Introduction

Imagine scoring 300+ in Tier 1 and Tier 2, dreaming of your posting, and then getting rejected because you couldn’t type fast enough.

This happens to thousands of candidates every year.

The SSC CHSL Tier 2 Typing Test (Skill Test) is qualifying in nature, but it is mandatory. If you fail this, your high marks in Maths and English are worthless. This guide explains exactly what you need to do to clear this final hurdle.

Speed Requirements

The speed depends on the post you have applied for and the language you chose.

1. LDC / JSA / PA / SA (Most Common)

• English: 35 Words Per Minute (WPM) ≈ 10,500 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH).
• Hindi: 30 Words Per Minute (WPM) ≈ 9,000 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH).
• Duration: 10 Minutes.

2. Data Entry Operator (DEO)

• Requirement: 8,000 KDPH or 15,000 KDPH (depending on the ministry).
• Duration: 15 Minutes.

Reality Check: 35 WPM sounds easy, but in the exam hall with 100 other keyboards clattering around you, nervousness kicks in. Aim for a practice speed of 40-45 WPM at home to be safe.

The Exam Interface Rules

Knowing the battlefield is half the victory.

1. On-Screen Text: The passage will be displayed on the upper half of the screen. You have to type it in the text box below. No paper is given.
2. Scrolling: You may need to scroll down to see the remaining text. Don’t forget to scroll. Many candidates type only the visible part and fail.
3. Backspace: Yes, Backspace is ALLOWED. You can correct your mistakes within the time limit.
4. Font Size: The font size is standard and readable.
5. Key Layout: Standard QWERTY keyboard.

How Mistakes Are Calculated

SSC is strict about accuracy. Errors are divided into two categories:

Full Mistakes (100% Error)

• Omission: You missed a word or figure.
• Substitution: You typed “world” instead of “word”.
• Addition: You typed an extra word not in the passage.
• Spelling: You typed “recieve” instead of “receive”.

Half Mistakes (50% Error)

• Spacing: No space or extra space between words.
• Capitalization: Typing “india” instead of “India”.
• Punctuation: Missing a comma or full stop.

The Limit: Generally, for UR candidates, errors up to 5-7% are ignored. Beyond that, you are disqualified. For reserved categories, the relaxation is slightly higher (usually 7-10%).

Preparation Strategy

1. The First Month: Touch Typing

If you hunt and peck with two fingers, stop. Learn Touch Typing (using all 10 fingers without looking at the keyboard).

• Tool: Use free sites like TypingMaster or Keybr.
• Goal: Memorize key positions. Speed doesn’t matter yet.

2. The Second Month: Accuracy First

Once you know the keys, focus on accuracy.

• Rule: Don’t use backspace while practicing. Train your brain to type correctly the first time.
• Content: Type newspaper editorials. They have complex words similar to the exam.

3. The Final Month: Exam Simulation

• Noise Training: Go to a cyber cafe or play “keyboard typing sound” on YouTube while practicing. The exam hall will be noisy.
• Stamina: Practice for 15-20 minutes at a stretch to build stamina.

A Note on Focus

Typing requires immense concentration. If your mind wanders, your fingers will make mistakes.

Interestingly, the same focus is needed for Vocabulary learning. Many aspirants struggle to retain words.

• Pro Tip: Use the Scoreclever App for your vocabulary prep. It uses spaced repetition to keep your memory sharp—a skill that indirectly helps in maintaining focus during tasks like typing.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t Ignore It: Start practicing at least 2-3 months before the exam.
• Aim Higher: Target 45 WPM at home to achieve 35 WPM in the exam.
• Accuracy > Speed: A speed of 50 WPM with 20% errors is a FAIL. A speed of 36 WPM with 2% errors is a PASS.
• Scroll: Always check if there is more text to type.

The typing test is the easiest stage to clear if you practice, and the saddest stage to fail if you don’t. Keep your fingers moving.