The SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam is one of the most sought-after exams for recruitment to various Group B and Group C posts in ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. The exam is conducted in four tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, and Tier 4, with each tier serving a specific purpose in the selection process.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the detailed syllabus for all the tiers of the SSC CGL exam, along with preparation tips and important topics to focus on.
SSC CGL Exam Pattern
Before we go into the syllabus, let’s quickly review the SSC CGL exam pattern:
Tier 1: Objective Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Subjects: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
- Total Marks: 200
- Time: 60 minutes (80 minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe).
Tier 2: Objective MCQs (Divided into Papers)
- Paper 1: Quantitative Abilities
- Paper 2: English Language and Comprehension
- Paper 3: Statistics (for select posts)
- Paper 4: General Studies (Finance & Economics) (for select posts)
Tier 3: Descriptive Paper (in English/Hindi)
- Mode: Pen and Paper
- Total Marks: 100
- Time: 60 minutes
Tier 4: Skill Test/Document Verification
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): 8000 key depressions per hour.
- Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): For select posts like Assistant Section Officer.
SSC CGL Syllabus : Tier 1
Tier 1 is a qualifying exam, consisting of four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning
This section tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and solve problems. Topics include:
- Analogies
- Coding and Decoding
- Series (Number and Alphabet)
- Syllogism
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Venn Diagrams
- Logical Reasoning
- Pattern Completion
- Classification
- Matrix and Word Formation
- Data Sufficiency
2. General Awareness
This section covers static knowledge as well as current events of national and international importance.
- History: Indian history, important dates, and events.
- Geography: Physical geography, Indian geography, world geography.
- Economics: Indian economy, macroeconomic concepts, budget, inflation, banking.
- General Science: Basics of physics, chemistry, biology.
- Current Affairs: Recent national and international events, sports, awards, appointments.
- Polity: Indian Constitution, government structures, rights and duties, amendments.
3. Quantitative Aptitude
This section evaluates a candidate’s mathematical and analytical skills. The major topics are:
- Number Systems
- Simplification
- Fractions, Decimals, Percentages
- Ratio and Proportion
- Averages
- Profit and Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Geometry: Circles, triangles, and quadrilaterals.
- Mensuration: 2D and 3D shapes.
- Trigonometry: Height and distance.
- Data Interpretation: Bar graphs, pie charts, tables, and line graphs.
4. English Comprehension
This section assesses the candidate’s understanding and command of the English language.
- Reading Comprehension
- Fill in the Blanks
- Spotting Errors
- Cloze Test
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Sentence Correction
- Idioms and Phrases
- One-word Substitution
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Para Jumbles
SSC CGL Syllabus : Tier 2
Tier 2 consists of four papers, each designed for different posts and purposes.
Paper 1: Quantitative Abilities
Marks: 200 | Questions: 100
This section is an extension of the Tier 1 Quantitative Aptitude section but in more depth. Additional topics include:
- Advanced Algebra
- Linear and Quadratic Equations
- Surds and Indices
- Coordinate Geometry
- Geometry and Mensuration
- Data Interpretation
- Permutation and Combination
- Probability
Paper 2: English Language and Comprehension
Marks: 200 | Questions: 200
This paper tests candidates on comprehensive English skills, such as:
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, antonyms, homonyms.
- Grammar: Sentence correction, error spotting.
- Comprehension: Reading and understanding passages.
- Sentence Structure
- Spellings
- Active and Passive Voice
- Direct and Indirect Speech
- Phrasal Verbs
- One-word Substitution
Paper 3: Statistics
Marks: 200 | Questions: 100
This paper is only for candidates applying for statistical investigator and related posts. It includes topics such as:
- Probability: Basic concepts, probability distributions, and applications.
- Descriptive Statistics: Mean, median, mode, standard deviation.
- Correlation and Regression
- Sampling Theory
- Time Series Analysis
- Index Numbers
- Estimation Theory
Paper 4: General Studies (Finance and Economics)
Marks: 200 | Questions: 100
This paper is specifically for candidates applying for Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) posts. The syllabus includes:
Part A: Finance and Accounting
- Basic Accounting Principles
- Financial Accounting
- Accounting Standards
- Bank Reconciliation
- Taxation
- Cost Accounting
Part B: Economics and Governance
- Fundamental Concepts of Economics
- Fiscal Policy and Budgeting
- Indian Economy and Planning
- Inflation, Deflation, and Growth
- Monetary Policy
- Government Schemes
- Five-Year Plans
- Public Finance
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
SSC CGL Syllabus : Tier 3
Tier 3 is a descriptive test in either English or Hindi and is conducted in pen-and-paper mode.
Descriptive Test Pattern:
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 60 Minutes
- Type: Essay writing, letter writing, application writing, précis writing.
Essay topics may be based on current affairs, economic issues, or social problems. Letter and application writing usually involves formal communication formats.
SSC CGL Syllabus : Tier 4
Tier 4 is the Skill Test phase, which includes:
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): This is mandatory for Tax Assistants and involves typing 8000 key depressions per hour.
- Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): Required for posts such as Assistant Section Officer (CSS), which tests skills in Word Processing, Spreadsheets, and Slide Generation (MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
Preparation Tips for SSC CGL
- Know the Syllabus: Break the syllabus into daily or weekly goals.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Regular mock tests will improve your speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: Manage your study time by dividing subjects and solving practice papers.
- Stay Updated: For the General Awareness section, stay updated with daily news and current affairs.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and focus more on improving them.
- Revision: Regularly revise concepts and practice key topics.
Conclusion
The SSC CGL syllabus is vast but manageable with the right strategy. Cover all the topics mentioned above for each tier and focus on your strengths and weaknesses. Whether it’s quantitative aptitude or general awareness, consistency is the key to cracking this exam.
Best of luck in your SSC CGL 2024 preparation!