Tips to successfully ace the SSB written exam and interview

The Service Selection Board (SSB) exam is an important stage for those seeking to join the Indian Armed Forces. Clearing this exam is critical to obtain a position in the Army, Navy, or Air Force. It not only evaluates the candidate’s academic talents but also their personality attributes and readiness for a military career. To succeed in this competitive selection process, candidates must rigorously prepare. The selection process for this exam includes psychological tests, screening, physical tests, group discussions, interviews, and conferences.

Candidates are assessed based on their leadership, collaboration, and adaptability skills. Successful applicants who complete the SSB process advance to the officer training courses. As a result, defence candidates must follow the finest SSB interview preparation method and read the best books to make the selection list. Amid an increased number of entrants and, therein, competition, a candidate must undertake all necessary measures to not only prepare for the coveted exam but also ace it. Here’s a look at some of the tips for the candidates that can help them prepare for this examination:

Viable Practice: To guarantee success in the SSB exam, candidates should dedicate ample time to refine their skills and practice in areas like outdoor tasks, group discussions, and psychological tests. Practising thoroughly not only boosts confidence but also allows applicants to perform at their best during the challenging SSB process. Moreover, they should practice questions from the top books for SSB interviews and should also perform creative writing every day to ace their speed and vocabulary.

Confidence Building: Candidates ought to remain confident and optimistic during the group discussion and the personal interviews. Furthermore, students should avoid answering questions they are unfamiliar with rather than providing wrong replies. They should also pay attention to their dress, body language, seating posture, eye contact, and other aspects during the SSB interview phase.

Newspaper Reading: Reading newspapers and current affairs regularly is one of the most effective tactics for SSB exam success. The candidates should remain familiar with the latest news and developments worldwide, particularly for group discussions and interviews, which would eventually help them put forward their points with confidence.

Enhance Communication Skills: It is important for candidates appearing for the SSB exam process to hone their communication skills. Thus, it is recommended to speak on a topic in front of a mirror for at least 5 minutes every day. This is necessary because effective communication is a key component of leadership, and SSB assessors evaluate applicants on their ability to communicate themselves clearly and convincingly.

Academic Knowledge: Aspirants should revise everything they have studied until class 12 or graduation. This is because there are higher chances that the assessor might put up questions based on their technical or academic qualifications.

Staying Fit: The SSB interview assesses applicants not just on their academic talents but also on their physical fitness. In order to stay fit for this examination, candidates can establish a daily regimen that includes strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises.
Right mentorship for interview preparation: Finding the right mentorship is crucial for acing the SSB interview. Experienced mentors provide personalized guidance, helping candidates understand the SSB’s unique selection criteria. They offer insights into expected questions, effective communication strategies, and leadership qualities. Regular mock interviews and feedback sessions with a seasoned mentor can significantly boost confidence and performance.

Apart from the aforementioned strategies, aspirants need to follow a balanced diet and stay hydrated to fuel their bodies.
Also, adequate sleep and recovery will also aid in their muscle development. Additionally, with diligence, practice, and an ideal mentality, applicants can improve their chances of success in the SSB Interview and realise their dream of serving in the defence services.

The author is the Chairman of Centurion Defence Academy.