1. General Intelligence & Reasoning

• Analogies

• Similarities & Differences

• Coding-Decoding

• Series (Number, Alphabet, Mixed)

• Blood Relations

• Direction Sense

• Ranking & Sequencing

• Logical Reasoning / Puzzles

• Syllogisms

• Non-Verbal Reasoning (Figures, Patterns, Classification)

2. Quantitative Aptitude / Arithmetic

• Number Systems

• Simplification & Approximation

• Percentage, Profit & Loss

• Simple & Compound Interest

• Ratio & Proportion

• Average, Time & Work, Time & Distance

• Algebra & Geometry basics

• Mensuration & Trigonometry basics (if mentioned)

• Data Interpretation (tables, charts, graphs)

3. General Awareness

• Current Affairs (National & International)

• Indian History & Freedom Struggle

• Indian Geography (Physical, Social, Economic)

• Indian Polity & Constitution

• Indian Economy & Budget

• Science & Technology (Basics, everyday applications)

• Environmental Awareness

• Important Days, Awards, Sports

• Postal/Departmental Knowledge (for circle-specific PA/SA exams):

  • Organization of Department of Posts

  • Types of Post Offices & their functions

  • Mail handling, stamps, postal services

  • Procedures for registered articles, money orders, insurance

  • Postal manuals and circulars (Volume V, VI, VII as per notification)

4. English / Local Language

• Comprehension (passages, questions)

• Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitution)

• Grammar (Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Conjunctions)

• Sentence Correction / Error Detection

• Letter / Essay Writing (if mentioned)

• Translation (English ↔ Local Language, if required)

5. Skill Test (Qualifying)

• Data Entry Skill Test (DEST): 15 minutes, e.g., 8000 key depressions per hour

• Typing Test: 35–40 words per minute in English/Hindi

• Local Language Test: Letter writing, translation, comprehension (qualifying nature)

6. Recommended Study Focus

• Postal Knowledge: Post Office Guide, Postal Manuals, and latest circulars

• Arithmetic & Reasoning: Practice speed and accuracy

• General Awareness: Focus on static GK + recent 6–12 months current affairs

• Language Skills: Grammar, comprehension, and local language practice

• Skill Tests: Practice typing and data entry software (if available)