Last Updated on 27 December 2024 by Piyush Kumar
SSC CGL Syllabus 2024 – The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level Exam (SSC CGL) is one of the most sought-after exams in India for aspirants aiming for government jobs. Understanding the SSC CGL syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. This detailed guide covers the syllabus for all the stages of SSC CGL exam but major focus will be on SSC CGL syllabus for Tier 1 and Tier 2, providing a roadmap for success to the candidates who are preparing for the exam.
SSC CGL Syllabus 2024 Overview
The SSC CGL exam is conducted in four stages or tiers:
- Tier 1: Preliminary exam, objective type.
- Tier 2: Mains exam, covering advanced subjects.
- Tier 3: Descriptive paper, testing writing skills.
- Tier 4: Skill test or document verification (depending on the post).
Each tier serves a specific purpose, and the SSC CGL syllabus becomes progressively focused as candidates advance through the stages. This article focuses majorly on the syllabus for Tier 1 and Tier 2, which are the most critical stages.
SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2024
| Exam Particular’s | Details |
| Mode | Online (CBT) |
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Duration | 1 hour (60 minutes) |
| Number of Questions | 100 (25 per section) |
| Negative Marking | 0.50 per wrong answer |
SSC CGL Syllabus 2024: Tier-Wise Breakdown
1. SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2024
Tier 1 is an online, objective-based test that serves as a screening round. It consists of four sections, each with equal weightage.
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Classification, Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Puzzle, Blood Relations, Series, Syllogism, Venn Diagrams, Logical Reasoning. |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, Environment, Static GK. |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number System, Simplification, Percentage, Ratio, Average, Time & Work, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation. |
| English Comprehension | Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Correction, Synonyms-Antonyms, Cloze Test, Comprehension. |
Exam Pattern for SSC CGL Tier 1
- Total Questions: 100 (25 per section).
- Total Marks: 200 (2 marks per question).
- Negative Marking: 0.5 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Duration: 60 minutes.
2. SSC CGL 2024 Syllabus for Tier 2
Tier 2 is the most critical phase of SSC CGL and has three papers, each focusing on a distinct subject area. Below is the SSC CGL tier 2 syllabus 2024 –
Paper I: Quantitative Aptitude
This section is advanced compared to Tier 1 and includes:
- Algebra: Quadratic Equations, Inequalities.
- Geometry: Circles, Triangles, Coordinate Geometry.
- Trigonometry: Heights and Distances.
- Data Interpretation: Pie Charts, Line Graphs, Tables.
- Miscellaneous: Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Time and Distance.
Paper II: English Language and Comprehension
- Grammar: Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, Active-Passive Voice.
- Vocabulary: Idioms and Phrases, One Word Substitution, Synonyms and Antonyms.
- Reading Comprehension: Passages with inferential questions.
- Cloze Test and Fill in the Blanks.
Paper III: General Studies (Finance & Economics)
This paper is specific to candidates applying for certain posts like Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) or Assistant Accounts Officer. Topics include:
- Finance: Basic concepts of accounting, budgeting, and financial management.
- Economics: Micro and macroeconomics, demand and supply, national income, fiscal policies.
Key Highlights for SSC CGL Tier 2
- Paper I (Quantitative Aptitude): 200 marks.
- Paper II (English): 200 marks.
- Paper III (Finance/Economics): 200 marks (specific posts only).
3. SSC CGL Tier 3 Syllabus
Tier 3 is a descriptive exam conducted offline. It tests candidates’ proficiency in writing skills.
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Medium | English or Hindi. |
| Format | Essay, Letter, Application Writing. |
| Word Limit | Essays: 250 words; Letters: 150 words. |
Key Highlights for SSC CGL Tier 3
- Total Marks: 100.
- Duration: 60 minutes.
Preparation Tips for SSC CGL Tier 3
- Practice writing essays on trending topics like environment, digital India, and social issues.
- Focus on clarity, grammar, and structured presentation.
4. SSC CGL Tier 4: Skill Test/Document Verification
The final stage is specific to certain posts:
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): Tests typing speed and accuracy (8,000 key depressions per hour).
- Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): Tests skills in word processing, spreadsheets, and PowerPoint.
SSC CGL 2024 Section-Wise Preparation Tips
General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Practice puzzles and series problems to enhance logical thinking.
- Focus on topics like seating arrangements, coding-decoding, and syllogisms.
- Use resources like Lucent’s Reasoning and RS Aggarwal for practice.
General Awareness
- Stay updated on current affairs using newspapers and magazines like The Hindu or Pratiyogita Darpan.
- Focus on static GK topics, especially history and geography.
- Revise NCERT books for basic science and polity concepts.
Quantitative Aptitude
- Master fundamentals of arithmetic and algebra before progressing to advanced topics.
- Regularly solve mock tests to build speed and accuracy.
- Use standard books like RS Aggarwal and Kiran’s SSC Mathematics.
English Comprehension
- Expand vocabulary through daily reading and apps like Word Power Made Easy.
- Practice grammar-based questions and comprehension passages.
- Solve previous year papers to understand recurring patterns.
SSC CGL Syllabus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the SSC CGL syllabus the same every year?
The syllabus remains largely consistent, but minor changes may occur. It is advisable to refer to the official SSC notification for updates.
2. What are the best books for SSC CGL preparation?
- General Awareness: Lucent’s General Knowledge.
- Quantitative Aptitude: RS Aggarwal, NCERT Mathematics.
- English: Plinth to Paramount by Neetu Singh, Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis.
3. How can I manage time effectively during preparation?
- Create a study plan that balances all sections.
- Dedicate more time to weaker areas.
- Solve timed mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
4. Are coaching classes necessary for SSC CGL?
Coaching can be beneficial for structured guidance, but self-study with the right resources is equally effective.
5. How do I improve my score in General Awareness?
- Read newspapers daily.
- Use apps and online quizzes for current affairs.
- Revise static GK topics frequently.
6. Can Tier 3 be attempted in Hindi?
Yes, candidates can choose between English and Hindi for Tier 3.
7. What is the role of Tier 4 in the final selection?
Tier 4 is qualifying in nature but essential for posts requiring computer proficiency or data entry skills.
8. How is the final SSC CGL merit list prepared?
The merit list is based on cumulative scores in Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3. Tier 4 is qualifying only.
Conclusion
The SSC CGL 2024 syllabus serves as the foundation for your preparation. Understanding its nuances and tailoring your study plan accordingly will enhance your chances of success. Start early, stay consistent, and leverage the right resources to ace this prestigious examination.
Good luck, aspirants!