When preparing for government exams like SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level) and SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level), many students find themselves asking: Is the same preparation strategy enough for both? According to experts and successful candidates, the answer is no. While the subjects in both exams are similar, the difficulty level, approach, and time management are quite different. In this article, we bring you insights from toppers and expert recommendations to help you understand how your preparation strategy should change when switching between SSC CHSL and SSC CGL.
SSC CHSL vs. SSC CGL Tier 1: Exam Pattern Comparison
While the exam pattern and syllabus are almost the same, the level of preparation, complexity of questions, and competition differ. Students can prepare the base syllabus together for both exams, but for SSC CGL, they must practice more advanced level questions, tougher mock tests, and faster solving techniques.
Feature | SSC CHSL Tier 1 | SSC CGL Tier 1 |
---|---|---|
Number of Questions | 100 | 100 |
Total Marks | 200 | 200 |
Time Duration | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
Sections | General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language | General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension |
Negative Marking | 0.50 marks per wrong answer | 0.50 marks per wrong answer |
Similar Difficulty Level in Both Exams
The questions in SSC CHSL Tier 2 and SSC CGL Tier 2 are almost the same in terms of difficulty. In fact, many questions are often repeated across both exams. But the structure of the exam, number of questions, and marking pattern vary slightly. Understanding this is important to plan your preparation in the right direction.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Section | Module | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Section I | Module-I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 hour |
Module-II | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | ||
Section II | Module-I | English Language & Comprehension | 40 | 120 | 1 hour |
Module-II | General Awareness | 20 | 60 | ||
Section III | Module-I | Computer Knowledge | 15 | 45 | 15 minutes |
Module-II | Typing/Skill Test | – | – | 10-15 minutes |
Each correct answer carries 3 marks, and 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Section | Module | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Section I | Module-I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 hour |
Module-II | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | ||
Section II | Module-I | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 1 hour |
Module-II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | ||
Section III | Module-I | Computer Knowledge | 20 | 60 | 15 minutes |
Module-II | Data Entry Speed Test | – | – | 15 minutes |
Same marking scheme as CHSL: 3 marks for each correct answer, and 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
Common Topics in the Syllabus
The subjects covered in both exams are almost the same. Here are the key topics:
Mathematics: Number System, Percentage, Profit & Loss, SI & CI, Geometry, Algebra, Mensuration, and Trigonometry.
Reasoning: Classification, Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Series, Puzzles, and Non-verbal Reasoning.
English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Cloze Test, Sentence Rearrangement, Voice, Narration, and Reading Comprehension.
General Awareness: Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Science, Current Affairs, and Static GK.
Computer Knowledge: MS Office basics, Internet, Email, Cyber Security, Hardware, and Software basics.
What Changes in Strategy Are Needed?
Though the syllabus and question types are similar, candidates must make some changes in their preparation strategy based on the exam they are targeting.
Strategy for SSC CHSL Tier 2:
- Since English and Computer sections have fewer questions, focus on accuracy and time management.
- Practice for the Typing Test and revise basic computer knowledge regularly.
- Grammar-based and reading comprehension questions should be practiced more, as they are crucial for scoring in the English section.
Strategy for SSC CGL Tier 2:
- English section has more weightage. So, focus on mastering comprehension and advanced grammar.
- General Awareness section has 25 questions, slightly more than CHSL. Stay updated with current affairs and revise key static topics.
- Practice Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) and revise computer concepts in detail.
Common Preparation Tips for Both:
- Use the SSC CGL Tier 2 exam pattern while practicing mock tests. It covers all areas and prepares you better for both exams.
- Make a subject-wise timetable covering all topics regularly.
- Focus on speed and accuracy through daily practice and full-length mock tests.
The SSC CHSL and SSC CGL exams may look similar, but their Tier 2 patterns have a few key differences. To succeed, it’s important to adjust your strategy according to the exam structure. Focus on your weak areas, revise core subjects, and take regular mock tests. With the right preparation plan, you can perform well in both exams.