What is PPDT? | Preparation Tips for SSB Interview - CDS PDF Download

What Is PPDT

PPDT, which stands for Picture Perception and Description Test, is a test where candidates are presented with a random picture. They are then required to write a brief story based on the picture within a limited amount of time. Afterward, the candidates participate in a group discussion with their fellow candidates, where they share and discuss their stories. The goal of the discussion is to determine the best story or reach a consensus to create a common story.
In PPDT, a candidate's storytelling ability and communication skills are put to the test. It doesn't matter which language the candidate speaks (English or Hindi), but rather how effectively they can communicate. However, it is recommended to stick to English. Candidates need to demonstrate effective speaking skills within the group.

What is the PPDT Procedure

During the PPDT, candidates are shown a slightly hazy or blurred picture for approximately 30 seconds. Within the next minute, candidates must jot down the details they have observed in the picture. These details will help them in narrating their story, as they bring out the perception from the PPDT. For example, in the given picture, a candidate may notice the following details:

• Two living characters: a male and a female.
• A table with a gun on it.
• An ON television that no one is looking at.
• A window without curtains.
• A painting hanging on the wall.
• A sofa and a stand.

The male character in the picture is formally dressed, appearing to be between 35 and 40 years old. He is seen loosening his tie and has a tense and tired expression. The female character is also formally dressed and appears to be between 25 and 30 years old. She is sitting on the sofa with a sad and disappointed expression.
These assumptions or initial observations of the picture in PPDT are crucial, as they contribute to the quality of the story candidates will narrate. After noting down the picture details, candidates are given 4 minutes to write their stories.
Once the story writing part is complete, candidates form groups and the story discussion begins.

How to write a story in PPDT

There are various ways to interpret the given picture, but for the sake of understanding, let's discuss one approach. In every story, there should be a situation or problem, followed by a solution or resolution. For instance, in this case, let's say the woman (Mrs. Anjali Gupta) is sad because her husband has been missing for days. She sought help from the local police authorities, but they were not of much assistance. Therefore, she decides to hire a private detective (Mr. Rajat Kumar). Mr. Rajat tries to trace the husband's last known whereabouts before his disappearance and finds a lead. However, the lead turns out to be a dead end.
This failure leaves Mr. Rajat tired and Mrs. Gupta disappointed. However, Rajat is determined not to give up. Being a professional, he knows that not every lead is successful. He decides to change his approach and uses social networking websites for investigation. Soon, he discovers a new lead that turns out to be successful. He finds out that the husband was injured in an accident and admitted to a local hospital. During the accident, he lost his mobile phone and wallet, which is why the hospital authorities couldn't contact his family members.
In the above story, there are both negative and positive points. If readers can identify them, they are encouraged to leave their observations in the comment section.

What is Group Discussion in PPDT

Once the candidates have completed their stories, they are divided into groups of 12 to 14 members, and the group discussion (GD) begins. The description test consists of two parts: individual narration and group discussion. The individual narration allows each candidate to share their story with every group member. Once the individual narrations are finished, the group discussion immediately follows.
The candidate with the lowest chest number begins narrating their story, and when they finish, the next candidate starts their narration. There are no signals given by assessors; candidates must instinctively start the group discussion. The discussion continues for 10-15 minutes, after which the group can either conclude the discussion by selecting the best story or the assessor may intervene and ask the candidates to conclude the discussion.

Tips on How to Clear PPDT

• In PPDT, candidates should avoid interrupting assessors during the narration as it reflects poorly on the whole group. It is the responsibility of the group members to handle the discussion without external assistance.
• Each candidate should aim to narrate their story within one minute.
• If the group discussion becomes chaotic, a candidate should try to calm everyone down and continue the discussion in a well-mannered way.
• The discussion should remain focused on the topic of the PPDT. Candidates should be cautious when interrupting, as it can have both positive and negative consequences.
• Everyone should be given a chance to speak, and it is encouraged to acknowledge and praise others' points if possible. This demonstrates a supportive nature in PPDT.
• When writing the story, it should be positive and realistic. Avoid unrealistic and inhuman fictional possibilities in PPDT.
• Assign names to the characters, as it is a good practice.
• The basic format of a story should include a problem that arises, the hero solving that problem, and the hero feeling happy about solving it.