SSC CHSL Vs. SSC CGL – What Changes in Strategy You Need?

Many students preparing for government exams often wonder whether the same study plan works for both SSC CHSL and SSC CGL. Even though the subjects look similar, experts and toppers say the preparation style cannot be exactly the same. The level of questions, the way topics are asked, and the speed needed in both exams are quite different. This article explains these differences in an easy way and shares useful tips from toppers to help understand how the study approach should change for each exam.

SSC CHSL vs. SSC CGL Tier 1: Exam Pattern Comparison

Even though the pattern and syllabus mostly match, the effort needed, the type of questions, and the level of competition are different. The basic syllabus can be prepared together for both exams, but SSC CGL needs extra practice with higher-level questions, tougher mock tests, and quicker solving methods.

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

Each correct answer carries 3 marks, and 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern

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?

Even though both exams follow almost the same syllabus and ask similar types of questions, the preparation plan cannot be exactly the same. Each exam has a different level of difficulty, so the approach needs to be adjusted according to the target. A few small but important changes in study style can make a big difference in the final result. The detailed preparation strategy has been explained below for better understanding:

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.