SSB training – Psychology test- word association rules and it’s trick.

SSB training – Psychology test- word association rules and it’s trick.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on the SSB Psychology Test – Word Association Test (WAT) including rules and tricks to help you perform effectively:

SSB Psychology Test – Word Association Test (WAT)

What is WAT?

The Word Association Test (WAT) is part of the psychological testing series conducted on Day 2 of the SSB interview. It’s designed to analyze a candidate’s personality, mindset, thought process, and subconscious reaction through spontaneous sentence formation.

WAT – Rules and Structure

• You will be shown 60 words, one after the other.

• Each word will appear on the screen for 15 seconds.

• You must write the first thought or sentence that comes to your mind related to the word, within the time limit.

• Words can be positive, negative, neutral, or abstract (e.g., success, pain, fight, nation, peace, etc.)

Basic Rules to Follow

1. Write short, crisp, grammatically correct sentences.

2. Avoid negative thoughts or words (unless the meaning is positive).

3. Don’t overthink. Respond instinctively.

4. Use active voice where possible.

5. Your sentences should reflect OLQs (Officer Like Qualities) like responsibility, leadership, confidence, courage, etc.

6. Avoid philosophical or dictionary-like definitions.

7. Don’t copy or memorize sentences – they must be natural and original.

Effective Tricks and Tips for WAT

1. Train Your Mind to Think Positively

• Even with a negative word like “failure”, your response can be optimistic.

• Example: “Failure teaches perseverance.”

2. Reflect Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs)

• Example:

  • Word: “Leader” → Sentence: “A leader guides the team through challenges.”

  • Word: “Responsibility” → Sentence: “An officer fulfills his duties with integrity.”

3. Link to Real-life Experiences (Mentally)

• Think of past actions or values you admire, and turn them into responses.

4. Use Action-oriented Sentences

• Avoid vague or abstract statements.

• Example:

  • Word: “Challenge” → Better: “He accepts challenges with determination.”

  • Not Good: “Challenges are part of life.”

5. Don’t Skip Words

• Even if you’re unsure, write something. Skipping reflects indecision.

6. Practice Regularly

• Use word lists to practice timed WATs. This improves speed and confidence.

7. Stay Calm and Focused

• Nervousness can cloud your thinking. Stay composed and confident.

Sample Word Association Examples

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Writing unrelated sentences.

• Repeating the word without context.

  • E.g., “Success is success.”

• Giving dictionary definitions.

• Using negative expressions like “I hate failure” or “War is bad.”

• Writing too long and running out of time.

Conclusion

The Word Association Test is a window into your subconscious. Keep your thoughts positive, action-oriented, and reflective of qualities expected in a leader. With consistent practice, you’ll build the speed and clarity needed to excel.

Would you like a 60-word WAT practice test or a PDF version of this guide?

SSB training – Psychology test- word association rules and it’s trick.