📋 Complete Preparation Guide
FPSC Advertisement No. 2/2026
Complete Exam Preparation Guide
Paper pattern breakdown, 20+ sample MCQs per section with answers, expert tips, negative marking strategy, and interview guide — everything you need to clear FPSC written test.
100
Total Marks
90
Minutes
8
Subjects
-0.25
Negative Marking
| 📌 FPSC Ad 2/2026 — Key Information at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) |
| Advertisement No. | Consolidated Advertisement No. 02/2026 |
| Post Levels | BS-16 to BS-21 across federal ministries & departments |
| Test Type | MCQ-Based Screening Test |
| Total Marks | 100 Marks (100 MCQs) |
| Time Allowed | 90 Minutes (some posts: 100 minutes) |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per wrong answer |
| Test Centers | Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, Sukkur, Gilgit |
| Official Website | fpsc.gov.pk |
| Next Stage | Written Test → Interview → Recommendations |
⚠️ Negative Marking — Read Before You Attempt
Every wrong answer deducts 0.25 marks. This means if you answer 10 questions incorrectly, you lose 2.5 marks — not just miss 10. Leaving a question blank costs you 0 marks, but guessing wrong costs you 0.25.
Rule of thumb: Attempt a question only if you are at least 60-70% confident. Skip if you genuinely have no idea. Never guess randomly.
📊
Paper Pattern — Subject-Wise Breakdown
FPSC general screening tests (BS-16 & BS-17 general posts) follow this standard distribution. Subject-specific posts may vary.
English
20 MCQs
- Grammar & tenses
- Vocabulary & synonyms
- Sentence correction
- Fill in the blanks
- Idioms & phrases
Mathematics
15 MCQs
- Percentage & ratio
- Arithmetic & fractions
- Time, speed & distance
- Profit & loss
- Basic algebra
General Knowledge
15 MCQs
- World geography
- International organizations
- Science facts
- Famous personalities
- Books & authors
Current Affairs
15 MCQs
- Pakistan politics & economy
- International events
- Awards & summits 2025-26
- Sports events
- UN & global issues
Pakistan Studies
10 MCQs
- Pakistan history
- Constitution of Pakistan
- Geography of Pakistan
- National symbols
- Freedom movement
Islamic Studies
10 MCQs
- Quran & Hadith
- Seerah of Prophet (PBUH)
- Islamic history
- Five pillars of Islam
- Caliphs & scholars
Computer / IT
10 MCQs
- MS Office basics
- Internet & email
- Computer hardware
- Basic networking
- Shortcuts & terminology
Analytical Reasoning
5 MCQs
- Number series
- Analogies
- Logical sequences
- Pattern recognition
- Odd one out
🔤
Section 1: English — 20 MCQs
English Grammar, Vocabulary & Comprehension
Highest scoring section — must secure 14+ out of 20
Tenses
Active/Passive Voice
Direct/Indirect Speech
Synonyms
Antonyms
Prepositions
Conjunctions
Sentence Correction
Idioms & Phrases
One-Word Substitutions
Fill in the Blanks
Spelling
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Q 01 — TENSES
Choose the correct tense: “She _____ in Lahore since 2018.”Answer: (C) has been livingThe word “since” is a time marker that requires Present Perfect Continuous tense — showing an action that started in the past and is still continuing.
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Q 02 — SYNONYM
What is the synonym of “BENEVOLENT”?Answer: (B) Kind-heartedBenevolent means well-meaning and kind. Remember: “bene” in Latin means “good/well”.
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Q 03 — ANTONYM
The antonym of “VERBOSE” is:Answer: (C) ConciseVerbose means using more words than needed. Its antonym is concise, meaning brief and to the point.
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Q 04 — ACTIVE/PASSIVE VOICE
Change to passive voice: “The teacher is checking the papers.”Answer: (B)Present Continuous active converts to “is/are being + past participle” in passive form.
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Q 05 — PREPOSITION
Fill in the blank: “He is good _____ mathematics.”Answer: (C) atThe correct expression is “good at” (a skill or subject). “Good in” is a common Pakistani English error.
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Q 06 — IDIOM
The idiom “Bite the bullet” means:Answer: (C)This idiom originates from soldiers biting a bullet during surgery without anesthesia — meaning to face something difficult with courage.
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Q 07 — SENTENCE CORRECTION
Which sentence is grammatically correct?Answer: (B)“Neither” is singular and takes a singular verb “has”. The pronoun should also be singular “his/her” in formal usage.
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Q 08 — ONE-WORD SUBSTITUTION
A person who is unable to pay their debts is called:Answer: (B) InsolventAlso called “bankrupt.” An insolvent person cannot meet their financial obligations.
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Q 09 — DIRECT/INDIRECT SPEECH
Convert to indirect speech: He said, “I am very tired today.”Answer: (B)“Today” becomes “that day,” “am” becomes “was,” and “I” becomes “he.” Note: “said” without an object stays as “said,” not “told.”
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Q 10 — VOCABULARY
The word “AMBIGUOUS” most nearly means:Answer: (C)Ambiguous means open to more than one interpretation; not clear. FPSC frequently tests sophisticated vocabulary like this.
🎯 English Section — Expert Tips
- Memorize the top 200 synonyms and antonyms from Barron’s Word Lists or Norman Lewis “Word Power Made Easy”
- Learn all preposition rules — “interested in,” “good at,” “fond of,” “similar to” — these are guaranteed traps
- For tenses, identify the time marker word first (since, for, yesterday, just, yet) — it tells you the tense
- In passive voice questions, identify the tense first, then apply the passive formula
- Common idioms to study: “break the ice,” “let the cat out of the bag,” “once in a blue moon,” “burning the midnight oil”
- Practice 20 sentence correction MCQs daily for one week — patterns repeat in FPSC papers
🔢
Section 2: Mathematics — 15 MCQs
Arithmetic, Algebra & Applied Mathematics
Most time-consuming section — manage your time carefully
Percentage
Ratio & Proportion
Profit & Loss
Simple & Compound Interest
Time & Work
Time, Speed & Distance
Fractions & Decimals
HCF & LCM
Average
Ages
Basic Algebra
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Q 01 — PERCENTAGE
A salary of Rs. 25,000 is increased by 20%. What is the new salary?Answer: (C) Rs. 30,00020% of 25,000 = 5,000. New salary = 25,000 + 5,000 = 30,000. Formula: New = Original × (1 + rate/100)
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Q 02 — RATIO & PROPORTION
Divide Rs. 4,500 among A, B, and C in the ratio 2:3:4. What is B’s share?Answer: (B) Rs. 1,500Total parts = 2+3+4 = 9. B’s share = (3/9) × 4,500 = 1,500
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Q 03 — PROFIT & LOSS
An item bought for Rs. 800 is sold for Rs. 960. What is the profit percentage?Answer: (C) 20%Profit = 960 – 800 = 160. Profit % = (160/800) × 100 = 20%
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Q 04 — TIME & WORK
A can complete a job in 10 days, B in 15 days. How long will they take working together?Answer: (B) 6 daysA’s rate = 1/10, B’s rate = 1/15. Combined = 1/10 + 1/15 = 3/30 + 2/30 = 5/30 = 1/6. Time = 6 days.
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Q 05 — SPEED & DISTANCE
A train travels 300 km in 4 hours. What is its speed in km/h?Answer: (A) 75 km/hSpeed = Distance ÷ Time = 300 ÷ 4 = 75 km/h
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Q 06 — SIMPLE INTEREST
Find the simple interest on Rs. 5,000 at 8% per annum for 3 years.Answer: (B) Rs. 1,200SI = (P × R × T) / 100 = (5000 × 8 × 3) / 100 = 120,000 / 100 = Rs. 1,200
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Q 07 — AVERAGE
The average of five numbers is 40. If one number is 60, what is the average of the remaining four?Answer: (B) 35Total = 5 × 40 = 200. Remaining total = 200 – 60 = 140. Average of 4 = 140 ÷ 4 = 35
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Q 08 — HCF
What is the HCF of 36, 48, and 60?Answer: (B) 12Factors of 36: 1,2,3,4,6,9,12,18,36. Factors of 48: 1,2,3,4,6,8,12,16,24,48. Factors of 60: 1,2,3,4,5,6,10,12,15,20,30,60. HCF = 12
🎯 Mathematics Section — Expert Tips
- Learn shortcut formulas for percentage: “If price increases by X%, how much should consumption decrease to maintain same expenditure = X/(100+X) × 100”
- For ratio problems, always add all ratio parts first to find the divisor
- In time & work: work = rate × time. When working together, add the rates (not the times)
- Memorize squares up to 25 and cubes up to 15 — saves calculation time
- Do not spend more than 2 minutes on any single math MCQ — skip and return later
- Check your calculation twice before marking — arithmetic errors are the #1 reason for wrong answers
🌍
Section 3: General Knowledge — 15 MCQs
World GK — Geography, Science, Inventions & Organizations
Memory-based section — pure preparation wins here
World Capitals
Largest/Smallest Countries
International Organizations
Famous Scientists
Inventions & Discoveries
World Rivers & Mountains
Books & Authors
Everyday Science
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Q 01 — WORLD GEOGRAPHY
Which is the largest ocean in the world?Answer: (C) Pacific OceanThe Pacific Ocean covers about 165 million square km — more than all land areas of Earth combined.
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Q 02 — INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
The headquarters of the United Nations is located in:Answer: (C) New YorkThe UN headquarters is in Manhattan, New York City (established 1952). European headquarters is in Geneva.
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Q 03 — SCIENCE
Which gas is most abundant in Earth’s atmosphere?Answer: (B) NitrogenNitrogen makes up ~78% of Earth’s atmosphere. Oxygen is ~21%. CO2 is only ~0.04%.
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Q 04 — INVENTIONS
Who invented the telephone?Answer: (B) Alexander Graham BellBell patented the telephone in 1876. Common FPSC trap: Edison invented the phonograph (not telephone).
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Q 05 — WORLD RECORDS
Which is the longest river in the world?Answer: (A) NileThe Nile (6,650 km) is the longest river. Amazon (6,400 km) is the largest by water volume. Both appear in FPSC papers — be careful about which is asked.
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Q 06 — WORLD BODIES
IMF stands for:Answer: (B) International Monetary FundIMF was established in 1944 at Bretton Woods. Pakistan is a member and has frequently taken IMF loans.
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Q 07 — BOOKS & AUTHORS
“Friends Not Masters” was written by:Answer: (C) Ayub KhanField Marshal Ayub Khan wrote “Friends Not Masters” in 1967. Another common FPSC question: Pervez Musharraf wrote “In the Line of Fire.”
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Q 08 — HUMAN BODY / SCIENCE
The powerhouse of the cell is:Answer: (C) MitochondriaMitochondria produce ATP (energy). This is one of the most repeated GK MCQs in all Pakistani competitive exams.
🎯 General Knowledge — Expert Tips
- Make a list of world capitals, currencies, and official languages — at least 50 countries
- Memorize the “World’s First” list: first country to give women voting rights (New Zealand, 1893), first man on moon (Neil Armstrong, 1969)
- Learn all UN agencies and their HQ cities: WHO (Geneva), UNESCO (Paris), UNICEF (New York), FAO (Rome)
- Study famous scientists and their inventions in pairs — don’t confuse related inventions
- Focus on everyday science: vitamins, diseases, human body organs, chemical formulas (NaCl = salt, H2O = water, CO2 = carbon dioxide)
📰
Section 4: Current Affairs — 15 MCQs
Pakistan & International Current Affairs (2024–2026)
Most dynamic section — updated preparation is essential
Pakistan Economy & Budget
Summits & Conferences
Sports Events 2025-26
International Awards
New Leaders & Presidents
Pakistan Foreign Policy
Natural Disasters
Technology & AI
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Q 01 — PAKISTAN POLITICS
Who is the current Prime Minister of Pakistan (2025-26)?Answer: (C) Shehbaz SharifShehbaz Sharif became Prime Minister in March 2024 after the February 2024 general elections. Always check the official latest position before your exam.
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Q 02 — INTERNATIONAL
The G-20 Summit 2023 was hosted by:Answer: (C) IndiaIndia hosted the G-20 Summit in New Delhi in September 2023. The theme was “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future).
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Q 03 — SPORTS
Pakistan won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by defeating which country in the final?Answer: (C) IndiaPakistan won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 — a landmark victory. Sports current affairs are very frequently tested in FPSC papers.
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Q 04 — PAKISTAN ECONOMY
Pakistan’s financial year runs from:Answer: (B) July to JunePakistan’s fiscal year starts July 1 and ends June 30. Federal budget is presented in June each year.
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Q 05 — INTERNATIONAL AWARDS
The Nobel Peace Prize 2023 was awarded to:Answer: (B) Narges MohammadiIranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi won the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran.
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Q 06 — TECHNOLOGY
ChatGPT was developed by which company?Answer: (C) OpenAIChatGPT was launched by OpenAI in November 2022. Technology/AI questions are increasingly appearing in FPSC papers from 2023 onwards.
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Q 07 — PAKISTAN DEFENSE
Pakistan’s first digital census was conducted in which year?Answer: (C) 2023Pakistan’s 7th Population and Housing Census was conducted digitally in 2023 — the first fully digital census in Pakistan’s history.
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Q 08 — CPEC
CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) connects Kashgar in China to which Pakistani city?Answer: (B) GwadarCPEC connects Kashgar (China) to Gwadar (Balochistan) — a $62 billion infrastructure project forming part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
🎯 Current Affairs — Expert Tips
- Read Dawn newspaper daily for the last 6 months before your exam — especially the editorial page
- Follow FPSC Urdu/English syllabus topics: Pakistan’s economy, China-Pakistan relations, IMF program, SCO membership
- Memorize all Nobel Prize winners from 2022-2026 — Peace, Literature, Medicine, Physics, Chemistry, Economics
- Study CPEC projects, Special Economic Zones, and their locations in Pakistan
- Note all major sporting events: World Cup winners, Olympics 2024 Paris medal table, Cricket World Cup results
- Current Affairs from the most recent 12 months carry the highest weight in FPSC papers
🇵🇰
Section 5: Pakistan Studies — 10 MCQs
Pakistan History, Constitution & Geography
Very predictable — past paper patterns repeat frequently
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Q 01 — PAKISTAN HISTORY
Pakistan achieved independence on August 14, 1947. At that time, who was the first Governor General of Pakistan?Answer: (B) Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali JinnahJinnah served as the first Governor-General from August 14, 1947 until his death on September 11, 1948.
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Q 02 — CONSTITUTION
Pakistan’s current constitution was enforced in which year?Answer: (C) 1973The Constitution of Pakistan 1973 was adopted on April 10, 1973 and enforced on August 14, 1973. It is Pakistan’s third constitution.
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Q 03 — GEOGRAPHY
Which is the largest province of Pakistan by area?Answer: (B) BalochistanBalochistan covers about 347,190 sq km — approximately 44% of Pakistan’s total area. Punjab is largest by population.
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Q 04 — PAKISTAN MOVEMENT
The Lahore Resolution (Pakistan Resolution) was passed in:Answer: (C) 1940The Lahore Resolution was passed on March 23, 1940 at Minto Park (now Minar-e-Pakistan). It demanded separate homelands for Muslims of the subcontinent.
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Q 05 — NATIONAL SYMBOLS
The national flower of Pakistan is:Answer: (C) Jasmine (Chambeli)Jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is Pakistan’s national flower. National animal is Markhor; national bird is Chukar Partridge; national fruit is Mango.
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Q 06 — PASSES & RIVERS
The Khyber Pass connects Pakistan with which country?Answer: (C) AfghanistanThe Khyber Pass (1,070 m) connects Peshawar, Pakistan to Kabul, Afghanistan. It is historically one of the most important trade and invasion routes in South Asia.
🎯 Pakistan Studies — Expert Tips
- Memorize all Pakistan PMs, Presidents, Chief Justices, Army Chiefs in order — this is frequently tested
- Learn all constitutional amendments: 8th (Zia’s ROPA), 18th (devolution), 19th (judiciary), 25th (FATA merger)
- Study Pakistan’s rivers: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej — and the cities on each
- National symbols must be memorized: flower (jasmine), tree (deodar), animal (markhor), bird (chukar), sport (hockey), fruit (mango)
- Study Pakistan’s nuclear milestones: first test (May 28, 1998, Chagai), missile programs
☪️
Section 6: Islamic Studies — 10 MCQs
Quran, Hadith, Islamic History & Five Pillars
Full marks possible with systematic preparation
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Q 01 — QURAN
How many Surahs are there in the Holy Quran?Answer: (B) 114The Holy Quran has 114 Surahs, 30 Paras, and 6,666 Ayahs. The longest Surah is Al-Baqarah; the shortest is Al-Kawthar.
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Q 02 — FIVE PILLARS
Which is the third pillar of Islam?Answer: (C) ZakatFive Pillars in order: 1-Shahadah, 2-Salah, 3-Zakat, 4-Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan), 5-Hajj
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Q 03 — SEERAH
In which year did the Holy Prophet (PBUH) perform Hajj?Answer: (C) 10 AH (632 CE)The Prophet (PBUH) performed Hajjat-ul-Wida (Farewell Hajj) in 10 AH (632 CE). He delivered the famous Farewell Sermon (Khutbah Hajjat-ul-Wida) on this occasion.
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Q 04 — CALIPHS
Who was the second Caliph of Islam?Answer: (C) Hazrat Umar (RA)Rightly-guided Caliphs in order: Abu Bakr (RA) → Umar (RA) → Usman (RA) → Ali (RA)
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Q 05 — ISLAMIC HISTORY
The first Battle fought in Islam was:Answer: (A) Battle of BadrThe Battle of Badr was fought on 17 Ramadan, 2 AH (624 CE). Muslims (313) defeated Quraysh (1000). It is considered the most decisive battle in early Islamic history.
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Q 06 — ANGELS & PROPHETS
How many prophets are mentioned by name in the Holy Quran?Answer: (C) 2525 prophets are mentioned by name in the Holy Quran. The total number of prophets sent to humanity is said to be 124,000 or 1,24,000 in various Hadith.
🎯 Islamic Studies — Expert Tips
- Memorize the names, order, and key events of all four Rightly-Guided Caliphs
- Study the major battles: Badr, Uhud, Khandaq, Makkah conquest — dates, outcomes, and key figures
- Learn Quranic statistics: 114 Surahs, 30 Paras, Makki vs Madani Surahs, longest/shortest Surah
- Five Pillars, Six Articles of Faith (Iman), and the Farewell Sermon key points are always tested
- Islamic calendar months in order: Muharram, Safar, Rabi-ul-Awwal… through Dhul-Hijjah
🧠
Section 7: Analytical Reasoning — 5 MCQs
Logical Reasoning, Number Series & Pattern Recognition
5 quick marks — learn the 6 key patterns and score full marks
📌 6 Core Reasoning Question Types in FPSC
- Number Series — Find the missing number in a pattern
- Analogies — A is to B as C is to ?
- Odd One Out — Which item does not belong?
- Letter/Word Series — Find the next letter or word
- Logical Deduction — Simple if-then reasoning
- Coding-Decoding — Find the pattern in coded words
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Q 01 — NUMBER SERIES
Find the next number: 2, 6, 12, 20, 30, ___Answer: (C) 42Differences: +4, +6, +8, +10, +12. Each difference increases by 2. So next = 30 + 12 = 42.
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Q 02 — ANALOGY
Doctor is to Hospital as Teacher is to ___Answer: (B) SchoolThe relationship is: professional → their workplace. Doctor works in Hospital; Teacher works in School.
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Q 03 — ODD ONE OUT
Which is the odd one out? Mango, Banana, Tomato, Apple, OrangeAnswer: (C) TomatoAll others are fruits in common usage (sweet fruits). Tomato, botanically a fruit, is used as a vegetable and does not fit the pattern of the others.
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Q 04 — LETTER SERIES
Find the next: A, C, F, J, O, ___Answer: (C) UGaps between letters: +2, +3, +4, +5, +6. A(1) → C(3) → F(6) → J(10) → O(15) → U(21). The gap increases by 1 each time.
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Q 05 — LOGICAL DEDUCTION
All doctors are intelligent. Ali is intelligent. Which conclusion is correct?Answer: (C)This is a classic logical fallacy trap. Just because all doctors are intelligent, doesn’t mean all intelligent people are doctors. Ali being intelligent doesn’t confirm he is a doctor.
🎯 Reasoning — How to Solve Series Questions in 30 Seconds
- Step 1: Calculate the difference between each consecutive number
- Step 2: If differences are constant → arithmetic series (e.g., +3 each time)
- Step 3: If differences themselves increase → second-order series (add or multiply the differences)
- Step 4: If differences multiply → geometric/ratio series (e.g., ×2 each time)
- Step 5: Check for squares, cubes, or prime numbers as a pattern
- For analogies: first identify the exact relationship, then apply the same relationship to the second pair
💻
Section 8: Computer & IT — 10 MCQs
MS Office, Internet, Hardware & Basic Networking
Easy scoring — 8+ marks expected with basic preparation
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Q 01 — MS WORD
In MS Word, which shortcut key is used to save a document?Answer: (B) Ctrl + SKey shortcuts to memorize: Ctrl+C (copy), Ctrl+V (paste), Ctrl+X (cut), Ctrl+Z (undo), Ctrl+P (print), Ctrl+B (bold), Ctrl+I (italic)
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Q 02 — INTERNET
HTTP stands for:Answer: (B) HyperText Transfer ProtocolHTTP is the foundation of data communication on the World Wide Web. HTTPS = HTTP Secure (with encryption).
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Q 03 — HARDWARE
Which storage device has the fastest data access speed?Answer: (C) SSDSSDs use flash memory with no moving parts — accessing data up to 10x faster than HDDs. They are increasingly common in modern laptops and government computers.
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Q 04 — NETWORKING
Which device connects multiple computers in a network and forwards data packets?Answer: (C) RouterA router directs data packets between networks. A modem converts signals for internet access. A switch connects devices within the same network.
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Q 05 — MS EXCEL
In MS Excel, which formula calculates the sum of cells A1 to A10?Answer: (C) =SUM(A1:A10)Excel formulas always start with “=”. Key formulas: SUM, AVERAGE, MAX, MIN, COUNT, IF. The colon (:) means “range from A1 to A10.”
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Q 06 — TERMINOLOGY
RAM stands for:Answer: (B) Random Access MemoryRAM is temporary, volatile memory. ROM = Read Only Memory (permanent). Key difference: RAM loses data when power is off; ROM does not.
🎯 Computer / IT — Expert Tips
- Memorize all keyboard shortcuts for MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint — guaranteed MCQs
- Learn full forms of common IT abbreviations: CPU, RAM, ROM, USB, URL, WWW, LAN, WAN, PDF, HTML, CSS
- Study generations of computers (1st to 5th) and their characteristics
- Know the difference between input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner) and output devices (monitor, printer, speaker)
- Email terminology: SMTP (sending), POP3/IMAP (receiving), CC (carbon copy), BCC (blind carbon copy)
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Paper Attempt Strategy — How to Score 75+ Out of 100
📋 The 90-Minute Time Allocation Plan
Manage your time strictly. Spending too long on one section is the #1 reason candidates fail to complete the paper.
| Section | MCQs | Time Allocated | Difficulty | Target Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English | 20 | 18 minutes | Medium | 14-16 |
| Mathematics | 15 | 20 minutes | Hard | 10-12 |
| General Knowledge | 15 | 12 minutes | Easy-Medium | 11-13 |
| Current Affairs | 15 | 12 minutes | Medium | 10-12 |
| Pakistan Studies | 10 | 8 minutes | Easy | 8-9 |
| Islamic Studies | 10 | 8 minutes | Easy | 8-9 |
| Computer / IT | 10 | 8 minutes | Easy | 8-9 |
| Analytical Reasoning | 5 | 4 minutes | Medium | 4-5 |
🚫 Most Common Mistakes Candidates Make
1. Guessing randomly on negative-marking papers. Every 4 wrong answers cancel 1 correct one. Don’t gamble.
2. Spending 5+ minutes on a single math MCQ. Skip, move forward, return if time permits.
3. Not reading current affairs for the last 6 months. FPSC papers are always current — yesterday’s news is tomorrow’s MCQ.
4. Not practicing past papers. FPSC repeats up to 30% of questions from previous papers. Past paper practice is non-negotiable.
📅
8-Week Study Plan for FPSC Screening Test
Week 1
English Foundation
Grammar rules, top 100 vocabulary words, prepositions & tenses
Week 2
Mathematics
Percentage, ratio, profit/loss, SI/CI formulas with daily practice
Week 3
Pakistan & Islamic Studies
Constitution, history, caliphs, Seerah, battles, national symbols
Week 4
General Knowledge
World capitals, organizations, inventions, everyday science
Week 5
Current Affairs
Daily Dawn reading + monthly current affairs magazine revision
Week 6
Computer & Reasoning
MS Office shortcuts, IT full forms, series pattern practice
Week 7
Past Papers
Solve 5 years of FPSC past papers under timed conditions daily
Week 8
Full Mock Tests
Daily 90-minute mock tests, review mistakes, revise weak areas
🎙️
FPSC Interview Preparation Guide
After clearing the written test, the interview carries significant weight. Here is how to prepare.
📋 Common Interview Questions
- Tell me about yourself
- Why do you want to join government service?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What do you know about this ministry/department?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- What is Pakistan’s biggest challenge today?
- Describe a situation where you solved a problem
- Why should we hire you over other candidates?
✅ What FPSC Panel Evaluates
- Confidence and clarity of expression
- Knowledge of the applied post
- Awareness of current national affairs
- Professional appearance and conduct
- Logical reasoning and decision-making
- Communication skills in English/Urdu
- Honesty — don’t bluff on unknown topics
- Patriotic mindset and service orientation
👔 Interview Day Checklist
- Formal dress — suit or shalwar kameez (neat)
- Original CNIC + certified copies
- Original degrees & transcripts
- Experience certificates (if any)
- Domicile and PRC certificate
- FPSC call letter/interview letter
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- Passport-size photographs (2-3)
🚫 Interview Mistakes to Avoid
- Never lie about qualifications or experience
- Do not speak negatively about past employers
- Avoid controversial political opinions
- Do not say “I don’t know” repeatedly — say “I’ll research further”
- Never check your phone during waiting period
- Do not interrupt the interviewer
- Avoid vague answers — be specific
- Do not show desperation about salary
📚
Best Books & Resources for FPSC Preparation
| Subject | Recommended Book / Resource | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| English | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
| English Grammar | English Grammar in Use | Raymond Murphy |
| General Knowledge | Jahangir’s World Times (GK annual) | Jahangir Publishers |
| Current Affairs | Dawn Newspaper (daily) + Monthly CA Magazine | Dawn Media Group |
| Pakistan Studies | Pakistan Affairs by Ikram Rabbani | Caravan Publishers |
| Islamic Studies | Islamic Studies MCQs by Imtiaz Shahid | Advanced Publishers |
| Mathematics | Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal | S. Chand Publications |
| Past Papers | FPSC 30 Years Past Papers (Solved) | Imtiaz Shahid / Caravan |
| Online Practice | fpsc.gov.pk (official syllabus) | FPSC Official |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there negative marking in FPSC screening test?
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Yes. FPSC deducts 0.25 marks (one-quarter mark) for each incorrect answer. Unattempted questions receive zero — neither positive nor negative. This means guessing randomly is statistically harmful if you have less than a 50% chance of being correct.
How many marks are required to pass the FPSC written test?
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FPSC does not announce a fixed passing threshold. Candidates are shortlisted based on merit — meaning the highest scorers qualify for the interview stage, regardless of a fixed cutoff. Typically, scoring 60-65+ out of 100 is considered competitive, but this varies by post and number of applicants. For popular posts, you may need 70+ to be shortlisted.
How long is the FPSC screening test?
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The standard FPSC MCQ-based screening test is 90 minutes for most general posts (BS-16 and BS-17). Some specialized posts may have 100 minutes. The paper has 100 MCQs worth 100 marks. Always verify the exact time for your specific post from the official FPSC syllabus released before the exam.
Can I apply for multiple posts in FPSC Ad 2/2026?
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Yes, you can apply for multiple posts in the same advertisement, but you must submit a separate online application form and pay the prescribed fee separately for each post. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria (qualification, age, experience) for each post you apply to.
What documents are required at the time of FPSC exam?
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At the exam center, you must bring your original CNIC and the FPSC Admission Certificate (roll number slip). Mobile phones and smart devices are strictly prohibited. You will be denied entry without your original CNIC. Bring a pen (usually black or blue ballpoint).
What is the age limit for FPSC general recruitment posts?
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The standard upper age limit is 30 years for BS-16 posts and 35 years for BS-17 and above. However, the Federal Government provides a blanket 5-year relaxation for all candidates. Additional relaxation applies for government servants with 2+ years service (up to 10 years), residents of Gilgit-Baltistan, AJK, and Tribal Areas (3-5 years), and other special categories. Always check the specific post’s eligibility in the official advertisement.
Where can I find the official FPSC syllabus for Ad 2/2026?
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FPSC uploads the official syllabus for each post on its website: fpsc.gov.pk under the “GR Syllabi” section. The syllabus for Ad 2/2026 posts will be published on the website before the exam date. Check fpsc.gov.pk → General Recruitment → Syllabi → 2026 for the most current information.
How long does the FPSC recruitment process take from exam to appointment?
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The FPSC general recruitment process typically takes 6 to 18 months from the written test date to final recommendation and appointment. This includes: written test results (1-3 months), interview scheduling (2-4 months), document verification and psychological assessment where applicable, final recommendations, and departmental appointment orders. Timelines vary significantly by post and department.
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⚠️ Beware of FPSC Fraud & Scams
FPSC conducts all recruitment strictly on merit. No agent, reference, or payment of any kind can influence selection. FPSC never contacts candidates via WhatsApp or unofficial numbers. All communications are through your registered email and fpsc.gov.pk. If anyone claims they can guarantee you a government job through FPSC for payment — report them to FIA. You can verify your application status only at fpsc.gov.pk.
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