The exam is conducted in multiple tiers, SSC CGL Syllabus and each tier evaluates specific skills and knowledge areas. Understanding the syllabus is crucial for strategic preparation and scoring well in the exam.
Tier-I of the SSC CGL exam is a computer-based test (CBT) that acts as a preliminary screening round. It consists of four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each section carries 25 questions for a total of 50 marks, making the entire paper worth 200 marks. In the General Intelligence & Reasoning section, topics include analogies, coding-decoding, classification, syllogism, blood relations, and non-verbal reasoning. General Awareness covers current affairs, Indian polity, history, geography, economics, and general science. Quantitative Aptitude includes number systems, simplification, profit and loss, time & work, percentage, mensuration, and data interpretation. English Comprehension tests grammar, vocabulary, sentence correction, and reading comprehension.
Tier-II is also a CBT and includes four papers: Paper-I (Quantitative Abilities), Paper-II (English Language and Comprehension), Paper-III (Statistics), and Paper-IV (General Studies – Finance and Economics). Paper-I and Paper-II are mandatory for all candidates. Paper-I focuses on higher-level math, including algebra, trigonometry, geometry, data sufficiency, and advanced arithmetic. Paper-II is designed to assess a candidate’s English language skills with questions on error spotting, cloze test, active/passive voice, narration, and sentence improvement. Paper-III is required for candidates applying for the post of Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) and includes statistical tools, data collection, correlation, sampling theory, and time series analysis. Paper-IV is only for candidates opting for Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer posts and covers basic concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics, budgeting, and accounting principles.
Both Tier-I and Tier-II exams carry negative marking. In Tier-I, 0.50 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer, while in Tier-II, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in Paper-I, Paper-III, and Paper-IV, and 0.25 marks in Paper-II. Thus, accuracy is critical for securing a high score.
The SSC CGL syllabus is designed to assess a candidate’s aptitude, logical thinking, language skills, and subject-specific knowledge required for Group B and C government jobs. There is no Tier-III or Tier-IV as descriptive and computer proficiency/skill tests are now part of the document verification or post-specific criteria.
Candidates should follow the official SSC CGL notification for the most updated syllabus and exam pattern. A tier-wise and topic-wise preparation strategy, along with regular mock tests and previous year paper analysis, can significantly boost the chances of success. Mastering the SSC CGL syllabus through disciplined study and practice is key to cracking this competitive exam and securing a reputed government position.
