The Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) conducts competitive examinations for various government positions in Punjab, Pakistan. Whether you are applying for lecturer posts, assistant roles, or inspector-level positions, understanding the PPSC syllabus is the key to success. The syllabus provides a roadmap to the exam structure, marking scheme, and subject distribution — helping you prepare strategically and effectively.
Understanding the PPSC Syllabus
The ppsc interview date varies according to the post and department. Each exam includes a written test, often followed by an interview. The written part may be subject-specific (for technical or academic posts like Lecturer or Assistant Engineer) or general competitive (for administrative roles like Tehsildar, Assistant, or PMS).
Generally, the PPSC written test is of 100 marks, with 90 minutes duration. It consists mostly of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) covering the following key areas:
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Subject-related knowledge
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General knowledge
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Pakistan Studies
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Islamic Studies (or Ethics for non-Muslims)
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Current affairs
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Geography
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Basic mathematics
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Everyday science
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English grammar and comprehension
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Computer knowledge (for specific posts)
PPSC Syllabus for Common Categories
1. PPSC Lecturer Syllabus
For Lecturer Jobs, 80% of the paper focuses on the major subject (like English, Urdu, Physics, Chemistry, etc.), and 20% covers general knowledge.
Example: Lecturer English
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English Literature (Drama, Poetry, Novel, Prose, Literary Criticism)
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Linguistics
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Grammar and Composition
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Teaching Methodology (for education-related positions)
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General Knowledge (Pakistan Affairs, Current Affairs, Islamiat, etc.)
Example: Lecturer Computer Science
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Programming (C++, Java, Python)
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Database Systems
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Computer Networks
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Software Engineering
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Operating Systems
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Web Technologies
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General Knowledge Section
2. PPSC General Recruitment Syllabus
For posts like Assistant, Stenographer, Inspector, Data Entry Operator, and Junior Clerk, the test usually includes:
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General Knowledge – 20%
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Pakistan Studies – 10%
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Current Affairs – 10%
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Islamic Studies / Ethics – 10%
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English Grammar – 20%
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Computer Basics – 10%
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Everyday Science – 10%
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Mathematics – 10%
This makes it an exam that evaluates your awareness, language ability, and basic analytical skills.
3. PPSC PMS (Provincial Management Service) Syllabus
The PMS exam has a broader syllabus as it recruits officers for administrative posts. It includes:
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Six compulsory subjects (Essay, English, Urdu, Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, General Knowledge)
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Three optional subjects (chosen from different groups like Law, Political Science, Economics, History, etc.)
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Interview/Viva Voce
The total marks are 1200 (written + interview). The PMS syllabus demands months of preparation, as it tests both analytical and writing skills.
4. Technical and Professional Posts
For specialized fields (like Engineers, Doctors, or Legal Officers), 80% of the syllabus is technical, and 20% covers general knowledge.
For instance:
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Engineer Post: Engineering concepts, design principles, mechanics, fluid dynamics.
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Medical Officer: Anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and medical ethics.
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Law Officer: Constitution, Civil/Criminal Laws, Evidence, and Legal Procedures.
How to Prepare According to the PPSC Syllabus
Understanding the syllabus is the first step, but strategic preparation is what brings success.
Step 1: Download the Official Syllabus
Visit the official PPSC website at www.ppsc.gop.pk and check the syllabus section for your applied post. PPSC uploads PDF syllabus files for each job advertisement.
Step 2: Create a Study Plan
Divide your study hours between subject-related topics and general knowledge. Keep daily reading habits for current affairs and English vocabulary.
Step 3: Practice Past Papers
Go through PPSC past papers and practice MCQs from previous years. It helps you understand exam trends and frequently asked questions.
Step 4: Attempt Mock Tests
Online quizzes and practice tests can help improve speed and accuracy — two critical elements in a 90-minute paper.
Step 5: Stay Updated
Keep checking PPSC’s announcements for syllabus updates, as they occasionally revise content depending on job nature.
Importance of the PPSC Syllabus
The syllabus serves as the foundation for exam preparation. It defines what to study — and more importantly, what not to. Candidates who rely only on guesswork often waste time on irrelevant topics. On the other hand, those who strictly follow the PPSC syllabus can target their efforts efficiently and score higher.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where can I download the official PPSC syllabus?
You can download it directly from the official website: www.ppsc.gop.pk under the “Syllabus” section.
Q2. Does every PPSC job have a different syllabus?
Yes, the syllabus varies depending on the job category. Academic posts (like lecturers) have subject-specific tests, while administrative posts focus on general knowledge and reasoning.
Q3. What percentage of questions are from general knowledge?
Usually, 20% of the paper covers general knowledge topics such as Pakistan Affairs, Islamic Studies, and Current Affairs.
Q4. Is there negative marking in PPSC exams?
Yes, most PPSC exams have 0.25 marks deducted for each incorrect answer. Always attempt carefully.
Q5. How long should I prepare before the PPSC exam?
At least 2–3 months of dedicated study is recommended, depending on your background and familiarity with the subject.
Q6. What is the passing score for PPSC exams?
Generally, candidates must score 40 marks (40%) or above to qualify for the next stage (interview or written merit).
Q7. Can I use FPSC preparation books for PPSC exams?
Yes, many subjects overlap, but always review the PPSC-specific syllabus for accuracy.
