The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Central Police Organization (CPO) examination to recruit candidates for the posts of Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Assistant Sub-Inspectors in the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The SSC CPO exam is a highly competitive examination that attracts thousands of candidates every year. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for candidates preparing for this exam, as it helps in planning and strategizing effectively.
This article provides a detailed overview of the SSC CPO exam pattern, including the stages of the exam, marking scheme, and the topics covered in each section.
Overview of SSC CPO Exam
The SSC CPO exam is conducted in four stages:
- Paper 1 (Computer-Based Test)
- Physical Endurance Test (PET) / Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Paper 2 (Computer-Based Test)
- Medical Examination
Each stage of the exam is equally important, and candidates must clear each stage to proceed to the next. Let’s break down each stage of the exam in detail.
Stage 1: Paper 1 (Computer-Based Test)
Paper 1 of the SSC CPO exam is an objective-type test conducted online. It consists of four sections, and each section carries equal weightage. The total duration of the exam is 2 hours, and candidates need to answer 200 questions in this time frame. The total marks for Paper 1 are 200.
Paper 1 Structure
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | |
| General Knowledge and General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 2 hours |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 50 | 50 | |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 2 hours |
1. General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section tests the logical reasoning abilities of candidates. Questions are designed to assess a candidate’s ability to think critically and solve problems efficiently. Key topics covered include:
- Analogies
- Similarities and Differences
- Spatial Orientation
- Problem-Solving
- Analysis, Judgment, and Decision Making
- Visual Memory
- Relationship Concepts
- Arithmetical Reasoning and Figural Classification
- Non-Verbal Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Statement Conclusion
2. General Knowledge and General Awareness
The General Knowledge section aims to evaluate the candidate’s awareness of current events and general happenings around the world. It includes:
- Current Affairs (National and International)
- History
- Geography
- Economics
- General Polity
- Indian Constitution
- Scientific Research
- Awards and Honors
- Books and Authors
- Sports
- Important Dates and Events
3. Quantitative Aptitude
This section measures the mathematical ability of the candidate. The questions in this section are designed to test the candidate’s speed and accuracy in solving numerical problems. Topics include:
- Number Systems
- Computation of Whole Numbers
- Decimals and Fractions
- Percentages
- Ratio and Proportion
- Averages
- Interest (Simple and Compound)
- Profit and Loss
- Discount
- Mensuration
- Time and Distance
- Time and Work
- Data Interpretation
4. English Comprehension
This section evaluates the candidate’s understanding of the English language, including comprehension and grammar. The focus is on:
- Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Sentence Structure
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Sentence Completion
- Idioms and Phrases
Stage 2: Physical Endurance Test (PET) / Physical Standard Test (PST)
Candidates who qualify in Paper 1 are eligible to appear for the Physical Endurance Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST). This stage is conducted to test the physical fitness of the candidates, which is a crucial aspect of the job roles in the police and armed forces.
Physical Endurance Test (PET)
The PET includes different activities for male and female candidates. Below are the details of the physical endurance test:
For Male Candidates:
- Race: 1600 meters in 6 minutes and 30 seconds
- Long Jump: 3.65 meters (3 chances)
- High Jump: 1.2 meters (3 chances)
- Shot Put (16 lbs): 4.5 meters
For Female Candidates:
- Race: 100 meters in 16 seconds
- Long Jump: 2.7 meters (3 chances)
- High Jump: 0.9 meters (3 chances)
Physical Standard Test (PST)
The PST is conducted to check whether the candidates meet the required physical standards such as height, chest measurements, and weight. The required physical standards vary for male and female candidates.
For Male Candidates:
- Height: 170 cm (relaxation for certain categories)
- Chest: 80 cm (minimum) with an expansion of 5 cm
For Female Candidates:
- Height: 157 cm (relaxation for certain categories)
Candidates who do not meet the physical standards are disqualified from further selection.
Stage 3: Paper 2 (Computer-Based Test)
Candidates who qualify in the PET/PST are eligible to appear for Paper 2. This paper focuses solely on English language skills. Paper 2 is also an objective-type test conducted online.
Paper 2 Structure
- Total Marks: 200
- Number of Questions: 200
- Duration: 2 hours
Topics Covered in Paper 2
The questions in Paper 2 are designed to assess the candidate’s proficiency in English, focusing on areas such as:
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Sentence Structure
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Error Spotting
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Active and Passive Voice
- Direct and Indirect Speech
- Idioms and Phrases
Paper 2 is crucial, as a strong grasp of the English language is essential for the posts under SSC CPO.
Stage 4: Medical Examination
After clearing Paper 2, candidates are required to undergo a medical examination. The medical examination is conducted to ensure that candidates are physically and medically fit for the duties required by the posts. Some of the tests include:
- Eye Test (for visual acuity, color blindness, etc.)
- Hearing Test
- Blood Pressure Check
- General Physical Health Assessment
Candidates who are declared medically unfit are given an opportunity to appeal against the findings, after which they undergo a re-examination.
Final Selection and Merit List
The final selection of candidates is based on their performance in Paper 1 and Paper 2, provided they qualify in the PET/PST and medical examination. The marks obtained in both Paper 1 and Paper 2 are considered for preparing the final merit list. Based on the merit list, candidates are allocated to different posts and departments.
Marking Scheme and Important Points
- Marking Scheme: For both Paper 1 and Paper 2, each correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
- Qualifying Marks: The SSC determines the minimum qualifying marks for Paper 1 and Paper 2. Candidates must score above these marks to move on to the next stage.
- Normalization: Since the exam is conducted in multiple shifts, the normalization process is used to ensure fairness in the evaluation.
Conclusion
The SSC CPO exam pattern is comprehensive and tests candidates on various aspects, from mental ability and knowledge to physical fitness and language proficiency. Understanding the structure and syllabus of each stage is essential for aspirants aiming to secure a position under SSC CPO. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can clear the exam and embark on a rewarding career in law enforcement and public service.
