Amity SSB Academy: NDA Coaching | SSB Coaching for Entrance Exam Preparation in Delhi and Noida

SSB INTERVIEW COACHING

FOR NDA, CDS, AFCAT, OTA, 10+2 TECH (ARMY) ,10+2 B.TECH(NAVY), TGC, SSC TECH, ACC, WSES, UES, T.A., COAST GUARD

BATCHES START EVERY MONDAY

DURATION	COURSE	FEE DETAIL
03 Weeks 8 Hours Training Each Day	Advanced Course	Tuition Fee – Rs 14000/- incl all taxes
02 Weeks 8 Hours Training Each Day	Regular Course	Tuition Fee – Rs 12000/- incl all taxes
01 Week 8 Hours Training Each Day	Crash Course	Tuition Fee - Rs-9000/- incl all taxes

FREE HOSTEL FACILITY

FOOD AT SUBSIDISED RATE

Need to carry

Sports Shoes
Shorts or tracksuits or loose jeans for Outdoor Activities.
Quilt/Blanket (as per season)

Please Note

Security Deposit – Rs 1000/- (Refundable)
Bring three coloured passport size photographs & ID Proof

For Advance Registration
Kindly send Demand Draft of Rs 1000/- in favour of AMITY SSB ACADEMY Payable at New Delhi (Adjustable in Fee)

WHY THE AMITY

Being ONE OF THE Oldest academiesThe AMITY has had the distinct advantage of evolving and updating its teaching techniques and infrastructure, matching the latest developments in SSB interview centres.
We have a team of officers who are Ex SSB Presidents, GTOs, and psychologists from Army, Air Force and Navy guiding you towards success.
The AMITY has the distinct honour of sending maximum number of candidates to IMA, OTA, NDA, Naval and Air- Force academies.
All Students are put through mock tests on arrival. Their qualities are analysed and individual counseling is done by the psychologist, to and interviewing officer.
The AMITY SSB ACADEMY is the only institute which has latest Outdoor tasks and individual tasks laid out on our grounds to give all candidates an actual feel of the outdoor tasks.
At The AMITY SSB ACADEMY all candidates are given a number of practices of the screening test, including verbal, non-verbal reasoning and PPDT.
At The AMITY SSB ACADEMY each individual’s personality traits are analysed and the candidates are groomed individually.
Training at The AMITY SSB ACADEMY emphasizes on Creative Problem Solving, spoon feeding or cramming is strictly discouraged.
All Psychological tests are Analyzed, Explained, Practiced and Corrected repeatedly.
Special emphasis is laid on English Fluency and Personality Development of the candidates.

Only The AMITY SSB ACADEMY gives you an option of undergoing a Two days refresher course, free of cost. Our success rate speaks for itself Fee concession for defence personnel / their wards, military school & Sainik School students & NCC”C” certificate holders.

How coaching helps

Provides opportunity to practice in near real time environment.
Coaching enables the candidates to participate in a group and experience the group dynamics. This cannot be achieved at home.
The response/performance is commented upon and corrected by expert Psychologists, GTOs and Interviewing Officers. Their feed back is eye-opening.
The candidate learns from the behavior and performance of the peer group.
Ground Tasks can only be practiced in a ground with real tasks and obstacles.
The language, formats and design factors of GTO tests/ tasks cannot be understood, unless experienced personally.
Personal Interview by the Interviewing Officer can never be experienced on your own.
Coaching enables a candidate to discover his strengths and weaknesses.
Coaching helps a candidates to improve confidence and communication skills

Naval Selection Board Indian Navy

Sr .No.	Name	Postal Address	Tele. No. Call Up Officer
(a)	12 SSB Bangalore	The President 12 Services Selection Board Selection Centre South Cubban Road Bangalore-560042	09480948061/ 09916322971 080-25327671 / 080 25006804 080-25591075 extn 6804 FAX-080-25594954 / 25587883
(b)	33 SSB, Bhopal	The President 33 Services Selection Board Selection Centre Central Sultania Infantry Line Bhopal-462018	0755-2702223 / 0755 - 2731245 0755 - 2731255 FAX-0755-2735980
(c)	NSB,Agrani	The President Naval Selection Board INS Agrani Red Fields Coimbatore-641018	Toll Free-1800-425-4599 Fax No- 0422-2325957

IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS

Telephone: 011-23010151 Tele Fax: 011-23011282 Email: General entry: officer-navy@nic.in
University Entry Scheme: user-navy@nic.in
(a).Call up officer Bhopal - 0755 - 2730692 /2735980
(b).Call up officer Bangalore – 09480948061 / 09916322971 / 080-25327671 / FAX-080-25594954
(c).Call up officer Coimbatore - 0422-2325957 / Toll free no -1800-425-4599

Screening

IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS

O I R tests include a combination of two tests( ie Verbal and non-Verbal). Each of the tests has normally 20 to 50 questions each depending on particular test used for the day. Time given also varies from 15 to 30 minutes for each test. The tests are given one after the other, normally without any break. Each candidate is assigned a grade on five point scale on the basis of marks scored in each test. These tests have minimum marks required to pass in each test separately. Therefore candidates are advised to take both tests with equal seriousness.
PP & DT: It is a picture based test. Here candidates will be shown a picture for 30 seconds and candidates are required to write a story based on that picture in 4 minutes. Candidates will also be required to write the action of the story, mood of the story and mark the characters in the picture.

Tips to write the stories for PPDT

Observe the picture very carefully and minutely, and then collect all the resources you can see. Resources are the basic things available in the picture which you must not miss.
In the left hand box of the PPDT sheet you have to mark all the characters which you see in the picture. You are required to mention their Sex i.e. ‘M’ for Male and ‘F’ for female and ‘P’ for person if you cannot identify the sex, Mention the approximate age in number ie12, 26, or 35 , for writing mood of the character write ‘+’ for Positive mood and ‘—‘ for negative mood. E.g.
Make a practical and rational story. Don’t write something which you know is impossible. Don’t make a story which is far from reality.
Make a rough outline of the story you want to build up. Do not start writing randomly, without thinking. Draw an outline on what your story will be based on.
The picture will be hazy most of the times. So you need to concentrate more and observe the picture very closely. Imagine positively and make your story on a positive theme.
Your story must have a positive direction with a positive message.
There should be a central character. This central character must do something to help somebody else, which will make this character the hero of the story.
It is always good to write a story in which the society is being helped. Never write a pre conceived story. Some candidates memorise a few stories and then try to somehow make them fit into the shown pictures.
If something is very evident in the picture do not neglect it. It might be a negative but you can turn the negative into positive by showing a struggle of the hero and then making him win.
Use your imagination. Practice writing stories, that’ll give you an idea about the time management.
Candidates are assessed IN/OUT on the basis of their performance in OIR tests as well as in the discussion.
Each candidate is required to narrate his story in one minute one by one. The candidates are then asked to discuss the story and make a common story. Once they seem to have come to a conclusion the group is asked to give out the common story. The group may nominate any candidate for the purpose.
The assessors conduct an on the spot conference, for each group, and decide who all are going to Stage II testing based on the performance in Stage –I. The results are compiled and declared after all groups have undergone stage-1 tests. Those candidates who pass Stage -! Testing stay for next 3 or 4 days and rest of the candidates deport immediately thereafter for their homes.

Note:-

Once the story writing is over. The candidates are divided into small groups and are seated in a Semi Circle. Three assessors i.e IO, GTO & Psychologist, form a team for assessment of every group. GTO moderates the discussion and all the three assessors assess the suitability of the candidate for Stage –II selection.

Psychology

PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST

The written tests are conducted by the Psychologist. Time factor in these tests is of paramount importance. Candidates are given time limit for writing answers to various given questions. The candidates are required to complete the tests within the stipulated time frame.

The psychologist at the SSB explains to the candidate about various tests one by one, along with illustrations to enable the candidates to understand exactly how each test will be conducted and what is expected from them. In case of doubts, candidates are at liberty to ask the testing officer to clarify, before the commencement of every test. The candidates are advised to give correct answers (not false answers) and not to use hit and trial method. It is better not to waste time in attempting difficult questions; rather a candidate should switch over to next problem.

The psychological tests are grouped as under :-

Projective tests

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
Word Association Test (WAT)
Situation Reaction Test (SRT)
Self-Description Test (SD

TAT is the first test administered by the psychologist. Through the stories written by the candidates in this test, the psychologist gets an opportunity to explore the subconscious mind of the candidate. Picture shown to the candidate stimulates his imagination and the story written by the candidate serves as a medium, for the psychologist to investigate and scrutinize closely the basic characteristics of a candidate. The test is a specialized technique to bring out various traits of the personality of a candidate. The stories written by the candidate reflect his personality in various dimensions. The psychologist interprets the stories to find out whether the candidate is endowed with the qualities that are required for an officer of the Defence Forces.
The candidate’s response to the pictures in the form of stories yields sufficient material with the help of which temperamental make up and emotional attitude can be judged. The process is based on the principle that the individual thoughts are woven around the object relationship.
The candidates are advised to weave a story which is realistic and interesting. The candidate must respond to each and every part of the picture including characters, mood and the objects.

Tips to Improve the Quality of the Responses:

Never write a story in a hurry. Always try to critically analyse the picture which will help you to organize your thoughts systematically.
Observe carefully what characters are there, what material is there, why it is there and how it can be used gainfully.
What is the theme/ objective in the scene. How you can be involved in the picture. Try to relate the theme of the picture with a day today problem. Do not write stories about impractical situations
The pictures shown are real life situations, do not write that the picture is a scene from movie / TV or it is a painting hanging on the wall/ it is a scene from a drama or a rehearsal of a play.
The story should end on a happy and healthy note. The outcome should be success, achievement or joy.
The hero or leading person in the story must have acquired abilities and qualities which you think are necessary for the outcome you have planned. That out come is what the situation should lead to automatically.
Keep the leader in high spirits, helpful and decisive. He should not be at the receiving end eg he is poor, he was helped, he was not able to do well in the exam , he was unable to get a job, his business failed, he struggled then succeeded etc. He was implicated falsely or beaten up or failed or got involved in a fight or is unable to solve the problem or was confused or he solved only by the help of others
Candidates should not use, OLQ Terminology, in the story. (E.g. He moved because of his self-confidence, He succeeded did this because of his sense of Responsibility, he completed his job because of his initiative and cooperation etc.)
Do not write memorized stories taken from books or told by someone else. Always make your own stories.
Do not perceive Army/Defence/War in every story. This leads the psychologist to believe that you lack imagination and have no new ideas.
Do not perceive hero as a villain in the story or give a negative character to the hero. ( e.g. Accident took place because hero was driving very fast or carelessly or was talking on mobile etc.)
Do not try to complete the story after the time. Just leave it as it is and move on to write next story.
Do not practice writing story in 3 minutes or so. Your story will lack details and will be sketchy.
Try and Keep the word limit of 100 to 120 words(10 to 12 lines)
Do not worry if your story is different from others, in fact it will be to your advantage.
Never try to copy a story of someone else. If you have faith in yourself then this test will become easy for you

Word Association Test (WAT) is a specially designed second Psychological test. Words shown to the candidates in the test are not selected at random. They are specially chosen and arranged in a definite pattern. The psychologist on the basis of the responses comes to conclusions about the traits of the candidate. WAT brings out the real and latent qualities of the candidate to the surface and then psychologist assesses his suitability as an officer in the armed forces.

In Word Association Test an individual is shown a word for 15 seconds. He is required to write the first idea that comes to his mind in the form of a meaningful complete sentence.
The candidate is not required to write or describe the word. He is not expected to use it in a sentence. He has only to write what the word reminds him of. Candidate has only to show his mind’s association with the word. He should write down the first thought that comes to his mind on seeing the word. The same word arouses different ideas, feelings and emotions in different persons. Therefore it is wrong to cram up reactions, noted down from readymade SSB guides and books, since these suggestions mostly mislead the candidates.
The conclusions are drawn by the psychologist, about the type of personality of the candidate, considering several reactions together. It may be noted that singular sentence written by the candidate does not portray his personality traits. Numbers of responses help the psychologist to form an idea of the pattern of personality of a candidate.
The words picked up in WAT are related to certain officer like qualities. Many similar words are included in the test for judging each quality. Writing memorized reaction to any word will only give an indication of confused personality and lacking originality.

TIPS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF RESPONSES:

A candidate having balanced personality should consider, self, family, friends, society, environment (sports, adventure, current happenings in country and the world, defence related news and other activities of interest.), while responding to words in WAT. A candidate should write thoughtful sentences in response to many words as well.
When a candidate eliminates, I, me and mine, completely from the responses of WAT, psychologist may interpret it as a response of a coached candidate or the candidate who will never think of himself even in obvious situations. This is a negative trait.
Many responses in WAT with I, me and mine are not desired as they may lead the psychologist to conclude that the candidate is individualistic in his thought process.
Too many responses of any one type are not a good idea and it is not natural in an individual having a balanced personality. It leads to conclusion by the psychologist that the candidate has a lop sided personality.
Use of too many Phrases or mere facts leads to conclusion by the psychologist that candidate is short of ideas and lacks original thinking. ( eg Honesty is the best policy, Look before you leap, Time and tide wait for none, one shower does not make a season.)
Many wishful responses, where the use of, could, would, should etc. Is not good as it indicates unrealistic approach of the candidate, and trying to advise others instead of doing something himself. The psychologist is likely to conclude that a candidate lacks involvement or action in real life.
Avoid too many responses of advisory to others (e.g. Do not tell lies, Keep your surroundings clean, prepare well for the exams, take precautions to avoid accidents, etc.) .It leads Psychologist to believe that candidate will find faults in others most of the time and advise them as to what all should be done. The psychologist will see it as misplaced superiority complex.
Using officer like qualities in making sentences gives a feeling of being coached eg. Mohan has high sense of responsibility, Ram has high determination, He succeeded due to high self-confidence, Mohan has high social adjustment, social adaptability, mental stamina, courage etc.
Use of facts and History again does not fetch much credit unless it indicates real knowledge e.g. Churchill won double noble prize for peace or Netaji wrote “Divide and rule”.
Avoid writing sentences in future tense as it indicates action in future/later on.
You may use words as noun, adjective, verb or adverb in making sentences.
Small and brief sentences will save time.

Situation Reaction Test is the third test given by the psychologist in series of psychological tests. SRT is designed to test the responses of an individual in day- to-day situations. The objective of the test is to judge whether a candidate possess guts and capacity to tackle odd situations with an alert mind. The test brings out the qualities of clear thinking, logical course of action and quick decision making. It also reveals whether the candidate is capable of putting up with stress and strains without losing nerves. As an officer of Indian Armed Forces the candidate may need to tackle such situations during his course of activities. This test therefore helps in determining the suitability of a candidate for selection as an officer. For a good performance, candidate needs the ability to write what he would have done or what he could do in such a situation.
A candidate is required to give his reactions to all sixty situations in Thirty minutes. However, if one does not understand any particular situation, he may leave that and proceed ahead reacting to other situations without wasting time. A candidate is required to write only two to three lines in response to each situation. The space provided is only for that much. Therefore for a speedy response with in the time frame, it is necessary that one should avoid details of the actions keeping the response brief and to the point.

TIPS FOR GOOD PERFORMANCE

Think of simple and obvious actions.
Normally the reaction depends on individual’s capacity and ability.
There is no, correct solution or book answer, for any situation.
Do not write answers like - I will solve the situation, I will find out the problem, I will enquire about the problem or I will plan the action as required etc.
Do not write answer to the situation if you do not understand the situation or you do not know about it to avoid giving wrong response.
Solve the problem as it is. Do not make any assumption and aggravate the situation by adding the problems from your side e.g. if accident is there you add that he will have at least fractures etc. or If someone comes in the dark you add that it has to be a lonely spot and you cannot raise alarm or shout for help.
Do not write that I will not do anything, and pass the situation. (If armed men confront you in dark do not write you will not do anything because they can be Defence /Police personnel. Similarly if you loose your purse and have no money do not write that you keep some money in box or in your shoes and you will use that money.). This amounts to dilution of the problem.
Do not avoid the situation by writing that this cannot happen eg I do not have younger sister or brother or my parents are not there or all my friends are very good etc.
Never permit yourself to be in the begging or pathetic state.
Avoid joining strikes and activities creating disharmony.
Use money carefully. Do not waste it for parties etc as a student.(It leads the psychologist to conclude, wasteful of resources). If it is big money, use for future plan for self-employment and development.
Do not give alternatives eg I will do this and if not then I will do that …...
Act smartly and clearly if the situation involves boys and girls.
Short and brief answers will save time. Vague answers are not desirable.

Self-description test is conducted after the situation reaction test. Self-description test is meant to assess the insight of a candidate. If the candidate knows himself and is conscious of his weaknesses, he will overcome these and improve his personality. In case a candidate lacks insight he cannot improve his shortcomings.

In this test a candidate is given 15 minutes to write 5 paragraphs. Each paragraph should be of 6 to 8 lines. The paragraphs are as under :

Your Parents opinion about you
Your teacher/bosses opinion about you
Your friends opinion about you
Your own opinion about you
The qualities you would like to develop in yourself.

Each of the above paragraphs will include your own understanding in day today life. You will do well to observe and remember the observations, remarks and suggestions given to you by the parents, teachers, friends, relatives and well-wishers. As this test forms part of the psychological tests in SSB. You should practice two/ three times writing self-description before going to SSB. Consider as to what you can include in these paragraphs. You must not memorise the paragraphs from some book or someone else. You should write the paragraphs according to your own thought process, as then only it will conform to your personality and originality.

Tips for improving the Self Description

Listen to the instructions carefully.
Divide your time to answer each portion correctly
Do not hide your strong/weak points. Project a balanced personality.
Mention some strong points to bring out OLQ’s but do not mention the terminology of OLQ.
Your Self-description should not contradict your PIQ. For example PIQ says you have not taken part in any sporting activity but you write in Self-Description that you are a good sportsman.
Do not write negative qualities. You must differentiate between weaknesses and negative qualities.(For example, Beating, stealing or being critical are negative qualities where as bad communication, being extravagant, not a good time user are weaknesses.

Group Testing Officer

The GTO administers the indoor as well as outdoor tests with the objective of assessing the candidate as a potential service officer. The GTO’s outdoor tests have a greater scope of testing the physical qualities of candidates like toughness, stamina etc. but leadership qualities like originality of ideas, planning, organizing, and confidence, co-operation are also equally well brought into play.

GTO gives the following tests in the same order as under:

Group Discussion (GD)
Group Planning Exercise (GPE)
Progressive Group Task
Inter Group Obstacle Race or Snake Race
Half Group Task
Lecturette
Individual Obstacles
Command Task
Final Group Task

Guidelines to the Candidates

Listen to the briefing of the GTO very carefully.
As the subjects for discussion are offered by the GTO, try to grasp and choose one.
Take a convincing lead to ensure that the subject chosen by you is finally accepted by majority of the candidates and announced by the GTO. You should argue and convince the group that your choice is an important current topic and offers a wider scope for exchange of views.
As the subject for discussion is announced by the GTO, try to find the earliest opportunity to put forth your views. Naturally everyone will be eager to take his turn as early as possible. You must use your skill to grab a chance for yourself as early as possible. In case you are the first speaker you will be in a better position to impress the GTO. If you get a chance to speak at later stage, you will either be repeating the arguments already advanced or you will be putting forth less important points. Therefore try to get an opportunity to speak earliest.
The advice to speak earliest does not mean that you start speaking simultaneously. There are various methods to grab opportunity to speak. Show your eagerness as though you have some very important point to make. You may request the group to allow you to make a point. You may plead “Gentlemen, I have an important and interesting point to place for your consideration, will you permit me to explain it”.
Neither try to address the GTO nor try to catch his eye. Address the whole group and look into the eyes of each candidate in turn GTO’s attention will automatically be drawn if you are showing qualities he is looking for.
Listen to other candidates carefully. Good listening will provide you more ideas. You will be able to know what the other candidates have missed. Keep on planning and polishing your views ideas on the subject. When you get an opportunity give a pleasant surprise of a fine, logical, sound and lively ideas to the group.
Concentrate on what others are saying. You will get plenty of new ideas. Blend them into your own ideas. Arrange your ideas in a logical order.
Be active and keep interest in the ongoing discussion. Try to appreciate other’s good points.

Always be polite. Cultivate the habit of using expressions as under:-

Gentlemen, I concede to my friend.
The Previous speaker made very valuable points but he was slightly off the point of our discussion.
I beg to differ with previous speaker.
Friends, I do not understand the logic of the criticism.

When you get an opportunity to speak, first try to demolish the arguments already offered by others. After doing that put forward your well planned, intelligent and interesting ideas in an effective manner and with conviction.
Avoid all unwanted gestures during the GD.
Do not have any fear of GTO. Feel relaxed as if you are discussing a point with your friends in a coffee house. Do not feel shy, nervous, hesitant or embarrassed.
Always talk to the point and avoid self contradiction and repetion.
Avoid bluffing; be accurate when you give out facts and figures.
Do not engage yourself in side talks or sub- group conversation.
When you get an opportunity speak clearly, slowly and pleasantly with correct accent and pronunciation. Be brief, concise and communicate effectively.
Keep your knowledge updated.

Procedure : The GPE is conducted in three stages.

Stage I

The GTO seats the candidates in a semi- circle around the model.
GTO then explains the features of the model to the group.
After introducing the model, GTO reads a narrative (story) to the group. The story will have few problems.
Each candidate now gets 5 minutes to read the same story himself. After 5 minutes the story card is taken back by the GTO.

Note

Read the narrative carefully and make sure you understand all the problems and allot them priority keeping in mind seriousness and the time constraint.
Identify the obvious resources and make practical assumptions.
You are not allowed to make any notes and as such make mental note of every detail.

Stage II

Now the GTO will give response sheet to each candidate and you will be given 10 minutes to write your individual solutions i.e how your group consisting of 10 members will solve all the problems.
This again is an individual task so do not consult / talk to other members.
While writing solution first jot down the problems followed by resources which are available to you. Finally you have to write down the solution.
After 10 minutes your written solution will be taken back by the GTO. This will be assessed by the GTO afterwards.

Stage III

This is the most important part of the GPE. Now all the group members are required to discuss among themselves and make a common group plan.
Like GD, you must take initiative and open the discussion.
First discuss problems and priority, then discuss resources which are available to you.
If you are unable to open the discussion then listen to the first speaker and see what important problem or resources he has missed out and immediately bring it to the notice of group about the same.
It is important for the candidates to take an active part in this discussion and contribute maximum ideas.
When another candidate is giving his solution, listen to him patiently and speak out when you have some more rational and constructive suggestion to make.
The group will get approx 20 minutes to discuss and reach a common solution.
At the end when GTO feels that the group has finalized the Group plan he will invite the group to nominate one member from the group to give out the plan on behalf of the group.
Group is most likely to nominate a candidate who has contributed maximum and is sure of himself to give the plan to GTO. Since everyone is hesitant to stand, you may try to take this opportunity and confidently give out the Group Plan.

Hints for PGT/ HGT/ FGT

Listen carefully to GTO’s briefing. Pay attention to rules to be observed and penalty for breaking rule.
Take initiative and think of solution quickly.
Explain your idea’s to other group members and convince them about workability of your idea.
If you get stuck listen to ideas offered by others and help them in executing their ideas. Your endeavor must be to be always in the centre of activity. Be a willing and cooperative member of the group.
Do not merely stand at the back waiting to be ordered about.
Throughout the task give your active help in lifting the Balli, tying the rope to a plank or structure, lifting or carrying the load. But do not be a just load carrier only.
Show your agility, initiative and drive and be prepared to take any risk when necessary.
Make serious attempts to execute your idea or plan. If it does not work, repeat your attempt or try an alternative. Do not give up.
If you break rule do not try to conceal it. If fact own up and follow penalty.

Obstacle Race or Snake Race

Obstacle race is known as the snake race. A rolled-up tent or bag-like object is the load which the group has to carry from the start line. It has to be passed through a series of obstacles. All the groups start this race simultaneously in a competitive spirit and the group that reaches the finish line first wins the race.

Tips for Candidates

Since this is an inter-group competitive race, the members of each group must work in a spirit of competition and try for the success of the entire group. Individual interest should be subordinated to that of the group. In this task, the ideal group is one in which the individual members sink personal differences and work for the entire group. Discipline of a very high standard is called for.

Individual Obstacles

As opposed to group obstacles, each one of the individual obstacles is to be tackled by the candidate alone. There are generally 9-10 obstacles in all and the time given is 8 minutes. These obstacles are so arranged that they progressively become more difficult.
The number of marks carried by these obstacles is in an ascending order, the first carrying 1 mark, the second 2 marks, the third 3 marks, the fourth 4 marks and last 9 or 10 marks.
The candidates need not proceed in the serial order but in any order to secure the maximum number of marks.
If any candidate completes his first round and achieves the maximum number of marks, he is at liberty to repeat any number of obstacles and add to his score.
In addition, there is a track also. Before starting on the obstacles, the candidate has to run a distance of about 500 feet on the track in which are placed a few hurdles like ditches and barrels. The candidate has to pass through these. The aim of this event is to warm him up before tackling the individual obstacles and to test his endurance and stamina.
In addition, there is a beam situated near the finish point of the track. The candidate, after having completed all the nine obstacles, can go to the beam and try pull-ups. Each carries one mark. After the pull-ups, the candidates can again repeat the main obstacles and get additional marks for each repeated obstacle. {The track exercise and pull-ups may have been omitted in some SSBs}

Listen to GTO’s briefing carefully.
No negative body language.
Discard below average topic, unless you can make that topic very interesting.
Out of remaining three topics, chose the one on which you can speak for three minutes.
Prepare the topic in a logical and organised manner.
Most of the topics will have a background. Start with the background.
Stand in CASUAL wishram position and display a pleasant bearing.
Avoid hand movements.
Introduction of the topic
Avoid criticizing Govt policies/ decisions. However, you can criticize implementation part of it if you, so feel.
After the first bell, start concluding. Speak about 12 to 13 sentences, say thanks and take your seat.
When others are speaking, listen to them.

Listen to GTO’s briefing carefully and make mental note of structures and the helping material available to you as it may help you in choosing the subordinates.
While choosing the subordinates consider their strong points and the requirement of your task.
Once subordinates report to you give them quick briefing about the task and explain them rules.
Take quick decision and make an early entry into the obstacle. Preferably you must get into the obstacle first as it will allow you to plan further and also work out solution to get the last man out.
As Cdr, issue orders to the members boldly and assertively. At the same time do not be rude.
As Cdr you need not do physical work however be ready to soil your hands if it becomes necessary.
If at any stage, the level of difficulty is raised by the GTO or you are faced with a complex structure, do not seek ideas or suggestions from the subordinates. Apply yourself and use different combinations to find a way out. If need be switch channel of your approach.
Supervise the work of your subordinates and ensure rules are not broken. If any rule is broken then observe the penalty.
GTO will be applying external pressure on you by either denying you use of certain helping material or structure. Take it in you stride and tackle the problem with the positive mind set.

Interview

Interview is an art of holding a purposeful conversation. It is a dependable means of gathering information. An interview is a formal forum or setting to know someone for a purpose.

The Aim of an SSB interview

The aim of an interview at the SSB is to assess the leadership or ‘Officer Like Qualities’ of the candidate by means of a directed or purposive conversation between the candidate and the Interviewing Officer (I.O.). In addition to appraising the present level of the candidate, the IO tries to evaluate the training potential of the candidate. The questions at the interview are directed so as to allow the candidate to automatically show his leadership ability in his answers.

What Interviewers look for in a Candidate

Professional Competence – The candidate should possess knowledge appropriate with his age and experience. He should be able to apply the theoretical knowledge gained over the years to solve day to day problems of varying complexities. He should have the aptitude, temperament and competence to solve problems related to his field of learning.
Level of Enthusiasm :- The candidate should be able to exhibit his strong liking and passion for the job. He should be able to convey that he is extremely keen and motivated for the job.
Ability to Get Along with People :- The candidate should be able to exhibit that he / she is a team person who is highly co- operative, responsible and friendly. The candidate should be a person who enjoys the company of others and the others also enjoy his / her company. He / She should be readily able to mix up even with strangers.
Ability to Express :- The candidate should be able to convey his views, feelings and ideas effectively with clarity and ease. The candidate should be able to use appropriate and suitable words supported by good logic and convincing power in a fluent manner.
Ability to Fit Into the Organization :- Is the candidate having a positive attitude? Does the candidate want to contribute to the organization? Does the candidate have his priorities right in relation to work and how strongly does he believe in ethics and values?
Leadership Qualities :- The candidate should be able to bring out that at various stages of life he / she has been able to exhibit leadership qualities quoting instances from his / her life.

A leader should have merit of the following qualities :-

Intelligent
Good planner
Good organisational Abilities
Ability to solve day to day problems.
Good communication skills
Responsible
Co-operative
Friendly and understanding
Initiative
Decisive
Confident
Ability to convince others
Determined
Courageous
Stamina
Honest
Disciplined
Loyal
Ability to remain happy even in extreme conditions.

Competitiveness: - Does the candidate believe in healthy competition and merit. Does he believe in self-improvement? Does he have faith in the existing systems and procedures? How strong is his urge to progress in life?
High Energy levels: - Does the candidate have high energy levels. Does he take pride in working hard? Is he / she keen to win? If he / she likely to give up when faced with adverse situation. Does he / she has strong will power.
Goal Achievement: - Does the candidate set goals for himself and then works hard to achieve those goals. Are the goals practical, achievable and realistic? Is he/ she an achiever?
Imagination: - Is the candidate imaginative. Does the candidate think of aspects which are not obvious? Imagination is the ability of forming new images and sensations when they are not perceived through sight, hearing or other senses.
Flexibility :- Is the candidate flexible ? Is he / she approachable and open to new ideas? Does the candidate have the patience to listen and accept / reject others viewpoints based on logic and reasoning. The candidate is not expected to be rigid, unapproachable and indecisive.

PREPARATION BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

The candidate should collect all previous employment letters, references, experience certificates, academic certificates and be conversant with their content.

The candidate should visit himself / herself to know all details regarding the following:-

Academic Background
Strengths and Weaknesses
Accomplishments and Achievements
Interests and Hobbies
Disappointments encountered in life and how responded.
Values (personal and in the workplace)
Likes and Dislikes
Short term and long term goals.
Acceptance of re- location and willingness to travel.

The candidate should also learn about the organization i.e.

Army / Navy/ Air force to cover the following :-

Study the Army/ Navy/ AF website.
Study the organization to cover different branches.
Rank structure
Job description, terms & conditions of service, perks and privileges.
Training Academies, durations of training and entries.
General Awareness about major & latest equipment in Army/ Navy / AF.
Role, history and size of Army/ Navy / AF.

The candidate should study current events and improve his general awareness about national and international affairs by studying / reading daily newspapers, magazines, TV & Radio news. The candidates should also practice lecturette, Group Discussions and improve his/ her communication skills as well as confidence.

UNDERGOING INTERVIEW

A candidate has to undergo interview only once during the cycle of 05 days of SSB proceedings. He/ she will be interviewed either on the Psychologist day or on GTO-1 or GTO-2 day depending on his / her chest number. The schedule of interview is generally announced a day earlier but it may not be always possible and hence in some cases the candidate may be informed about his / her interview at the last minute. Therefore the candidate should remain prepared for such an eventuality.

The candidate should always try and reach the waiting room/ venue of interview about 10-15 minutes earlier than the time given. The wait for his / her turn and the fear of failure is likely to create stress on the candidate. If the candidate faces interview while under stress, the candidate is not likely to perform well. Hence the candidate must try and be stress free. To remain free of stress the candidate must divert his / her attention away from interview by not thinking / discussing about the interview with others. He / She should chat with other candidates on any other unrelated subject. He/ She must take long and deep breathe before moving for interview room.

On reaching the interview room, the candidate must knock at the door and say “May I come in Sir”. On getting the permission to come in, the candidate should open the door and step in letting the door close softly. The candidate should move into the room smartly, taking short steps, slightly swinging the arms and the head held high. On reaching the chair placed for the candidate, the candidate should stand next to the chair, face the interview officer and wish him. When the interviewing officer asks the candidate to sit, the candidate should sit on the chair without shifting / moving chair from its position and say “Thank you Sir”. The candidate must ensure that a good first impression is created because a candidate will never get a second chance to make a first impression.

The candidate must ensure correct posture while sitting. While sitting the candidate should sit straight, legs slightly open, hands resting on knees / thighs, eyes looking into the eyes and face of interviewing officer. The candidate should ensure that the sitting posture is neither too stiff nor sloppy. Crossed legs may signal disagreement and self-protection and hence must be avoided.

The Candidate must listen to the entire question very patiently, reflect for a few seconds and then start answering only after the interviewing officer has finished the question.
The candidate must avoid negative body language, eg: slouching, crossing arms, tapping feet, clearing throat repeatedly, biting lips or nails and putting hands into pockets.
During the interview the candidate must make frequent eye contact, smile and nod frequently.
While answering questions, the candidate should be to the point, speaking clearly. He / She should exhibit confidence, focus on contributions and accomplishments.
The candidate should never try to be clever, be pretend, be evasive, lose temper, be flustered or panic. He / She should never criticize anyone i.e. superiors, colleagues, neighbours, siblings, relatives, teachers, institutes etc.
During the interview the interviewing officer is likely to ask long questions consisting of a number of sub parts / questions. The candidate must pay complete attention and focus and answer all the questions / sub questions. The sequence of answering questions may be changed.
While answering, the responses of the candidate should be simple, natural, convincing, genuine and logical. The candidate should not try to be superficial or ramble while answering.
In case the candidate is unable to answer a particular question he / she should tell the interviewing officer “I am sorry sir, I don’t know, I will find out”.
In case the interviewing officer is trying to say something or is giving his view point, the candidate should smile, nod, acknowledge but never argue with the interviewing officer. • During the interview the candidate should try to exhibit maximum number of leadership / Officer like qualities.
At the end of the interview the interviewing officer may ask the candidate if he has any questions for the Interviewing Officer. The candidate should politely decline to ask any questions.
When the interview finishes, the candidate should get up smartly, bow a little, smile and say “Thank you Sir” “Have a nice day”, turn towards the door and walk out. Before turning towards the door the candidate must look at the interviewing officer to get an indication if the interviewing officer wishes to shake hand.
Proper hand shake is the one which is firm, but not bone crushing. It tasks about 3 seconds, may be pumped once or twice but is released after the shake even if the introduction continues. It includes good eye contact with the interviewing officer.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

The aim of every candidate should be to make an excellent impression on the interviewing officer. The way a candidate dresses is the single biggest non verbal communication a candidate makes about himself/ herself. The dress conveys success, trustworthiness, intelligence and suitability. Hence if a candidate is not sure as to what he / she must wear, he / she must lean towards conservative side of style. A candidate must avoid loud colours and printed fabrics. The clothes must be well fitting, clean, comfortable and nicely ironed.

Men should wear conservative two piece dark suit, navy blue or medium to dark grey, long sleeved blue, white or light colored plane shirt with a silk tie complimenting in color or style. Black / Brown leather shoes with plain socks. The socks should be of the same color as shoes. Belt should be of the same color as shoes. The male candidates should not wear any jewelry items like bracelets, earrings or large rings. The candidate should not use strong deodorants or perfumes as the same are likely to cause discomfort in a closed room.

The women candidates should wear a dark conservative suit or any dress which looks respectable and dignified. The color of the dress should be sober and the dress should be well fitting and well ironed. The shoes must not have a heal more than one inch. The makeup should be minimal and in conservative tones. Very limited conservative jewelry should be worn. Strong perfumes and deodorants should not be used. Women candidates should not carry any folder, certificates or purse into the interview room.

BODY LANGUAGE

Gestures mirror ones state of mind. Psychologists describe body language as a language of signals. Every day, we unconsciously send out many signals through our body. The study of body movements is called “KINESICS” and it asserts that 40-50 % of information on the character, impact and credibility of a person is conveyed via body language. Only a fractional 7% of meaningful conversation is exchanged through word symbols, while 55 % is conveyed by bodily movements and gestures. Hence correct use of body language can help a candidate to create a positive impression on the interviewing officer.

During an interview a candidate must make frequent eye contact, smile and nod frequently when the interviewing officer is making a point. The candidate should never slouch while sitting, cross arms, tap feet, clear throat repeatedly or bite his / her lips or nails.

Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ)

Before the candidate appears in front of the Interviewing Officer, the interviewing officer studies the PIQ of the candidate and forms an opinion impression about him. It is therefore very important that the PIQ is filled up with due care, neatly, correctly and completely. A large number of questions asked during the interview are primarily based on the information provided by the candidate in his / her PIQ. Information given in the PIQ includes socio – economics and educational background, family details and the extent of participation in extracurricular activities including games / sports pursued & positions of responsibility held by the candidate. The candidate should be fully prepared to answer all questions related to the information provided in the PIQ. The candidate must also ensure that there is no mismatch between the information given in PIQ and the one given by him / her in response to questions during interview.

Few aspects to be kept in mind while filling up PIQ are as under:-

Do not overwrite or write at wrong place. Ensure that information is written at the space provided for it.
There should be no cuttings or erasing.
Fill the information in capital letters.
Information should be authentic and true. Do not manipulate information.
In case of land line tele number, prefix it by STD code and in case of mobile number prefix it by +91 or zero.
Prefix Mr/ Mrs, Shri / Shrimati to the names of parents.
Do not mention any achievements /participations of very young age, say lower than 7th standard.

Final Board Conference

FINAL BOARD CONFERENCE

Final Board Conference provides a forum to assessors where they can share information obtained during the course of their assessments of the candidate. It also enables all the assessors to have a last looks at the candidate. All candidates are called in one by one as per their chest numbers. The interviewing officer asks them a few preliminary questions. The candidate is then asked to leave. The candidates must move in and out of conference room smartly and answer the questions intelligently. Do not give any suggestions.