The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff) exam annually for recruitment into various government departments. Here’s your one-stop comprehensive guide to understanding the SSC MTS Syllabus 2024, covering the updated exam pattern, core subjects, high-yield topics, effective preparation strategies, and seven frequently asked questions.
Exam Pattern – SSC MTS Paper‑I (Revised)
The SSC has introduced a revised single-stage CBT (Computer Based Test) divided into two mandatory sessions on the same day.
- Total Questions: 90
- Total Marks: 270
- Each correct answer: +3 marks
- Negative Marking:
- Session I: No negative marking
- Session II: –1 mark per wrong answer
| Session | Sections | Qs | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session I | Numerical & Mathematical Ability | 20 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability & Problem Solving | 20 | 60 | (60 minutes with scribes) | |
| Session II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | 45 minutes |
| English Language & Comprehension | 25 | 75 | (60 minutes with scribes) |
Both sessions are compulsory; skipping either leads to disqualification.
Core Subjects & Syllabus Breakdown
Numerical and Mathematical Ability
Focuses on Class‑10 level arithmetic, with topics that carry varying weights. Key high-yield topics include:
- Number System, HCF & LCM (3–4 Qs)
- Ratio & Proportion, Percentage (1–2 Qs each)
- Average, Time & Work, Speed-Distance-Time (1–3 Qs)
- Profit & Loss, Simple/Compound Interest (2–3 Qs)
- Geometry, Mensuration, Data Interpretation (1–2 Qs each)
- Square & Square Roots, Mixture & Alligation, Algebra
Reasoning Ability & Problem Solving
Tests logical, spatial, and analytical ability with emphasis on:
- Classification, Analogies (3–4 Qs each)
- Coding-Decoding, Series, Venn Diagrams, Syllogism, Puzzles
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (4–5 Qs)
- Calendar, Clock, Direction & Distance, Age Problems, etc.
General Awareness
Combines static GK and current affairs. Topics include:
- Current Affairs (4–5 Qs)
- Indian History, Geography, Polity & Economy
- General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Environment & Ecology, Art & Culture, Books & Authors, Sports, Awards, etc.
English Language & Comprehension
Focuses on language proficiency with these topic distributions:
- Reading Comprehension / Cloze Test (Approx. 5 Qs)
- Error Spotting & Sentence Correction (2–3 Qs)
- Fill‑in‑the‑Blanks, Idioms & Phrases, One‑Word Substitution (1–2 Qs each)
- Synonyms & Antonyms (~3–4 Qs)
- Spelling & Sentence Improvement Items
High‑Yield Topics to Prioritize
Based on recent trends and analysis:
In Numerical Ability:
- Profit & Loss
- Data Interpretation
- Speed, Time, and Distance
In Reasoning:
- Non‑Verbal Reasoning (patterns & image puzzles)
- Classification & Analogies
- Coding-Decoding
In English:
- Comprehension passages
- Cloze tests, Synonyms-Antonyms
- Error Spotting and Phrase-based usage
In General Awareness:
- Current Affairs
- Indian History & Geography
- Economy and Polity basics
- General Science and Environmental awareness
Strategy & Preparation Tips
For Numerical & Reasoning:
- Build fundamentals: Master basics—tables, squares, cubes—and build a personal formula book.
- Practice daily: Aim for 100+ questions per chapter across types.
- Mock tests: Start mixed mocks early to improve speed and accuracy.
For English:
- Read regularly: Magazines, newspapers, and short stories. Boost reading comprehension through daily practice.
- Vocabulary & grammar: Use Word Power Made Easy, revise weekly. Practice error spotting and fill-ins frequently.
For General Awareness:
- Focus on static and current affairs up to two years.
- Use a single well-structured source like Lucent GK, monthly current affairs, or curated app-based notes.
General Advice:
- Solve previous year papers to understand question structure and typical difficulty.
- Consistent revision and consolidated notes help retain key facts.
- Stay calm and composed—mock performance often mirrors the real testing environment.
Subject-Wise Detailed Syllabus Outline
➤ Numerical & Mathematical Ability
- Integers, Fractions, Decimals, BODMAS
- Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Averages
- Speed/Distance/Time, Work & Time
- Profit/Loss, Simple & Compound Interest
- Geometry, Mensuration
- Data Interpretation (graphs, tables)
- Square roots, Number Series, Mixture & Alligation, Algebra basics
➤ Reasoning Ability & Problem Solving
- Series (Numeric/Alphabetic), Coding-Decoding, Analogy
- Direction sense, Blood Relations, Age-based questions
- Calendar/Clock problems, Syllogism, Venn
- Puzzles: Seating, Matrix, Missing number, Non-verbal pattern
➤ General Awareness
- Current Affairs: National & International developments
- Indian Polity: Constitution, Government, Rights
- Economy & Planning
- History: Ancient, Medieval & Modern
- Geography: Physical & Indian-specific geography
- Science & Environment
- Miscellaneous: Sports, Awards, Culture, Books & Authors
➤ English Language & Comprehension
- Grammar: Tenses, Articles, Pre/Postpositions, Subject-Verb Agreement
- Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, Rearrangement
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitutions, Idioms & Phrases
- Comprehension & Cloze Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sections are there in SSC MTS Paper‑I?
Four: Numerical Ability, Reasoning, General Awareness, English—all within two timed sessions.
Is there negative marking in SSC MTS exam?
Yes, -1 mark for wrong answers in Session II only; Session I has none.
What is the total score and number of questions?
90 questions worth 270 marks; each question carries 3 marks.
Which quantitative topics should I prioritize?
Focus on number system, ratio & proportion, percentage, profit & loss, data interpretation.
What sources are best for General Awareness?
Lucent’s GK, Arihant, monthly current affairs apps, and static GK references.
How much practice is enough for reasoning and maths?
Solve 100+ questions per chapter and take regular mixed mock tests.
Can self-study be enough to clear SSC MTS without coaching?
Yes—consistent self-study, focused mock practice, and strong concept clarity are sufficient.
Conclusion
The SSC MTS 2024 exam demands clarity of concepts, strategic practice, and smart revision. By mastering high-yield topics, familiarizing yourself with the exam structure, and practicing diligently, you can maximize your score. Remember:
- Domain knowledge matters: especially in Numerical, Reasoning, and GK sections
- Regular mock tests build confidence and time control
- Stay consistent, confident, and calm
- For official notifications, updates, and syllabi, refer to the official SSC website:Wishing you focused preparation and top scores!Let me know if you’d like a personalized study planner, subject-specific quizzes, or revision flashcards!