The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) Tier 2 exam is a critical phase in the recruitment process for various Group B and Group C posts in the Indian government. This exam is known for its extensive syllabus, testing the candidate’s quantitative aptitude, general intelligence, general awareness, and skills specific to the job they are applying for. With the exam scheduled for 2024, the SSC has made some changes in its exam pattern to make it more aligned with the modern requirements of the administrative and government job sectors.
Understanding the Tier 2 pattern is crucial for candidates preparing for SSC CGL 2024. The revised pattern includes a combination of objective-type multiple-choice questions, with each section testing different aspects of the candidate’s knowledge and skillset. Below is a comprehensive overview of the exam pattern for SSC CGL Tier 2, breaking down the subjects, marking schemes, and other crucial details that aspirants must know.
Overview of SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam
The SSC CGL Tier 2 exam is a computer-based examination (CBT), meaning that candidates must answer the questions on a computer screen rather than on paper. The Tier 2 exam is split into several distinct sections, each focusing on different skills and knowledge areas. The subjects typically covered in the Tier 2 exam are:
- Quantitative Abilities
- English Language and Comprehension
- General Awareness
- Computer Knowledge Module
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)
- General Studies (Finance and Economics) – for specific posts
The exam is conducted in three papers, with certain sections compulsory for all candidates, while others are specific to particular job profiles.
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SSC CGL
Tier 2 Paper 1 Exam Pattern |
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Sections |
Module |
Subject |
No. of Questions |
Marks |
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Section I |
Module-I |
Mathematical Abilities |
30 |
60*3 = 180 |
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Module-II |
Reasoning and General Intelligence |
30 |
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Section II |
Module-I |
English Language and Comprehension |
45 |
70*3 = 210 |
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Module-II |
General Awareness |
25 |
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Section III |
Module-I |
Computer Knowledge Test |
20 |
20*3 = 60 |
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Module-II |
Data Entry Speed Test |
One Data Entry Task |
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SSC CGL
Tier 2 Paper 2 & 3 Exam Pattern |
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Paper |
Section |
No. of question |
Maximum Marks |
Duration |
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Paper II |
Statistics |
100 |
200 |
2 hours |
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Paper III |
General Studies (Finance and Economics) |
100 |
200 |
2 hours |
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Section 1: Quantitative Abilities
The Quantitative Abilities section focuses on the mathematical skills of the candidate, covering topics like:
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest, Ratio, etc.)
- Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, etc.)
- Geometry (Triangles, Circles, Quadrilaterals, etc.)
- Trigonometry (Heights and Distances, Trigonometric Ratios)
- Mensuration (Area, Volume, Surface Area of geometric shapes)
- Statistics (Data Interpretation, Mean, Median, Mode)
Each question in this section carries equal weightage, and candidates need to practice time management to ensure they solve the maximum number of questions correctly within the stipulated time.
Section 2: English Language and Comprehension
This section tests the candidate’s proficiency in the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, comprehension, and usage. Key areas of focus include:
- Reading Comprehension
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Fill in the Blanks
- Sentence Correction
- Active and Passive Voice
- Idioms and Phrases
- Error Spotting
Candidates must focus on improving their command over grammar, understanding of contextual language, and the ability to quickly comprehend passages.
Section 3: General Awareness
This section assesses the candidate’s knowledge of current events, history, geography, political science, economics, and other topics of general awareness. It includes questions on:
- Current Affairs (both national and international)
- History of India and the World
- Geography
- Indian Polity and Constitution
- Economic and Social Development
- Environmental Studies
- Scientific Research
Candidates must stay updated with daily news, historical facts, and general knowledge topics to score well in this section.
Computer Knowledge Module (Part of Paper 1)
Another critical aspect of the SSC CGL Tier 2 exam is the Computer Knowledge module, which is included as part of Paper 1. It evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of basic computer operations and skills. Topics covered in this module include:
- Basics of Computers (hardware, software, input/output devices)
- Internet and its Uses
- MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Operating Systems
- Networking
- Email, Browsing, and Applications
Since computer literacy is a critical skill for government jobs today, candidates are expected to have a working knowledge of computers and related technologies.
Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)
The Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) is a crucial part of SSC CGL Tier 2 for specific posts like Tax Assistant in the Central Excise and Income Tax departments. DEST is conducted to check a candidate's typing speed and accuracy. Candidates must type 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes in English on a computer. This test aims to assess the speed at which candidates can input data without making mistakes.
While this section does not carry any direct marks, it is qualifying in nature, meaning candidates must pass it to be eligible for final selection.
Marking Scheme and Negative Marking
One of the critical aspects of the SSC CGL Tier 2 exam is the marking scheme. Each section has a specific number of questions, and each question carries a specific weight. Here's how the marking works:
- Quantitative Aptitude (Paper 1): Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks. For every incorrect answer, there is a negative marking of 1 mark.
- English Language and Comprehension (Paper 1): Each correct answer is awarded 3 marks, while each wrong answer results in a penalty of 1 mark.
- General Awareness (Paper 1): The same marking scheme applies: 3 marks for each correct answer, and 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer.
- Statistics and General Studies (Papers 2 and 3): The marking follows the same pattern of awarding 3 marks for correct answers and deducting 1 mark for wrong ones.
Tips for Preparation
- Time Management: Each section of the Tier 2 exam is time-bound. Candidates need to practice solving questions quickly and accurately. Regular mock tests will help in improving speed.
- Strengthen Basics: For quantitative aptitude and statistics, focus on strengthening the basics. Understand core concepts rather than memorizing formulas.
- Reading Habits: Regular reading of newspapers, magazines, and books will help candidates improve their English and stay updated on current affairs.
- Use of Technology: Online study resources, video lectures, and digital mock tests are highly beneficial for mastering computer skills and other subjects.
- Regular Practice: Regularly practicing previous year question papers and mock tests is key to success.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 exam pattern for 2024 is structured to comprehensively assess a candidate’s aptitude in mathematics, English, general awareness, and computer skills. With three papers covering various subjects, it offers both opportunities and challenges for aspirants. To crack the exam, a well-rounded preparation strategy focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy is essential. By understanding the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly, candidates can optimize their preparation to meet the SSC CGL Tier 2 exam's demands successfully.
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