The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts various exams for government job aspirants, including the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Exam and Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Exam. A crucial part of these exams is typing and shorthand skills, which are essential for specific job roles such as Data Entry Operators (DEO), Lower Division Clerks (LDC), and Stenographers.
In this article, we will discuss the importance, requirements, preparation tips, and best practices to enhance your typing and shorthand proficiency for the SSC CGL and CHSL exams.
Importance of Typing and Shorthand in SSC Exams
Typing and shorthand skills are vital for various government job roles that involve documentation, report writing, and official correspondence. These skills help improve efficiency and ensure that government offices function smoothly.
1. Typing Skills
Typing speed and accuracy are essential for Data Entry Operators (DEO) and Lower Division Clerks (LDC) under SSC CHSL and CGL. A good typing speed enables candidates to handle a high volume of data efficiently.
2. Shorthand Skills
Shorthand is mainly required for Stenographer Grade C & D positions. It is a method of writing quickly using symbols and abbreviations, allowing stenographers to take dictation at a high speed.
Typing Test for SSC CGL and CHSLTyping Test for SSC CHSL (LDC/DEO)
The Typing Test is a qualifying stage for the CHSL exam and is mandatory for certain posts. It evaluates the candidate’s speed and accuracy in typing.
Typing Speed Requirements
- English Typing: 35 words per minute (WPM)
- Hindi Typing: 30 words per minute (WPM)
- Time Duration: 10 minutes
Eligibility for the Typing Test
Candidates applying for LDC, JSA, and PA/SA posts must take the typing test. It is conducted in both English and Hindi, and candidates must choose their preferred language while filling out the application form.
Typing Test for SSC CGL (DEST)
The Data Entry Skill Test (DEST) is required for the post of Tax Assistant in CBDT and CBIC.
DEST Requirements
- Candidates must type 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes in English.
- The test is conducted on a computer and is qualifying in nature.
Tips to Improve Typing Speed and Accuracy
- Practice Daily: Regular typing practice helps in improving both speed and accuracy.
- Use Online Typing Tools: Websites like 10FastFingers, TypingTest, Stenoguru and Ratatype can be useful.
- Maintain Proper Posture: Sit upright and position your hands correctly on the keyboard.
- Focus on Accuracy First: Speed will improve naturally once accuracy is achieved.
- Use All Fingers: Learn touch typing to reduce dependency on looking at the keyboard.
- Practice with SSC Mock Tests: This helps in getting accustomed to the test format.
Shorthand Test for SSC Stenographer Exam
Shorthand is a high-speed note-taking method where candidates use symbols and abbreviations to write quickly. This skill is mandatory for SSC Stenographer Grade C & D posts.
Shorthand Speed Requirements
- For Grade C: 100 words per minute (WPM)
- For Grade D: 80 words per minute (WPM)
Exam Pattern for SSC Stenographer Shorthand Test
- Candidates must transcribe dictated passages within a given time.
- The test is conducted in both Hindi and English.
- The duration of transcription varies:
- Grade C (100 WPM): 50 minutes (English), 65 minutes (Hindi)
- Grade D (80 WPM): 40 minutes (English), 55 minutes (Hindi)
How to Improve Shorthand Skills?
- Learn the Basics: Master the principles of shorthand using Pitman or Gregg shorthand systems.
- Daily Dictation Practice: Listen to dictations at increasing speeds and transcribe them.
- Use Shorthand Notebooks: Practice writing frequently used words and phrases.
- Increase Speed Gradually: Start slow and increase speed over time.
- Transcribe Regularly: Typing out shorthand notes ensures accuracy in transcription.
- Follow News and Speeches: Listen to news channels and transcribe speeches for better adaptability.
- Join Coaching Classes: Enrolling in a shorthand course can provide structured learning.
Recommended Resources for Typing and Shorthand Practice
For Typing:
- Stenoguru.com (For Hindi/English Typing and Shorthand Dictation Practice)
- Typing Master (Software for structured typing lessons)
- Keybr.com (Online practice)
- 10FastFingers.com (Typing speed tests)
- SSC Typing Test Past Papers (Practice as per exam pattern)
For Shorthand:
- Pitman Shorthand Book (For learning basic principles)
- Shorthand classes (Offline or online)
- Dictation Audio Files (Available on YouTube & educational platforms)
- News Channels and Speeches (For real-world dictation practice)
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Typing and Shorthand Exams
Typing Mistakes:
- Looking at the Keyboard: Reduces speed and accuracy.
- Not Practicing Regularly: Leads to slow progress.
- Ignoring Accuracy: High errors can lead to disqualification.
- Not Familiarizing with Exam Pattern: Leads to confusion during the test.
Shorthand Mistakes:
- Incomplete Symbols: Leads to incorrect transcription.
- Lack of Regular Dictation Practice: Reduces speed and retention.
- Not Reviewing Notes Immediately: Increases errors during transcription.
- Overlooking Punctuation Marks: Leads to loss of meaning in transcripts.
Final Preparation Strategy
- Create a Daily Practice Schedule: Allocate time for both typing and shorthand practice.
- Take Regular Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions.
- Analyze Mistakes: Improve weak areas by reviewing errors.
- Use Quality Study Material: Follow recommended books and resources.
- Stay Consistent: Regular practice leads to improvement.
- Improve Listening Skills: Helps in faster comprehension during dictation.
Conclusion
Typing and shorthand skills are essential for various SSC job roles, and mastering them can increase your chances of securing a government job. Regular practice, the right approach, and effective time management will help you excel in the SSC CGL and CHSL typing and shorthand tests.
Start your practice today with online tools, dictation exercises, and mock tests, and enhance your speed and accuracy for a successful career in the government sector!
