The Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is an important part of the process of selection for defence services in India, including NDA, CDS, AFCAT, and other entries. To be genuinely successful, you need to prepare adequately for different aspects. Here's a guide to help you:
1. Current Affairs and General Knowledge
The SSB interview will place great emphasis on awareness of national and international happenings around the world. This is why it is important to stay updated when it comes time for personal interviews and general group discussions. Daily newspapers (e.g. The Hindu, The Indian Express) should be thoroughly read for national and international news, defence updates, sports and updates from the government.
'It is good to have a basic understanding of History, Geography and polity (freedom struggle, constitution, geography and political system ) of How things happened in the past). Use the best SSB Books to cover these subjects in a short amount of time to help study for this information.
2. SSB Psychological Tests
The psych test battery consists of the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), Word Association Test (WAT), SRT, and Self Description Test (SDT). All of these tests strive to assess different aspects of personality traits, thought processes and problem-solving skills. In the SSB, prepare for psychological tests. There are SSB Interview books that primarily cover preparation for psychological tests.
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3. Officer Like Qualities (OLQs)
The SSB interview looks for candidates with Officer Like Qualities (OLQs) such as positional and task leadership decisions, influence, initiative, determination, communication and information management, and individual confidence.
4. Group Discussions and Group Tasks
For the group discussions (GDs) and group tasks (GTO tasks), you need to be knowledgeable about many things and communicate well. Be prepared for current affairs, socio-political issues and defence-related issues and matters. Also, read articles and blogs about communication skills and teamwork in leadership.
5. Personal Interview Preparation
The personal interview evaluates your personality, life experiences, career motivation, and knowledge. Be prepared for questions regarding your personal life, family, education, things you enjoy, and your interest in joining the armed forces.
Remember, you will need to demonstrate confidence, positivity, and calmness throughout the duration of your interview.
6. Technical Knowledge (for Technical Entries)
If you are subject to technical entries like TES, UES or SSC Tech, you need a good command of the technical subjects associated with your field. Reacquaint yourself with important engineering or scientific concepts, depending on your background.
While preparing for the SSB interview, you need to think about current affairs, general knowledge, leadership skills and communication, and ultimately awareness of oneself. Other than the SSB books, you should demonstrate your skill set by practicing psychological tests, and developing clarity.
