Cracking SSC CGL 2020: Strategies for Improving Math Skills from Weak to Strong

Thank you for asking. While preparing for the Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) examination, many aspirants encounter hurdles, especially in the math section. If you are currently facing difficulties in your preparation and your math skills need improvement, fear not! With the right strategies, you can enhance your math proficiency and perform better in the examination. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to boost your math skills and ensure a strong performance in the SSC CGL 2020.

Understanding the Syllabus and Basics

The SSC CGL syllabus for the Quantitative Aptitude (Quants) section covers a range of topics, starting from basic to advanced levels. These topics include Number System, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Statistics. It is important to realize that these topics are foundational and have already been taught in high school (10th class and below). Therefore, the challenge lies in revisiting and strengthening these basic concepts.

For a deeper understanding, it is recommended that you revisit your school textbooks and supplementary resources. If you had a home tutor for 9th and 10th standard, you can refer to those notes. However, if you are self-studying, there are numerous online platforms and resources available that can help you brush up on your basic concepts.

Concepts and Practice

Begin by creating a comprehensive notebook where you jot down all the basic concepts you need. These should include:

Finding roots of equations Trigonometric identities Theorems and proved statements of circles and triangles Formulas for 2D and 3D geometry Statistics and other relevant topics

Regularly revise these concepts to keep them fresh in your mind. After gaining a solid grasp of the basics, start practicing questions from these topics. This will help you remember the formulas and theorems more effectively and improve your overall understanding.

Mock Exams and Speed

Once you have practiced enough, it's time to take sectional mocks to gauge your speed and accuracy. Analyze your performance and work on increasing your speed without compromising on accuracy. Consistent practice is crucial, and it will help you internalize the concepts.

Identify Your Weak Areas

Taking the SSC CGL exam requires a thorough understanding of the entire syllabus. To get a higher score, it is essential to identify your weak areas and focus on them:

1. Identify Weak Areas: Determine which specific areas of math you struggle with the most. Whether it is arithmetic, algebra, geometry, or statistics, pinpointing these areas is the first step towards improvement.

2. Start with the Basics: Return to the fundamentals of mathematics. Ensure you have a strong grasp of basic concepts before progressing to more advanced topics. Utilize online resources, books, and tutorials to build a strong foundation.

3. Regular Practice: Dedicate regular time to solving math problems, ideally daily. Begin with easier questions and gradually move on to more complex ones as you build confidence.

Utilize Study Materials and Seek Help

When preparing for the SSC CGL exam, make use of specialized study materials. These materials often simplify complex concepts and provide ample practice questions to reinforce your learning. If you encounter difficulties, do not hesitate to seek help from teachers, tutors, or classmates. Sometimes, a different explanation can clarify a concept that you were struggling with.

Use Tricks and Shortcuts

Mathematical tricks and shortcuts can significantly speed up your problem-solving process. Learn techniques for simplification, percentage calculations, and solving equations. These tricks will not only help you solve problems faster but also improve your accuracy.

Take Regular Mock Tests

To assess your progress and identify areas requiring improvement, take regular mock tests. Practice solving math problems under timed conditions to simulate the exam environment. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual SSC CGL examination.

Stay Motivated

Improvement takes time and consistent effort. Stay motivated and believe in yourself. Remember that the results of your hard work will come through with time. Stay focused on your goals, and keep pushing yourself to improve.

In conclusion, by following these strategies and putting in consistent effort, anyone, even those who are currently weak in math, can improve their skills and increase their chances of cracking the SSC CGL examination. With dedication and the right approach, you can achieve your goal of securing a good score in the Quantitative Aptitude section of the SSC CGL 2020.