PPSC Past Papers 2025

To find the synonym of 'Avocation', we must understand its meaning. An 'avocation' is a hobby or minor occupation, something done in addition to one's main job, usually for pleasure.

• B. Hobby: This is the correct synonym. A 'hobby' is an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure. This perfectly matches the definition of avocation.
• A. Duty: A 'duty' is a moral or legal obligation or responsibility. This is the opposite of an avocation, which is typically voluntary and for enjoyment.
• C. Obligatory: This adjective means required by a legal, moral, or other rule; compulsory. Like 'duty', it implies a requirement rather than a choice for pleasure.
• D. None of these: This is incorrect because 'Hobby' is a direct synonym for 'Avocation'.

Hazrat Ayesha (RA) is renowned for narrating the most hadiths among women from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As his wife, she lived closely with him for many years, observing his actions, sayings, and approvals, which are crucial sources of Islamic law and guidance. Her exceptional memory and deep understanding of religious matters made her a primary source for many companions and subsequent generations.

• Hazrat Fatima (RA), the Prophet's daughter, narrated fewer hadiths due to her different role and shorter life after her father.
• Hazrat Hafsa (RA), another wife of the Prophet, also narrated hadiths but not as extensively as Hazrat Ayesha (RA).
• Hazrat Khadija (RA), the Prophet's first wife, passed away early in the prophetic mission, before many hadiths were widely established or narrated.

The question asks about the first Pakistani transgender lawyer. Nisha Rao holds this distinction, having been called to the bar in Pakistan. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for transgender rights and representation in the country.

• Nisha Rao successfully completed her law degree and became the first transgender individual to be licensed as a lawyer in Pakistan, demonstrating resilience and breaking societal barriers.
• Christine Jorgensen was an American who was one of the first people to undergo gender confirmation surgery, a pioneer in transgender history but not Pakistani.
• Joyita Mondal is India's first transgender judge, a notable figure in a neighboring country.
• Babor Masih is not recognized as the first Pakistani transgender lawyer.

The question identifies the largest global producer of uranium, a vital resource for nuclear power generation. Kazakhstan is the correct answer, consistently holding the top position as the world's largest uranium producer. Its extensive reserves and advanced in-situ leach mining techniques contribute significantly to global supply.

• Canada and Australia are also major uranium-producing nations with substantial reserves, but they typically rank behind Kazakhstan in annual production.
• Russia is a significant player in the nuclear industry, particularly in uranium enrichment and reactor technology, but it is not the largest producer of raw uranium ore.

This highlights the importance of understanding global resource distribution.

The correct answer is Should. This question tests knowledge of common English idioms and modal verbs. The proverb "Who lives in a glass house should not throw stones" means that people who have faults or weaknesses themselves should not criticize others. The modal verb "should" is used to express advice, recommendation, or moral obligation, which perfectly fits the context of the proverb.

• A: Has is grammatically incorrect in this context and does not convey the intended meaning of advice.
• C: Must implies a strong necessity or command, which is too forceful for the advisory nature of the proverb. "Should" is softer and more appropriate for giving counsel.
• D: None of these is incorrect as "Should" is the precise word.

The Makkan period, which began with the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), lasted for 13 years. This foundational period was characterized by the initial call to Islam, the establishment of monotheism, and significant persecution faced by the early Muslims. It concluded with the Hijra (migration) to Madinah, marking a pivotal shift in the development of the Islamic community.

• The options of 10 years, 11 years, and 12 years are incorrect durations for this crucial phase of the Prophet's mission. The precise duration of 13 years is historically established and marks the period from the first revelation until the migration to Madinah.

Pakistan established diplomatic relations with the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1962. This was a crucial step in building economic and political ties between Pakistan and the European bloc, which later evolved into the European Union. The EEC was formed in 1957, and formal relations with non-member states like Pakistan began to solidify in the early 1960s. Options A (1951) is too early as the EEC was still in its formative stages. Option B (1965) is incorrect because relations were already established by then. Option D is false as 1962 is the correct year.

The question asks for the location of Satpara and Phandar, which are prominent geographical and tourist sites. Gilgit-Baltistan is the correct answer. Satpara Lake is a natural lake near Skardu, and Phandar Valley is a picturesque valley in Ghizer District, both situated within the beautiful mountainous region of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.

• Kashmir is a broader historical region, but specifically, these locations fall under the administrative control of Gilgit-Baltistan.
• AJK (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) is a separate administrative territory of Pakistan, distinct from Gilgit-Baltistan.
• Punjab is a plains province in central Pakistan, geographically far removed from the high-altitude, mountainous terrain where Satpara and Phandar are found.

Knowing the geography of Pakistan's northern areas is essential.

The correct answer is They attacked me. This question assesses understanding of transitive verbs and correct preposition usage. The verb "attack" is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object without the need for a preposition. Therefore, saying "attacked on me" is grammatically incorrect.

• A: They attacked upon me. Incorrectly adds the preposition "upon," which is unnecessary.
• B: They attacked to me. Incorrectly adds the preposition "to," which is not used with "attack" in this context.
• C: They attacked on me. This is the original incorrect sentence, demonstrating the common mistake of adding an unnecessary preposition.

The Bani Israel (Children of Israel) settled in Egypt during the time of Prophet Yousaf (AS). The Quran narrates the compelling story of Prophet Yousaf (Joseph), who was sold into slavery in Egypt, rose to a position of power, and eventually brought his entire family, including his father Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) and his brothers (the progenitors of the Bani Israel), to settle in Egypt during a severe famine. This event marked the beginning of their long stay in Egypt.

• Prophet Ibrahim (AS) lived much earlier and did not lead the Bani Israel to settle in Egypt.
• Prophet Musa (AS) led the Bani Israel out of Egypt, not into it, centuries later.
• Prophet Dawood (AS) lived much later, after the Bani Israel had left Egypt and established their kingdom in Canaan.

Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed was posthumously awarded Pakistan's highest military gallantry award, the Nishan-e-Haider, for his exceptional bravery during the Kargil War in 1999. He displayed immense courage and leadership in defending his post against multiple Indian attacks, ultimately sacrificing his life. Options B (1982 War) is incorrect as there was no major war involving Pakistan in 1982. Options C (1971 War) and D (1965 War) are incorrect because while these wars saw many heroes, Karnal Sher Khan's specific act of valor occurred much later during the Kargil conflict.

The question seeks the alternative name for K2, the world's second-highest mountain. Mount Godwin-Austen is the correct answer. K2 was named after Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen, a British surveyor who explored the region in the mid-19th century. It is part of the Karakoram mountain range.

• Kanchenjunga is the world's third-highest mountain, located in the Himalayas.
• Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, an inactive volcano in Tanzania.
• Mount Everest is the world's highest mountain, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas.

Understanding the nomenclature of major global peaks is a key aspect of geography.

The correct answer is Was a letter written by Ayesha to her sister? This question requires changing an active voice interrogative sentence in the Past Simple tense into its passive voice equivalent. The structure for a passive interrogative in Past Simple is: Was/Were + object + past participle + by + subject?

• B: Did a letter wrote by Ayesha to her sister? is incorrect because it uses "did" with "wrote" (incorrect past tense form for passive) and maintains an active-like structure.
• C: Was a letter being written by Ayesha to her sister? would be the passive form for a Past Continuous active sentence (e.g., "Was Ayesha writing a letter?").
• D: None of these is incorrect as option A is the correct transformation.

The designation Ahsan-ul-Qasas (the best of stories) is related to Prophet Yousaf (AS). This title is explicitly mentioned in the Quran itself, in Surah Yusuf (Chapter 12, Verse 3), where Allah (SWT) describes the narrative of Prophet Yusuf as the most beautiful and comprehensive story. The Surah uniquely presents the entire life story of a single prophet in one continuous chapter, offering profound lessons in patience, trust in Allah, and divine planning.

• While the stories of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Prophet Musa (AS), and Prophet Dawood (AS) are also significant and inspiring, none are specifically referred to as "Ahsan-ul-Qasas" in the Quran in the same manner as the story of Prophet Yousaf (AS).

Pakistan\'s first constitution was actually promulgated on 23 March 1956, not 1956. Assuming the question refers to the enforcement date of Pakistan\'s first constitution, 23 March is the correct day. This date is highly significant in Pakistan\'s history, as it is celebrated as Pakistan Day, commemorating the Lahore Resolution of 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution. Option A (14 August) is Pakistan\'s Independence Day. Option B (8 June) is not associated with the enforcement of Pakistan\'s constitution. Therefore, 23 March is the accurate date for the enforcement of the first constitution.

The question asks for the approximate length of the border between Pakistan and China. 600 km is the correct approximate length. The border, primarily traversing the challenging Karakoram mountain range, is officially measured at approximately 596 kilometers, which is commonly rounded to 600 km.

• 400 km and 500 km are significantly shorter than the actual length of the border.
• None of these is incorrect because 600 km is a widely accepted approximation for the border's length.

This border is strategically important for both nations, facilitating trade and regional connectivity.

The correct answer is Conceited. This question tests vocabulary, specifically the ability to identify antonyms. The word MODEST means humble, unpretentious, or not excessively proud of oneself. Therefore, its antonym should convey the opposite meaning.

• B: Conceited means excessively proud of oneself; vain. This is a direct and accurate antonym for modest.
• A: Unhappy means not happy, which is unrelated to modesty.
• C: Sullen means bad-tempered and sulky; gloomy. This describes a mood, not a personality trait related to humility.
• D: Glum means looking or feeling dejected; gloomy. Similar to sullen, this describes a mood and is not an antonym for modest.

The Surah recited at the conquest of Makkah is Surah Al-Fath (The Victory). This Surah was revealed after the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, which, despite initial appearances, was a strategic victory that paved the way for the eventual peaceful conquest of Makkah. It speaks of the clear victory granted to the Prophet (PBUH) and the believers, and the forgiveness of sins.

• Surah Al-Fatiha is the opening chapter of the Quran, recited in every prayer, and not specifically tied to the conquest.
• Surah Al-Nasr speaks of the coming of Allah's help and victory, and people entering Islam in crowds, often associated with the final stages of the Prophet's mission and his impending death, but Al-Fath is more directly linked to the conquest itself.
• Surah Al-Ikhlas is a short, powerful Surah emphasizing the oneness of Allah.

The First Muslim Economic Conference was held in 1949 during the tenure of Pakistan's first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan. This conference was a pivotal event aimed at formulating economic policies and fostering economic cooperation among Muslim nations in the early years of Pakistan's independence. It laid foundational groundwork for future economic strategies. Option A (1950) is incorrect as the first conference occurred earlier. Option C (1948) is too early, as the country was still grappling with immediate post-partition challenges. Therefore, 1949 is the precise and correct year for this significant event.

The question asks for the province where the Thal Desert is located. Punjab is the correct answer. The Thal Desert is a large, arid region situated in the Punjab province of Pakistan, specifically between the Indus and Jhelum rivers. It is known for its unique sandy landscape and agricultural challenges.

• Sindh province is home to the Thar Desert, which is distinct from the Thal Desert.
• KPK (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) is a mountainous province in the northwest of Pakistan and does not contain the Thal Desert.
• Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by area, has its own desert regions, such as the Kharan Desert, but not the Thal Desert.

Accurate knowledge of Pakistan's provincial geography is crucial.

The correct answer is Boils. This question tests knowledge of common English proverbs. The proverb "A watched pot never boils" means that time seems to pass more slowly when one is waiting impatiently for something to happen. The verb "boils" refers to the specific action of water reaching its boiling point, which is the core concept of the proverb.

• A: Cooked is in the past tense and does not fit the present tense, continuous nature implied by the proverb's meaning.
• B: Steams is an action related to boiling water but is not the specific verb used in this well-known idiom. The proverb focuses on the act of reaching the boiling point.
• D: None of these is incorrect because "Boils" is the correct and universally accepted word in this proverb.

The correct answer is 279 AH. Imam Tirmizi, full name Abu Isa Muhammad ibn Isa at-Tirmizi, was a renowned Persian Islamic scholar and collector of hadith. He is best known for his compilation of hadith known as Jami' at-Tirmizi, which is one of the six canonical hadith collections in Sunni Islam. He passed away in the year 279 AH (corresponding to 892 AD) in Tirmidh, located in present-day Uzbekistan. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the historically accurate year of his demise.

Asif Ali Zardari was the President of Pakistan when the landmark 18th Constitutional Amendment was passed in 2010. This amendment was a significant legislative achievement, restoring the 1973 Constitution to its original parliamentary form, curtailing presidential powers, and removing the president's authority to unilaterally dissolve parliament. Option A (Mamnoon Hussain) became President much later (2013-2018). Option B (Pervez Musharraf) was President before Zardari, resigning in 2008. Option D (Arif Alvi) became President even later (2018-present). Thus, Asif Ali Zardari was the head of state during this crucial constitutional reform.

The question asks about the instrument used to measure earthquakes, which falls under the foundational concept of seismology. The correct answer is Seismograph.

• A Seismograph is an instrument that detects and records seismic waves generated by earthquakes, providing data on their magnitude and location.
• Barometer (Option A) is used to measure atmospheric pressure, not seismic activity.
• Hygrometer (Option C) is used to measure humidity in the atmosphere.
• Therefore, options A and C are incorrect as they measure different environmental parameters.

The correct answer is Stops.

• Why 'Stops' is correct: In English grammar, when a sentence contains a future tense in the main clause (e.g., "We will go out") and a time clause introduced by conjunctions like "when," "as soon as," or "until," the verb in the time clause is typically in the simple present tense, even though it refers to a future action. This is a common rule for future time clauses.

• Why other options are incorrect:

  • 'Would Stop' is generally used for hypothetical situations or past habits, not for future time clauses of this type.
  • 'Stopped' is the past tense and does not fit the future context established by "We will go out."
  • 'Stopping' is a present participle and would require an auxiliary verb (e.g., "is stopping") to form a continuous tense, but even then, "when it is stopping raining" is grammatically awkward and incorrect in this specific construction.