Typing Test
I am not usually comfortable in a bar by myself, but I had been in San Francisco for a week and the apartment I sublet had no chairs in it, just a bed and a couch. My friends in town were married or worked nights. One Tuesday I had lentil soup for supper standing up at the kitchen counter. After I finished, I moved to the couch in the empty living room and sat under the flat overhead light refreshing feeds on my laptop. This was not a way to live. A man would go to a bar alone, I told myself. So I went to a bar alone. I sat on a stool at the centre of the bar, ordered a beer, and refreshed the feeds on my mobile. I waited for something to happen. A basketball game played on several monitors at once. The bar had red fake leather booths, Christmas lights and a female bartender. A lesbian couple cuddled at one end of it. At the other end, around the corner from where I sat, a bespectacled man my age watched the game. As the only man and the only woman alone at the bar, we looked at each other. Then I pretended to watch the game on a monitor that allowed me to look the other way. He turned his back to me to watch the monitor over the pool tables, where the pool players now applauded some exploit. I waited to be approached. A few stools down, two men broke into laughter. One came over to show me why they were laughing. He handed me his mobile and pointed to a Facebook post. I read the post and smiled obligingly. The man returned to his seat. I drank my beer. I allowed myself a moment's longing for my living room and its couch. The couch had a woollen blanket woven in a Navajo-inspired pattern, exemplary of a trend in San Francisco that a friend of mine calls 'White People Gone Wild'. When I moved in, the receipt for the blanket was on the mantelpiece. It had cost $228. There was a cast-iron gas stove in the fireplace. I had fiddled with the knobs and the gas, but couldn't figure out how to ignite it. At night the room had the temperature and pallor of a corpse. There was no television. I am not usually comfortable in a bar by myself, but I had been in San Francisco for a week and the apartment I sublet had no chairs in it, just a bed and a couch. My friends in town were married or worked nights. One Tuesday I had lentil soup for supper standing up at the kitchen counter. After I finished, I moved to the couch in the empty living room and sat under the flat overhead light refreshing feeds on my laptop. This was not a way to live. A man would go to a bar alone, I told myself. So I went to a bar alone. I sat on a stool at the centre of the bar, ordered a beer, and refreshed the feeds on my mobile. I waited for something to happen. A basketball game played on several monitors at once. The bar had red fake leather booths, Christmas lights and a female bartender. A lesbian couple cuddled at one end of it. At the other end, around the corner from where I sat, a bespectacled man my age watched the game. As the only man and the only woman alone at the bar, we looked at each other. Then I pretended to watch the game on a monitor that allowed me to look the other way. He turned his back to me to watch the monitor over the pool tables, where the pool players now applauded some exploit. I waited to be approached. A few stools down, two men broke into laughter. One came over to show me why they were laughing. He handed me his mobile and pointed to a Facebook post. I read the post and smiled obligingly. The man returned to his seat. I drank my beer. I allowed myself a moment's longing for my living room and its couch. The couch had a woollen blanket woven in a Navajo-inspired pattern, exemplary of a trend in San Francisco that a friend of mine calls 'White People Gone Wild'. When I moved in, the receipt for the blanket was on the mantelpiece. It had cost $228. There was a cast-iron gas stove in the fireplace. I had fiddled with the knobs and the gas, but couldn't figure out how to ignite it. At night the room had the temperature and pallor of a corpse. There was no television.
Typing Detail
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Exam is one of the most sought-after exams for candidates who have completed their higher secondary education. The exam includes a typing test, which is a critical component, especially for those applying for posts like Lower Division Clerk (LDC) and Data Entry Operator (DEO). In this blog, we will cover all the essential details about the SSC CHSL Typing Test and how you can prepare effectively to score well.
What is the SSC CHSL Typing Test?
The SSC CHSL Typing Test is a qualifying exam conducted to assess a candidate's typing speed and accuracy in English or Hindi. The test is usually the final stage of the SSC CHSL recruitment process and is mandatory for candidates who have cleared the Tier I and Tier II exams.
Key Details of the SSC CHSL Typing Test
Mode of Test: The typing test is conducted on a computer.
Languages Available: Candidates can choose to take the test in English or Hindi. This choice is made during the application process.
Typing Speed Requirements:
- English: A typing speed of 35 words per minute (wpm) is required.
- Hindi: A typing speed of 30 words per minute (wpm) is required.
Duration: The typing test is typically 10 minutes long.
Eligibility: Candidates must have qualified in the previous tiers (Tier I and Tier II) to appear for the typing test.
Typing Software: The test is conducted using the SSC’s specific typing software, which is designed to accurately measure speed and accuracy.
Typing Speed and Accuracy Calculation
Speed Calculation: Speed is calculated in words per minute (WPM). One word is counted as five key depressions (including spaces).
Accuracy Calculation: Accuracy is crucial as errors will impact your overall performance. Errors are marked for incorrect or missed characters.
Tips to Prepare for the SSC CHSL Typing Test
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice typing daily to improve your speed and accuracy. Set aside at least 30-45 minutes each day to practice.
Use Typing Software: Use typing practice software that mimics the exam conditions. This will help you get familiar with the exam interface.
Focus on Accuracy First: Start by focusing on accuracy rather than speed. As your accuracy improves, your speed will naturally increase.
Type Without Looking at the Keyboard: This technique, known as touch typing, helps in building speed and reduces errors. Avoid the habit of looking at the keyboard while typing.
Use Sample Typing Paragraphs: Practice using paragraphs similar to those used in the test. This will give you an idea of the type of content you will encounter.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your WPM and error rate. Set small, achievable goals to gradually increase your speed.
Minimize Distractions: Practice in a quiet environment to mimic exam conditions and improve concentration.
Familiarize Yourself with Hindi Typing (if applicable): If you choose Hindi, make sure to practice using Inscript or Remington (GAIL) keyboard layouts as required by SSC.
Use Online Typing Tests: There are many free online platforms where you can practice typing tests similar to the SSC format.
Rest and Relax Before the Test: Ensure you are well-rested before the test day. Being calm and focused will help you perform better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Typing Too Fast Too Soon: Don’t rush. Speed comes with practice. Focus on being accurate first.
Neglecting Hindi Typing: If you opted for Hindi, don't ignore Hindi practice. Be well-prepared in the language of your choice.
Overlooking Special Characters: Pay attention to punctuation and special characters, as missing these can impact accuracy.
Ignoring Error Corrections: Make sure to correct errors while practicing, as this will help you reduce errors during the actual test.
Conclusion
The SSC CHSL Typing Test may seem daunting, but with regular practice and a focused approach, you can easily meet the required speed and accuracy. Make sure to start your preparation early, use the right tools, and stay consistent. Good luck with your SSC CHSL Typing Test preparation!