The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts a two-stage selection process for the Stenographer Grade 'C' & 'D' Recruitment 2026. Candidates must first clear a Computer Based Examination (CBE), followed by a mandatory Skill Test in Stenography.
Below is the detailed scheme of examination, subject-wise syllabus, and specific parameters for the Skill Test based on the official notification.
1. SSC Stenographer Exam Pattern 2026 (CBE)
The Computer Based Examination consists of Objective Type Multiple Choice questions set in both English and Hindi. The total duration of the exam is 2 Hours.
| Part | Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part I | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 |
| Part II | General Awareness 5 | 50 | 50 |
| Part II | English Language and Comprehension | 100 | 100 |
| Total | 200 | 200 |
Important Marking Rules:
- Sectional Timers: The 2-hour duration is divided into sectional timers: 30 minutes each for Part I and Part II, and 60 minutes for Part III.
- Negative Marking: There is a strict negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- Normalization: Marks scored in multiple shifts will be normalized by the Commission to determine final merit and cut-off marks.
2. Detailed Subject-Wise Syllabus (CBE)
A. General Intelligence & Reasoning (50 Marks)
This section tests the candidate's abilities to deal with abstract ideas, symbols, arithmetical computation, and analytical functions. It includes both verbal and non-verbal questions on:
- Analogies, similarities, and differences
- Space visualization and visual memory
- Problem-solving, analysis, judgment, and decision making
- Discriminating observation and relationship concepts
- Arithmetical reasoning
- Verbal and figure classification
- Arithmetical number series and non-verbal series
B. General Awareness (50 Marks)
Questions in this section are designed to test the candidate's general awareness of the environment and current events. It does not require a special study of any particular discipline. Topics include:
- Current events and everyday observation/science
- India and its neighboring countries: Specifically pertaining to Sports, History, Culture, Geography, Economic scene, General Polity (including Indian Constitution), and Scientific Research.
- (Note: For VH candidates with 40% and above visual disability, there will be no Maps/Graphs/Diagrams/Statistical Data questions).
C. English Language & Comprehension (100 Marks)
This is the highest weightage section. It tests the candidate's understanding of the English Language and writing ability, covering:
- Vocabulary and Grammar
- Sentence Structure
- Synonyms and Antonyms and their correct usage
- Reading Comprehension
3. Skill Test in Stenography
Candidates shortlisted in the CBE will be called for the Skill Test. Candidates will be given a 10-minute dictation in English or Hindi (as opted in the application form).
- Stenographer Grade 'C': Dictation speed of 100 words per minute (w.p.m).
- Stenographer Grade 'D': Dictation speed of 80 words per minute (w.p.m).
The dictated matter must be transcribed on a computer. The transcription time allowed is as follows:
| Post | Language | Transcription Time | Time for Scribe Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steno Grade 'D' | English | 50 Minutes | 70 Minutes |
| Steno Grade 'D' | Hindi | 65 Minutes | 90 Minutes |
| Steno Grade 'C' | English | 40 Minutes | 55 Minutes |
| Steno Grade 'C' | Hindi | 55 Minutes | 75 Minutes |
Note: Candidates who opt for the Hindi Stenography test will be required to learn English Stenography (and vice versa) after their appointment based on user department requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the Computer Based Examination.
The total duration is 2 Hours (120 minutes). However, there are sectional timers: 30 minutes each for Reasoning and General Awareness, and 60 minutes for the English section.
Part III (English Language and Comprehension) carries the highest weightage with 100 questions for 100 marks.
Yes, candidates can opt to take the Skill Test (Dictation and Transcription) in either English or Hindi during their online application registration.