Syllabus and Exam Pattern for SSC CGL Exam 2024
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination annually to recruit candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in Ministries/Departments/Organizations of the Government of India. The exam is conducted in four tiers: Tier I, Tier II, Tier III, and Tier IV.
Tier I: Computer-Based Examination
Duration: 2 hours
Number of Questions: 100
Total Marks: 200
Subjects:
- General Intelligence and Reasoning: This section tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and solve problems. It includes topics like analogies, similarities and differences, spatial visualization, problem-solving, decision-making, visual memory, etc.
- Quantitative Aptitude: This section tests the candidate’s mathematical abilities. It includes topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, etc.
- English Language: This section tests the candidate’s proficiency in the English language. It includes topics like grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, etc.
- General Awareness: This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, science, etc.
Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- There is a negative marking of 0.5 marks for each incorrect answer.
Syllabus:
| Subject | Topics |
|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | Analogies, Similarities and Differences, Spatial Visualization, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Visual Memory, etc. |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, etc. |
| English Language | Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, etc. |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, History, Geography, Science, etc. |
Tier II: Computer-Based Examination
Duration: 2 hours each paper
Number of Questions: 100 each paper
Total Marks: 200 each paper
Papers:
- Paper 1: General Studies
- Paper 2: Comprehension and Composition
Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- There is a negative marking of 0.5 marks for each incorrect answer.
Syllabus:
| Paper | Topics |
|---|---|
| Paper 1: General Studies | General Science, Current Events, History, Geography, Economics, Indian Polity, etc. |
| Paper 2: Comprehension and Composition | Reading Comprehension, Paragraph Writing, Letter Writing, Essay Writing, etc. |
Tier III: Descriptive Paper (Pen-and-Paper Based)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of Questions: 1
Total Marks: 100
Subject:
- Essay/Precis Writing: Candidates are required to write an essay or a precis on a given topic.
Marking Scheme:
- The paper is evaluated based on the candidate’s writing skills, content, and grammar.
Syllabus:
- Essay Writing
- Precis Writing
Tier IV: Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)
Duration: 2 hours
Number of Questions: 100
Total Marks: 100
Subjects:
- Computer Proficiency: This test assesses the candidate’s basic computer skills, including typing, MS Office, etc.
Marking Scheme:
- Each question carries 1 mark.
- There is no negative marking.
Syllabus:
- Basic Computer Operations
- MS Word
- MS Excel
- MS PowerPoint
Exam Pattern:
Table 1: Exam Pattern for SSC CGL 2024
| Tier | Paper | Duration | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tier I | General Intelligence and Reasoning | 2 hours | 100 | 200 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 2 hours | 100 | 200 | |
| English Language | 2 hours | 100 | 200 | |
| General Awareness | 2 hours | 100 | 200 | |
| Tier II | Paper 1: General Studies | 2 hours | 100 | 200 |
| Paper 2: Comprehension and Composition | 2 hours | 100 | 200 | |
| Tier III | Descriptive Paper | 1 hour 30 minutes | 1 | 100 |
| Tier IV | Computer Proficiency Test | 2 hours | 100 | 100 |
Important Points to Remember:
- The syllabus and exam pattern are subject to change at the discretion of the SSC.
- Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest updates.
- The exam is conducted in multiple languages, including Hindi and English.
- Candidates must clear Tier I to be eligible to appear for Tier II.
- Candidates must clear Tier II to be eligible to appear for Tier III.
- Candidates must clear Tier III to be eligible to appear for Tier IV.
- The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in all four tiers.
Preparation Tips:
- Start early: Begin your preparation well in advance of the exam.
- Understand the syllabus: Thoroughly go through the syllabus and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Refer to good study materials: Use reliable study materials, including textbooks, mock tests, and previous years’ papers.
- Practice regularly: Practice mock tests and previous years’ papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and time management.
- Focus on your weak areas: Pay special attention to your weak areas and work on improving them.
- Stay updated with current affairs: Keep yourself updated with current affairs by reading newspapers, magazines, and online resources.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to stay focused and motivated.
Resources:
- SSC Official Website: https://ssc.nic.in/
- NCERT Books: https://ncert.nic.in/
- Previous Years’ Papers: https://ssc.nic.in/
- Online Test Series: https://www.testbook.com/, https://www.gradeup.co/, https://www.oliveboard.in/
Conclusion:
The SSC CGL Exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can achieve their dream of securing a government job.
Table 2: SSC CGL Exam: Important Dates for 2024 (Tentative)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | January 2024 |
| Online Application | January 2024 – February 2024 |
| Admit Card Release | March 2024 |
| Tier I Exam | April 2024 – May 2024 |
| Tier II Exam | June 2024 – July 2024 |
| Tier III Exam | August 2024 |
| Tier IV Exam | September 2024 |
| Final Result | October 2024 |
Note: These dates are tentative and subject to change. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the SSC CGL Exam?
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University.
- Age limit varies depending on the post.
2. What is the exam pattern for the SSC CGL Exam?
- The exam is conducted in four tiers: Tier I, Tier II, Tier III, and Tier IV.
- Tier I is a computer-based exam consisting of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.
- Tier II is also a computer-based exam with two papers: General Studies and Comprehension and Composition.
- Tier III is a descriptive paper (pen-and-paper based) for essay/precis writing.
- Tier IV is a Computer Proficiency Test (CPT).
3. What is the syllabus for the SSC CGL Exam?
- The syllabus covers topics from General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, General Studies, and Computer Proficiency.
- Detailed syllabus is available on the official SSC website.
4. How many attempts are allowed for the SSC CGL Exam?
- The number of attempts allowed varies depending on the category of the candidate.
- General category candidates have a maximum of 4 attempts, while OBC candidates have 9 attempts, and SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts.
5. What is the selection process for the SSC CGL Exam?
- Candidates must clear all four tiers of the exam to be eligible for final selection.
- The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in all four tiers.
6. What is the salary for SSC CGL posts?
- The salary for SSC CGL posts varies depending on the post and the pay scale.
- The salary includes basic pay, dearness allowance, house rent allowance, and other allowances.
7. How can I prepare for the SSC CGL Exam?
- Start your preparation early and focus on understanding the syllabus.
- Refer to good study materials, including textbooks, mock tests, and previous years’ papers.
- Practice regularly and work on your weak areas.
- Stay updated with current affairs.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
8. What are some good resources for SSC CGL preparation?
- SSC Official Website
- NCERT Books
- Previous Years’ Papers
- Online Test Series (Testbook, Gradeup, Oliveboard)
9. When is the SSC CGL Exam 2024 expected to be held?
- The exact dates for the SSC CGL Exam 2024 are yet to be announced.
- Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest updates.
10. What are some tips for the SSC CGL Exam?
- Time management is crucial.
- Avoid negative marking by attempting only those questions you are confident about.
- Stay calm and focused during the exam.
- Read the instructions carefully before attempting any question.
- Review your answers before submitting the exam.