SSC CGL Computer Knowledge Syllabus

The Computer Knowledge Test sits in Tier 2 Paper 1 as Module 1 of Section 3. It is mandatory for every candidate and qualifying in nature, so its marks do not enter the merit list and failing it removes you from consideration for the posts that require it.

That combination confuses people into treating it as optional. It is the opposite. A module you must clear and cannot gain rank from is one you want out of the way with as little effort as it takes, which means learning a short syllabus properly rather than gambling on general familiarity.

Where the module sits

Module	Questions	Marks	Time	Nature
Computer Knowledge Test, Tier 2 Paper 1 Section 3 Module 1	20	60	15 minutes	Mandatory and qualifying

Three marks per correct answer, one mark deducted for a wrong one. Twenty questions in fifteen minutes is 45 seconds each, which is comfortable for factual recall.

SSC CGL Computer Knowledge syllabus, topic wise

Computer basics

Organisation of a computer, the central processing unit, input and output devices, computer memory and memory organisation, backup devices, ports, Windows Explorer and keyboard shortcuts.

Software

The Windows operating system, and the basics of Microsoft Office including MS Word, MS Excel and PowerPoint. Menus, common functions, formatting, formulae and slide operations are the level being tested.

Working with the internet and email

Web browsing and searching, downloading and uploading, managing an email account and e-banking.

Basics of networking and cyber security

Networking devices and protocols. Network and information security threats including hacking, viruses, worms and trojans, along with preventive measures.

Why this module is worth two weeks and no more

The syllabus above is the whole syllabus. There is nothing behind it, no advanced computing, no programming and no theory beyond the level of an office user who understands what the machine is doing.

Twenty questions on that material, with 45 seconds each, is the least demanding thing in the whole SSC CGL examination. Two focused weeks covers it, and candidates who spend longer are spending time that Tier 2 English would repay better.

What does catch people out is complacency about the specifics. Keyboard shortcuts, port types, memory units and the difference between a virus, a worm and a trojan are precise facts, and general computer familiarity does not supply them.

The Data Entry Speed Test alongside it

Module 2 of the same section is the Data Entry Speed Test, held in the second session. It requires typing an English passage at 8,000 key depressions per hour over 15 minutes, and it is also qualifying.

Both modules in Section 3 have to be cleared. Neither adds a mark to your rank. Together they are the clearest example in the SSC system of a stage that can only cost you, which is the reason to close them out early.