Hello all. I remember attempting PMS-PPSC exams in 2012. I secured high marks in my electives (Public Administration, Sociology and Mass Communication), including the compulsory subjects; however, I was declared a 'fail' in English Essay, with 18 marks (peanuts).

The topic I wrote on was 'How to combat the menace of terrorism'. I have a lot of interest in this domain and wrote a very to-the-point but factually-supported essay, with the proper use of terminology and supportive references. I would have been an officer by now had I not been declared "fail" in English.

A good friend of mine advised that I should "keep the examiner's level of aptitude and knowledge" in mind and should, in a way, try to "dumb things down and keep it as simple as possible". He also advised me against using too many complex analogies and examples which could prove cumbersome for the checker to understand.

Is this concept of "keeping the examiner's mental level" in mind the right way to pen an essay? Do we give up our intellectual freedom and focus more on the "technique" or writing? Also, one last question on this (sorry for making it too long), do we have to adopt a conventionalist approach while writing the essay or can we express our individual perspectives on things? For example, if the topic is on the History of Pakistan (supposing), will I be declared "fail" if I write something which is against the usual grub we're taught in our Pakistan Studies curriculum?

Looking forward to your enlightening comments.