study each topic from four perspectives: (a) its meaning, (b) current practices or government efforts, (c) quantitative and qualitative status, and (d) future directions as per national policies or global trends.
- Develop clear opinions on contemporary issues and major topics.
- Practice writing answers extensively, as exams evaluate written responses. Like athletes practicing for a game, candidates must practice mock exams to avoid risks in the final exam.
- Break down questions during practice, identify key terms, and write structured answers. Refer to the question repeatedly to ensure relevance.
- Pre-allocate time for each question and stick to it during the exam.
- For candidates preparing for multiple service groups, cluster similar syllabus topics to avoid repetition and ensure organized study.
- Avoid limitless, disorganized study. With limited time for preparation and exams, focus on concise, structured study, linking concepts to contexts and practicing how to express them effectively.
