SSC Stenographer Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026
SSC Stenographer Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026 provides a complete guide to the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and Skill Test for Grade C & D posts conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). The SSC Stenographer 2026 recruitment helps candidates secure government jobs as stenographers in various ministries and departments.
The selection process includes a scoring CBT (200 marks) followed by a qualifying Stenography Skill Test. Understanding the latest syllabus and exam pattern is essential for effective preparation, as the CBT tests General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, and English Language & Comprehension, while the Skill Test evaluates shorthand and transcription speed.
SSC Stenographer 2026 Exam Overview
The SSC Stenographer exam targets Grade ‘C’ and Grade ‘D’ posts. The CBT is objective and bilingual (except the English section). Final merit is based on CBT performance, with the Skill Test being qualifying in nature.
SSC Stenographer 2026 Exam Pattern
The exam consists of two main stages:
Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
This is an objective test worth 200 marks. There is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
The paper is set in Hindi and English, except for the English Language section, which is in English only. Extra time is provided for eligible PwBD candidates.
Stage 2: Stenography Skill Test (Qualifying in nature)
Candidates who qualify the CBT appear for the Skill Test. Dictation is given for 10 minutes, followed by transcription on a computer.
- Grade C: 100 words per minute (w.p.m.)
- Grade D: 80 w.p.m.
Transcription time (on computer):
- Grade C (English): 40 minutes | Hindi: 55 minutes
- Grade D (English): 50 minutes | Hindi: 65 minutes
Extra time is allowed for candidates using scribes.
SSC Stenographer 2026 Syllabus (Subject-Wise)
The CBT syllabus remains consistent with previous years, focusing on three sections. Detailed topic lists help in targeted preparation.
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus
This section tests logical and analytical abilities with verbal and non-verbal questions.
Key topics include:
- Analogies, similarities and differences
- Space visualization, problem-solving, analysis, judgement, decision making
- Visual memory, discriminating observation
- Relationship concepts, arithmetical reasoning
- Verbal and figure classification, number series, non-verbal series
- Coding-decoding, puzzle, blood relations, direction & distance
- Order & ranking, Venn diagram
- Non-verbal reasoning (figure series, embedded figures, etc.)
2. General Awareness Syllabus
This section evaluates knowledge of the environment and current events.
Key topics include:
- Current Affairs (national and international)
- Static Awareness, Indian History & Culture
- Geography, Economic Scene
- General Polity and Indian Constitution
- Science & Technology, Scientific Research
- Sports
3. English Language & Comprehension Syllabus
This is the highest-weightage section (100 marks) and focuses on grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
Key topics include:
- Reading Comprehension
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Fill in the Blanks, Spellings
- Phrases & Idioms, One-word substitution
- Active & Passive Voice, Direct & Indirect Speech
- Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement
- Para Jumbles, Sentence Jumbles
- Phrase Replacement / Sentence Correction
Skill Test Details and Qualifying Criteria
The Skill Test checks shorthand proficiency. Candidates take dictation and transcribe it accurately on a computer. It is qualifying only—errors beyond permissible limits lead to disqualification.
Permissible error percentages (approximate, based on standard rules):
- Grade C: Around 5% for General category
- Grade D: Around 7-10% depending on category
The final selection depends on CBT merit, subject to qualifying the Skill Test and Document Verification.
How to Prepare for SSC Stenographer 2026
- Understand the pattern and negative marking to avoid guesswork.
- Build speed and accuracy in English and Reasoning.
- Stay updated with current affairs (last 6-12 months).
- Practice stenography daily if you lack shorthand skills.
- Solve previous years’ papers and take full-length mocks.
- Refer to the official SSC syllabus PDF once the 2026 notification is out.
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