[QUOTE=umark;1042581]After sleeping on it, I think I have come to terms with the result. It wasn't meant to be and it is what it is. One has to reconcile with the facts and move on.
But what frustrates me is that after spending 2.5 years on CSS, I am still as clueless as I was when I started this journey in 2015. I came back from the United Kingdom due to my sheer passion for Foreign Services. I incorporated everything I was told or asked to; join academies, English professors, practice, mock exams, how to write an answer, headings, outlines and yet here I am after 2 attempts, simply clueless as to why I failed. A "well-wisher" called me last night and told me that I should definitely go for the third attempt but I just feel like I don't have anything else to give or add to my preparation which could make a difference this time around.
I will also take this opportunity to urge all the dreamers to keep dreaming and work towards realizing your dreams. If you want to do CSS, please do it. Maybe the system is rigged but if there is anyone who can bring about a change, it's us. This system needs to be infused with new blood. Don't let anyone tell you that your dreams and aspirations are not valid. Make it happen!! Best of luck!!!:)):vic[/QUOTE]
My friend has cleared in her third attempt...i know many people who have cleared in their third attempt so i would say go for it u never know what universe has instored for u Good luck:)

[QUOTE=Awesum Farhan;1042588]I rarely post anything. However, after reading your post, I would say you "One more time (Edison)". I, myself, could not get through, but i am committed, more determined, and looking for something bigger than i expected this time. Who knows, reward is merely a step ahead.[/QUOTE]

Haha....Thank you!! I don't think I am any less determined or committed than I was before. But I'd be lying if I said that this whole process hasn't played with my self-confidence. I have had my essays crossed out at a mere glance by CSP Officers turned CSS gurus and mind you, the same essays were appreciated by retired government english professors. I have had to listen to comments such as "You need to dumb it down". I didn't know that was a thing but okay. So yeah, I've had my fair share of moments of self-doubt. Nonetheless, I am an optimistic person so it's all good. I have learned so much through this experience and made some great study buddies/friends in the way, something I will always cherish. :)

[QUOTE=Theodosius;1042606]Umark are you going to take 3rd in 2018 or latter or never[/QUOTE]

I will not be availing my third attempt, unfortunately. Best of luck with your next attempt. :))

[QUOTE=umark;1042615]I will not be availing my third attempt, unfortunately. Best of luck with your next attempt. :))[/QUOTE]

can I ask the reason? because I too am thinking same

Plz suggest good book for IR which covers most of syllabus. Need help. Thanks in advance.

Nish;
JWT book is enough. moreover, try focusing more on essay and precis.

[QUOTE=umark;1042613]Haha....Thank you!! I don't think I am any less determined or committed than I was before. But I'd be lying if I said that this whole process hasn't played with my self-confidence. I have had my essays crossed out at a mere glance by CSP Officers turned CSS gurus and mind you, the same essays were appreciated by retired government english professors. I have had to listen to comments such as "You need to dumb it down". I didn't know that was a thing but okay. So yeah, I've had my fair share of moments of self-doubt. Nonetheless, I am an optimistic person so it's all good. I have learned so much through this experience and made some great study buddies/friends in the way, something I will always cherish. :)[/QUOTE]
I was just bucking you up, and i was not saying it ironically. I never doubted your commitment or determination. I just wanted to say that you have gone through all the way , and somewhat near to your destination. Don't quite.! Give yourself another chance. Good Luck to you.
Regards.

[QUOTE=Theodosius;1042617]can I ask the reason? because I too am thinking same[/QUOTE]

No particular reason to be honest. I gave it my all but it clearly wasn't enough. Maybe iss mein merey Rab ki koi hikmat hogi. Just moving on to avail other opportunities in life.

Brother i left UK in 2013, gave 4 years of my life to competetive exams. Passed PMS twice and couldnt secure allocation. Flunked css twice. It was essay in css 2015 and this time it is going to be precise. Well im going to appear again with more determination. I am not the one who gives up so easily. May be God wants to test me.

Is Comparative politics & international relations by Prakash chandra a good book for CSS IR both papers? Waiting for kind response. Regards.