Navigating the rigorous selection process of the Services Selection Board (SSB) can be a daunting challenge for aspiring defense officers. Among the various stages of evaluation, the Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) holds a crucial position, serving as a gateway to the subsequent rounds.
We are excited to delve into the intricacies of PPDT and equip you with the knowledge and strategies to excel in this pivotal assessment.
Understanding PPDT: The Basics
PPDT, or the Picture Perception and Discussion Test, is one of the two tests conducted during the first stage of the SSB interview process. Alongside the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test, PPDT plays a significant role in the initial screening of candidates. While the OIR test focuses on verbal and non-verbal reasoning, PPDT is designed to evaluate your perceptual abilities, storytelling skills, and group dynamics.
Now we will discuss PPDT, what is PPDT and how to write and speak during PPDT. This would help freshers who certainly miss or get confused during PPDT story writing, narration and group discussion.
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The PPDT Process: Step-by-Step
The PPDT process consists of three key components: picture perception, story writing, and group discussion. Let’s explore each of these elements in detail:
Picture Perception
During the PPDT, you will be presented with a picture for a brief period of 30 seconds. This visual stimulus serves as the foundation for the subsequent story writing and discussion.
Story Writing
After the initial observation, you will be given 1 minute to note down the key details you have perceived, such as the gender, age, and mood of the characters depicted in the picture. Following this, you will have 4 minutes to craft a compelling story based on the visual cue.
Group Discussion
Once the individual story writing is complete, you will be divided into a group of 12-14 candidates. Each member will be given the opportunity to narrate their story to the group. The group then engages in a discussion, with the aim of arriving at a common narrative that encompasses the diverse perspectives shared.
Mastering the PPDT: Strategies and Techniques
To excel in the PPDT, it is essential to develop a comprehensive understanding of the test and hone your skills in the following areas:
Observation and Perception
Effective PPDT performance begins with your ability to accurately observe and perceive the details within the given picture. Train your mind to quickly identify the key elements, such as the characters, their expressions, and the overall context of the scene.
Storytelling Prowess
Crafting a compelling and coherent story based on the picture is a critical aspect of PPDT. Develop your narrative skills by practicing creative writing, paying attention to plot development, character portrayal, and emotional resonance.
Group Dynamics and Communication
The group discussion component of PPDT requires you to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and the ability to contribute constructively to the collective narrative. Practice effective communication techniques and learn to navigate group dynamics with poise and maturity.
What is PPDT?
PPDT stands for picture perception and discussion test, as the name suggests, you need to write a story on the picture shown, narrate it and then discuss among group members to make a common story.
How to write a Story in PPDT?
This exercise is a part of the psychological assessment in the SSB (Service Selection Board) process, designed to evaluate your perception, observation skills, and ability to construct a coherent narrative based on visual stimuli. Here’s a step-by-step guide to approach this task effectively:
Step 1: Observation (30 seconds)
- Focus on the entire image quickly: Don’t get stuck on any one part. Scan the image as a whole to get a general sense of what’s happening.
- Identify characters: Look for human figures in the image. Pay attention to their appearance, gender (if identifiable), age, and emotional expressions (mood).
- Note the setting: Observe the background and environment to understand the context of the scene.
Step 2: Noting Down Details (1 minute)
- Character Details:
- Gender: Identify if the characters are Male (M), Female (F), or Person (P) if gender is unclear.
- Mood: Assess the mood of each character. Mark with
+for positive,-for negative, and0for neutral. - Age: Estimate the age of each character based on their appearance.
- Circle the first character: Circle the details of the character you noticed first.
- Action Description:
- On the right side of the sheet, write the action happening in the scene in 3-4 words. For example, “Helping an old man,” “Celebrating a festival,” “Escaping from danger,” etc.
Step 3: Writing the Story (4 minutes)
- Introductory Sentence: Start with a brief introduction that sets the scene. Mention the primary character and the situation they are in.
- Main Action: Describe the central event or action taking place in the story. Ensure that the action you noted down is the focus.
- Resolution: Conclude with how the situation was resolved or what the outcome was.
Example:
Observation Details:
- Character 1: M, 25 years, + (Circled)
- Character 2: F, 23 years, 0
- Character 3: M, 50 years, –
Action Description: Helping an injured person
Story: Rahul, a 25-year-old man, was walking through the park on a sunny afternoon when he noticed an elderly man, around 50 years old, who had tripped and fallen. The elderly man seemed distressed, and no one around had noticed him. Rahul quickly rushed to help him. A young woman, about 23 years old, who was passing by, joined Rahul to assist. Together, they helped the man to a nearby bench, where they ensured he was safe and called for medical help. Their prompt action brought relief to the elderly man, who was grateful for their assistance.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the limited time provided to craft a meaningful and coherent story that reflects your observation and analytical skills.
PPDT Story Writing Sample
This exercise is a crucial part of the SSB selection process, testing your ability to observe, analyze, and collaborate effectively under time constraints. Here’s how to approach each segment of this task:
Observation and Note-Taking
Details in the Box:
- Character 1: Female (F), 26 years, Positive Mood (
+) (Circled) - Character 2: Female (F), 40 years, Negative Mood (
-) - Character 3: Person (P), 45 years, Neutral Mood (
0)
Action Part: The scene is on agricultural land. Keywords: farming, poor, agriculture, help, fertilizers, drought, earning, livelihood.
PPDT Sample Sheet
Crafting the Story
Story Example:
Radha, a 26-year-old woman, stood at the edge of her family’s small agricultural plot, the sun beating down relentlessly. Despite the harsh conditions, she maintained a positive outlook, determined to make the best of the situation. Her mother, who was 40 years old, was standing a little distance away, her face etched with worry as she observed the parched soil that hadn’t seen rain in weeks.
In the middle of the field was an elderly worker, around 45 years old, diligently preparing the ground for the seeds they had saved from the last harvest. Though his expression was neutral, it was clear that he, too, understood the gravity of the drought.
Radha knew that their livelihood depended on this harvest. She had recently learned about a government scheme that provided subsidies for fertilizers and had convinced her family to apply. As they worked together, Radha’s optimism and willingness to embrace new methods gave the family hope. Despite the challenges, they were committed to ensuring their land would yield enough to support them through the tough season ahead.
Discussion Test: Individual Narration and Group Discussion
Individual Narration:
- Stay Calm and Confident: Remember the key points of your story. Start by introducing the main character and the setting.
- Be Concise: You have limited time, so focus on the core of your story. Highlight the action and its significance.
- Maintain Eye Contact: Speak clearly and confidently without looking at the assessors. This shows you are self-assured and focused.
Group Discussion:
- Start with a Summary: If you feel confident, start the discussion by summarizing your story and its key points.
- Stay Calm in Chaos: If the discussion becomes heated, wait for a gap to present your ideas. Do not raise your voice unnecessarily.
- Collaborate, Don’t Compete: The goal is to create a common story. Be willing to merge ideas or suggest compromises that incorporate elements from different stories.
Final Thoughts:
Your performance in this exercise is a reflection of how you handle pressure, interact with others, and think on your feet. The key is to stay focused, be observant, and communicate clearly. This exercise is not just about the story you tell but also about how you collaborate and engage with your peers.
PPDT and TAT: Understanding the Differences
It is important to note the distinction between PPDT and the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), another assessment employed in the SSB interview process. While both involve story writing based on visual cues, there are some key differences:
- PPDT is conducted during the first stage of the SSB interview, while TAT is part of the second stage.
- PPDT presents a single picture, whereas TAT comprises a set of 12 pictures.
- In PPDT, you are required to note down specific details about the characters, such as their gender, age, and mood, before writing the story. TAT, on the other hand, only involves the story writing component.
- PPDT includes an individual narration and group discussion, while TAT is solely focused on the story writing task.
Preparing for PPDT: Resources and Guidance
To enhance your PPDT performance, I highly recommend exploring the following resources:
- PPDT and TAT eBooks: Delve into comprehensive guides that provide sample stories, tips, and strategies for navigating these assessments.
- SSB Interview Preparation Courses: Enroll in online coaching programs that offer in-depth training and personalized feedback on PPDT and other SSB interview stages.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Engage in regular PPDT and TAT exercises, using online platforms or sample pictures, to hone your skills and build confidence.
Join SSB Interview Online Coaching by SSBCrackExams
Remember, the SSB interview process is designed to assess your overall suitability for a career in the defense forces. By mastering the PPDT and leveraging the right resources, you can take a significant step towards realizing your aspirations.
The PPDT is a pivotal assessment in the SSB interview process, serving as a gateway to the subsequent rounds. By understanding the test’s components, mastering the required skills, and leveraging the right resources, you can position yourself for success. Remember, the journey to becoming a defense officer is not just about passing the tests; it’s about demonstrating your potential, resilience, and commitment to serving the nation. Embrace the challenge, stay focused, and let your passion for the defense forces guide you towards your aspirations.
FAQs
What is the full form of PPDT?
PPDT stands for Picture Perception and Discussion Test, a crucial component of the SSB interview process.
How is PPDT different from TAT?
While both PPDT and TAT involve story writing based on visual cues, they differ in terms of the number of pictures, the level of detail required, and the inclusion of group discussion in PPDT.
What is the purpose of PPDT in the SSB interview?
PPDT is designed to assess a candidate’s perceptual abilities, storytelling skills, and group dynamics, which are essential qualities for a successful career in the defense forces.
How can I prepare effectively for the PPDT?
To prepare for PPDT, focus on honing your observation and perception skills, storytelling prowess, and group communication techniques. Utilize resources like eBooks, online coaching, and regular practice to enhance your performance.
insightful. thanks for this one. would definitely inculcate these ideas to write ppdt story in a better way.
Replay me the review for my story
Rani was a btech student and her father was a farmer. While she going to college through her father’s fields for the first time. she saw all the farmers including her father were using old technics she went to them and explained about the advantages of new technology. But everyone didn’t accept it because they don’t trust them for a good crops. Then rani shown some examples of way of agriculture using the technology from the web. Then everyone got a hope and wanted to buy them. Then they ordered some equipments and tryed them the rudely was good and they ordered more. Then her village is developed and she felt satisfied.
PPDT TITLE IS 2019 AND COMMENTS ARE FROM 7 YEARS AGO https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/cde01af27a8ade6f124a3aefe4aa4618997460819e867837c9cf41989941b5ea.jpg WRITE A STORY ON THIS PIC, above agricultural theme is from nk natarajan book..
Now a days such section are also included in IT companies Freshers hiring test too like techM, Zoho etc. Here are few pic you can even practice for SSB exams… it might help you. https://q4interview.com/picture-perception-and-discussion-writing-tests.php
how to write a positive story in a negative picture.like a dead guy and a lady crying
Man’s mood depends on think him that he think about lady .age of both can any else but my mood focus only driving
There was a village with small family of husband with age 38,wife with age 32 and his daughter with age 19.every time wife use to think about the struggle of his husband for his family and about the higher education of her daughter ……..she had a responsibility to keep his husband and daughter happy…….so she use to manage the money brought by his husband..by saving some money with in their salary …when her daughter grown up she gave the saved money to her husband and said him to join their daughter for higher education so that their daughter would study well and financially lead their family..after some days.this family is happy with their daughter ‘s result in her education and support given to her father ..and the girl’s mother is thanking to god about what all happen in the past and what all sacrifices done by them to educate their daughter for this fruit full life….
lol
to make a story is not that difficult but the problem is to write as per criteria and conditions given
Hi friends
i am going for ssb on 21 sep2014 so pls share ur experince of selection procedure
Nivedita was an ambitious girl. She belonged to a poor farmer family but that did not stop her from dreaming big.
She is a final year engineering graduate student and she has always acknowledged the pain that her farmer father has encountered in paying her graduation fee. Today is the final exam of her final semester and before going to the college she takes a last look at her family. It is evident from the picture that her her father is ploughing the field and her mother is standing, looking. She dreams of getting a good job and pulling her family out of poverty. She takes her final exam passes out of the college and gets a good job as manager in a reputed firm. Finally her family enjoys a better standard of living. She fulfills her dream.
Really u r story is very good and i want to appreciate for your positive thinking about a situation of field and farmer .
nettu is a graduate,there was a famine in the village and his parents decided to sell the land at lower rate as they dont have enough money but neetu opposed it and said we should take loan from bank and also govt also helping affected people by providing subsidy on various farming things and so the family decided to sow the field again and they have a very good harvest next time.
plz admin reply(comment) or someone who qualified ssb..
Rohit is 15 year old boy studying in 9th class.he was like to play violin very much.one day he came to home but the was not interested to play violin.he thought about the incident which he saw in the way of his school that a poor man sat on rode side and very hungry ,poor man could not walk a single step.after some time his mother came in to the room and asking to him what happened then he said all the things to his mother.he want to help him and he went with his mother and gave him some food to eat when poor man eat all the food he returned to home with cheerful mood.
bhai story real kam banayi hui jada lag rhi h
admin rate my story…
Ayasha belongs to poor family of remote region for which her family totally depends on agriculture income.When she was in school,she got to know that her father used old Technics of farming for which her family income was very low.After school she joined clg and later she did B.sc in agriculture on govt. scholarship.When she came back to her village,she knew that her father still also using same (old) farming technics.Then one day she talked to her father about knew modern farming Technics,if we use this technics then govt. also gives some subsidery in new quality of seeds,farming tools and machinery.In this way Ayasha got success to convinced her father and also her father are ready to use this technics .In this way Ayesha first took the trial on her farms and for god blessed she got good production. Then she talked to village head person for arranging the gramsabha,for which she too try to convince them.Afterthis she arranged gramsabha and told about new technics of farming and their benefits also,she also told about her farms for which she firstly applied there and got good result ,initially she faced some trouble,but later on she convinced all of them.so in this way everyone was ready to use this technics,after one year Ayasha came to knw that the village farm production was increase.Ayasha felt hapy for her hardwork.
your story is good but too lengthy
My story revolves around vikram who is a bsc agriculture student and lives with his mother. His family income only came from agriculture. There was no other elder supporting their family. He has helped his mother since his childhood in farming and day to day work with his studies too going parallel. He opted for agriculture as he wanted to know the knew techniques In farming and improve the financial condition of his village as well as family.completing his degree he introduced modern ways of farming like use of bio pesticides and tissue culture leading to productivity increase and less dependency on chemicals. He spread his message by doing demo in gram panchayat and encouraged people to adopt it. It was wel understood by the villagers and with passing years the change was seen and his village ranked first in productivity on global platform. He was also awarded for his work by the prime minister on republic day and he is stil spreading his message to other villages in country.
tory is god but give award & reward to hero
i want say that story is good but dont give award & reward to hero
Vicky ,a science graduate student, was going to his college suddenly he saw a girl got injured by a biker and bikers run away .He immediately note down the bike no.and gave first aid to injured girl.He pick the girl in his car and admitted her in a nearby hospital,in between vicky informed the girl’s parents and police also.Girl’s mom came and saw her daughter and asked about the bikerrs.Vicky and girls mom went to police station for an fir and told about bikerrs.Police caught the bikers immediately with the help of bike no..Vicky and girls mom returned to the hospital and doctor them that girl is fine.Vicky dropped girl and her mom in her house and departured towards his college.
Its good but can be improved as flow of thoughts are not coherent.Please read it carefully and allign your thought process that will be much better than this.
if you had involved those 2 in pictures it might be beutiful
wat abt ur ssb
story on shubhankar roy ppdt, rate it plz..
Ekta and sumit lives in a flat in ajmer. both have a 3 years old kid. before having kid, she used to work as sales manager in a reputed company. now she wants to start a business that can be handled at home so that the she can better take care of her son too. so she decides to buy the handicrafts from rajasthan villages and sale it to bigger companies. sumit also supports her for this. in starting she had to face some difficulties in setting up but due to support of her husband and her determination now she handles it from net at home. today she has completed her biggest consingment. the man is from the client company who came their to give payment. ekta is very happy and eagerly waitng her husband to come nd njoy..:)
Rate my story plz..
Neha is the youngest and very brilliant daughter of patel family. this family depnds on farming only.from 5 years the adequate crops were not growing in the village.neha is doing her b.tech from a govt college on scholarship and she is aware of the village situation. so from 2 years she along with her frnds are working on developng a chemical that can increase crops quality nd maintain the fertility. finaly in last year they got success, and convince the villagers to try it. earlier villagers rebel but she was able to convince them. this year the crop is really good. everyone is happy nd feelng proud on patel’s daughter. in college her group is awarded with best project..:) Now she is seeking towards further experiments..:)
No you should not join in…. keep calm and speak when all of them stop… there will be a time in each discussion where the entire batch will bark their hearts out … that is a golden chance… and when you face a fish market.. Sport a smile n look for opportunity… Good luck
information u have given is invitable……….brother ,,,,,always keep sharing experiences ,,,,,,duude
Sir, please tell me how to write a story from personal experiences on a picture which shows a girl/lady/woman as the lead character, when the story writer is a male. I heard somewhere that the lead character should reflect you. is it true?
Can you tell me-
i) have you ever stayed in a village?
ii) Have you taken any such initative in any field? if yoy say yes then its a very well written story . you are a person wwho take tinitative, leader ship, helping nature, motivation,caring etc. You are a sutiable person to be an officer.From my side you are recommended provided you shows all others quailty of yours in other task.
All the very best of luck.
admin kindly rate my story
Mahesh was a young graduate student.He lived in a remote village with his parents n two sisters.Despite being blessed with all geographical advantages the economic condition of his village was not good. As they dnt kow how to utilise the resources.Consequently his village lagged behind in all raspect.This sight dnt please the student in him.He knew tat education is the antidote to all problems.So he met the sarpanch n askd for the permission to use the community hall to run a night school where people,of all religion,caste,sex can sit n grasp the right to education.He was readily given the permission.He started the school with all enthusiasm n began the things from the scratch.He also asked his friends too to come n teach them.He lead emphasis on girl education n told the farmers the advanced use of scientific meathods of farming.With the passage of time situations changed favourably.people learnt the art, use of skills n knew their rights in various fields.Hence drops made the ocean so the village got onto the wheels of progress.
This comment has been removed by the author.
Preeti was in school when her father used to work hard in the farms and earn their livelihood. She was aware of the financial constraints that her family was facing. As her family was dependent on agriculture, she decided to take B.Sc agriculture as her higher qualification and utilize the knowledge gained in helping her father. She took the course, and started working on the fields with her father. while working she noticed that the technique used in farming was very old and labourious. The yield was also not good, hence lower income to the family. She talked to her father about this and convinced her to apply new methods of farming. Father agreed and the methods were applied. The results were positive and crop was good. Preeti felt happy by helping her family overcome the constraints.
*his
Admin comment on this story please…
Admin do tell whr improvement is required ?
Nice story but make sure you equally do good while narrating and during GD.
Ridhhima was a final year B.SC agriculture student who is doing research on old farming techniques practised by rural farmers.She was given 5 villages as a research project work.She was in daulatpur village for more then a month and observed many things on the basis of what data she collected from farmers and labourers which can be used to enhanced the cropping methods.She told farmers about the various schemes run by the government which provides subsidy and schemes on farming tools ,seeds and irrigation methods.She helped them to find the way to get such facilities.Soon the village started using high yielding methods and ridhhima now moved on to next village by telling them about forum from where they can collect such useful information regarding new farming techniques.
During discussion try to speak 1st, if not than try to speak once during discussion but logically
During picture perception, persive picture accurately! utilize 30secs for persiving picture clearly and than make your story according to it
Sir we r supposed to write a story and choose a hero of our age group.
But if in the picture there is a child and a old man how could we choose our hero?
my friend u can take the hero from outside….,,,,likewise in this picture (above showed)(a girl is going with some books in her hands, a person working in the field and a lady stood in front of the field) so we can assume the hero from outside….
Ajay was a college student. Once he went to his native village to his grandfather. There he saw some girls were working as laborer in the agriculture field. he met to a girl and ask to her for go to school. by talking her he came to know that parents of those girls did not allow to go school because of their lack of knowledge. he decided to grow up this matter and arranged a meeting of villagers with the help of headman. in that meeting he gave knowledge about girl education and told them benefits of their education and also listened their problem and gave them proper solution ways. By this girls of village started to go school. with this ajay was happy with his work.
In the Discussion, What if entire group of 15 starts barking at once, and the assessor tells all of us to get lost from the room. our discussion was like the one that i mentioned, it was not even for a minute, i kept calm seeking a chance to speak. but at last i was out. so i think we should join in the fish market
sai bola bhai it hapnd with me to once…in ppdt situation a bit like cats n dogs..so do in rome as romans do….. bt rembr to speak only logical thoughts.
Our PPDT in Bhopal navy SSB January’13.
Picture of a lady standing on the balcony and
a man driving by in a car below driving by.
I can give u the mood and age but its about how u interpret.
We got the same picture in allahbad in Jan’13.