Syllabus, Exam pattern & Tips to Prepare SSC-CGL 2026 l Career Pathway

Tier 1 (Qualifying Round)

The SSC CGL Tier-1 exam is conducted online with 100 multiple-choice questions carrying 200 marks total, to be completed in 60 minutes. It consists of 4 sections with 25 questions from each section. 

Section-wise Breakdown:

• General Intelligence & Reasoning: 25 questions, 50 marks
• Quantitative Aptitude: 25 questions, 50 marks
• English Language & Comprehension: 25 questions, 50 marks
• General Awareness: 25 questions, 50 marks

Tier 2 (Main Examination)

This consists of multiple papers based on the post you’re applying for, with more detailed subject-specific questions.

SSC CGL Syllabus

The syllabus consists of 4 main sections: Quantitative Aptitude, General Intelligence and Reasoning, English Language, and General Awareness. 

1. Quantitative Aptitude

• Number Systems & Simplification
• Percentage, Ratio & Proportion
• Average, Time & Work
• Simple & Compound Interest
• Profit & Loss, Discount
• Geometry & Mensuration
• Trigonometry
• Algebra & Statistics
• Data Interpretation

2. General Intelligence & Reasoning

• Analogies, Similarities & Differences
• Space Visualization
• Problem Solving & Analysis
• Decision Making & Judgment
• Visual Memory
• Discrimination & Observation
• Relationship Concepts
• Arithmetical Reasoning
• Verbal & Figure Classification
• Non-verbal Series

3. English Language & Comprehension

• Reading Comprehension
• Grammar (Tenses, Articles, etc.)
• Vocabulary
• Sentence Structure
• Synonyms & Antonyms
• Idioms & Phrases
• Error Detection
• Fill in the Blanks
• Cloze Test

4. General Awareness

• Current Affairs (National & International)
• Indian History & Culture
• Geography (Indian & World)
• Indian Polity & Constitution
• Economic Scene
• General Science
• Scientific Research
• Sports
• Awards & Honors

Preparation Strategy

Phase 1: Foundation Building (2-3 months)

Start by understanding the latest exam pattern and syllabus, focus on building strong basics first.

Study the Syllabus Thoroughly: First understand the syllabus and exam pattern to get complete knowledge about the SSC CGL exam. 

1. Create a Realistic Study Plan: After knowing about the syllabus and exam pattern, create a realistic study schedule. 
2. Subject-wise Approach:
   • Mathematics: Start with basic arithmetic, then move to advanced topics
   • Reasoning: Practice different types of questions daily
   • English: Focus on grammar rules and vocabulary building
   • GK: Read newspapers daily and maintain current affairs notes

Phase 2: Practice & Improvement (2-3 months)

Move on to solving previous years’ papers and taking regular mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

1. Solve Previous Year Papers: Understand question patterns and difficulty levels
2. Take Regular Mock Tests: Build speed and identify weak areas
3. Topic-wise Tests: Regular revision and topic-wise tests ensure you retain concepts and identify gaps in your preparation. 

Phase 3: Final Preparation (1 month)

1. Intensive Revision: Focus on formulas, shortcuts, and important facts
2. Time Management: Practice completing the paper within 60 minutes
3. Current Affairs: Update yourself with recent events

Key Preparation Tips

Subject-wise Strategy:

Focus on the four main subjects: Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, General Knowledge/General Awareness, and English Language.

1. Quantitative Aptitude:
   • Master basic arithmetic first
   • Learn shortcuts and tricks
   • Practice data interpretation regularly
2. Reasoning:
   • Practice different question types daily
   • Focus on logical reasoning and puzzles
3. English:
   • Improve vocabulary through daily reading
   • Master grammar rules
   • Practice comprehension passages
4. General Awareness:
   • Read newspapers daily
   • Focus on last 6 months’ current affairs
   • Study static GK topics systematically

Daily Study Schedule:

• Morning (2-3 hours): Quantitative Aptitude
• Afternoon (2-3 hours): Reasoning & English
• Evening (1-2 hours): General Awareness & Current Affairs
• Night (1 hour): Revision & Mock Tests

Important Resources:

• NCERT books for basic concepts
• Previous years’ question papers
• Current affairs magazines
• Online mock test platforms
• Standard reference books for each subject

Success Mantras:

Success is all about your preparation strategy, consistency, and time management. With a well-structured study plan and clear understanding of exam pattern and syllabus, you can significantly increase your chances of success. 

1. Consistency: Study regularly without long breaks
2. Time Management: Practice solving questions within time limits
3. Regular Assessment: Take weekly mock tests
4. Stay Updated: Keep track of current events
5. Positive Attitude: Maintain confidence throughout preparation

The SSC CGL is a competitive exam that requires dedicated preparation over 4-6 months. Focus on understanding concepts rather than just memorizing, practice regularly, and maintain a balanced approach across all subjects for the best results.