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

The SSC CHSL and SSC CGL exams are among the most popular government exams conducted by the Staff Selection Commission. While both exams test candidates on similar subjects like Maths, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness, there are important differences in their Tier 2 exam patterns and structure. Due to these differences, your preparation strategy also needs to change accordingly.

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?

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.