In the journey toward becoming a part of the Indian Armed Forces, the SSB interview holds a place of immense significance—especially for women candidates aspiring to break barriers and serve the nation with pride. As a part of our ongoing “Ladies Special” series, this twelfth installment brings you 5 fresh and thoughtfully crafted sample stories for Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PPDT) and Thematic Apperception Test (TAT). Each story is designed to reflect the qualities of an ideal officer—leadership, presence of mind, empathy, and determination—while also staying relatable to real-life scenarios women might envision. Whether you’re just starting your SSB preparation or looking to refine your narrative skills, these samples aim to guide and inspire.
Sample TAT & PPDT Picture
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 1
Neha noticed a suspicious man following her after college. Thinking quickly, she entered a nearby pharmacy and pretended to browse. She discreetly requested the shopkeeper to call the police. To stall for time, she asked the man for directions, acting naive and calm. She offered him water, keeping him occupied. Minutes later, police arrived and apprehended the man. Neha’s presence of mind, quick decision-making, and composed behavior helped avoid a dangerous situation. She later gave her statement and advised her friends on self-awareness. Her courage and intelligence ensured her safety and helped law enforcement in catching a repeat offender.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Courage, Presence of Mind, Alertness
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 2
Riya, an undercover journalist, infiltrated a suspected arms dealer’s storage area. She carried a button camera, concealed in her jacket. Inside, she recorded boxes of illegal weapons and documents. A man entered suddenly and questioned her. She acted confused, saying she was searching for her brother’s lost mobile. Distracting him with questions, she backed toward the exit, grabbing photographic proof. She contacted her editor and forwarded the evidence. A sting operation was launched within hours. Her brave solo mission, resourcefulness, and confident handling under pressure earned national attention and led to the successful arrest of several wanted criminals involved.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Initiative, Strategic Thinking, Risk-taking
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 3
Kavita, a self-defense instructor, was returning home when she heard cries from a locked room nearby. She scaled a wall to reach the window and confirmed someone was trapped. She kicked open the door and confronted a man attempting to restrain a girl. Using her combat training, she disarmed and pinned him with a pressure hold. She secured him with a belt, rescued the girl, and called the police. Kavita then stayed to give a statement and counsel the victim. Her alertness and swift action not only prevented a crime but inspired the neighborhood to form a safety patrol group.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Bravery, Initiative, Empathy
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 4
Sneha, an intelligence agent, was assigned to retrieve a secret flash drive hidden in a mechanic’s workshop. She posed as a customer needing urgent car repair. While the mechanic was distracted checking the engine, Sneha slipped into the store room. Behind an old fuse box, she found the drive taped securely. She pocketed it and returned calmly, thanking the man. The data she delivered to her agency uncovered plans for a cyberattack. Her smart cover, precise timing, and cool execution under pressure showcased her professionalism. Her mission success contributed directly to national cybersecurity efforts and earned her a departmental commendation.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Intelligence, Composure, Resourcefulness
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 5
Anjali discovered her younger sister was being blackmailed with fake images. Taking charge, she created a fake profile to lure the blackmailer. They agreed to meet at a café. Wearing a hidden microphone and supported by friends nearby, she calmly confronted him. She recorded his confession and pressured him to delete everything. On signal, her friends alerted the police. The man was arrested, and his phone confiscated. Anjali submitted the evidence, ensuring the case was strong. Her courage, planning, and emotional strength not only saved her sister but empowered others to speak up against digital threats and online abuse.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Leadership, Moral Courage, Protective Instinct
Conclusion
Cracking the PPDT and TAT segments isn’t just about imagination—it’s about showcasing the OLQs (Officer Like Qualities) that lie within you. Through these 5 sample stories, we’ve highlighted various themes that align with the ethos of the Armed Forces and the unique perspective women bring to leadership. Practice them, personalize them, and most importantly—believe in your potential. Stay tuned for the next part of our “Ladies Special” series, and remember: your story could be the one that inspires others to serve.
