Preparation for Special CSS 2020 and Academy selection
 

Hello I am mechanical engineer and want to appear for Special CSS 2020 exam in Nov/Dec through Punjab minority seats. I have 5 months for preparation and lot of time to spare.

My optional subjects are
International Relations
International Law
US history (I know US history and I.Law are being targeted for two years but due to shortage of time, this combination seem well to go with IR)
Punjabi

Can you please answer my two questions
1. Advise me on my optional subjects if I can improve this combination? and another subject?

2. Should I join online academy? For 12 subjects or selective subjects?
I was thinking of taking English essay and preci classes along with IR, IL and may be US history.

Your combination is fine as long as you are okay with it. I don't believe in targeted subjects as long as you have prepared well. The way of writing and how you present your arguments can be targeted, not all the aspirants or the whole subject. CSS is based on individuality.
Joining academy for Essay and Precis is prudent- if you need it. For other subjects, it is your choice based on how comfortable you are studying on your own. If you feel the need for an academy, go for it. However, if you can prepare said subjects yourself, do not join academies, except for English.

IR, IL and US are a good combo. You will definitely dive into the deep end of the knowledge pool.
Punjabi is good, language subjects often prove to satisfy their authors.
Another 'swing' subject choice could be Gender Studies (+ paired well with sociology) or philosophy whichever itches your interest.

Start your note writing and have a go at 3 past papers; Only pursue academies if you have a lot of time to spare or are extremely unsatisfied with your learning ways. I think the only good that comes from academies are their mock exams/mock interviews. Everyone has a different rhythm of learning.
Just read [B][U]ALOT[/U][/B], essays, newspapers, magazines and articles - will grip your mind with good vocab and writing styles - then practice a bit of essay writing.

Good Luck!