Lessons from the SSC CGL 2018 Tier 2: A Journey from Fear to Composure

My experience with the SSC CGL 2018 Mains was an amazing journey of self-discovery and personal achievement. It was not about the marks I scored, but about overcoming my fears and performing at my best. I felt incredibly proud when I conquered my fears with a complete clean sweep. This strong performance led me to approach the following year's mains with minimal preparation, and once again, I achieved a remarkable score of 190 in both.

Lessons Learned

Exams are a time for facing challenges, and everyone makes mistakes. The key is to stay composed and face these challenges head-on. The difficulty of a question often varies based on the state of mind of the individual. Just as important as preparation, performance plays a critical role in exam success. Knowledge and understanding are essential, but it is the silly mistakes or underperformance that can come between you and your goals. A genuine aspirant never underflies their ability due to lack of knowledge or concepts.

My Journey from Failing to Success in SSC CGL 2018

My first attempt in the 2017 SSC CGL Mains was less than desirable. Despite working diligently with around 100-150 mocks, I was unable to perform well due to a lack of composure. The anxiety was palpable, and this reflected in my performance, especially in the calculation and comprehension sections. The 2018 SSC CGL Mains felt different; there were around 25 questions that were of a higher level, but the exam itself was not particularly difficult.

This time, I approached the exam with a different mindset. I focused on brushing up my basics and addressing my weak areas. Rather than spending 10 hours daily, I was confident and composed during the 120-minute exam. There were moments when I felt like I was operating on autopilot without much conscious effort. The game is all about how well we handle the pressure during those moments of tension.

It is important to note that cracking the SSC CGL is achievable in one's first attempt. With smart preparation and maintaining composure, the goal is within reach. My self-note before the exam, a screenshot of which is attached, serves as a reminder of the mindset to adopt. By speaking to myself and emphasizing the preparation-composure balance, I ensured that the exam was a manageable challenge rather than an overwhelming obstacle.

Final Thoughts

The key to success in any exam is the ability to handle stress and anxiety. It is not about how much you study, but how well you handle the pressure during the exam. Many of my friends who attempted the same exam saw vastly different results due to their composure. The right mindset, combined with smart preparation, can make all the difference.

Conclusion

Success in the SSC CGL exams is within reach. With the right approach, one can achieve remarkable results in the first attempt. The journey to success is both challenging and rewarding, and maintaining a calm and focused mindset is crucial throughout. Cheers to your success!