CSS: you vs you

Aqib Ullah

Despite trying hard to get CSS 2025 postponed and failing to halt it until the previous attempt’s results were announced, I appeared in the exam. This was my second attempt, while the results of my first are still pending. Seriously, I don’t know what the results will be, and I don’t care. I am a staunch believer of Quranic principle: “Do your hardwork to achieve your goals, and then leave the results to Allah.”

I want to share a few lessons I’ve learned after appearing twice in CSS. These lessons might be helpful for those having different concerns about the exam.  

1. CSS Is “You vs You”

If you think joining an academy or having a mentor will make you pass the exam, you’re living in a fool’s paradise. They can only show you the path, walking on it is your onus. No one will hold your hand till the finish line, especially when that finish line isn’t even visible.  

2. CSS Is Full of Surprises  

Every year, the exam pattern changes. In my first attempt, most questions were specific, focusing on a few key topics. This time, the questions were different, it felt like they were looking for bibliophiles. The lesson? Keep reading. The more books you flip through, the better prepared you’ll be.  

 3. The Syllabus Isn’t Difficult, It’s Just Long  

CSS isn’t hard because of it’s subjects but because of its vast syllabus. That’s why it demands consistency and determination. If you have the guts to follow a monotonous routine, then congratulations, you’re on the right track.  

4. Stop Wasting Time on Facebook Advice  

Don’t rely on getting advice from Facebook groups or focus on papers shared by different academies. Those notes, colorful markers, and highlighters they use.. Believe me, inside the exam hall, none of that will come in handy. You’ll barely have time to romanticise your answers. Be simple and to the point.

5. If You’re Planning for CSS 2026, Start Now  

Reading Dawn newspaper daily. Collect new words. The Editorial and Opinion sections will cover at least 60% of your preparation for international and national affairs.  

 Just Go for It  

Don’t complicate things by getting advice from everyone. As Harari said, “We humans are great at making things complicated for ourselves, and then we start looking for solutions.”

So stop overthinking, just start.