SSC CGL Total Marks: Exam Pattern & Weightage

by Wholesomestory Johnson 46 views

Hello everyone! Are you curious about the total marks for the SSC CGL exam and how the marks are distributed across different tiers? You've come to the right place. In this article, I will provide a clear, detailed, and correct answer to your question, helping you understand the SSC CGL exam pattern and marking scheme thoroughly.

Correct Answer

The total marks for the SSC CGL exam are 700, distributed across Tier I (200 marks) and Tier II (500 marks).

Detailed Explanation

The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) exam is a highly competitive examination conducted annually to recruit candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in different ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. Understanding the exam pattern, including the total marks and the distribution of marks across tiers, is crucial for effective preparation. Let's break down the SSC CGL exam pattern and the marks distribution:

SSC CGL Exam Structure

The SSC CGL exam consists of two tiers:

  • Tier I: Computer-Based Examination
  • Tier II: Computer-Based Examination

Both tiers are conducted online. Candidates must clear Tier I to be eligible for Tier II. The final selection is based on the combined scores of Tier I and Tier II, along with other factors like document verification and skill tests (if applicable for certain posts).

Tier I Exam Pattern

The Tier I exam is a computer-based test (CBT) consisting of four sections:

  1. General Intelligence and Reasoning: This section tests the candidate's logical reasoning and analytical abilities.
  2. General Awareness: This section assesses the candidate's knowledge of current events, history, geography, economics, and other general topics.
  3. Quantitative Aptitude: This section evaluates the candidate's mathematical skills, including arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry.
  4. English Comprehension: This section tests the candidate's understanding of the English language and grammar.

Each section in Tier I consists of 25 questions, and each question carries 2 marks. Therefore, the total marks for Tier I are 200.

Section Number of Questions Marks per Question Total Marks Time Allotted
General Intelligence and Reasoning 25 2 50 60 minutes
General Awareness 25 2 50
Quantitative Aptitude 25 2 50
English Comprehension 25 2 50
Total 100 200

Tier II Exam Pattern

The Tier II exam is also a computer-based test (CBT) but has a different structure and subjects compared to Tier I. Tier II is crucial as it carries a higher weightage in the final selection. The Tier II exam pattern has been revised, and the latest pattern is as follows:

The Tier-II exam comprises two sessions: Session-I and Session-II, conducted on the same day. Session-I includes three sections, each further divided into modules. Session-II includes two modules.

Session I (2 hours and 30 minutes)

  • Section-I (1 hour):
    • Module-I: Mathematical Abilities (30 questions x 3 marks = 90 marks)
    • Module-II: Reasoning and General Intelligence (30 questions x 3 marks = 90 marks)
  • Section-II (1 hour):
    • Module-I: English Language and Comprehension (45 questions x 3 marks = 135 marks)
    • Module-II: General Awareness (25 questions x 3 marks = 75 marks)
  • Section-III (15 minutes):
    • Module-I: Computer Knowledge Test (20 questions x 3 marks = 60 marks)

Session II (15 minutes + Data Entry Speed Test)

  • Section-III (15 minutes):
    • Module-II: Skill Test (Data Entry Speed Test)

Total Marks for Tier II:

  • Mathematical Abilities: 90 marks
  • Reasoning and General Intelligence: 90 marks
  • English Language and Comprehension: 135 marks
  • General Awareness: 75 marks
  • Computer Knowledge Test: 60 marks

Adding these up:

90 + 90 + 135 + 75 + 60 = 450 marks

The Skill Test (Data Entry Speed Test) and Document Verification are also part of the selection process, but they are qualifying in nature.

Therefore, the total marks for the Tier II examination are 450.

Grand Total

To calculate the grand total marks for the SSC CGL exam, we add the total marks of Tier I and Tier II:

Total Marks = Tier I Marks + Tier II Marks

Total Marks = 200 + 450 = 650 marks

Key Concepts

  • Tier I: The first stage of the SSC CGL exam, which is a computer-based test consisting of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
  • Tier II: The second stage, a more detailed computer-based examination, focusing on mathematical abilities, reasoning, English, general awareness, and computer knowledge.
  • Negative Marking: There is a negative marking scheme in both Tier I and Tier II exams. For Tier I, 0.50 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer. For Tier II, 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer in Sections I and II, and 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer in Section III.
  • Normalization: The SSC uses a normalization method to adjust scores if the exam is conducted in multiple shifts to account for variations in difficulty levels.

Detailed Breakdown of Tier II Sections

Let's delve deeper into each section of the Tier II exam to understand the syllabus and the importance of each:

  1. Mathematical Abilities:

    • This module assesses a candidate's understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills.
    • Topics include: Number Systems, Fundamental arithmetical operations, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Statistics and Probability.
    • Importance: A strong foundation in mathematics is crucial for scoring well in this section. Regular practice and conceptual clarity are essential.

  2. Reasoning and General Intelligence:

    • This section tests the candidate's logical and analytical abilities.
    • Topics include: Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Classification, Series, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Logical Venn Diagrams, Syllogism, etc.
    • Importance: Reasoning skills are vital for various government jobs. Practicing different types of questions will enhance speed and accuracy.

  3. English Language and Comprehension:

    • This section evaluates a candidate's proficiency in the English language.
    • Topics include: Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Structure, Synonyms and Antonyms, Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Fill in the Blanks, etc.
    • Importance: English language skills are crucial for effective communication in government jobs. Regular reading and grammar practice are key.

  4. General Awareness:

    • This section assesses the candidate's knowledge of current events and general topics.
    • Topics include: Current Affairs, History, Geography, Economics, Polity, Science, and Technology.
    • Importance: Staying updated with current events and having a broad understanding of general knowledge is essential for this section. Regular reading of newspapers and magazines is recommended.

  5. Computer Knowledge Test:

    • This module tests the candidate’s basic computer knowledge.
    • Topics include: Computer Basics, Software, Operating Systems, MS Office, Internet Usage, etc.
    • Importance: With increasing digitization, computer knowledge is becoming essential in government jobs. Basic understanding and practical knowledge of computer applications are vital.

Strategies to Maximize Your Score

To maximize your score in the SSC CGL exam, consider the following strategies:

  • Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly understand the syllabus for both Tier I and Tier II exams. Knowing the topics will help you plan your study schedule effectively.
  • Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that allocates sufficient time for each subject. Ensure you cover all topics and leave time for revision.
  • Practice Regularly: Regular practice is key to success. Solve previous year's question papers and mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level.
  • Time Management: Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam. Allocate time for each section and stick to your schedule.
  • Accuracy: Focus on accuracy to avoid negative marking. Ensure you have a good understanding of the concepts before attempting questions.
  • Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with current events and general knowledge. Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources regularly.
  • Mock Tests: Take mock tests to assess your preparation level. Analyze your performance and identify areas where you need to improve.
  • Revision: Regularly revise the topics you have studied. This will help you retain information and build confidence.

Key Takeaways

  • The total marks for the SSC CGL exam are 650, distributed between Tier I (200 marks) and Tier II (450 marks).
  • Tier I consists of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
  • Tier II includes sections on Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge.
  • Effective preparation involves understanding the syllabus, creating a study plan, practicing regularly, managing time, and staying updated with current events.

I hope this detailed explanation helps you understand the total marks for the SSC CGL exam and the distribution of marks across different tiers. Best of luck with your preparation! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.