The Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) forms an integral part of the Services Selection Board (SSB) screening process on the first day. In this assessment, candidates are presented with a hazy image for 30 seconds and must compose a story within four minutes, followed by individual narration and group discussion. Success in PPDT hinges on crafting a coherent, positive story that reflects leadership, initiative, and optimism. While interpretations of a single image can vary widely, the following examples provide sample stories based on common perceptions. These are designed to inspire your own narratives, which should draw from personal experiences and demonstrate practical, achievable actions. For each story, focus on key elements such as the number of characters, their ages, genders, moods, and actions to ensure logical flow.
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PPDT Sample Stories
Story 1: Apprehending a Thief (Picture description: A man chasing a fleeing figure in a busy market, with bystanders observing.) Mohit, a 25-year-old school teacher in Sitapur district, was strolling through the market on a weekend when he witnessed a thief snatching a lady’s necklace and fleeing. Reacting swiftly, Mohit pursued and overpowered the thief within minutes. With assistance from nearby onlookers, he escorted the culprit to the local police station and returned the necklace to its owner. Additionally, Mohit recommended increased police patrolling in the area to deter future incidents, contributing to community safety.
Story 2: Modernizing Farming Techniques (Picture description: A young man addressing a group of farmers in a village setting, discussing tools and methods.) Krishna, a 22-year-old student at Agriculture College in Gwalior, visited his village during vacations and observed farmers relying on outdated techniques. Determined to assist, he collaborated with the sarpanch to organize a village meeting. There, he educated attendees on modern practices, including high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, natural fertilizers, and advanced machinery. He also highlighted government schemes such as the Kisan Credit Card and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana to boost crop productivity. The farmers appreciated his guidance, and the sarpanch commended Krishna’s initiative.
Story 3: Revamping the School Library (Picture description: A librarian or in-charge inspecting damaged books with students in a library.) Vimal Gupta, newly appointed as library in-charge at APS Gwalior, discovered outdated, torn, and defaced books that discouraged student usage. To address this, he solicited book recommendations from students and presented them to the principal. During classes, he emphasized the value of books and instructed students against marking them. As new editions arrived, Vimal noted a surge in student interest and engagement, leading to a more vibrant library environment.
Story 4: Participating in a Marathon (Picture description: A runner preparing or competing in a race, surrounded by participants.) Vijay, a third-year engineering student at MITS Gwalior and an avid athlete, learned of a Health Run Marathon organized by Vijay Academy in the city. Eager to participate, he began morning training sessions, adopted a balanced diet, and studied running techniques via YouTube. On the event day, he invited friends to join, and they all competed with enthusiasm. Vijay secured first place and received a prize, inspiring his peers to pursue fitness.
Story 5: Organizing a Trekking Expedition (Picture description: A group of soldiers or team members climbing a mountain with equipment.) Major Krishna, posted in the high altitudes of Jammu and Kashmir, received orders to lead a trekking activity with his team. Excited by the challenge, he convened a meeting to outline the route and schedule. On the day, he distributed essential gear including maps, compasses, shoes, ropes, sticks, and kit bags. The team completed the trek successfully, earning praise from superiors for their coordination and spirit.
Story 6: Flood Relief Efforts (Picture description: Individuals rescuing people and animals amid flooded areas, working with relief teams.) Abhay, a B.Sc. graduate from a village in Bihar, faced severe flooding during the rainy season. While the NDRF team was active, Abhay rallied his friends to support rescue operations. They assisted in evacuating villagers, distributed food at relief camps, and relocated animals to higher ground. As conditions stabilized, Abhay felt fulfilled by his contributions to the community’s recovery.
Story 7: Advocating for Education (Picture description: A young man consoling a sibling and discussing with family members.) Mridul, a Class XII biology student living in Jalandhar with his family, returned from coaching to find his sister upset over their parents’ decision to arrange her marriage instead of allowing her to pursue an MBA. Empathizing with her aspirations, Mridul joined her in persuading their parents, highlighting the importance of education and women’s empowerment. He cited examples like Kalpana Chawla and Saina Nehwal. Ultimately, the parents agreed, bringing joy to his sister.
Story 8: Preventing a Gas Leak Disaster (Picture description: A man climbing through a window or entering a house cautiously.) Shyam Lal, a 28-year-old milkman in Sagar, arrived at a customer’s home to deliver milk and noticed a locked door with a strong gas odor emanating from inside. He immediately contacted the owners and, with their approval, obtained a rope from neighbors to enter via a window. He shut off the main gas supply, averting danger. The homeowners expressed gratitude for his quick thinking and bravery.
Story 9: Helping a Friend Quit Smoking (Picture description: Friends gathered in a social setting, with one intervening in a habit.) Sudhir, a captain in the Army posted in Jaipur, hosted a get-together with friends during his holidays. Noticing one friend smoking in front of his child, Sudhir intervened, explaining the health risks such as cancer and the negative influence on children. He recommended meditation techniques and nicotine gum to aid quitting. Through follow-up calls, Sudhir supported his friend, who successfully quit after a few months, much to Sudhir’s satisfaction.
Story 10: Factory Fire Response (Picture description: A worker using a fire extinguisher amid flames in an industrial setting.) Lalit, a 26-year-old worker at a dry fruit factory in Palampur, observed a fire erupting from a short circuit and spreading rapidly. Acting promptly, he used a fire extinguisher to evacuate colleagues safely and alerted the fire brigade. The fire was contained, ensuring everyone’s safety, and Lalit felt content with his decisive actions.
Conclusion
Craft practical stories that align with real-life scenarios and your familiar experiences, using names that resonate with you for smoother narration. Even if time constraints prevent completing the story on paper, you can elaborate during discussion. These samples illustrate positive, action-driven narratives from one perspective; adapt them to reflect your unique traits.
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