What is DEST and CPT in SSC CGL Tier 2 2025, Understand Here

DEST and CPT in SSC CGL Tier 2

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam every year to recruit candidates for various non-gazetted posts in government departments and ministries. The SSC CGL 2025 exam will be held in two computer-based stages:

• SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Dates: 13th August to 30th August 2025.
• SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Dates: December 2025 (exact dates to be notified)

As part of the Tier 2 examination, certain posts require candidates to qualify additional skill tests like DEST (Data Entry Speed Test) and CPT (Computer Proficiency Test).

DEST and CPT in SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus (2025)

As part of the SSC CGL Tier 2 examination process, candidates are required to undergo two skill tests: DEST (Data Entry Speed Test) and CPT (Computer Proficiency Test). These are qualifying in nature and assess the candidate’s typing speed and basic computer knowledge.

Test Name	CPT and DEST Syllabus (2025)
Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)	DEST will be conducted as per the Commission’s guidelines. It is a skill test and does not have a fixed syllabus. Candidates will be required to type a passage containing about 2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes. The test evaluates the candidate’s typing speed and accuracy. Detailed instructions will be provided by the respective SSC Regional Offices.
Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)	The CPT evaluates a candidate’s familiarity with basic computer operations. It includes: 1. Computer Basics: Understanding of computer organization, CPU, input/output devices, memory types, storage devices, Ports, file management using Windows Explorer, and common keyboard shortcuts. 2. Software Usage: Proficiency in using Windows OS and basic MS Office tools – MS Word, MS Excel, and PowerPoint. 3. Internet and Email: Web browsing and searching, uploading/downloading, managing email accounts, and understanding the basics of e-Banking. 4. Networking & Cyber Security: Knowledge of networking devices and protocols, threats like viruses, worms, trojans, phishing, and basic cyber hygiene and prevention methods.

• DEST is mandatory for all SSC CGL posts.
• CPT is only applicable for specific posts such as Assistant Section Officer (CSS, MEA, AFHQ, etc.).
• Both DEST and CPT are qualifying tests marks will not be added to the final merit.
• Candidates must clear these skill tests to be eligible for final appointment in specific posts.

What is CPT (Computer Proficiency Test) in SSC CGL?

The Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) in SSC CGL is a qualifying skill test conducted in online mode. It is required only for specific posts such as Assistant Section Officer in CSS, MEA, AFHQ, etc. The purpose of CPT is to assess a candidate’s practical knowledge of basic computer operations, such as using MS Office applications, internet usage, email management, and understanding computer fundamentals.

• Nature: Qualifying only (not counted in merit).
• Mode: Conducted online.
• Mandatory for: Candidates applying for posts like ASO in CSS, MEA, AFHQ, etc.
• Test Focus:
  • MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Internet and Email usage
  • Basic computer and Windows operations
  • Keyboard shortcuts and file handling

SSC CGL Posts That Require Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)

The Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) is mandatory for candidates applying to specific posts under SSC CGL. It assesses a candidate’s ability to use computer applications like MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Posts That Require CPT:

• Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in CSS
• Assistant Section Officer in MEA
• Assistant in SFIO under Ministry of Corporate Affairs
• Assistant (GSI) in Ministry of Mines
• Inspector (Central Excise)
• Inspector (Preventive Officer)
• Inspector (Examiner)

CPT Modules

The CPT is divided into three modules:

1. Word Processing (MS Word)
2. Spreadsheet (MS Excel)
3. Generation of Slides (MS PowerPoint)

Module-wise Details

The Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) in SSC CGL is divided into three practical modules that check basic working knowledge of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Each module is time-bound and must be completed with accuracy to qualify.

1. Word Processing

• Candidates must type an English passage containing approximately 2000 key depressions.
• The duration is 15 minutes.
• No formatting (bold, italic, underline) is required.
• Minimum 95% accuracy is essential for qualification.
• Both speed and accuracy are evaluated.

2. Spreadsheet (Excel)

• Basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc.
• Candidates must demonstrate familiarity with Excel formulas and functions.

3. Generation of Slides (PowerPoint)

• Candidates are asked to create a slide presentation.
• Basic functions such as inserting header, footer, date, and time are tested.
• Time allotted is 15 minutes, and candidates must replicate a given slide layout accurately.

What is SSC CGL DEST (Data Entry Skill Test)?

DEST stands for Data Entry Skill Test in the SSC CGL exam. It is a qualifying test meant to check a candidate’s typing speed and accuracy. Candidates are required to type 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes, which translates to a speed of 8000 key depressions per hour.

This test is applicable only for candidates applying for the post of Tax Assistant in the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

SSC CGL Posts That Require DEST

• Tax Assistant (Central Excise)
• Tax Assistant (Income Tax)

DEST – Types of Mistakes

There is no negative marking in DEST. However, marks are deducted based on the type of typing mistakes made. SSC classifies them into Full Mistakes and Half Mistakes.

Full Mistake:

Each of the following will be counted as a full mistake:

• Omission of a word or figure
• Substitution of a wrong word or figure
• Addition of a word or figure not found in the passage

Half Mistake:

Each of the following will be counted as a half mistake:

• Spacing errors (e.g., typing “ihave” instead of “I have”)
• Spelling errors caused by:
  • Repetition of letters
  • Omission, addition, or transposition of letters
  • Substitution of incorrect letters (e.g., typing “seeplings” instead of “spelling”)

Note:

• DEST is qualifying in nature. Candidates must meet the required speed and accuracy standards to be considered for the final selection in Tax Assistant posts
• Any corrections using pen or pencil are ignored and no credit is given to such corrections.

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