Thematic Apperception test in SSB test -12 Picture test – story writing in SSB – blank picture test.

Thematic Apperception test in SSB test -12 Picture test – story writing in SSB – blank picture test.

​The Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) is a crucial component of the psychological assessments conducted during the Service Selection Board (SSB) interviews. This test evaluates a candidate’s imagination, thought processes, and inherent qualities by analyzing the stories they create based on visual stimuli.​

Structure of the TAT:

• Number of Slides: Candidates are presented with a total of 12 slides.​

  • 11 Picture Slides: Each depicts a scenario or image intended to elicit a narrative.​

  • 1 Blank Slide: Candidates are required to conceive and write a story based solely on their imagination without any visual prompt.​

• Procedure:

  1. Observation: Each picture is displayed for 30 seconds.​

  2. Story Writing: Candidates have 4 minutes to craft a story for each picture.​

Objectives of the TAT:

• Assess Imagination: Determine how candidates perceive and interpret various situations.​

• Reveal Personality Traits: Uncover inherent qualities, thought patterns, and emotional responses.​

• Evaluate Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs): Identify traits such as leadership, initiative, and problem-solving abilities.​

Approach to Story Writing:

• Structure: Ensure the story has a clear beginning, middle, and end.​

• Hero Identification: Introduce a central character (protagonist) who drives the narrative.​

• Positive Outlook: Focus on constructive actions and outcomes, highlighting problem-solving and resilience.​

• Relevance: Align the story with the visual cues provided in the picture.​

Handling the Blank Slide:

The blank slide is designed to assess a candidate’s creativity and initiative. Without visual prompts, candidates should:​

• Draw from Personal Experiences: Narrate an inspiring incident from their own life.​

• Highlight Aspirations: Craft a story that reflects personal goals or ambitions.​

• Demonstrate Values: Showcase virtues like leadership, empathy, and determination.​

Preparation Tips:

• Practice Regularly: Engage in writing stories based on diverse images to enhance spontaneity and coherence.​

• Read Extensively: Explore various narratives to broaden perspective and storytelling techniques.​

• Self-Reflection: Understand personal strengths and experiences to authentically incorporate them into stories.​

For comprehensive preparation, reviewing sample TAT pictures and stories can be beneficial. Resources such as SSBCrack and Defence Direct Education offer valuable insights and examples.​

By understanding the nuances of the TAT and engaging in consistent practice, candidates can effectively showcase their suitability for roles in the armed forces.

​Thematic Apperception test in SSB test -12 Picture test – story writing in SSB – blank picture test.

Here’s a detailed explanation of the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) in the SSB (Services Selection Board), especially as part of Test 12: Picture Story Writing (including blank picture test).

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) in SSB – Test 12

What is the TAT?

The Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) is a psychological test used in the SSB Psychological Assessment, particularly under the Psychology Day of testing (usually Day 2).

TAT is used to assess your:

• Imagination power

• Perception

• Emotional intelligence

• Leadership qualities

• Officer-like qualities (OLQs)

How the TAT Works:

• You will be shown 12 pictures, one after the other, on a projector.

• Each picture is displayed for 30 seconds.

• You get 4 minutes to write a story based on that picture.

Picture Type:

• Scenes may include daily life, military, social situations, or emotional expressions.

• The 12th picture is completely blank – you must create a story entirely from your own imagination.

How to Write a Good Story:

Structure to Follow (within 4 minutes):

1. Characters – Who is in the picture? What is their age, gender, role?

2. Mood – Is the scene happy, sad, tense, or challenging?

3. Background Situation – What has happened just before this moment?

4. Main Action – What is the main character doing now?

5. Conclusion – What is the positive outcome?

Blank Picture (12th Story):

This is a key part of the test. You get no visual cue. You must:

• Show your natural thinking and original idea.

• Write a positive, realistic, and goal-oriented story.

• Avoid violence, negativity, or fantasy.

Tip: Use real-life inspiration – e.g., a social issue you solved, a leadership act, a disaster relief idea, a military mission, etc.

Tips to Excel in TAT:

• Write positive and practical stories.

• Keep stories short and to the point (120–150 words).

• Show leadership, helping attitude, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Avoid copying standard stories; be original and authentic.

• Practice with sample TAT images before the SSB.

Sample Structure for Practice:

Picture: A boy is standing near a fallen tree, looking at a house in the background.

Story Example:

Rohan, a 21-year-old engineering student, noticed that a tree had fallen due to a storm, blocking the road to a nearby village. He immediately gathered local youth, arranged tools, and coordinated efforts to clear the way. Their teamwork restored the road within hours, earning appreciation from villagers. This inspired Rohan to start a youth-led disaster response team in his town.

Would you like 20 sample TAT images, model stories, or a PDF guide for SSB psychological tests?

Thematic Apperception test in SSB test -12 Picture test – story writing in SSB – blank picture test.