SSC CGL Tier 1: Complete Guide, Syllabus, Preparation Tips & Exam Pattern
What is SSC CGL Tier 1?
The SSC CGL Tier 1 is the first and screening stage of the Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) examination. It is a computer-based test (CBT) that filters candidates for Tier 2. Qualifying Tier 1 is mandatory to progress in the recruitment process for various Group B and Group C posts in government ministries, departments, and organizations.
SSC CGL Tier 1 2024: Key Highlights at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (Online) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Exam Duration | 60 Minutes (80 minutes for PwD scribe users) |
| Marking Scheme | +2 for each correct answer, -0.50 for each wrong answer |
| Sections | 4 Sections: General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension |
| Language | Bilingual (English & Hindi except English section) |
| Qualifying Nature | Screening test for Tier 2 |
Detailed SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus & Section-Wise Weightage
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning (50 marks)
High-Weightage Topics: Analogy, Classification, Series, Coding-Decoding, Puzzles, Matrix, Word Formation, Venn Diagram, Directions, Statement & Conclusions.
Other Topics: Syllogism, Blood Relations, Seating Arrangement, Mathematical Operations, Input-Output, Mirror & Water Images, Paper Folding & Cutting, Embedded Figures, Figure Completion.
Tip: Focus on verbal and non-verbal reasoning equally. Practice puzzle-based questions heavily.
2. General Awareness (50 marks)
Static GK: History, Polity, Geography, Economics, Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Art & Culture.
Current Affairs: Last 6-12 months of national/international news, awards, sports, books, appointments, important schemes, summits.
Special Focus: Government policies, Science & Tech news, Environment & Ecology, Important dates.
Tip: Read newspapers daily (The Hindu, Indian Express) and follow monthly current affairs compilations.
3. Quantitative Aptitude (50 marks)
Arithmetic: Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Average, Profit-Loss, SI/CI, Time-Work, Speed-Distance-Time, Mixture & Allegation.
Algebra: Basic identities, linear equations.
Geometry & Mensuration: Triangles, circles, 2D & 3D shapes, area/volume.
Number System: LCM, HCF, Divisibility, Decimals, Fractions.
Advanced Topics: Trigonometry, Height & Distance, Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Graphs).
Tip: Master shortcut tricks and formulas. DI is scoring—practice daily.
4. English Comprehension (50 marks)
Grammar: Error Spotting, Fill in the blanks, Sentence Improvement, Phrase Replacement.
Vocabulary: Synonyms-Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases, One-word substitution, Spelling Check.
Comprehension: One reading passage (approx. 200 words) with 5 questions.
Tip: Build vocabulary through reading. Practice grammar rules from a standard book.
Best Preparation Strategy for SSC CGL Tier 1
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-2)
Understand the complete syllabus and exam pattern.
Gather standard books: Kirans Publication, Rakesh Yadav, RS Aggarwal (Quant), SP Bakshi (English).
Start with one subject at a time, cover basics thoroughly.
Phase 2: Intensive Study (Months 3-4)
Daily Time Table: Allocate 2 hours per section.
Quant & Reasoning: 2 hours daily practice.
General Awareness: 1 hour daily for static GK + current affairs.
English: 1 hour for grammar rules and vocabulary.
Weekly Revision: Revise all formulas, rules, and current affairs weekly.
Phase 3: Revision & Mock Tests (Months 5-6)
Take 1-2 Full-Length Mock Tests Every Week.
Analyze each mock: Identify weak areas, manage time.
Sectional Tests: Focus on weak sections.
Previous Year Papers: Solve at least last 5 years' papers.
Final Revision: Go through short notes, formulas, current affairs monthly magazines.
Recommended Books & Resources
| Section | Best Books |
|---|---|
| General Intelligence | Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal, Kiran's Publication |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal, Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma |
| English Language | Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi, Platinum Guide by Kiran |
| General Awareness | Lucent's General Knowledge, Pratiyogita Darpan magazine, Newspapers |
| Mock Tests & PYQs | Kiran's SSC CGL Previous Year Papers, Online platforms: Oliveboard, Testbook, BYJU'S Exam Prep |
Important Exam-Day Tips
Time Management: Allocate ~15 minutes per section. Don’t get stuck on one question.
Accuracy Over Attempts: With negative marking, ensure high accuracy. Good attempt range: 70-85 questions with 90%+ accuracy.
Sectional Order: Start with your strongest section to build confidence (often English or Reasoning).
Guesswork: Avoid blind guessing. Eliminate options first.
Revision: Last 10 minutes to review flagged questions.
Expected Cut-off Trends (Category-wise)
Based on previous years' trends (out of 200 marks):
| Category | Expected Cut-off Range |
|---|---|
| General | 140 - 155 |
| OBC | 135 - 148 |
| SC | 125 - 138 |
| ST | 120 - 132 |
| EWS | 135 - 150 |
Note: Cut-offs vary yearly based on difficulty and vacancies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there any sectional cutoff in SSC CGL Tier 1?
No, there is no sectional cutoff. You need to clear the overall cutoff.
Q2. What is a good attempt in Tier 1?
A safe attempt with high accuracy is 75-85 questions.
Q3. How to prepare for General Awareness effectively?
Focus on static GK (Lucent) + daily current affairs (6 months prior). Use monthly magazines and quiz apps.
Q4. Can I clear Tier 1 in 3 months?
Yes, with a disciplined, focused strategy and daily mock tests, it is achievable.
Q5. When will SSC CGL 2024 Tier 1 be held?
Tentatively Sept-Oct 2024 (Keep checking ssc.nic.in for official notification).
Final Preparation Checklist
Syllabus printed and pinned.
Standard books collected.
Daily 2-hour mock test scheduled.
Current affairs notes being made.
Previous 5 years' papers solved.
Weak topics identified and revised.
Exam day strategy planned.
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