Exam Guides9 min readUpdated 2026-09-15

SSC CPO SI Delhi Police & CAPF: Complete Written Paper 1 & 2 Strategy

A complete guide for SSC CPO aspirants. How to clear Paper 1, maintain physical fitness for the PET sprint and high jump, and score 180+ in Paper 2 English Comprehension.

Preparation Guru Academic TeamExam Research & Pedagogy

The 3-Stage Selection Pathway of SSC CPO

Recruitment for Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police, CISF, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, and SSB follows a rigorous sequence: Paper 1 (200 marks, 2 hours), Physical Standard Test (PST) & Physical Endurance Test (PET), Paper 2 English Language (200 marks, 2 hours), and Detailed Medical Examination (DME).

Both Paper 1 and Paper 2 marks are combined to form the final merit score out of 400 marks. This makes English comprehension the single largest scoring factor in the entire examination.

Key Strategy Takeaway

With 50 marks in Paper 1 and 200 marks in Paper 2, English accounts for 250 out of 400 total marks (62.5%) in SSC CPO.

Balancing Physical Training with Written Studies

Over 60% of candidates who clear Paper 1 are eliminated in the PET. The 1600m run (6.5 minutes for males) and 800m run (4 minutes for females), combined with high jump and long jump, require consistent cardiovascular training.

Do not postpone physical training until after Paper 1 results. Dedicate 45 minutes every morning to interval running and mobility exercises.

  • 1600 meters run in 6.5 minutes (Males) / 800m in 4 minutes (Females).
  • Long Jump: 3.65 meters in 3 chances.
  • High Jump: 1.2 meters in 3 chances.
  • Shot Put (16 Lbs): 4.5 meters in 3 chances.

Paper 2 English: Scoring 180+ out of 200

Paper 2 tests in-depth grammar, active/passive voice, direct/indirect speech, reading comprehension, and idioms. Master voice and narration rules—these alone account for 45-50 questions with near 100% predictable patterns.