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 fifteenth 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 was traveling alone in a train when she noticed the man sitting across her seemed anxious and repeatedly checked his phone. She calmly observed and overheard him whispering suspiciously. Instead of panicking, she quietly alerted the TT and shared her concern. Security personnel acted swiftly and found the man carrying stolen goods. Neha’s timely action prevented a possible theft and saved fellow passengers from danger.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Alertness, Courage, Initiative, Responsibility, Effective Intelligence
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 2
On a long train journey, Priyanka noticed a young man nearby in visible mental distress, talking to himself and covering his ears. She gently approached, offered water, and initiated a light conversation. Slowly, he opened up about anxiety attacks. She comforted him, involved other passengers to create a safe space, and called a helpline from her phone. By the time the train reached the next station, he was stable and grateful.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Empathy, Social Adaptability, Emotional Intelligence, Initiative, Compassion
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 3
Isha overheard a heated phone conversation between a co-passenger and someone threatening him. She noticed his body language and distress. Instead of reacting emotionally, she calmly asked if he needed help. She then offered her phone to report the matter to the authorities. Together, they contacted the railway police and shared relevant details. Her calm, composed mind helped defuse a tense situation and possibly prevented a serious incident.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Problem Solving, Composure under Stress, Communication, Team Work, Decision Making
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 4
Asha, a civil service aspirant, was revising her notes when she noticed a man suddenly clutching his head and sweating. Realizing he might be having a health issue, she quickly sprang into action, made him lie down, and used her dupatta as a pillow. She asked others for help and gave basic first aid. With coordination, they stopped the train briefly at the next station, where medical help arrived.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Initiative, Presence of Mind, Leadership, Sense of Responsibility, Organizing Ability
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 5
While traveling, Nandini overheard a man loudly speaking on the phone, threatening a woman over dowry. Disgusted, she didn’t look away. She recorded the call discreetly and confronted him with other passengers. She gathered support and involved authorities at the next station. Her brave action resulted in a legal complaint being registered against the man, saving a woman from future abuse.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Moral Courage, Integrity, Leadership, Sense of Justice, Social Initiative
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.
