SSC CGL DEST typing test pattern
| Exam | SSC CGL Tax Assistant — Data Entry Skill Test (DEST) |
|---|---|
| Conducting body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Posts | Tax Assistant (CBIC & CBDT) |
| Mode | Computer-based typing test |
| Language | English |
| Speed required | 8,000 key depressions per hour (≈27 WPM) |
| Duration | 15 minutes |
| Nature | Qualifying (confirm in notification) |
Key points
- Data Entry Skill Test of 8,000 key depressions per hour.
- About 2,000 key depressions of English text in 15 minutes.
- Only candidates who opted for Tax Assistant posts need to appear.
How your result is calculated here
This practice test counts key depressions (5 key depressions = 1 word). Gross WPM = key depressions ÷ 5 ÷ minutes, and Net WPM = Gross WPM − mistakes ÷ minutes. Wrong, missing and extra words are full mistakes; capitalisation and punctuation errors are half mistakes. For SSC CGL DEST the result is compared with 8,000 key depressions per hour. The recruiting body's own evaluation method, published in the notification, is final.
Preparation tips for the SSC CGL DEST typing test
- Practise at full length (15 minutes) at least once a day so your speed doesn't drop in the last minutes.
- Aim for about 10,000 KDPH in practice — exam nerves usually cost a few WPM.
- Keep accuracy above 95%. Every mistake reduces your net speed.
- Switch highlighting off for your mock tests — the real exam doesn't colour your words.
- Read our guide on how to increase typing speed.
DisclaimerThese details are summarised from recent official notifications. Always confirm with the latest official notification of Staff Selection Commission (SSC).