SSC Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination

SSC CHSL Exam Pattern, Eligibility and Syllabus The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) examination to recruit eligible candidates for various posts in different Ministries/Departments/Organizations of the Government of India. This examination is a golden opportunity for candidates who have passed their 12th standard (or equivalent) to secure a government job.

1. Overview of the SSC CHSL Examination:

Purpose: To fill vacancies for Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC)/Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Postal Assistant (PA)/Sorting Assistant (SA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO).  

Conducting Body: Staff Selection Commission (SSC).

Eligibility: Must have passed 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University.  

Age Limit: Generally between 18 to 27 years, with age relaxations for reserved categories as per government rules.  

Frequency: Conducted annually.

2. The Examination Pattern:

The SSC CHSL examination follows a two-tier pattern:

Tier-I: Computer Based Examination (Objective Type)

• This is the first stage and consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions.  
• It is a computer-based test (CBT).  
• It is comprised of four sections:
  • English Language (Basic Knowledge)
  • General Intelligence
  • Quantitative Aptitude (Basic Arithmetic Skill)
  • General Awareness 
  • Each section carries 25 questions, with each question carrying 2 marks. The total marks are 200.
  • There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer.
  • This tier is designed to test the candidate's basic understanding and aptitude.

Tier-II: Descriptive Paper and Skill Test/Typing Test

• This tier is qualifying in nature.
• This tier will include following sections:
  • Section-I: Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence.
  • Section-II: English Language and Comprehension.
  • Section-III: Computer Knowledge Module.
  • Skill Test/Typing test: This is also a qualifying nature test. Depending on the posts candidates applied, they will need to appear for a typing test or skill test.
    • Typing Test: For LDC/JSA and PA/SA, a typing test is conducted. Candidates have to type at a specific speed.  

Skill Test: For DEO, a skill test to verify data entry speed is conducted.

3. Detailed Syllabus:

English Language:

Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms/Antonyms, Spellings/Detecting Mis-spelt words, Idioms & Phrases, One Word Substitution, Improvement of Sentences, Active/Passive Voice of Verbs, Conversion into Direct/Indirect narration, Shuffling of Sentence parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a passage, Cloze Passage, Comprehension Passage. 

General Intelligence:

Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy, Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification, Semantic Series, Number Series, Figural Series, Problem Solving, Word Building, Coding and decoding, Numerical Operations, Space Orientation, Venn Diagrams, Drawing inferences, Punched hole/pattern-folding & unfolding, Figural Pattern-folding and completion,SSC CHSL Exam Pattern, Eligibility and Syllabus. Indexing, Address matching, Date & city matching, Classification of center codes/roll numbers, Small & Capital letters/numbers coding, decoding and classification, Embedded Figures, Critical thinking, Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence.  

Quantitative Aptitude:

Questions are designed to test the candidate’s general awareness of the environment around him/her and its application to society. Questions are also designed to test knowledge of current events and of such matters of everyday observations and experience in their scientific aspect as may be expected of an educated person. The test will also include questions relating to India and its neighbouring countries especially pertaining to History, Culture, Geography, Economic scene, General polity and scientific research.  

4. Preparation Strategy:

• Understand the Syllabus: Start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus for each section.
• Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year papers helps you understand the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.  
• Focus on Time Management: Practice solving questions within the stipulated time to improve your speed and accuracy.
• Strengthen Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate more time to them.  
• Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to simulate the actual exam environment.
• Stay Updated: Stay updated with current affairs and general knowledge.
• Typing and Skill Test: Begin practice the skill or typing test early in preparation.

5. Important Tips:

• Pay close attention to the official SSC notifications for accurate information regarding the exam dates, syllabus, and other important details.
• Manage your time effectively during the examination.
• Avoid guesswork and focus on accuracy.
• Stay motivated and consistent with your preparation.