Most of the candidates and especially freshers are confused between PPDT and TAT which is conducted at SSB interview. We have already covered many articles related to PPDT [ Picture Perception and Discussion Test] and TAT [Thematic Apperception Test]. In this article, we will discuss what are the differences and similarities between PPDT and TAT.
PPDT and TAT are two different tests that are part of the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview, which is conducted for selecting candidates for various roles in the Indian Armed Forces.
PPDT (Picture Perception and Discussion Test) is a psychological test that involves showing a picture to the candidate for 30 seconds, after which the candidate has to write a story based on the picture in 3 minutes. Then, the candidates are divided into groups and asked to discuss and come up with a common story based on the picture. PPDT is used to evaluate the candidate’s creativity, imagination, and ability to work in a group.
TAT (Thematic Apperception Test), on the other hand, is a psychological test that involves showing the candidate a series of pictures (typically 10-12) and asking the candidate to write a story based on each picture in 30 seconds to 1 minute. The pictures usually depict people in various situations, and the candidate’s stories should describe what is happening in the picture, the thoughts and feelings of the people in the picture, and the outcome of the situation. TAT is used to evaluate the candidate’s personality, emotional stability, and maturity.
What is PPDT
PPDT stands for picture perception and discussion test, it’s a part of the screening test. PPDT consists of story writing, narration, and story discussion in a group.
What is TAT
TAT stands for Thematic Apperception Test, its a part of Psychological testing conducted by SSB psychologists for all screened-in candidates.
What is the Difference Between PPDT and TAT of SSB Interview
Below we have mentioned the differences between TAT and PPDT. Candidates can refer to this table and understand the meaning of TAT and PPDT.
| PPDT | TAT |
| Stage 1 test, conducted during Screening Test to filter candidates for stage 2 testing. | Conducted only for screened-in candidates, part of psychological tests conducted during stage 2 testing. |
| The candidate who passes this test goes for Stage 2 testing and stays for 5 days testing if fails routed back on the same day. | It is not a knockout test, but it plays a major role in your recommendation. TAT is one of the four tests conducted during Psychology testing. |
| Consist of story writing, story narration, and story discussion among group members. | Only story writing. No narration and discussion. |
| No. of picture: 1 Type of picture: Hazy Total time: 4 mins | No. of pictures: 11 ( including 1 blank slide) Type of picture: Clear Total Time: 4 mins for each picture |
| The difficulty level is high because of the competition. it’s a knockout round. | There is no competition, the individual result of TAT is never declared. |
| More Details | More Details |
Hope this clears the doubt among aspirant, did we miss something? Do write your responses in the comment box below.
So, in summary, while PPDT evaluates a candidate’s creativity and ability to work in a group, TAT evaluates a candidate’s personality, emotional stability, and maturity by assessing how they interpret different situations.
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I gave the preliminary selection test for the Indian Coast Guard ,which consisted of the ‘mental Ability Test’ (MAT) and PPDT. Got shortlisted for FSB at the noida centre. At the FSB will i again go thru these tests ( MAT and PPDT) on the screening day or will i start with TAT,WAT,SRT,etc . Pls help as i have this small doubt.
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