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The SSC MTS syllabus defines every topic that will be tested in both sessions of the Computer-Based Examination. For 2026, the notification is scheduled for June 30, 2026, with the CBE between September and November 2026. The syllabus for the 2026 cycle will be identical to the 2025 syllabus released with the June 26, 2025 notification, as SSC MTS has maintained the same two-session structure since the revised pattern was introduced.
Understanding the syllabus in depth, with the exact topics per section and the PYQ-based weightage that tells you which topics appear most frequently in actual exams, is the foundation of any effective preparation plan. This page provides the complete official SSC MTS syllabus for both sessions, the marking scheme with its critical difference in negative marking between sessions, PYQ-based topic frequency data, preparation priorities, and a three-phase study framework.
Track your syllabus progress using the SSC MTS Syllabus Tracker. Test each topic immediately after studying with the SSC MTS Test Series.
The Computer-Based Examination (CBE) is conducted in a single Paper (Paper 1) divided into two mandatory sessions held on the same day. Both sessions must be attempted; missing either session results in automatic disqualification.
| Section Questions Marks Duration | |||
| Numerical and Mathematical Ability | 20 | 60 | -- |
| Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving | 20 | 60 | -- |
| Session 1 Total | 40 | 120 | 45 minutes |
| Section Questions Marks Duration | |||
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 | -- |
| English Language and Comprehension | 25 | 75 | -- |
| Session 2 Total | 50 | 150 | 45 minutes |
| Metric Detail | |
| Total Questions | 90 |
| Total Marks | 270 |
| Total Duration | 90 minutes |
| Session 1 Marks per Question | 3 marks |
| Session 1 Negative Marking | None |
| Session 2 Marks per Question | 3 marks |
| Session 2 Negative Marking | -1 mark per wrong answer |
| Mode | Computer-Based Examination (CBE) |
| Languages | English, Hindi, and 13 regional languages (except English section) |
| Normalisation | Applied across shifts |
| Category Minimum in Each Session | |
| Unreserved (UR) / EWS | 30% (36 marks in Session 1; 45 marks in Session 2) |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 25% (30 marks in Session 1; 37.5 marks in Session 2) |
| SC / ST / PwBD / ESM | 20% (24 marks in Session 1; 30 marks in Session 2) |
Candidates must clear the session-wise qualifying percentage independently in both sessions. A strong performance in Session 1 cannot compensate for falling below the qualifying threshold in Session 2.
The marking scheme difference between sessions fundamentally changes the preparation and exam-day approach.
| Aspect Session 1 Session 2 | ||
| Negative Marking | None | 1 mark per wrong answer |
| Per Question Value | 3 marks | 3 marks |
| Cost of Wrong Answer | 0 marks | 4 marks (lost 3 + deducted 1) |
| Optimal Strategy | Attempt ALL 40 questions | Attempt only when reasonably confident |
| Benefit of Guessing | Positive (25% chance adds expected value) | Risky (4-mark swing per wrong answer) |
In Session 1, there is no downside to attempting every question. Even random guessing has a positive expected value. Candidates should never leave a Session 1 question unattempted.
In Session 2, every wrong answer creates a 4-mark swing (losing the 3 marks from a correct answer plus the 1-mark deduction). Candidates should apply negative marking discipline: attempt with reasonable confidence, skip genuinely uncertain questions.
| Topic Sub-topics | |
| Number System | Integers, natural numbers, rational numbers, prime and composite numbers, factors, multiples, HCF, LCM, divisibility rules |
| BODMAS and Simplification | Order of arithmetic operations, simplification of complex expressions |
| Decimals and Fractions | Conversion between decimals and fractions, operations, comparison |
| Percentage | Calculation of percentage, percentage of a quantity, percentage increase and decrease, percentage change |
| Ratio and Proportion | Simple ratio, compound ratio, direct and inverse proportion, continued proportion |
| Profit, Loss and Discount | Cost price, selling price, profit percent, loss percent, marked price, trade discount, successive discount |
| Simple Interest | SI formula: P x N x R / 100; application problems |
| Compound Interest | Annual, half-yearly compounding; difference between SI and CI; compound growth formula |
| Time and Work | Work efficiency, combined work, pipes and cisterns |
| Time and Distance | Speed, time, relative speed, trains (crossing), boats and streams |
| Averages | Simple average, weighted average, problems based on change in average |
| Mensuration | Area and perimeter of triangles, rectangles, squares, circles; volume and surface area of cubes, cuboids, cylinders |
| Geometry | Triangles (congruence, similarity, Pythagoras theorem), circles (chord, tangent), angles and lines |
| Algebra | Basic algebraic identities, simplification of algebraic expressions, linear equations |
| Data Interpretation | Reading basic tables, bar graphs, and pie charts |
| Topic Average Questions per Shift Priority | ||
| Arithmetic (Percentage, P/L, SI/CI, TW, TSD, Ratio, Average) | 12 to 15 | Non-negotiable |
| Geometry and Mensuration | 2 to 4 | Very High |
| Number System and Simplification | 2 to 3 | High |
| Algebra | 1 | Medium |
| Data Interpretation (basic) | 1 to 2 | Medium |
SSC MTS Mathematics is at Class 8 to 10 standard. It is simpler than SSC CGL and SSC CHSL Mathematics. Arithmetic topics consistently account for 60 to 75 percent of the Mathematics section in every shift across multiple cycles.
| Topic Sub-types | |
| Analogies | Word-based, number-based, letter-based, figural |
| Differences and Similarities | Identify common or different properties in given items |
| Space Visualisation and Spatial Orientation | 3D and orientation problems |
| Problem Solving | Condition-based logical deduction |
| Analysis and Judgement | Evaluate logical accuracy of statements |
| Decision Making | Select best course of action |
| Visual Memory | Recall visual patterns |
| Discrimination and Observation | Spot differences in pairs of figures |
| Relationship Concepts | Understand relationships between elements |
| Figure Classification | Group figures by shared visual property |
| Arithmetic Number Series | Missing term, next term in number series |
| Non-verbal Series | Pattern completion in figure series |
| Coding and Decoding | Letter shifting, number coding, symbol-based |
| Statement and Conclusion | Derive valid conclusion from given statement |
| Syllogism | Two-premise syllogisms |
| Jumbling | Word or sentence rearrangement |
| Venn Diagrams | Set-based relationship identification |
| Paper Folding and Cutting | Identify result of paper operations |
| Embedded Figures | Identify a given figure within a larger figure |
| Mirror and Water Images | Identify correct reflections |
| Pattern Completion | Complete an incomplete figure |
| Mathematical Operations | Symbols replacing arithmetic operators |
| Direction Sense | Cardinal direction and distance problems |
| Blood Relations | Family tree-based problems |
| Classification (Odd One Out) | Identify the item that does not belong |
| Topic Average Questions per Shift Priority | ||
| Analogy | 2 to 4 | Non-negotiable |
| Series (Number and Alphabetical) | 2 to 4 | Non-negotiable |
| Non-verbal (Mirror, Paper Folding, Embedded) | 3 to 5 | Non-negotiable |
| Coding-Decoding | 2 to 3 | Very High |
| Classification / Odd One Out | 2 to 3 | High |
| Venn Diagrams | 1 to 2 | High |
| Mathematical Operations | 1 to 2 | Medium |
| Syllogism | 1 to 2 | Medium |
| Blood Relations | 1 | Medium |
| Direction Sense | 1 | Medium |
| Statement and Conclusion | 1 | Lower |
Reasoning in SSC MTS is easier than in SSC CGL or IBPS PO. No complex puzzle sets (linear, floor-based, circular arrangements) appear. Questions are predominantly individual-question types: Analogy, Series, Non-verbal, and Coding-Decoding.
This section covers both static GK and current affairs. The current affairs window for the September to November 2026 exam is approximately September 2025 to November 2026.
| Sub-area Topics | |
| Current Affairs | National and international events, government schemes, appointments, awards, sports achievements, scientific developments from the preceding 12 to 14 months |
| History | Ancient Indian civilisations, Medieval history, Modern Indian history, Freedom struggle milestones, Post-independence events |
| Geography | Physical geography (mountains, rivers, plains), states and capitals, climate, world geography |
| Indian Polity | Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Parliament, President, Supreme Court, Election Commission |
| Indian Economy | GDP, budget concepts, Five-Year Plans, banking system, RBI, major government schemes |
| General Science | Basic physics (force, motion, light, electricity), chemistry (acids, bases, metals), biology (cell, human body, diseases) |
| Environmental Science | Ecosystem, biodiversity, climate change, pollution, conservation |
| Computer Knowledge | Basic hardware, software, internet, MS Office basics |
| Sports | Recent national and international sports events |
| Culture and Heritage | Indian festivals, UNESCO sites, art forms |
| Awards and Honours | Bharat Ratna, Padma awards, Nobel Prize, recent recipients |
| Important Days | National and international days |
| Static GK | Currencies, capitals, national symbols, abbreviations, first in India/World |
| Topic Average Questions per Shift Priority | ||
| Current Affairs | 8 to 12 | Non-negotiable |
| History | 2 to 4 | Very High |
| General Science | 3 to 5 | Very High |
| Indian Polity | 2 to 3 | High |
| Geography | 2 to 3 | High |
| Static GK (Awards, Sports, Culture) | 2 to 4 | High |
| Economics | 1 to 2 | Medium |
| Computer Knowledge | 1 to 2 | Medium |
| Environment | 1 | Lower |
Current Affairs alone typically accounts for 32 to 48 percent of the GA section. No other single topic area comes close. Consistent current affairs preparation starting now is the highest-return single activity for the GA section.
| Topic Coverage | |
| Vocabulary: Synonyms | Word meaning identification |
| Vocabulary: Antonyms | Opposite meaning identification |
| One-word Substitution | Replace a phrase with a single appropriate word |
| Idioms and Phrases | Meaning and correct use of common English idioms |
| Spelling Correction | Identify correctly or incorrectly spelled words |
| Fill in the Blanks | Select the correct word(s) to fill grammatical or vocabulary blanks |
| Spot the Error | Identify grammatically incorrect parts of a sentence |
| Sentence Improvement | Choose the correct or better phrasing from options |
| Reading Comprehension | Answer questions based on a short passage |
| Shuffling of Sentence Parts | Arrange jumbled parts of a sentence in correct order |
| Cloze Test | Fill multiple blanks in a connected passage |
| Active and Passive Voice | Transform between active and passive constructions |
| Direct and Indirect Speech | Convert between direct and reported speech |
| Topic Average Questions per Shift Priority | ||
| Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, OWS) | 6 to 8 | Non-negotiable |
| Fill in the Blanks | 3 to 5 | Non-negotiable |
| Error Spotting | 3 to 5 | Non-negotiable |
| Cloze Test | 2 to 4 | Very High |
| Reading Comprehension | 3 to 5 | Very High |
| Idioms and Phrases | 2 to 3 | High |
| Sentence Improvement | 1 to 2 | High |
| Para Jumbles / Shuffling | 1 to 2 | Medium |
| Active/Passive Voice | 1 | Medium |
| Direct/Indirect Speech | 1 | Medium |
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word Substitution) accounts for 24 to 32 percent of the English section. These are learnable and improvable through consistent daily practice. Building a vocabulary bank of 10 to 15 words per day compounds significantly over the preparation period.
Many candidates prepare for both exams simultaneously. Understanding the syllabus overlap helps save preparation time.
| Feature SSC MTS SSC CHSL | ||
| Mathematics Level | Class 8 to 10 (simpler) | Class 10 to 12 (harder) |
| Reasoning Type | Simple individual questions; no complex puzzles | Same + slightly harder |
| GA Coverage | Same topics; similar depth | Same topics |
| English Level | Basic vocabulary and grammar | Intermediate vocabulary and grammar |
| Pattern | 2 sessions, 90 questions, 270 marks | 100 questions, 200 marks |
| Typing Requirement | None | Yes (TST for LDC/JSA) |
The SSC MTS and CHSL syllabuses overlap by approximately 80 percent. Candidates who are eligible for both can prepare simultaneously with a shared plan.
Work through each section topic by topic. After every topic, take the corresponding topic-wise test from the SSC MTS Test Series. Mark each topic complete on the SSC MTS Syllabus Tracker only after passing the topic test.
Priority order during Phase 1:
Take session-wise practice tests under the exact timer (45 minutes per session). This builds the habit of completing 40 questions in 45 minutes (Session 1) and 50 questions in 45 minutes (Session 2) under pressure.
In Session 2 session tests, practice the skip-or-attempt decision actively. Mark questions you are uncertain about and return to them only if time permits.
Take one full mock test daily covering both sessions in sequence (90 minutes total). Review every wrong answer in Session 2 carefully; Session 1 wrong answers indicate knowledge gaps that need revision. Target consistently scoring 185 or above (UR) in full mocks before the exam.
Has the SSC MTS syllabus changed for 2026? No major changes are expected. The two-session structure, 90-question format, 270-mark total, and negative marking rules (only in Session 2) have been consistent since the revised pattern was introduced. Always verify the official notification once released on June 30, 2026.
What is the most important section in SSC MTS? Session 2 (General Awareness + English) carries 150 marks and has negative marking, making it more critical for both strategy and preparation depth. Session 1 (Maths + Reasoning) carries 120 marks with no negative marking, making it an opportunity to maximise risk-free attempts.
Is the SSC MTS syllabus easier than SSC CGL? Yes. SSC MTS Mathematics is at Class 8 to 10 level (SSC CGL is at Class 12 level). SSC MTS Reasoning does not include complex puzzles (SSC CGL does). The GA and English sections have similar coverage but at a lighter depth in MTS.
Syllabus data is based on the official SSC MTS 2025 notification released June 26, 2025, the revised exam pattern (90 questions, 270 marks, two sessions), and the SSC MTS 2025 notification released on ssc.gov.in. Topic weightage is derived from analysis of official SSC MTS question papers from the 2021 to 2025 cycles.