Passing the Civil Service is important. However, some Filipinos find it hard to pass these exams because they find the exam lengthy and according to them, some subjects are unfamiliar because they have not tackled it in their schooling.
By observation, most people find it difficult to pass the Math and English subjects of said exams. This is so because some questions there are not even tackled at college due to the different majors students take. High School curriculums, on the other hand, are diverse and some High Schools do not tackle them instead. So, in order to give you an idea on what to study, here are some helpful tips :
1. Know the Basic First You should know the basic first before going to the complicated ones. Since civil service exam questions are time-bounded, try to memorize multiplication and division tables because at times, you will not be allowed to use calculators nor allowed to bring cellular phones with you. And to tell you, you will be asked to multiply and divide long problems, long enough to take away your time for other questions to answer.
2 . Algebra Since almost everyone in college pass basic algebra, algebra questions are also present in the exams. Remember these rules on Algebra:
Addition: You can only add entities with same variable coefficient. For instance: You only can add a + 2a + 3a, thus, this equals to 6a. A variable with no coefficient like “a” is treated as having 1 as a coefficient.So, you cannot add: a + ab + ac.There are some cases that you have to factor out or group some coefficients and variable to enable you to add entities. For instance: (4a + 2b) + (2a + b). So factor out first 4a + 2b by 2 (2a + b) in order to add 2a + b on it. So you can add up everything now.
Multiplication: Powers of variables are added up to get the multiplication answer while numerical coefficient is multiplied right away. For example: 2a (a + b) = 2 a 2 + b
Subtraction: The same rules apply with addition but you have to remember that you can subtract right away entities with the same variables but the sign that should prevail is the bigger number among the two. For instance: 4a – 2a = 2a. The answer 2a has a positive sign because the bigger number 4a is positive. On the reverse side: -4a + 2a = -2a. The answer is negative because the bigger number 4a has a negative sign.
Division: This is the reverse of multiplication, so subtract instead of add coefficient with same variables. For instance: a 2 – a= a.
3. English English exam questions usually comprise of vocabulary, grammar, paragraph arrangement and a little of analyzing paragraphs. To improve your vocabulary, just read and read strange words in English and look at the meaning in the dictionary. There are basic grammar rules that you should know:
Read Also: Tips on how to pass the Civil Service Exam
Use capital letters for proper nouns and at the beginning of a sentence. Proper nouns are usually names of persons and places like Mike, Sheila, Manila, Quezon City and others.
For every sentence there should be one noun and one verb. Nouns are names of things, places, and animals. Verbs on the other hand are action words such as play, sing and dance; If an apostrophe is needed make sure to use it to show ownership. For singular, add the apostrophe before the s and plural after the s: Example: Sheila’s, Kids’; Should a line of thought require a list make sure to separate each article by a comma; Make sure case and number of the subject and the verb match. It the noun is singular the verb should be singular as well. Add s on the verb if the verb is singular. Remove the s if the verb is plural. For instance: Maria plays; they dance; When connecting two lines of thought in a sentence, use a conjunction to make things make better sense; If you have two lines of thought that are similar feel free to use a semicolon to combine them; A conjunction word should not be used to start a sentence; Try not to use double negatives. Such as no not at all; Avoid repeating lines of thought in sentences; Make sure paragraphs are complete, having three to five sentences. Read Also: Civil Service Exam CSE Reviewers [Free Download]
The Civil Service Examination (CSE) in the Philippines is a pivotal step for individuals aspiring to enter government service. Below are common questions and answers to guide you through the process:
1. What is the Civil Service Examination? The CSE is a standardized test administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to assess the readiness of individuals for government positions. It ensures that candidates possess the necessary competencies for public service roles.
2. Who is eligible to take the CSE? To be eligible, applicants must:
Be a Filipino citizen. Be at least 18 years old on the application date. Have good moral character. Not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense involving dishonesty, moral turpitude, or other related crimes. Not have been dishonorably discharged from military service or dismissed for cause from any civilian position in the government. 3. What are the types of CSE? The CSE is offered in two levels:
Professional Level : For positions requiring a bachelor’s degree.Subprofessional Level : For clerical and other positions not requiring a bachelor’s degree. 4. How can I apply for the CSE? Applications are typically submitted in person at CSC Regional or Field Offices. The process involves:
Filling out the application form. Submitting required documents (e.g., valid ID, photographs). Paying the examination fee. For detailed application procedures, refer to the CSC’s official guidelines.
5. What is the coverage of the CSE? The exam covers:
Professional Level :
Verbal Ability (English and Filipino) Analytical Ability Numerical Ability General Information (Philippine Constitution, Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, peace and human rights issues, environment management, and related topics) Subprofessional Level :
Verbal Ability (English and Filipino) Numerical Ability Clerical Ability General Information Read: Civil Service Examination Requirements And Procedure
6. How is the CSE scored, and what is the passing rate? The passing rate for both levels is 80%. Scores are based on the number of correct answers, with no penalty for incorrect responses.
7. When are the CSE schedules and application periods? The CSC announces examination schedules and application periods annually. For instance, the 2025 CSE-PPT is scheduled for March 2 and August 10, with application periods from November 19, 2024, to January 3, 2025, and May 12 to June 11, 2025, respectively.
8. How can I prepare for the CSE? Preparation tips include:
Reviewing subjects covered in the exam. Taking practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format. Studying consistently over a period leading up to the exam. Utilizing review materials and attending review sessions if possible. 9. What should I bring on the examination day? On exam day, bring:
Valid ID (original and photocopy). Application receipt or examination permit. Black ballpen(s). Personal snacks and water (subject to examination center policies). 10. How and when are the results released? Results are typically released within 60 days after the exam. They are posted on the CSC website and at CSC Regional Offices.
11. What happens after passing the CSE? Successful examinees receive a Certificate of Eligibility, qualifying them for appointment to first and second-level positions in the government, provided they meet other qualifications.
12. Are there exemptions from taking the CSE? Certain individuals may be granted civil service eligibility without taking the exam, such as:
Bar and board exam passers. Honor graduates. Individuals who have completed specific training programs. For a comprehensive list of exemptions, consult the CSC’s official policies.
For the most accurate and updated information, always refer to the official Civil Service Commission website or contact their offices directly.
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