Part IV: Discussion Phase – Group Narration and Group Discussion (GD)
The Discussion Phase of the Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT) is arguably the most dynamic and decisive component of Stage 1 testing at the SSB (Services Selection Board). It consists of two sub-parts:
- Group Narration
- Group Discussion (GD)
This stage assesses your communication skills, presence of mind, confidence, group behavior, and potential as a leader under the officer-like qualities (OLQs) framework.
1. Group Narration: The First Filter
Overview
After each candidate writes their individual story based on the picture shown, they are divided into small groups (usually 10–15 candidates). Each one has to narrate their story aloud to the group and the assessors.
Key Features:
- Duration: ~1 minute per person
- Language: English (preferred); Hindi allowed occasionally if you’re stuck
- Purpose: To showcase clarity of thought, coherence in storytelling, and confidence
How to Prepare and Perform Well in Group Narration
A. Structure of the Narration
Keep it short, clear, and structured. Follow this 4-part formula:
- Number of characters, their age, gender, and mood
- A brief setting or scene introduction
- The main action or problem
- The outcome/resolution
Example (Short Format):
“In the image, I perceived 3 characters—2 males and 1 female—aged around 25–30, all appearing positive. The setting seems to be a disaster relief camp. The main character, a social worker, is organizing volunteers to help earthquake victims. With leadership and coordination, the team ensures timely aid and shelter distribution.”
B. Tone and Delivery
- Speak with clarity and moderate pace
- Avoid stammering or filler words (“umm”, “like”, “you know”)
- Make eye contact with everyone, not just assessors
- Use confident body language (don’t fidget, sit upright)
C. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exceeding your time limit
- Reading your written story verbatim
- Speaking too fast due to nervousness
- Looking only at assessors or just one person
- Criticizing others’ stories in narration (this is only for GD)
2. Group Discussion (GD): The Real Test
Overview
Immediately after narration, the group engages in a free-flowing discussion to arrive at a common story. This phase usually lasts 10–15 minutes, depending on group dynamics.
Objectives of GD
- Test interpersonal skills, cooperation, and assertiveness
- Assess whether you can lead without dominating
- Evaluate how well you listen, contribute, and build consensus
Types of Participants in GD (and how to handle them):
- Dominators – Try to hijack the discussion; be assertive but respectful.
- Silent Observers – May not speak at all; ensure you’re not one of them.
- Frequent Interrupters – Break flow unnecessarily; don’t get dragged into arguments.
- Constructive Speakers – Encourage participation, guide story formation—you should be this type.
How to Excel in GD
A. Initiating the Discussion (if confident)
If you’re well-prepared and confident in your story, start the discussion. A good starter:
- Sets the tone
- Helps direct the group
- Reflects leadership
Example Starter:
“Friends, we’ve seen that most of our stories revolve around disaster relief. The picture suggests a need for quick action and leadership. Let’s consider combining the ideas into a story where the main character leads a volunteer team to manage post-disaster rehabilitation.”
B. Contributing Effectively
- Speak in small but meaningful intervals
- Support your points with logic, not emotions
- Use phrases like:
- “I agree with my friend’s point…”
- “Building on that idea…”
- “Let’s consider this perspective…”
C. Listening and Intervening
- Don’t interrupt unless necessary
- Wait for a pause before inserting your view
- Intervene politely if things go off-track: “Let’s not go off-topic. Our goal is to build a common story.”
D. Leadership Without Dominance
- Help the group converge on a storyline
- Encourage quieter candidates: “We haven’t heard from you yet, would you like to add something?”
- Summarize key points: “So far, we agree on disaster relief as the theme, and the main character being a volunteer leader…”
E. Managing Conflicts
- Stay calm even if the discussion turns heated
- Don’t argue; instead, reframe: “Both ideas have merit. Maybe we can merge them?”
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in GD
- Overtalking or Hijacking – Shows lack of teamwork
- Staying Silent – Shows lack of initiative and confidence
- Aggressiveness – Passion is fine, aggression is not
- Monotone or Nervous Voice – Weakens your influence
- Speaking Without Listening – Leads to repetition and disconnect
Practice Strategies for Group Narration and GD
Mock GD Sessions
- Practice with friends or online groups using sample PPDT pictures
- Set a timer for narration and 10–12 minutes for discussion
Record Yourself
- Record your narration and analyze for voice, clarity, and body language
Use Mirror Practice
- Practice narration with facial expressions and posture in front of a mirror
Watch GD Videos
- Observe real or mock SSB GDs on YouTube
- Learn from both good and bad performances
Selection Criteria: What Assessors Look For
The assessors (IO, GTO, and Psychologist) sit silently and observe without interrupting. They assess the following traits:
| Trait | How it’s Displayed |
|---|---|
| Confidence | Clear narration, assertive but calm tone |
| Communication Skills | Logical flow, articulation, coherence |
| Teamwork | Respecting others’ views, building consensus |
| Leadership | Initiating, guiding, and concluding the discussion |
| Presence of Mind | Responding aptly, redirecting if GD deviates |
| Positive Attitude | No blaming or negativity, optimistic story outcomes |
What Happens After the Discussion Phase?
After the discussion, candidates are asked to leave the room. The assessors then confer and decide who should be screened in for Stage 2 testing.
Factors influencing selection:
- Your performance across all PPDT parts, not just GD
- Balanced display of OLQs (not just leadership)
- Whether you helped the group move toward a resolution
Tips to Ace the Discussion Phase
Do’s:
- Maintain a balanced personality (neither aggressive nor passive)
- Engage actively, but don’t dominate
- Always listen first, then respond
- Stay focused on the story’s theme
- Keep your body language open and confident
Don’ts:
- Don’t copy someone else’s story
- Don’t argue or criticize others
- Don’t try to impose your idea forcibly
- Don’t become silent for most of the GD
Sample GD Themes and Story Outlines
- Disaster Management
- A youth leads a group of volunteers after a flood
- Coordination with NDRF, providing food and shelter
- Village Upliftment
- A graduate returns to his village and promotes digital literacy
- Creates employment opportunities through rural e-commerce
- Women Empowerment
- A woman officer starts a campaign to increase girl child enrollment
- Engages NGOs and local bodies
- Youth Leadership
- College students organize a campaign for traffic safety
- Collaborate with traffic police for better implementation
Final Thoughts
The Discussion Phase of the PPDT is a crucial screening filter. Even if your story isn’t exceptional, your performance in narration and discussion can help you get screened in. The SSB isn’t looking for perfection—they are looking for candidates with potential, a balanced mindset, and the willingness to lead and cooperate.
Focus on clarity, confidence, cooperation, and contribution, and you’ll be on your way to clearing this phase.