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 twenty-fourth 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
Pooja, a final-year medical student, received news that her mother was hospitalized due to a sudden cardiac episode. She is holding her mother’s hand, reassuring her of a speedy recovery and her constant support. Pooja immediately traveled home, coordinated with doctors, ensured her mother got the best treatment, and even donated blood when required. Despite academic pressure, she stayed focused, managed her mother’s medications and follow-ups while studying at night. Her mother recovered well. Inspired by the situation, Pooja later specialized in cardiology to help other patients like her mother. Her dedication strengthened her family bonds and built her emotional resilience.
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 2
Meghna, an NCC cadet, learned that her neighbour, an old widow, was depressed after losing her son in a road accident. She sits beside the elderly woman daily, holding her hand and talking to her to alleviate her grief. Meghna began visiting her every evening, listening patiently, and slowly encouraged her to join community activities. She arranged counseling sessions and engaged her in mentoring local girls. The woman regained her confidence and became an active member of the local self-help group. Meghna learned the importance of mental health and started a support group for lonely seniors in her colony.
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 3
Anjali, a young Army officer posted in a remote area, noticed an elderly woman in her quarters who often stayed alone and sick. She is seen holding the lady’s hands and spending time to emotionally and physically support her. Anjali arranged for medical checkups through army medics, ensured timely meals, taught her basic yoga, and motivated junior soldiers to adopt senior citizens in the area for care and companionship. The initiative was adopted across several units as “Project Elder Care.” Anjali’s initiative boosted the morale of the elderly and brought her unit closer to the community.
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 4
Priyanka, a psychology student volunteering at a hospice, was assigned to comfort terminally ill patients. She is providing emotional support to an elderly patient, helping her cope with her illness. Priyanka read to her, sang her favorite songs, wrote letters to her distant relatives, and ensured her last days were full of dignity and love. She also trained other volunteers to be empathetic caregivers. The woman passed away peacefully, surrounded by care and respect. Priyanka was awarded a youth volunteer award and later pursued a career in palliative care advocacy.
Sample TAT & PPDT Story 5
Sunita, a young UPSC aspirant, promised her ailing grandmother she would fulfill her dream of seeing her as an officer before she passed. She is holding her grandmother’s hand, assuring her that she is preparing hard and will make her proud. Sunita dedicated herself to a strict study routine, managed house chores while her grandmother was bedridden, and took mock interviews seriously. She also taught underprivileged kids as a tribute to her grandmother’s values. She cracked the Civil Services exam and dedicated her success to her grandmother’s blessings. Her story became a source of inspiration for many young women in her village.
