Daily Timetable to Crack SSC CGL While Working Full-Time

Study plans, mock tests, and tips to clear SSC CGL with a full-time job

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by Skoodos Bridge 30 Jul 2025, 10:23 AM

Preparing for SSC CGL while working a full-time job is not easy, but it is absolutely possible. Thousands of aspirants have done it before, and so can you. The key lies in creating a smart, practical, and sustainable timetable – one that works for your job schedule and helps you stay consistent over months.

This blog will walk you through exactly how to plan your day as a working professional, the best study practices, how toppers balance work and studies, and how you can use your weekends most effectively. No sugar-coating, no unrealistic 15-hour study days – just a real, human approach to cracking SSC CGL without quitting your job.

Understanding the SSC CGL Exam Structure First

Before you start building a timetable, it's important to understand what you're preparing for.

SSC CGL Tier-wise Breakdown:

Tier

Mode

Subjects

Nature

Tier IOnlineGeneral Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English ComprehensionQualifying
Tier IIOnlinePaper 1 (Math & Reasoning), Paper 2 (English)Scored for merit
Tier IIIPen & PaperDescriptive (Essay/Letter writing)Only for some posts
Tier IVSkill TestCPT/Data EntryOnly for some posts

For working professionals, Tier I and Tier II demand the maximum focus. You need a strong hold over Maths, English, Reasoning, and General Awareness.

Real Talk: Challenges Faced by Working Aspirants

  • Lack of time and energy
     
  • Long commute hours
     
  • Office pressure or late shifts
     
  • Noisy or unproductive home environment
     
  • Weekend fatigue
     

But what works?

  • A realistic daily routine
     
  • Sticking to one or two subjects daily
     
  • Making the best use of early mornings and weekends
     
  • Practicing mock tests regularly
     

Ideal Daily Timetable for SSC CGL (If You Work 9 AM to 6 PM)

Let’s assume a typical 9-to-6 office job with a one-hour commute each way.

Time

Activity

5:30 – 6:00 AMWake up & freshen up
6:00 – 7:15 AMStudy Session 1: Quant or English (alternate days)
7:15 – 8:00 AMBreakfast & get ready
8:00 – 9:00 AMCommute (listen to podcasts or news - GK prep)
9:00 – 6:00 PMOffice Time
6:00 – 7:00 PMCommute (revision of GK via apps/notes)
7:00 – 8:00 PMDinner, unwind, short walk
8:00 – 9:30 PMStudy Session 2: Reasoning/Mock test
9:30 – 10:00 PMLight reading or revision
10:00 PMSleep

Why This Works:

  • Divides the day into 2 focused study slots
     
  • Utilizes commute time for passive learning
     
  • Ensures minimum 3 hours of study on weekdays
     

Weekend Strategy: Your SSC Accelerator

Time

Saturday

Sunday

6:30 – 8:00 AMRevision + Practice (Maths)Full-length mock test
8:00 – 9:00 AMBreakfast & breakSame
9:00 – 11:00 AMEnglish or GK Deep DiveAnalyze Mock Test + Notes
11:00 – 1:00 PMReasoning PracticeWeak area improvement
1:00 – 2:00 PMLunch & restSame
2:00 – 4:00 PMFull-length practice setStatic GK revision
5:00 – 6:30 PMCSAT (if needed) / ReadingCurrent Affairs Update
7:00 – 9:00 PMChill or light revisionChill or light revision

Make the weekend count.

  • Use one day for full mock tests
     
  • Use the other to fill in your weak spots
     
  • Avoid burnout. Don't study all day long
     

Subject-Wise Daily Allocation Plan

Day

Morning Slot

Evening Slot

MondayQuantEnglish
TuesdayEnglishReasoning
WednesdayQuantGK
ThursdayEnglishReasoning
FridayQuantMixed Practice

Toppers recommend rotating subjects to avoid boredom.

Tips That Actually Work (From Those Who Cracked It)

1. Prioritize Quality over Quantity

Studying 2 focused hours is better than distracted 4 hours.

2. Use Breaks & Commute Wisely

GK and vocabulary revision can be done on-the-go with apps like Gradeup, Oliveboard, GKToday.

3. Follow One Source Per Subject

Subject

Recommended Source

MathsR.S. Aggarwal, Kiran Previous Year Papers
EnglishPlinth to Paramount, Mirror of Common Errors
ReasoningR.S. Aggarwal + Mock Tests
GKLucent GK, Monthly Current Affairs PDFs

4. Practice Previous Year Papers

At least 5 years of SSC papers must be practiced. You'll start seeing patterns.

5. Mock Tests Are a Must

Aim for 1 mock every weekend in the beginning, and increase to 2 per week closer to exam.

How to Stay Consistent with Job Pressure

  • Have a weekly goal system, not daily targets
     
  • If you're tired on a weekday, do revision instead of new topics
     
  • Keep short notes for last-minute review
     
  • Reward yourself when you hit weekly targets
     
  • Remember, you’re in it for the long game
     

Motivation: Real People, Real Success

Sandeep (Audit Officer) cracked SSC CGL with AIR 70 while working full-time at an insurance firm. His key: morning study + mock tests on weekends.

Neha (Excise Inspector) cleared SSC CGL in her second attempt while working as a school teacher. She used school breaks and evenings to revise.

 

FAQs

1. Is it possible to clear SSC CGL while working full-time?

Yes, many have done it. You need a routine, discipline, and 3–4 hours daily + smart use of weekends.

2. How many hours should I study per day with a job?

2 to 3 focused hours on weekdays, and 6 to 8 hours on weekends is enough if sustained.

3. Should I quit my job for SSC preparation?

Not unless absolutely necessary. Financial stability supports mental peace. Stick to your routine.

4. Can I clear SSC CGL without coaching?

Yes, with books, online resources, and mock tests. Many toppers are self-study candidates.

5. Which section needs maximum focus?

For most, Quant and English need extra work, as these carry weight in both Tier I and II.

Final Words

Working full-time while preparing shows you can manage time, push through challenges, and stay consistent – all qualities needed in a government job.

You don’t need to study all day. You just need to study right, every day.

Create your daily schedule, track your weekly progress, and let your weekends be your power hours.

For more tips, SSC CGL resources, mock tests, and preparation strategies tailored for working professionals, visit Skoodos Bridge – your reliable exam preparation partner.

You've got what it takes. Now let discipline do the rest.

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