Exam Pattern of SSC CPO Exam 2024
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam annually to recruit candidates for various Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’ posts in Ministries/Departments of the Government of India. The exam is conducted in four tiers:
Tier 1: Computer-Based Exam
- Duration: 2 hours
- Number of Questions: 100
- Marking Scheme: 2 marks for each correct answer, 0.5 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Sections:
- General Intelligence and Reasoning: 25 questions
- Quantitative Aptitude: 25 questions
- English Language: 25 questions
- General Awareness: 25 questions
Table 1: Tier 1 Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Language | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Tier 2: Computer-Based Exam
- Duration: 2 hours for each paper
- Number of Questions: 100 for each paper
- Marking Scheme: 2 marks for each correct answer, 0.5 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Papers:
- Paper 1: Comprehension and Composition: This paper assesses the candidate’s understanding and comprehension of English language, and their ability to write effectively.
- Paper 2: General Studies: This paper covers topics related to Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Current Affairs.
Table 2: Tier 2 Exam Pattern
| Paper | Section | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Comprehension and Composition | 100 | 200 |
| Paper 2 | General Studies | 100 | 200 |
Tier 3: Descriptive Paper (Pen-and-Paper Based)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Number of Questions: 1
- Marking Scheme: 100 marks for the essay
- Content: Candidates are required to write an essay on a given topic. The essay should be well-structured, grammatically correct, and should demonstrate the candidate’s ability to express their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.
Tier 4: Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Content: The CPT assesses the candidate’s proficiency in using computers. It includes tests on basic computer operations, typing speed, and data entry skills.
Note: The CPT is only conducted for the post of Sub-Inspector (SI) in Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
Syllabus for SSC CPO Exam 2024
Tier 1:
- General Intelligence and Reasoning: Analogies, Similarities and Differences, Space Visualization, Problem Solving, Analytical Reasoning, Judgment, Decision Making, Visual Memory, Discrimination, Observation, Relationship Concepts, Arithmetical Reasoning, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Number Systems, Averages, Percentages, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest and Compound Interest, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Ratio and Proportion, Mixtures and Alligations, Data Interpretation.
- English Language: Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Correction, Synonyms and Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases, One-word Substitution, Error Detection.
- General Awareness: Current Events, History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, Culture, Sports.
Tier 2:
- Paper 1: Comprehension and Composition: This paper assesses the candidate’s understanding and comprehension of English language, and their ability to write effectively.
- Paper 2: General Studies: This paper covers topics related to Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Current Affairs.
Tier 3:
- Descriptive Paper: Candidates are required to write an essay on a given topic. The essay should be well-structured, grammatically correct, and should demonstrate the candidate’s ability to express their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.
Tier 4:
- Computer Proficiency Test: The CPT assesses the candidate’s proficiency in using computers. It includes tests on basic computer operations, typing speed, and data entry skills.
Preparation Tips for SSC CPO Exam 2024
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: The first step is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. This will help you to plan your preparation strategy effectively.
- Create a Study Plan: Create a realistic study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus. Allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic.
- Refer to Quality Study Material: Use reliable and updated study material for your preparation. Refer to books, online resources, and previous year papers.
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential for success in any competitive exam. Solve mock tests and previous year papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them. Seek help from teachers or mentors if needed.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Stay updated with current events by reading newspapers, magazines, and online resources.
- Take Care of Your Health: It is important to take care of your physical and mental health during your preparation. Eat healthy food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
Eligibility Criteria for SSC CPO Exam 2024
- Nationality: Candidates must be a citizen of India.
- Age Limit: The age limit for the SSC CPO exam varies depending on the category of the candidate.
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Important Dates for SSC CPO Exam 2024
- Notification Release: The notification for the SSC CPO exam is usually released in the month of January or February.
- Application Period: The application period for the exam is typically for a month or two after the notification is released.
- Exam Dates: The exam is usually conducted in the month of June or July.
Conclusion
The SSC CPO exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, you can crack the exam and secure a job in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) or Delhi Police.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:
1. What is the duration of the SSC CPO exam?
The SSC CPO exam is conducted in four tiers, each with a specific duration. Tier 1 is 2 hours, Tier 2 is 2 hours for each paper, Tier 3 is 2 hours, and Tier 4 (CPT) is also 2 hours.
2. How many sections are there in Tier 1 of the SSC CPO exam?
Tier 1 of the SSC CPO exam consists of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.
3. What is the marking scheme for the SSC CPO exam?
The marking scheme for the SSC CPO exam is as follows: 2 marks for each correct answer, 0.5 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
4. What are the topics covered in the General Studies paper of Tier 2?
The General Studies paper of Tier 2 covers topics related to Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Current Affairs.
5. What is the purpose of Tier 4 (CPT) of the SSC CPO exam?
Tier 4 (CPT) of the SSC CPO exam assesses the candidate’s proficiency in using computers. It includes tests on basic computer operations, typing speed, and data entry skills.
6. What are the eligibility criteria for the SSC CPO exam?
Candidates must be a citizen of India and must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. The age limit varies depending on the category of the candidate.
7. When is the notification for the SSC CPO exam usually released?
The notification for the SSC CPO exam is usually released in the month of January or February.
8. How can I prepare for the SSC CPO exam?
To prepare for the SSC CPO exam, it is important to understand the exam pattern and syllabus, create a study plan, refer to quality study material, practice regularly, focus on weak areas, stay updated with current affairs, and take care of your health.
9. What are some good resources for preparing for the SSC CPO exam?
There are many good resources available for preparing for the SSC CPO exam, including books, online resources, and previous year papers.
10. What are some tips for success in the SSC CPO exam?
Some tips for success in the SSC CPO exam include: understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, creating a study plan, practicing regularly, focusing on weak areas, staying updated with current affairs, and taking care of your health.