SSC CHSL Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The Staff Selection Commission Combined Higher Secondary Level (SSC CHSL) Recruitment process for 2024 is now released and candidates can start gearing up for the SSC CHSL exam 2024. The exam is in two tiers, as given in the SSC CHSL Notification. It's important for interested candidates to know the SSC CHSL Exam 2024 syllabus and pattern well. This helps them plan a way of preparation that covers all aspects of the exam, increasing their chances of success.

  • Tier 1- Objective Type Computer Based exam
  • Tier 2- Objective Type Computer Based exam

Understanding the comprehensive syllabus is very important to standardize your preparation for SSC CHSL exam 2024. Knowing the SSC CHSL exam pattern and syllabus helps candidates focus their preparation plan effectively. This ensures they cover all the right topics and do well in both exam stages. Also, understanding the SSC CHSL Eligibility Criteria is important for exam preparation.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 Exam Pattern

The initial phase of SSC CHSL recruitment 2024, SSC CHSL Tier-1, is a gateway to subsequent stages. This computer-based examination contains multiple-choice objective questions, which candidates need to qualify for progression. SSC CHSL Tier-1 comprises four subjects: General Intelligence, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness. The table below outlines the SSC CHSL Tier-1 exam pattern, providing valuable insights into the structure and distribution of questions.

PartSubjects (Not in sequence)No. of QuestionsMaximum MarksTime Duration
I English Language (Basic Knowledge) 25 50 1 hour (1 hour 20 minutes for PwBD candidates)
II General Intelligence 25 50
III Quantitative Aptitude (Basic Arithmetic Skill) 25 50
IV General Awareness 25 50

Please Note: There will be a negative marking of 0.5 marks in Tier-1

SSC CHSL Tier-1 Syllabus

The SSC CHSL Tier-1 syllabus covers four sections, each bearing equal weightage in the examination. The first section is General Intelligence, assessing candidates' logical reasoning and problem-solving skills. The second section, English Language, evaluates language proficiency, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. The third section is Quantitative Aptitude, where mathematical abilities are tested, covering topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation. The fourth section, General Awareness, delves into current affairs, history, geography, economics, and general knowledge. Candidates can effectively use ixamBee’s BeePedia for a better understanding of current affairs for the General Awareness Paper. The complete SSC CHSL Tier 1 syllabus has been provided below.

SectionTopics
English Language Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms / Homonyms, Antonyms, Spellings / Detecting Mis-Spelt Words, Idioms & Phrases, One Word Substitution, Improvement of Sentences, Active / Passive Voice of Verbs, Conversion into Direct / Indirect Narration, Shuffling of Sentence Parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a Passage, Cloze Passage, Comprehension Passage
General Intelligence Verbal and Nonverbal, Semantic Analogy, Symbolic Operations, Symbolic / Number Analogy, Trends, Figural Analogy, Space Orientation, Semantic Classification, Venn Diagrams, Symbolic / Number Classification, Drawing Inferences, Figural Classification, Punched hole / Pattern-Folding & Unfolding, Semantic Series, Figural Pattern-Folding and Completion, Number Series, Embedded figures, Figural Series, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Emotional Intelligence, Word Building, Social Intelligence, Coding and De-Coding, Numerical Operations
Quantitative Aptitude
  • Number Systems: Computation of Whole Number, Decimal and Fractions, Relationship Between Numbers
  • Fundamental Arithmetical Operations: Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Square Roots, Averages, Interest (Simple and Compound), Profit and Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture and Allegation, Time and Distance, Time and work
  • Algebra: Basic Algebraic Identities of School Algebra and Elementary Surds (Simple Problems) and Graphs of Linear Equations
  • Geometry: Familiarity with Elementary Geometric Figures and Facts: Triangle and its various kinds of Centres, Congruence and Similarity of Triangles, Circle and its Chords, Tangents, Angles Subtended by Chords of a Circle, Common Tangents to two or more Circles
  • Mensuration: Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid with Triangular or Square Base
  • Trigonometry: Trigonometry, Trigonometric Ratios, Complementary Angles, Height and Distances (Simple Problems Only) Standard Identities
  • Statistical Charts: Use of Tables and Graphs: Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar-Diagram, Pie-Chart
General Awareness General Awareness of the Environment, Current Events (BeePedia), India and its Neighboring Countries especially pertaining to History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General policy and scientific research

SSC CHSL Tier-2 Exam Pattern

The Tier-2 exam will occur in two sessions on the same day. In Session 1, candidates will face three sections with objective-type multiple-choice questions. This section assesses various skills and knowledge areas, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.

In contrast, Session 2 introduces a Skill Test/Typing Test, specifically for the positions of Data Entry Operator (DEO) and Lower Division Clerk/Junior Secretariat Assistant (LDC/JSA). This segment evaluates practical skills, including typing speed and accuracy. Please see the table below for more information on the CHSL exam pattern for Tier 2.

SubjectNumber of QuestionsMaximum MarksTime allowed
Session-1 (2 hours and 15 minutes)
Section-1:
  • Module-1: Mathematical Abilities
  • Module-2: Reasoning and General Intelligence.
  • 30
  • 30
180 1 hour (for each section) (1 hour 20 minutes for PwBD candidates)
Section-2:
  • Module-1: English Language and Comprehension
  • Module-2: : General Awareness
  • 40
  • 20
180
Section-3:
  • Module-1: Computer Knowledge Module
15 45 15 Minutes (20 minutes for PwBD candidates)
Session-2
Section-3:
  • Module-2: Skill Test/ Typing Test Module
Part A: Skill Test for DEOs. - 15 Minutes (20 minutes for PwBD candidates)
Part B: Typing Test for LDC/ JSA. - 15 Minutes (20 minutes for PwBD candidates)

Please Note:

  • There will be a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer in Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III.
  • Module -I of Section-III, i.e., Computer Knowledge Test, is mandatory but qualifying in nature.

Skill Test/Typing Test: Module II of Section III

Section-III, of Module-II, is a significant component of the SSC CHSL Tier-2 examination, focusing on a Skill Test/Typing Test for the positions of Data Entry Operator (DEO) and Lower Division Clerk/Junior Secretariat Assistant (LDC/JSA)

Emphasizing its qualifying nature, success in this test is vital for candidates aspiring to secure the specified roles. Moreover, precision is vital, as errors in the Skill Test will be unfailingly calculated up to two decimal places. This strict evaluation underscores the importance of speed and accuracy in typing skills.

Skill Test for Data Entry Operator

The Skill Test is mandatory for the Data Entry Operator (DEO) post in the SSC CHSL Tier-2 examination. No candidate will be exempted from appearing in this test. This underscores the essential nature of the Skill Test in assessing the practical proficiency of candidates aspiring for the DEO position, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of their data entry skills and accuracy.

Typing Test for LDC/JSA

The Typing Test is compulsory for candidates applying for Lower Division Clerk (LDC) positions and Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) in the SSC CHSL Tier-2 examination. Candidates can choose the medium of language, either Hindi or English, for the Typing Test while filling out the SSC CHSL Application form.

Skill Test / Typing Test
Skill Test for Data Entry Operator
  • Data Entry Operator: Printed matter in english containing about 2000-2200 key-depressions - 15 minutes
  • Data Entry Operator Grade ‘A’ (Comptroller and Auditor General of India (C&AG)): Printed matter in English containing about 3700-4000 key-depressions - 15 minutes
Typing Test for LDC/ JSA and Postal Assistant/ Sorting Assistant
  • The medium of Typing Test will be Hindi or English
  • English medium typing speed - 35 words per minute (w.p.m.)
  • Hindi medium typing speed - 30 words per minute (w.p.m.)
  • 35 w.p.m. and 30 w.p.m. correspond to about 10500 key depressions per hour and about 9000 key depressions per hour
  • The speed will be adjudged on the accuracy of typing on the Computer of a given text passage in 10 minutes
PwBD Candidates will be given compensatory time of 5 minutes. Therefore, duration of Typing Test for such candidates will be 15 minutes

SSC CHSL Tier-2 Syllabus

Here we give detailed SSC CHSL Tier-2 syllabus, but candidates should carefully review the official syllabus to ensure thorough preparation for the written and practical components of the Tier-2 examination.

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus Mathematical Abilities

SectionTopics
Number Systems Computation of Whole Number, Decimal and Fractions, Relationship between numbers. Fundamental arithmetical operations: Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Square roots, Averages, Interest (Simple and Compound), Profit and Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture and Alligation, Time and distance, Time and work.
Algebra Basic algebraic identities of School Algebra and Elementary surds (simple problems) and Graphs of Linear Equations.
Geometry Familiarity with elementary geometric figures and facts: Triangle and its various kinds of centres, Congruence and similarity of triangles, Circle and its chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords of a circle, common tangents to two or more circles.
Mensuration Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid with triangular or square Base.
Trigonometry Trigonometry, Trigonometric ratios, Complementary angles, Height and distances (simple problems only) Standard Identities like
Statistics and probability Use of Tables and Graphs: Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar-diagram, Pie-chart; Measures of central tendency: mean, median, mode, standard deviation; calculation of simple probabilities.

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus Reasoning and General Intelligence

SectionTopics
Reasoning and General Intelligence Verbal and non-verbal, Semantic Analogy, Symbolic operations, Symbolic/ Number Analogy, Trends, Figural Analogy, Space Orientation, Semantic Classification, Venn Diagrams, Symbolic/ Number Classification, Drawing inferences, Figural Classification, Punched hole/ pattern-folding & unfolding, Semantic Series, Figural Pattern-folding and completion, Number Series, Embedded figures, Figural Series, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Emotional Intelligence, Word Building, Social Intelligence, Coding and de-coding, Numerical operations, Other subtopics, if any.

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus English Language and Comprehension

SectionTopics
English Language and Comprehension Vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, synonyms, antonyms and their correct usage; Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms/ Homonyms, Antonyms, Spellings/ Detecting mis-spelt words, Idioms & Phrases, One word substitution, Improvement of Sentences, Active/ Passive Voice of Verbs, Conversion into Direct/ Indirect narration, Shuffling of Sentence parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a passage, Cloze Passage, Comprehension Passage. To test comprehension, two or more paragraphs will be given and questions based on those will be asked. At least one paragraph should be a simple one based on a book or a story and the other paragraph should be based on current affairs editorial or a report.

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus General Awareness

SectionTopics
General Awareness General awareness of the environment around you and its application to society, current events, India and its neighboring countries especially pertaining to History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General policy and scientific research.

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus Computer Proficiency

SectionTopics
Computer Basics Organization of a computer, Central Processing Unit (CPU), input/ output devices, computer memory, memory organization, back- up devices, PORTs, Windows Explorer, Keyboard shortcuts
Software Windows Operating system including basics of Microsoft Office like MS word, MS Excel and Power Point etc.
Working with Internet and e-mails Web Browsing & Searching, Downloading & Uploading, Managing an E-mail Account, e-Banking.
Basics of networking and cyber security Networking devices and protocols, Network and information security threats (like hacking, virus, worms, Trojan etc.) and preventive measures.

Mode of Selection

  • Candidates' performance in Tier-1 decides their entry into Tier-2. Different posts and Tiers might have separate cut-offs based on categories. Applicants must attend all three sections of Tier 2. Qualifying in each section is necessary. Candidates' performance in Section I and Section II determines their eligibility for Section III evaluation. Those who haven't qualified in Section I + Section II won't be assessed in Section III and won't proceed in the selection process.
  • The marks obtained in Tier 2 only will determine the final merit list.
  • The minimum qualifying marks for Tier-I, Section-I, Section-II, and Module-I of Section-III in the Tier-II Examination are described as follows: UR- 30%, OBC/EWS- 25%, and for all other categories, it is set at 20%. It's important for candidates to meet these minimum criteria to move forward in the SSC CHSL recruitment process. This ensures a fair and consistent assessment for candidates from different backgrounds.

SSC CHSL Marking Scheme

The SSC CHSL examination marking scheme for Tier-1 and Tier-2 is clearly defined in the notification and the details regarding the SSC CHSL marking scheme for both tiers are given in the table below.

SSC CHSL Exam Marking Scheme 2024

Marking SchemeConsidered Marks
For correct answers 2 marks
For wrong answers -0.50 marks
For not attempted 0 (no mark)

SSC CHSL Exam Language

The SSC CHSL Tier-1 and Tier-2 exams, both can be taken bilingually. Available in both Hindi and English languages. However, it's important to note that the test of English Language will only be available in English. Candidates can choose their default language for the exam: English or Hindi. But also, candidates can change their language preference for specific questions during the examination if necessary.

SSC CHSL Books

For effective preparation and success in SSC CHSL 2024 exam, quality study materials have a vital role to play. Leave no stone unturned and consider utilizing some recommended books like the ones given below, to help you prepare better. These resources cover essential topics and provide practice questions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your SSC CHSL exam preparation.

SubjectsUseful BooksAuthor/Publisher
Quantitative Aptitude Quicker Mathematics BSC Publications
Quantitative Aptitude RS Agarwal
Class Notes SS Bharti
General Awareness Lucent General Science Lucent Publication
General Knowledge Arihant Publication
General Science Kiran Publications
BeePedia  
General Intelligence A modern approach to verbal & Non-verbal reasoning R.S. Agarwal
Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning S.Chand
Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning Arihant Publication
English Language English Comprehension Wren & Martin
Word Power Made Easy Norman Lewis

SSC CHSL Free Mock Test

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SSC CHSL Online Course

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