In this article
Quick overview
What you will learn
10 min
Dictation length
Practice the exact exam duration.
+10 WPM
Speed buffer
Prepare above required speed for exam confidence.
Weekly
Mock test rhythm
One full test every week builds stamina.
Clearing SSC Steno CBT is only the first hurdle. The skill test is where many candidates fail because they prepared shorthand like theory, not like a timed performance skill.
The test includes 10 minutes of dictation followed by typed transcription. Your shorthand, typing, reading back and calmness all matter.
Understand the Exact Pattern
| Post | Dictation | Transcription |
|---|---|---|
| Grade D | 80 WPM for 10 minutes | 65 minutes English or 75 minutes Hindi |
| Grade C | 100 WPM for 10 minutes | 50 minutes English or 65 minutes Hindi |
Build Speed Above Exam Requirement
Do not prepare at exactly 80 or 100 WPM. Build a buffer. If Grade D requires 80 WPM, practice up to 90 or 95 WPM. This protects you from nervousness and unfamiliar dictation style.
Want results like this?
Stop guessing your speed-building plan. Start with the same structured shorthand coaching system students use to qualify selection rounds.
Start on WhatsAppUse Exam-Standard Dictation Sources
- Previous SSC dictation material.
- Kailash Chandra dictation books.
- Government report passages.
- Administrative English and Hindi passages.
- Timed audio with measured WPM.
Time Your Transcription
Many candidates write shorthand well but type too slowly. Practice typing daily. Aim for at least 30 to 40 WPM typing depending on your Grade C or D target.
Recover from Missed Outlines
If you miss a word during dictation, leave space and move on. Do not freeze. One missed outline is manageable; panic can cost an entire sentence.
Do Weekly Full Mock Tests
Once a week, sit for a complete 10-minute dictation and transcription. No pause, no correction during dictation, no relaxed timing. Familiarity reduces exam fear.
Get Mock Transcription Evaluated
You need to know your error percentage before the actual exam. A mentor can identify whether your problem is outline clarity, typing, spelling, omissions or punctuation.
Ready to Start?
If you want structured guidance with daily dictation, live classes, and WhatsApp support, check the current batch details here.
Resources
Helpful links for this topic
Your biggest questions, answered clearly
Browse the most common questions students ask before they start speed building seriously.
It is a shorthand dictation and transcription test after CBT qualification.
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Ravi Sir
Practical guidance from the Shorthand Coaching team, built around daily dictation, speed building, transcription accuracy, and exam-focused mentoring for SSC Steno and court steno aspirants.