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TAT, or the Thematic Apperception Test, is one of the sections of the SSB interview. After completing the SSB screening process, candidates have to go through a 2-parts selection process. From many stages in the second stage of the interview, one of them is TAT along with WAT, SRT and SDT.Â
Thematic Apperception Test is a very lengthy test and helps analyse a candidate’s thought process, emotional quotient and other observational skills. In TAT, candidates get a picture from which they have to make an entire story to narrate later in front of the interviewer. The story must have meaning and must relate to the image.
So, it is one of the crucial tasks that every student must prepare himself to get selected for SSB.
Proven Tips To Write TAT Stories In SSB Interview
The Thematic Apperception Test involves a task in which candidates will get 12 pictures each. For each photo, they will get 30 seconds to view the picture and then the next 4 minutes to write a story related to the same. In short, you will need 12 good stories to pass the exam. The 12th picture will be a blank one, and you have to write a story on your own for that one.Â
Here are some tips that will help you write TAT stories to clear SSB interview:
1. Observe the Picture
When the picture is shown to you, look at the background first, like where the scene is located, the place and the surrounding. Whether it is a market, home, rural area or urban area, see how many people are there in the scene and what they are doing. Base your story on one of the characters, give a name to the same, and you will find it easy to write a story.
2. The Story Format
The interviewer does not want you to write a whole 2-page paragraph for the story. All they need is to know if you can write the narration in such a short time. Try to finish every story in 8 to 9 lines. And try to make a format like 2 lines to begin the story, 3-4 for writing the entire scene and 2 for ending the scene with a logical outcome.
3. Sentence Formation
While writing the stories, try to use past tense and active voice. The story’s tone is really helpful in deciding the story’s gist. Using positive and constructive sentences will show your mental level and creativity.
4. Choosing the Character
Choosing the exemplary character for the story is essential. The character must possess a strong personality and show some ethical skills to give a moral value to the story. For example, you can base your person as a leader, activist, or social worker.
5. Give Your Story a Positive Side
When you write a story, try avoiding negative scenarios like robbery, blasts, chain snatching, and others if they are now shown in the picture. Your story decides your approach: optimistic or pessimist.
6. Know Your Character
Make sure that whatsoever you choose, you know about that person thoroughly. If you made your character a scientist or a doctor and you do not know about what they do, this will prevent you from justifying your story.
7. Give Your Story a Meaning
A story must end in a meaningful manner; everyone likes it. Keep in mind to write a story that has some meaning. The narration must depict a positive framework in which the character achieves something or fights for their goals.
8. Outcome is Important
Always ensure that you write the end or outcome of the story. Relate every character present in the picture with the result and try to bring the positive effect of the story on everyone.
9. Read More and More Before Your SSB Interview
Reading and writing before the actual task will help you improve your writing skills. Start reading at least a month before your interview to bring the best out of your story.