What is the OIR Test?
The OIR Test is a part of the Screening Process (Stage I) conducted on Day 1.
🔹 It comprises 2 booklets with 40–50 questions each.
🔹 Time per booklet: 17–20 minutes.
🔹 It is completely objective and written.
These tests assess your:
- Reasoning Ability
- Speed of Thinking
- Decision-Making Power
- Basic Numerical Skills
Your OIR grade ranges from 1 (Best) to 5 (Lowest) and is combined with your PPDT performance to decide whether you’re screened in or out.
Types of Questions in OIR Test
There are two main types:
🔹 Verbal Reasoning
- Series Completion (Number/Alphabet)
- Odd One Out
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Analogy
- Synonyms/Antonyms
- Logical Arrangement of Words
- Direction Sense Test
- Statement-Conclusion
🔹 Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Figure Completion
- Mirror Image
- Paper Folding
- Embedded Figures
- Pattern Matching
- Series of Diagrams
- Odd Image Out
These are simple but require speed and accuracy. You usually get 15–20 seconds per question.
Preparation Strategy
1. Start Topic-Wise:
- Master one topic at a time (e.g., first blood relations, then coding-decoding).
- Build logic first, then increase speed.
2. Use Timer in Practice:
- Set 30 seconds per question while practicing.
- Practice in mock test format to simulate actual SSB conditions.
3. Revise Mistakes:
- Maintain an error log—track which questions you get wrong and revise the logic.
4. Do Mixed Tests (After Basics Are Strong):
- Attempt 50-question mocks in 17–20 minutes.
5. Focus More on Accuracy than Quantity Initially.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t guess randomly—OIR is not a negative marking test, but poor accuracy = lower rating.
❌ Don’t ignore non-verbal reasoning—it’s easy and scoring.
❌ Don’t waste too much time on a single question. Move on and come back later.
❌ Don’t prepare OIR last-minute—it’s as important as PPDT for screening in.
How OIR Impacts SSB Screening
Even if your PPDT story is average, a strong OIR score (Grade 1 or 2) can help you get screened in.
It shows:
- Mental agility
- Leadership under pressure
- Presence of mind
OIR + PPDT narration & discussion together determine your fate on Day 1. So don’t take OIR lightly.
Conclusion
To wrap up:
✅ Master basic concepts
✅ Practice daily with a timer
✅ Focus on speed + accuracy
✅ Revise your weak areas
✅ Don’t ignore non-verbal reasoning
OIR is your first gateway to wearing the olive green, and you’ve got everything it takes!
