Back To The Basics – Picture Perception And Discussion Test

Many a times we have emphasized the importance of picture perception and discussion test (PPDT) in the screening process of the SSB interview. Today we will try to make the procedure more coherent so that no doubts remain in your mind. Earlier there was no picture perception and discussion test in the Selection Procedure but due a spurt in the number candidates appearing for SSB, this method was adopted to choose suitable candidates for further testing.

Picture Perception And Discussion Test METHOD

PART ONE
You are shown a hazy picture on the projector screen for 30 seconds. You are required to note down the number of characters, their age, gender and mood and then write a story revolving them in the next 3 minutes in a sheet of paper. The sheet of paper is taken from you after the completion of 3 minutes. This test is similar to the TAT of psychological testing. You must frame a story with a suitable past, appropriate present and logical end. Your story should revolve around the HERO of the story who uses the resources available with him to solve the problem in the picture.

PART TWO
You are then divided into groups of 8-15 (depending upon the strength) and made to sit in a semi circle. The GTO, Psychologist and Interviewing Officer are present there. You are given back your sheet for a few seconds so that you recall the story which you wrote. Then you are required to narrate your individual story to the group one by one. Once the last member of the group finishes his narration, a group discussion starts within the group members to form a common story of the group. This is one of the trickiest parts of the whole picture perception and discussion test procedure.

Picture Perception And Discussion Test POINTS TO REMEMBER

• As far as writing the story is concerned, make a robust and meaningful story which revolves around a hero who exhibits leadership qualities.
• Be very quick in writing the story as you get only 3-3.5 minutes. However, if you cannot complete your story, need not worry as there are no negative marks for it.
• You will get a tea break after the first part; utilize that break to prepare your narration. A coherent and crisp narration will fetch you good points in the Group Discussion.
• Do not look at the assessors during the narration or the GD. Confidently put your points forward to everybody in the group.
• Try to initiate the Group Discussion, but if you cannot, make sure that you are amongst the first 3-4 speakers.
• Do not speak for the heck of it; put constructive ideas which will help the group in coming close to the group solution.
• If you are not getting a point to speak, support the group member who has a relevant point.
• Listening is as important as speaking. Listen to the group members’ point of view as well.
• Maintain a gentlemanly disposition and do not commit the blunder of becoming aggressive and getting into an altercation with your group members.
• Be polite and if you think you have spoken enough, give chance to the other members of your group.
• Whatever you do, always keep in mind that you are a team player and not a selfish individual.

I hope you have gained some insight about the picture perception and discussion test procedure through this article. For any queries, you can contact me on vardaan.parashar@gmail.com. Keep visiting ssbcrack, JAI HIND