Preparing for the Public Service Commission (Lok Sewa) Examination
Preparation Strategy
Preparation for the Public Service Commission (Lok Sewa) examination requires setting clear goals, objectives, and a future plan. Without a defined target and purpose, achieving success becomes challenging.
Two Key Aspects of Preparation
1. Theoretical Knowledge
- Students often rely solely on market-available guides, books, or university courses, but these are insufficient. In-depth study of reports, articles, opinions, and university-level books related to the subject matter is essential.
- Theoretical preparation involves understanding the introduction, definition, dimensions, contextual analysis, strengths, weaknesses, principles, and scope of the subject matter.
- When writing answers or practicing, avoid rote memorization or copying others’ work. Instead, analyze the subject, form your own perspective, and write in simple, clear language.
- Stay updated on a wide range of topics, as hundreds of events and updates related to your study material occur daily. Gaining as much knowledge as possible is crucial.
- In the age of information technology, leverage the internet extensively to stay updated on new developments in your study topics. Preparation should not be limited to one year but should be forward-looking for long-term success.
2. Practical Knowledge
- Candidates must gather extensive practical knowledge. Many civil service courses do not cover the latest government policies, rules, or laws, so studying the Civil Service Act, regulations, and other relevant laws is necessary.
- Thoroughly study all aspects of the Constitution of Nepal, such as provisions related to development or human rights, including new definitions and updates. Understand what new provisions the Constitution has introduced for your subject matter.
- Be well-versed in subject-specific materials, such as the Good Governance Act, Right to Information Act, Civil Service Act and Regulations, Local Government Operation Act, and Financial Management Act. Study topics aligned with your service group and syllabus thoroughly.
- Beyond this, review guidelines, procedures, and work plans available on the websites of relevant ministries.
- Study periodic plans in detail, as they cover various levels and groups. Additionally, read government-published reports.
- Regularly read books and articles written by experienced individuals, retired civil servants, or experts in the relevant field.
- Mass media is a vital source of information for Lok Sewa candidates. Stay updated with opinion pieces, editorials, informative articles, and news related to your subject matter.
- Daily or weekly newspapers can be valuable resources for your study topics. If physical newspapers are inaccessible, their online versions can be used.
- Pay attention to front-page news or articles focused on specific issues, as these can be used as examples in exam answers.
Additional Tips
- Since the Lok Sewa examination involves multiple stages, prepare for each stage comprehensively. Relying solely on handouts, books, or guides is insufficient; acquire well-rounded knowledge in the relevant subjects.
- For subjects like English, prepare based on the exam pattern. General knowledge depends on how updated you are with local and global affairs.
- As the Lok Sewa syllabus is now integrated, many topics overlap across service groups, so prepare accordingly. Study with understanding, stay stress-free, and remain focused. Dedicate at least three hours daily to Lok Sewa preparation.
- If attending preparation classes, review class materials at home. With dedicated study for six months to a year, candidates can successfully pass the examination.
By Prakash Dahal, Joint Secretary
(Based on a conversation with Joint Secretary of the Government of Nepal, Prakash Dahal, conducted by Yubaraj Gautam)
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