SSC CGL Exam Guide – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re aiming for a stable government job, the SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) exam is one of the fastest routes. It’s open to fresh graduates and those with a few years of work experience, and it opens doors to roles like Assistant, Tax Assistant, and Inspector. Let’s break down the basics so you can start preparing right away.

Key Features of SSC CGL

The exam is split into three stages. Stage I is a computer‑based test with four sections – General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension, and Reasoning. You need 180 marks out of 200 to move forward. Stage II adds a written exam for English and Quant, plus a skill‑test for specific posts. Finally, Tier‑III is an interview or computer‑based test, depending on the post.

Eligibility is simple: a bachelor’s degree from any recognized university, age between 21‑30 years (with a 5‑year relaxation for certain categories). Keep an eye on the official SSC notification each year because dates and cut‑offs can shift.

Effective Study Strategies

Start with a realistic timetable. Allocate two to three hours daily for the first month, focusing on weak areas. Use a single good book for each subject – for Quantitative Aptitude, try ‘Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams’ by R.S. Aggarwal; for English, ‘Word Power Made Easy’ works well. Mix theory with practice: after reading a concept, solve at least ten related questions.

Online resources are a boon. Websites like the official SSC portal, Testbook, and Unacademy offer free mock tests and video explanations. Take a full‑length mock every week; review every mistake and note down patterns. Time‑management tricks, like solving easier questions first, can boost your speed.Don’t forget General Awareness. Read a daily newspaper, follow a current‑affairs app, and keep a notebook of important dates, awards, and sports stats. For Reasoning, practice puzzles and logical sequences daily – a few minutes each day add up.

Stay healthy. A tired brain won’t retain anything. Short breaks, proper sleep, and light exercise keep your mind sharp during long study sessions.

Finally, keep track of the latest SSC updates. The official SSC website posts notifications, admit‑card releases, and result dates. Subscribe to a reliable exam‑prep newsletter or follow the SSC social handles so you never miss a deadline.

With a clear plan, consistent practice, and the right resources, clearing SSC CGL is within reach. Start today, stay focused, and watch the results come in.