Download International Relations CSS Past Papers

The International Relations (IR) paper is one of the most chosen optional subjects in the CSS exam. It covers theories, world politics, global conflicts, and international organizations. For serious aspirants targeting high scores in CSS, IR past papers are an essential part of preparation.

By solving past papers, you can understand how questions are framed, how topics evolve, and what type of analytical responses are expected. Whether you are a beginner or a repeater, studying International Relations CSS past papers gives your preparation a sharper edge.

Why Solving Past Papers Is Important

• It helps you identify commonly repeated topics
• You learn to organize your answers with clear structure
• You improve time management by solving within limits
• You understand the examiner’s pattern and expectations
• You test your preparation and apply theoretical concepts

Common Topics in IR Past Papers

• Major IR theories like Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism
• Globalization and its impact on sovereignty
• Role of international organizations such as UN, IMF, and WTO
• Pakistan’s foreign policy with major powers
• Conflicts in the Middle East and South Asia
• International law and nuclear proliferation
• Cold War, Post-Cold War order, and emerging multipolar world

Best Books for IR Preparation

To cover both theory and current developments, use the following books:

• International Relations by Joshua Goldstein
• Global Politics by Andrew Heywood
• Pakistan’s Foreign Policy by Abdul Sattar
• IR Theory and Practice by Jackson and Sørensen
• JWT IR Book for CSS aspirants

These books provide coverage of both Paper I and Paper II of IR. Use at least two sources per topic to gain multiple perspectives.

Useful Notes and Study Resources

Besides books and past papers, quality notes and summaries can boost your preparation:

• Toppers’ IR notes shared on CSS forums
• Lecture slides and summaries from reputable academies
• Online IR crash courses and videos
• Model answers and solved papers
• Editorials from DAWN, Foreign Affairs, and Al Jazeera

Make sure your notes are regularly updated and topic-wise organized.

How to Study IR Using Past Papers

Follow this method to maximize your learning:

• Read one topic from 2–3 different sources
• Create short bullet point notes
• Search for relevant past paper questions
• Solve questions under exam conditions
• Review your answers and compare with high-scoring responses
• Revise and update notes with current examples and developments

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Writing lengthy answers without analysis
• Relying on old notes without updating facts
• Ignoring current international issues
• Memorizing theories without understanding application
• Leaving out important thinkers and examples

Related CSS Subjects for Internal Linking

• Exploring the World of English
• Winning Essays for CSS
• English Grammar and Composition
• Encyclopedia of General Science for CSS
• Who is Who and What is What
• CSS Current Affairs
• Pakistan Affairs
• Pakistan: A Historical and Contemporary Look
• Islami Nazriya-e-Hayat
• Islamic Studies for CSS and PMS
• Global Politics
• CSS IR Notes
• Political Science Theory and Practice
• Political Science
• Economics
• CSS Economics
• Principles of Accounting
• Auditing
• Computer Science
• Fundamentals of Computers
• Sociology
• CSS Sociology
• International Law
• CSS International Law
• A History of Western Philosophy
• Philosophy Made Simple
• Mass Communication
• Journalism for All

International Relations is more than a subject. It is a lens to understand the world and a tool to score high in CSS. Past papers help you track trends, build analytical thinking, and practice time-bound answers.

Combine your paper solving with deep reading, updated notes, and strategic revision to master the subject fully.