1. SSC CGL 2026 Examination Architecture (Tier 1 vs Tier 2)
The Staff Selection Commission conducts Combined Graduate Level (CGL) recruitment across two computer-based tiers for Group B and Group C central government posts (Income Tax Inspector, ASO in MEA/CSS, Excise Inspector, ED, and CBI):
100 Questions • 200 Marks • 60 Minutes
- General Intelligence & Reasoning: 25 Questions (50 Marks)
- General Awareness: 25 Questions (50 Marks)
- Quantitative Aptitude: 25 Questions (50 Marks)
- English Comprehension: 25 Questions (50 Marks)
- Negative Marking: 0.50 marks deducted for every incorrect attempt.
390 Marks Merit + Qualifying Modules
- Section 1: Math (30 Qs) + Reasoning (30 Qs) = 180 Marks
- Section 2: English (45 Qs) + General Awareness (25 Qs) = 210 Marks
- Section 3: Computer Knowledge (20 Qs, 60 Marks, Qualifying)
- Section 4: Data Entry Speed Test (DEST, Qualifying)
- Negative Marking: 1 mark deducted per incorrect question.
2. Mastering General Awareness: The Real Differentiator
Most serious aspirants score high in Math and Reasoning. General Awareness is the section that determines final All-India Ranks (AIR) and department allocation. Focus on these high-yield topics curated on SF Prep:
Polity & Constitution
High frequency on Articles 14 to 32 (Fundamental Rights), President and Governor impeachment, Emergency Articles (352, 356, 360), and 42nd/44th Constitutional Amendments.
Modern & Medieval History
Key focus on Delhi Sultanate architectural monuments, Mughal administrative terms (Mansabdari, Zabti), 1857 Revolt leaders, and Governor Generals / Viceroys legislation.
NCERT Science Essentials
Chemical names of everyday compounds (Baking soda, Bleaching powder, Plaster of Paris), Periodic Table trends, human digestive enzymes, and plant hormones.
Geography & Rivers
Himalayan vs Peninsular river tributaries, National Parks, major dams and hydroelectric projects, and biosphere reserves in India.
Static Culture & Sports
Classical and folk dances by state, musical instruments and famous gharanas, Olympic and Asian Games medalists, and national sports awards.
Last 8 Months Current Affairs
New Central Government schemes, international summits (G20, BRICS), military exercises, statutory appointments, and Nobel prize winners.
3. Solve SSC CGL Practice Quizzes Daily on SF Prep
In Tier 1, you must solve 25 General Awareness questions within 10 to 12 minutes to reserve 48 minutes for Math and Reasoning. SF Prep provides timed speed tests with automatic negative marking calculation.