SSC CGL Bible: 10 Steps to Ace your SSC CGL Exam | SSC CGL Tier 1 Mock Test Series 2024 PDF Download

What does it take to transform an ordinary journey into an extraordinary one? The answer lies in the commitment, diligence, and resilience you bring to your SSC CGL preparation. Are you ready to turn your ordinary efforts into an extraordinary success story?

How was this guide made for SSC CGL Aspirants?  

• This guide has been made by EduRev experts by referring to the strategies & interviews of the toppers including Sreenivas Teja (SSC CGL, AIR 1), Dimple Chikara (SSC CGL, AIR 18), Suchita Pareek (SSC CGL, AIR 1), Hearsh Varma (SSC CGL, AIR 1)
• Study pattern, schedule and strategy of the toppers have been studied deeply while making this document so that students get the right way towards the preparation.

Why did EduRev make this guide for SSC CGL Aspirants?

• We wanted to answer the question "How to Prepare for SSC CGL" once and for all in the best / perfect way possible for all the  SSC CGL Aspirants.
• Since students waste a large amount of time, effort, and money while preparing for SSC CGL just because of a lack of the right direction. We believe it will be very very valuable for every SSC CGL aspirant. 
• This guide was made to teach in a guided way so that you can clear your  SSC CGL exam with the least amount of time, effort, and money spent, by just making sure you Study What Matters. We did the hard work of building a strategy for your SSC CGL Examination so that you can achieve your dream.

How to Prepare for SSC CGL Exam?

Step 0: What to do Before you begin your SSC CGL Exam preparation?

The best thing you can do for yourself for your SSC CGL preparation is to  time to read this guide and then check at different steps to see if you are in the right direction in achieving your dream of getting a government job. 

• Set goals and devote time effectively: Before starting your preparation for SSC CGL Exam, it is important to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the examination. Set goals and devote time effectively.
• Analyze and chart a plan: Before diving into your studies, take some time to set goals and create a study plan that works for you. Make sure you allocate enough time for each section and topic, and don't forget to take breaks and practice regular self-care to maintain your mental and physical well-being.
• Make a Timetable: Creating a timetable is crucial for cracking the SSC CGL exam with a good score. To succeed, you need to be organized and have a strategic daily routine. Set proper deadlines for each section and topic, and allocate enough time for revision and practice tests.
• Focus on Micro Planning: Micro-planning is key to success in the SSC CGL exam. Create daily plans, set weekly targets, and have a broad vision for the entire month. This will help you stay organized, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and make steady progress toward achieving your goals. So, focus on planning as much as studying to shape your future as an SSC CGL aspirant.

Step 1: Understanding the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The first step to preparing for the SSC CGL exam is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus. The SSC CGL exam is conducted in two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2 The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering four sections: General Awareness, General Intelligence and Reasoning, English, and Quantitative Aptitude. 

• Understanding the syllabus: You must know the updated syllabus of the exam to start your preparation. As per new scheme of examination the SSC CGL 2024 Exam will be conducted in two stages - Tier 1 and Tier 2 . Each stage has a different syllabus, and it is essential to have a clear understanding of the syllabus to score well in the exam.

• Understanding the exam pattern: Knowing the exam pattern can help candidates prepare a better study plan and strategy. It gives them a clear idea of the type of questions asked, the weightage of each section, and the duration of the exam. An overview of Tier 1 and Tier 2 of SSC CGL Exam are given in the image below.

Step 2: Understand Weightage through PYQs

Analyzing the weightage of different topics in the SSC CGL exam is an essential step in the preparation process. This can be achieved by studying the previous year questions (PYQs) which will give an idea about the important topics, exam pattern, difficulty level, and the distribution of questions from different topics.

• Focus on Maths and English: Since many of you must be preparing for SSC along with UPSC, you need to understand that this is not a UPSC exam where the main focus is on general studies. This is actually the SSC CGL exam where the primary focus is on Maths and English.
• Focus on Higher Weightage Topics: Analyzing the weightage of different topics in the syllabus can help you to strategize your preparation and allot time accordingly. By focusing on the topics with higher weightage, you can increase your chances of scoring well in the exam. On the other hand, topics with lower weightage can be given relatively less importance, saving you valuable time.
• Use PYQs to Become familiar with type of questions: Additionally, studying the PYQs can help you to get a feel of the actual exam and become familiar with the type of questions asked in the exam. You can also identify recurring patterns or question types and prepare accordingly.

Step 3: Get Good Study Material and Learn to Use it 

Step 3 in preparing for the SSC CGL Exam is to acquire high-quality study material and learn how to use it effectively. With the abundance of study material available, it's essential to choose the right ones that match your learning style and cater to the SSC CGL syllabus. 

• Gather Class 6 to 10 NCERTs:  NCERTs are important in SSC CGL preparation, especially for General Awareness. While it may not be feasible to read all NCERTs, focusing on specific ones can help. For history, reading NCERTs of classes 6th, 7th, and 8th followed by Lucent book is recommended. For geography, NCERTs of classes 6th-10th and important maps in class 11th will suffice. For science, NCERTs of classes 6th-10th are enough. These portions are where SSC tends to ask a significant number of questions.
• Videos, Notes, and Topic Wise Tests: To crack SSC CGL, it is crucial to watch video lectures, review notes, and attempt topic-wise tests. Fortunately, EduRev Infinity Package for SSC CGL offers study material that covers all the vital topics and concepts necessary for success in the exam. By utilizing this material, you can ensure that you are fully prepared to tackle the challenges of the SSC CGL.
• Lucent's General Knowledge: Lucent's General Knowledge is one of the most popular books for general knowledge and current affairs. It covers a wide range of topics such as history, geography, science, and politics, making it an essential study material for the SSC CGL exam.
• Recommended Books: Some books are considered reliable and useful for SSC CGL exam preparation. However, it's important to note that simply reading these books may not be enough to ensure success in the exam. It is recommended to supplement your preparation with mock tests, and previous year question papers for better results.  
• SSC CGL Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year question papers is an effective way to prepare for the SSC CGL exam. Make sure you solve at least five years' worth of question papers to get an idea about the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. You can use EduRev's Previous Year Question Papers  to prepare effectively.

Step 4: SSC CGL Preparation Strategy for Tier I

SSC CGL Tier I exam is the first stage of the Staff Selection Commission - Combined Graduate Level exam, which is conducted annually. It is a computer-based exam and consists of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Let us look at the subject-wise strategy to prepare for all the sections individually

SSC CGL Subject Wise Preparation Tips for Tier I

To crack SSC CGL Tier I, candidates should first understand the exam pattern and syllabus. A study plan must be created with focus on high-weightage topics, and regular practice of questions is essential. Solving previous year question papers and taking mock tests is also recommended. It is important to stay updated by reading newspapers and magazines. Preparing notes can also aid in revision. Below are the detailed preparation tips for each subject of SSC CGL Tier I Exam.

Step 4.1: How to prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for SSC CGL

The SSC CGL 2024 Quantitative Aptitude section assesses Mathematical Skills and Ability to solve numerical problems, including topics such as Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. In Tier I, it has 25 multiple-choice questions, with a total of 50 marks, with negative marking of 0.5 marks per incorrect answer. To perform well in this section, candidates should have a strong foundation in basic math concepts and regularly practice numerical problems.

• Start with basics: Make sure to have a good foundation in basic arithmetic and algebraic concepts. This will help you build a strong foundation for the more advanced topics.
  
• Focus on Important Topics: List down important topics and make sure you study those topics and practise a lot of questions. Some of the important topics are Number system, Fractions, Tables, Squares and Cubes etc. 
• Make handy notes for formulas: Learning Squares and Cubes can save a lot of time while solving this section. Additionally, memorise tables till 30 to avoid time wastage while calculations. 
• Use shortcuts and formulas: There are many shortcuts and formulas that can help you solve problems faster and more accurately. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these and practice using them regularly. You can find videos for tricks and tips to solve questions quickly on EduRev.  
• Focus on accuracy: In the SSC CGL Exam, negative marking is applied for incorrect answers. So, it is important to focus on accuracy rather than just trying to solve as many problems as possible.

Step 4.2: 

How to prepare for English for SSC CGL

The English section of the SSC CGL exam Tier 1 comprises 25 questions, with each question carrying 2 marks, making the total marks for this section 50. Conversely, the SSC CGL 2024 Tier 2 English section has 45 questions, each worth 3 mark, and a negative marking of 1 mark is applicable for every incorrect response. To help you prepare effectively for the English section of the SSC CGL Exam, here are some tips and strategies:

• Read and write regularly: English is a language, and like any language, it requires regular practice to get better. Read newspapers, books, and other reading materials, and write short pieces to improve your writing skills. 
• Improve your vocabulary: Vocabulary is an important aspect of the English section. To improve your vocabulary, read extensively, and use flashcards or other memory aids to learn new words.
• Brush up your English Grammar: Grammar is another key aspect of the English section. To improve your grammar skills, study grammar rules, and practice writing and speaking in English to apply what you have learned.
• Work on improving your Reading Skills: To do this, you should develop reading skills and try to read from various resources and understand the logic behind each statement.

Step 4.3: 

How to prepare for General Awareness for SSC CGL

The General Awareness section carries 25% weightage and comprises 25 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 2 marks. Incorrect answers in this section will result in a 0.50 mark deduction. 

• Make a list of Topics: The first step in preparing for the General Awareness section of the SSC CGL Exam is to make a list of topics from each category and evaluate your current knowledge of those topics. This will allow you to plan your preparation accordingly.  
• Subscribe to a good newspaper: The newspapers provide daily updates on various current affairs topics, which are essential for both the static and current portions of the exam. To aid in retaining the information you have learned, EduRev has put together Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Current Affairs to assist with revision.
• Being consistent and studying regularly: To have an edge over other candidates, study daily and make your own pointers while reading the newspaper. Take special care to note down the dates and names of places. Regular revision of your notes and sticking to a consistent source of study material will help prevent confusion and increase your chances of retaining information.
• Revising repeatedly, and attempting regular tests: It is important to revise regularly to retain information in the General Awareness section of the SSC CGL Exam. Complete the syllabus and revise at least three to four times to keep the information fresh in your mind. Regular revision is crucial to retain information 

Step 4.4: 

How to prepare for General Intelligence and Reasoning for SSC CGL

The SSC CGL Tier-I Exam's General Intelligence & Reasoning section has 25 multiple-choice questions, each of which awards 2 marks. Incorrect answers in this section will result in a 0.50 mark deduction.

• Solve Puzzles, Riddles & Brain Teasers: General Intelligence and Reasoning is a section that requires a lot of logical reasoning and analytical skills. To improve your speed and accuracy, solve puzzles, riddles, and other brain teasers regularly.
• Complete One Topic at a Time: Take one topic at a given time. SSC CGL reasoning requires you to think in a certain way and doing 2-3 different types of topics in one go may not be fruitful.
• Practice Enough Questions of Series and Analogy Topic: Series is the most important SSC CGL reasoning topic, but it is also a difficult topic to master. You should make sure you practice each and every concept thoroughly and try not to rush through the topics.
• Create a Time Constrain for Reasoning Section: Reasoning problems take more time than other sections, hence time constraints must be kept in mind while attempting this section.
• Remember the Alphabet Sequence: Always remember the sequencing of alphabets i.e., which alphabet comes after/before the particular alphabet and you should also remember their numerical position as from 1 to 26.

Step 5: SSC CGL Preparation Strategy for Tier II 

Staff Selection Commission will be conducting the SSC CGL Tier-2 exam in 3 phases- Paper 1, Paper 2, and Paper 3. Paper I  is Compulsory for all posts. Paper II will be only for candidates who apply for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) posts in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Paper III will be only for those candidates who apply for the posts of Assistant Audit Officer/ Assistant Accounts Officer.

SSC CGL Subject Wise Preparation Tips for Tier II

The detailed SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern has been discussed in the image below:

Step 5.1: Preparation Strategy for SSC CGL Tier II Paper 1 Mathematical Abilities

Preparation for Mathematical Abilities in SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 exams differs in various aspects. While Tier 1 mainly tests your basic knowledge and understanding of concepts, Tier 2 questions are more complex and require a higher level of understanding and problem-solving skills. Here are some tips to help you prepare for Mathematical Abilities in SSC CGL Tier 2:

• Set a designated time for practicing quant questions: Choose a time when you are the most alert and focused.
• Sharpen your Calculation Skills: Devote at least 3-4 hours a day for practicing. Spend a quarter of this time focusing solely on sharpening your calculation skills.
• Don't assume that all questions on the exam will be difficult. Some questions are quite basic and easy to score on. Therefore, practice a good mix of easy and tough questions.
• Note down difficult questions: Take note of any new types of questions encountered in practice sets and find a simple way to solve them. Note down the questions that require a long or traditional approach to solve, as these can affect your performance in the exam.
•  Solve at least four practice sets: To give your preparation an extra edge, practice SSC CGL previous year question papers as well as mock tests. Solve at least four practice sets, with two for each subject. This will help you build speed and better handle the pressure during the exam.

Step 5.2:

Preparation Strategy for SSC CGL Tier II Paper 1 Reasoning and General Intelligence

SSC CGL Tier II Paper 1 Reasoning and General Intelligence is a crucial section of the SSC CGL exam. It comprises 25% of the total weightage in the Tier II exam. This section evaluates the candidate's mental abilities and analytical skills. Here are some tips that can help you prepare for the Reasoning and General Intelligence section:

• Build a Strong Foundation: The foundation of basic concepts is crucial for aspirants to excel in this section. Therefore, start by mastering the fundamental concepts.

• Analyze Previous Year's Papers: Analyzing previous year's papers will help you understand the question trend and difficulty level of the exam. This will enable you to prepare better and focus on the important topics.

• Regular Revision: Regular revision is essential to ensure that you do not forget the basics. Make sure to revise the fundamental concepts from time to time.

• Practice with Tricks: Learning tricks and techniques can help you solve questions in a shorter time. Hence, it is important to practice questions with the tricks and strategies that you have learned.

Step 5.3:

Preparation Strategy for SSC CGL Tier II Paper 1 English Language and Comprehension

The SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 1 English Language and Comprehension consists of 45 questions, each carrying 3 marks, and the total duration of the exam is 1 hour. 

• Improve Vocabulary and Grammar: Aspirants must work on improving their vocabulary and grammar to perform well in Paper 2. They must read English newspapers, books, and magazines to enhance their language skills.
• Practice Reading Comprehension: The Reading Comprehension section is an essential part of Paper 2. Aspirants must practice reading comprehension passages regularly to improve their comprehension skills.

Step 5.4:

Preparation Strategy for SSC CGL Tier II Paper 1 General Awareness

General awareness is an extensive subject with a degree of unpredictability. It can be challenging to anticipate the exact questions that may appear in the exam. However, there are some effective strategies that students can use to prepare for this subject.

• Create Handwritten Notes: Firstly, it is recommended that students create handwritten notes on important topics such as Indian politics, history, science, geography, the constitution, and monthly current events. These concise notes can prove to be extremely beneficial during the last-minute revision.
• Static GK Section: To prepare for the Static GK section, it is highly recommended that students make use of study notes and materials provided by reliable sources. EduRev Infinity Package for SSC CGL is one such source that offers study notes, mock tests, and other helpful resources to aid the preparation of students.

Step 6: Strategise while solving SSC CGL Mock tests

When you are solving SSC CGL mocks and previous papers, analyse the solutions thoroughly.

This will benefit you greatly to crack SSC CGL in the following ways:

• It will help you understand your weaknesses. Then you can work on those weak areas to improve them.
• You should make proper note of the questions you find difficult, especially of the Quant sections, and try to solve them after the mock test. This will make you proficient in solving such questions in future SSC CGL mocks and in the real SSC CGL exam.
• Note down the formulae and tricks you find new in the solutions. Handwritten notes are the best way to prepare for the SSC CGL exam.

To solve the SSC CGL test question papers, you must use a more smart strategy. When completing a question paper, you must quickly scan it, classify the questions into three groups (Easy, Moderate, and Hard), and then begin to answer the questions from the easiest to the most challenging. Fortunately, EduRev provides access to a variety of SSC CGL practise tests that you may take online while lounging at home to familiarise yourself with fresh and challenging SSC CGL exam questions.

Step 7: Revise daily to crack SSC CGL

You should revise the notes of formulas and tricks EVERYDAY. Generally, everyday revision does not take much time but it allows you to revise the things you have studied so far and be well prepared for the SSC CGL exam. In your study plan, allocate a special time for SSC CGL revision with which you are comfortable on a daily and weekly basis.

Step 8: Clear your doubts as soon as possible

You will encounter a number of questions during your SSC CGL preparation that will be unfamiliar and perhaps challenging for you. To succeed on the SSC CGL, you must fully resolve the issues! This will offer you an advantage in your SSC CGL preparation and give you a solid plan for getting ready for the real SSC CGL test. You will be among the top candidates to pass the SSC CGL exam.

Step 9: Make your SSC CGL preparation regular

The last, but certainly not least, is that you should keep up your SSC CGL preparation during every phase of the exam. You need a lot of patience to follow your study strategy for the four stage/tier SSC CGL exam. You shouldn't dare to take any of its phases lightly because doing so could lower your overall rank, make it more difficult for you to obtain a job with a 4200–4600 Grade Pay, and force you to settle for a 2400–2800 Grade Pay position.

Do not take any aspect of the SSC CGL exam lightly, and maintain the same regularity and discipline in your SSC CGL preparation as on the first day.

Remember that success will come through your practice, patience, and perseverance.

Step 10: Believe in Yourself when giving the SSC CGL Exam

• Without self-belief, you can not perform well in this exam even if you study a lot.
• Believe in yourself and be consistent. 
• Don’t Forget, Consistency and discipline will take you places in the journey of clearing the SSC CGL Examination.

• The journey is very difficult but if you have strong determination you will clear the exam. But prepare yourself for failures, there will be many. You just need to get up from each of them and walk towards your goal. 
• So probably, the most important aspect at the end of your entire SSC CGL journey is to stay positive. There are times when it can get quite hard/overwhelming but remember that happens to the best of top rankers. You just need to remove negative thoughts from your head and march forward towards your goal.