SSC CGL Maths Strategy 2026 to Score 45+ Marks in Tier 1
Scoring 45+ in SSC CGL Maths is not about solving everything.
It is about:
- Solving the right 22–24 questions
- Avoiding 3–4 traps
- Managing time scientifically
- Maintaining 85–90% accuracy
Most competitors give generic advice.
This guide gives you:
✔ Topic-level execution plan
✔ Mathematical accuracy model
✔ Weightage-driven preparation
✔ Speed training system
✔ Sectional score calculation
✔ Mistake correction framework
✔ 60-day mastery plan
SECTION 1: Understanding the Target – What 45+ Really Means
Tier 1 Maths:
25 Questions
50 Marks
0.50 negative per wrong
To score 45+:
You need approximately:
23 correct, 2 wrong
OR
24 correct, 3 wrong
Score Formula
Score = (Correct × 2) – (Wrong × 0.50)
Example:
23 correct, 2 wrong
= 46 marks
24 correct, 3 wrong
= 45.5 marks
Thus:
You cannot afford more than 3–4 mistakes.
Accuracy is non-negotiable.
SECTION 2: Complete SSC CGL Maths Syllabus Breakdown (Tier 1)
SSC CGL Maths syllabus includes:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Trigonometry
- Data Interpretation
- Number System
- Simplification
But not all carry equal scoring power.
SECTION 3: Topic Weightage Analysis (Trend Based)
Approximate question distribution:
Topic Area | Avg Questions |
|---|---|
Arithmetic | 10–12 |
DI | 4–5 |
Algebra | 2–3 |
Geometry | 2–3 |
Mensuration | 2–3 |
Trigonometry | 1–2 |
Simplification | 2–3 |
Conclusion:
Arithmetic + DI = 60–65% of section.
If you master only arithmetic and DI, you are already near 35+ marks.
SECTION 4: Arithmetic Domination Plan (Core of 45+)
Arithmetic includes:
- Percentage
- Ratio & Proportion
- Average
- Profit & Loss
- SI & CI
- Time & Work
- Time-Speed-Distance
- Mixture & Alligation
Strategy:
Master formulas + pattern recognition.
Example:
Percentage → Convert to fraction instantly
25% = 1/4
20% = 1/5
12.5% = 1/8
Speed reduces time.
SECTION 5: Data Interpretation (Game Changer)
DI is often feared.
Reality:
DI questions are formula-based and repetitive.
To dominate DI:
- Practice 50+ sets
- Master percentage change
- Practice approximation
- Skip lengthy table if time consuming
Target:
4 correct out of 5.
SECTION 6: Geometry & Mensuration Strategy
Most aspirants ignore geometry.
Big mistake.
Geometry questions are formula-based and predictable.
Focus on:
- Triangle properties
- Circles
- Quadrilaterals
- Surface area & volume basics
Memorize:
Area formulas
Volume formulas
Angle properties
These 3–4 questions are high ROI.
SECTION 7: Algebra Simplification
Do not go deep into advanced algebra.
Focus on:
- Linear equations
- Basic identities
- Quadratic roots basics
Avoid over-preparation.
SECTION 8: Speed Building System (Daily Drill)
Daily 20-minute speed drill:
- 20 simplification
- 10 percentage
- 5 DI calculations
- 5 mensuration
Within 30 days, speed increases drastically.
SECTION 9: Attempt Strategy Inside Exam
Total time: 60 minutes
Ideal Maths time: 18–20 minutes
Sequence:
- Simplification (3–4 mins)
- Arithmetic easy questions (8 mins)
- DI moderate (5 mins)
- Geometry/Mensuration (3 mins)
- Skip tough algebra
Never get stuck beyond 45 seconds.
SECTION 10: Accuracy Framework (The Real Differentiator)
If:
Accuracy 70% → 35 marks
Accuracy 80% → 40 marks
Accuracy 90% → 45+ marks
Thus:
Focus on error elimination.
After every mock:
Categorize mistakes:
Concept error
Calculation error
Time pressure error
Remove 2 errors per week.
SECTION 11: 60-Day Ultra Plan (Advanced Model)
Phase 1 (Day 1–20)
Complete arithmetic
Daily 50 questions
No full mocks
Phase 2 (Day 21–40)
Mixed practice
2 sectional tests per week
Focus DI
Phase 3 (Day 41–60)
3 sectional mocks per week
2 full mocks per week
2 hours analysis per mock
SECTION 12: Sectional Mock Target Benchmarks
Mock No | Target Score |
|---|---|
1–5 | 30–35 |
6–10 | 35–38 |
11–15 | 40–42 |
16–20 | 45+ |
Gradual improvement.
SECTION 13: Common Mistakes That Stop 45+
- Overattempting tough algebra
- Guessing DI
- Not revising formulas daily
- Ignoring geometry
- Not timing sectional practice
- Panic in exam hall
SECTION 14: Formula Notebook Strategy
Maintain one notebook:
- Percentage formulas
- Mensuration formulas
- Algebra identities
- Geometry angles
- Trigonometric values
Revise weekly.
SECTION 15: Final 15-Day Booster Plan
- Only mocks + analysis
- No new topics
- Focus speed
- Revise formula book
- Improve weak topics only
SECTION 16: FAQs
Is 45 good in SSC CGL Maths?
Yes. 45+ is a strong sectional score and gives overall boost.
How many attempts required for 45+?
22–24 correct with 2–3 wrong maximum.
Is DI important for 45+?
Yes. 4 correct DI questions increase sectional score significantly.
How much time to give Maths in exam?
18–20 minutes maximum.
Is arithmetic enough for 45+?
Arithmetic + DI + mensuration basics are enough.