Cracking the Code: Strategies for Acing Multiple Choice Questions in Federal Public Service Commission Exams

Multiple choice questions (MCQs) are a common format used in Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) exams. They require test takers to choose the correct answer from a set of options provided. While MCQs can seem straightforward, they can also be tricky if you’re not well-prepared. To help you crack the code and ace MCQs in your FPSC exams, here are some effective strategies to keep in mind:

Eliminate incorrect options:

To effectively eliminate multiple-choice answer choices, there are several strategies you can follow.

It is important to thoroughly understand the question by rereading it and highlighting keywords. Being mindful of words like “not” or “except” that can change the meaning of the question is essential.

Example: Which of the following is NOT a type of cloud?

a) Cumulus

b) Stratus

c) Cirrus

d) Nimbus

e) Earth

Explanation: In this example, the correct answer is “e) Earth.” By reading the question carefully and understanding the word “not,” you can eliminate options a, b, c, and d as they are all types of clouds, and select the correct answer.

Eliminate obviously wrong answers, either mentally or physically crossing them out, to narrow down your options and increase your chances of choosing the correct answer from the remaining choices.

Example: What is the chemical symbol for gold?

a) Au

b) Ag

c) Fe

d) H₂O

Explanation: The correct answer is a) Au, as Au is the chemical symbol for the element gold according to the periodic table. Options d) H₂O is obviously wrong as it represents the chemical symbols for a compound, not an element.

Watch out for absolutes like “never,” “all,” “every,” “always,” or “none,” as these are less likely to be correct and can be misleading.

Check for unrelated or extreme information in answer choices, ensuring that they are relevant to the question and not overly extreme or unrelated.

Use information from other questions or passages to help, as they may provide clues or jog your memory when you’re struggling with a particular question.

Consider whether there are penalties for wrong answers in the test, as this can impact your decision to make an educated guess or leave a question blank. By following these strategies, you can approach multiple-choice questions in a smart and effective way, increasing your chances of selecting the correct answers.

Use context clues:

Pay attention to the context of the question and use it to your advantage. Sometimes, the information provided in the question itself or in the accompanying passage can give you hints about the correct answer. Analyze the question and the options carefully, and consider the relationships between them.

Example: Which of the following is a mammal?

a) Eagle

b) Shark

c) Dolphin

d) Snake

Explanation: In this example, by considering the context and your knowledge of biology, you can identify that “c) Dolphin” is a mammal, as it is a marine animal known for being a mammal, unlike the other options which are not mammals.

Manage your time:

Time management is crucial in any exam. Avoid spending too much time on a single question. If you’re unsure about an answer, mark it for review and move on to the next question. Come back to it later with a fresh perspective. Allocate your time wisely, and don’t leave any questions unanswered. Click here for more details.

Use your knowledge:

Draw on your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. If you have prepared well for the exam, trust your instincts and rely on your knowledge to make informed choices. Avoid overthinking or second-guessing yourself, as it can lead to errors.

Be cautious with negative questions:

Pay attention to questions that use negative words like “not” or “except.” These questions can be tricky, as they require you to identify the option that does not fit the given criteria. Read them carefully to avoid falling into the trap of selecting the wrong answer.

Practice, practice, practice:

Practice makes perfect! Solve practice MCQs to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions that may appear in the exam. Review your mistakes and learn from them. Look for patterns or trends in the questions to better understand the exam’s style and difficulty level.

Stay calm and confident:

Lastly, remain calm and confident during the exam. Don’t let stress or anxiety cloud your judgment. Stay focused, trust your preparation, and approach each question with a clear mind. Remember that you have the knowledge and skills to answer the questions accurately.

Answering multiple choice questions accurately in FPSC exams requires careful reading, critical thinking, time management, and confidence in your knowledge. By following these strategies, you can improve your chances of success and achieve a high score on your exam.

Best of luck!