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 thirteenth 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
While walking to her college, Priya heard someone scream from a nearby office. She peeked through the window and saw a man having a seizure while another stood frozen in panic. Without hesitation, Priya jumped through the open window, placed the man in the recovery position, and asked the other person to call for an ambulance. Her courage, initiative, and presence of mind saved his life. She later followed up to ensure he received proper care. Her timely action impressed everyone, showing how decisiveness and empathy can make a difference in emergencies.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Courage, Presence of Mind, Initiative, Empathy, Social Responsibility
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 2
Nisha, a school prefect, noticed a man trying to sneak into the staff room through the window. She realized he was attempting to steal question papers. She calmly entered the principal’s office and explained the situation. With his permission, she confronted the man and noted his vehicle number while maintaining distance. She reported the incident to the police and ensured the papers were secure. Nisha’s alertness, responsibility, and sense of duty prevented academic fraud. Her bold action was praised during assembly and inspired other students to act responsibly.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Alertness, Sense of Responsibility, Courage, Integrity, Effective Communication
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 3
Asha was a journalism intern investigating illegal deforestation in the nearby area. She tracked down a suspicious official and saw documents through the window of his locked office. Knowing the evidence was critical, she swiftly climbed through the open window, careful not to damage anything. Inside, she took photos of the documents, emailed them to her editor, and slipped out unnoticed. The next day, her report led to a government inquiry. Her courage, discretion, and commitment to truth earned praise across media circles.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Courage, Sense of Responsibility, Initiative, Observation, Determination
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 4
Neha, an IT student, had developed a project software for a client. On submission day, the server failed, and the file was accidentally left on her professor’s office PC. The professor had left early, locking the room. Knowing the importance of the file, Neha used the window to access the room, booted the system, and mailed the file to the client just in time. Later, she informed the professor and explained the situation. Her logical thinking and decision-making helped save a project.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Presence of Mind, Initiative, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Responsibility
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 5
Kavita, a college student and youth activist, suspected a local officer of forging government aid documents. One afternoon, seeing the officer alone and distracted, she seized the opportunity, entered the room through the window, and confronted him with copies of his past misdeeds. She recorded the confrontation, which later became key evidence. Her bold action led to an official investigation. Kavita’s bravery and commitment to justice made her a role model for youth.
Ø OLQs Highlighted: Courage, Social Initiative, Moral Integrity, Boldness, Effective Communication
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.
