The Picture Perception and Discussion Test is one of the most important parts of the screening process in the Services Selection Board interview.
In this test, candidates are shown a blurred image for around 30 seconds and are required to write a short story based on what they perceive. This is followed by a group discussion where each candidate narrates their story and works with others to arrive at a common conclusion.
How to write a good PPDT story?
Step 1: Fill Basic Details
Quickly and neatly fill in your name, chest number, and required details. Avoid overwriting and manage time properly.
Step 2: Character Identification Box
Identify all characters in the picture and write for each:
Mood, Age (in numbers), Gender (M/F)
Use notation:
→ Positive | 0 → Neutral | – → Negative
Example:
+
22
M
Circle the main character.
Step 3: Action Part
Observe the picture carefully and frame a logical, realistic situation. Avoid assumptions that are extreme or unclear.
Step 4: Story Writing (20–60–20 Format)
First 20% (Introduction): Main character + background + setting (short and clearMiddle 60% (Action): Explain actions taken. Show decision-making, responsibility, leadership, and problem-solving.
Last 20% (Outcome & Perspective): Mention-
• Short-term result
• Long-term impact
PPDT Sample Story 1
Quick Guide
Identify this as a trekking situation. Choose the person climbing ahead as the main character, show leadership, safety awareness, and team coordination, and ensure a calm, successful crossing of the difficult terrain
Sample PPDT Story
Aman, a 24-year-old trekking leader, was guiding his team through a mountainous route during an expedition.
On reaching a steep and risky section, he assessed the path and climbed ahead to check safety. He identified stable footholds and instructed the team to follow one by one while maintaining distance. He ensured proper coordination, used available support like sticks, and motivated the team to stay calm and focused during the climb.
The team successfully crossed the difficult patch and continued the trek safely. His leadership ensured a smooth and well-managed expedition.
Sample PPDT Story 2:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a home or medical situation. Choose the standing boy as the main character, show concern, responsibility, and quick action, and ensure a calm and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rahul, an 18-year-old student, noticed his younger sister lying unwell on the bed at home.
Understanding that she was not feeling well, he checked her condition and immediately informed his parents. He arranged basic care, ensured she was comfortable, and helped in taking her to a nearby doctor for proper treatment. He stayed calm and supported his family during the situation.
With timely medical attention, she recovered soon. His responsible and caring behaviour ensured proper handling of the situation and brought relief to the family.
Sample PPDT Story 3:
Quick Guide
Identify this as an accident or emergency situation. Choose one of the nearby people rushing to help as the main character, show quick thinking, responsibility, and immediate action, and ensure a safe and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 25-year-old man, noticed a middle-aged person falling off a cart and getting injured near a field.
He immediately rushed to help, checked his condition, and called for assistance from nearby people. He arranged transport and took him to the nearest hospital without delay. He also informed the person’s family and ensured proper medical attention.
With timely help, the injured man recovered soon. Rohit’s quick response and responsible action ensured effective handling of the situation.
Sample PPDT Story 4:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a public place or health situation. Choose the standing man as the main character, show alertness, responsibility, and immediate help, and ensure a calm and safe resolution.
Sample PPDT Story
Amit, a 26-year-old man, noticed a young woman feeling unwell and sitting near a roadside railing.
He quickly approached her, checked her condition, and offered support. He arranged water and called for help from nearby people. He then took her to a nearby clinic for medical attention and ensured she was safe.
With timely care, she recovered soon. Amit’s alertness and responsible action ensured the situation was handled effectively and safely.
Sample PPDT Story 5:
Quick Guide
The image is unclear, so assume a common public or accident situation. Choose a central person as the main character, show alertness, coordination, and responsible action, and end with a safe and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 24-year-old man, was present at a crowded area when he noticed confusion and a minor accident situation.
He quickly assessed the scene and took charge. He controlled the crowd, ensured safety, and helped the affected individuals. He coordinated with nearby people, arranged assistance, and managed the situation calmly.
The situation was brought under control without further issues. His presence of mind and leadership ensured safety and smooth handling of the incident.
Sample PPDT Story 6:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a group discussion or study situation. Choose one student as the main character, show initiative, teamwork, and productive discussion, and end with a positive academic outcome
Sample PPDT Story
Arjun, a 21-year-old student, was sitting with his friends discussing current affairs using newspapers.
He took initiative to organise the discussion, divided topics among the group, and encouraged everyone to share their views. He guided the conversation, clarified doubts, and ensured active participation from all members.
The group gained better understanding of important topics and improved their knowledge. Arjun’s leadership made the discussion productive and beneficial for everyone.
Sample PPDT Story 7:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a social responsibility or helping situation. Choose the young boy as the main character, show empathy, initiative, and practical help, and ensure a respectful and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Vikram, a 20-year-old student, noticed an elderly man sitting alone in a park looking tired and unwell.
He approached him politely, offered water and food, and spoke to understand his situation. He then informed nearby authorities and helped arrange proper assistance. He ensured the man was taken to a safe place and received necessary care.
The elderly man felt relieved and supported. Vikram’s kind and responsible action ensured proper help and highlighted his sense of social responsibility.
Sample PPDT Story 8:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a daily responsibility or service situation. Choose the delivery person as the main character, show punctuality, responsibility, and disciplined work, and end with a positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Ramesh, a 28-year-old delivery worker, was distributing newspapers in his locality early in the morning.
He followed a fixed route and ensured timely delivery to each house. He maintained discipline and consistency in his work. He also interacted politely with residents and ensured proper service every day.
The newspapers were delivered on time, and residents remained satisfied. His dedication and responsible approach helped him earn trust and appreciation in the community.
Sample PPDT Story 9:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a rural or daily life situation. Choose one woman as the main character, show responsibility, awareness, and teamwork, and create a meaningful and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Sita, a 24-year-old woman, was walking with other village women while one of them was carrying water from a nearby source.
She initiated a discussion about the difficulty of fetching water daily and suggested working together to improve access. She coordinated with others and planned to approach village authorities for a solution. She also motivated the group to manage water usage effectively.
Later, their effort led to better water arrangements in the village. Her initiative improved daily life and showed strong responsibility and teamwork.
Sample PPDT Story 10:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a railway station situation. Choose a responsible person as the main character, show alertness, helping attitude, and coordination, and ensure a safe and smooth outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 25-year-old man, was present at a railway station when a train had just arrived and passengers were boarding.
He noticed confusion among some passengers, especially an elderly person and a child. He quickly assisted them in boarding safely, guided them to the correct compartment, and helped manage the crowd by informing others calmly.
The passengers boarded safely without any issue. His alertness and helpful nature ensured a smooth and safe boarding process at the station.
Sample PPDT Story 11:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a rural or teamwork situation. Choose one person as the main character, show cooperation, initiative, and practical problem-solving, and ensure a productive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Ravi, a 27-year-old farmer, was working with others in the field when their tractor got stuck in muddy ground.
He assessed the situation and organised the group to push the tractor together. He guided them to use proper support and coordinated their efforts to avoid damage. He motivated everyone to work in sync.
With combined effort, the tractor was freed and work resumed. His teamwork and leadership ensured efficient handling of the situation.
Sample PPDT Story 12:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a heavy rain or emergency situation. Choose the running person as the main character, show urgency, responsibility, and quick action, and ensure safety of others with a positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Amit, a 26-year-old man, was moving through his locality during heavy rainfall when water started accumulating rapidly.
He quickly assessed the situation and rushed to alert nearby residents about possible waterlogging. He helped people move to safer areas, ensured children and elderly were assisted, and coordinated with others to manage the situation.
The area was safely evacuated and no major harm occurred. His quick response and responsible action ensured safety and effective handling of the situation.
Sample PPDT Story 13:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a disaster or damaged area situation. Choose the person observing the scene as the main character, show responsibility, planning, and initiative to improve the condition, and ensure a constructive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 28-year-old man, was passing through an area where several damaged structures and poor surroundings were visible.
He assessed the condition and identified the need for improvement. He contacted local authorities and organised community members to clean the area and repair damaged parts. He also planned measures to prevent further damage and improve safety.
Gradually, the area was restored and became safer for residents. His initiative and leadership ensured positive development and better living conditions.
Sample PPDT Story 14:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a family or social discussion situation. Choose the young man explaining something as the main character, show communication, responsibility, and problem-solving, and end with a positive understanding.
Sample PPDT Story
Aman, a 26-year-old man, was sitting with his family discussing an important household matter.
He listened to everyone’s views and calmly explained possible solutions. He addressed concerns, suggested practical steps, and ensured that all members were involved in decision-making. He maintained a respectful and positive discussion environment.
The family reached a clear and mutually accepted solution. His communication and balanced approach helped resolve the issue effectively and strengthened understanding among family members.
Sample PPDT Story 15:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a rural or agricultural setting. Choose one person as the main character, show responsibility, teamwork, and productive work, and ensure a positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Suresh, a 30-year-old farmer, was working with others in the field during the harvesting season.
He organised the group and assigned tasks to ensure smooth work. He guided them on proper cutting and collection methods and ensured coordination among all members. He also monitored progress and maintained efficiency.
The harvesting was completed successfully on time. His planning and teamwork helped improve productivity and ensured a smooth farming process.
Sample PPDT Story 16:
Quick Guide
The image is unclear, so assume a group or awareness situation. Choose the person addressing others as the main character, show communication, leadership, and guidance, and ensure a positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rakesh, a 32-year-old man, was addressing a group of people in his locality.
He was spreading awareness about an important issue and guiding them on proper practices. He explained the situation clearly, encouraged participation, and answered their queries patiently. He ensured everyone understood the message and motivated them to follow it.
The group gained awareness and agreed to take necessary actions. His communication and leadership helped bring positive change in the community.
Sample PPDT Story 17:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a public gathering or awareness situation. Choose the person addressing the crowd as the main character, show leadership, communication, and positive influence, and ensure a constructive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 30-year-old man, was addressing a group of people gathered in a public area.
He was raising awareness about an important issue and guiding the crowd towards a constructive solution. He communicated clearly, motivated people to stay calm, and encouraged them to act responsibly. He ensured that the discussion remained focused and positive.
The crowd understood the message and responded positively. His leadership and communication helped bring awareness and maintain order in the situation.
Sample PPDT Story 18:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a social interaction or conflict situation. Choose one person as the main character, show calm communication, understanding, and problem-solving, and ensure a peaceful outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rahul, a 24-year-old man, noticed a disagreement between his friend and a woman during a conversation.
He calmly intervened and listened to both sides to understand the issue. He explained the situation clearly, encouraged respectful communication, and helped them find a common understanding. He ensured that the discussion remained peaceful and constructive.
The misunderstanding was resolved, and both parties agreed on a solution. Rahul’s balanced approach helped restore harmony and maintain a positive environment.
Sample PPDT Story 19:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a risky or safety situation. Choose the person giving direction as the main character, show alertness, guidance, and responsibility, and ensure a safe outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 25-year-old man, noticed a person running carelessly towards an unsafe area during evening time.
He quickly alerted him and pointed towards a safer path. He approached him, explained the risk, and guided him to move carefully. He ensured that the person avoided the dangerous area and stayed safe.
The situation was controlled without any harm. Rohit’s alertness and timely guidance ensured safety and prevented a possible accident.
Sample PPDT Story 20:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a mountain or rescue/training situation. Choose one person as the main character, show leadership, coordination, and safety awareness, and ensure a successful and controlled outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Aman, a 27-year-old team leader, was guiding a group through a mountainous terrain during a training expedition.
On reaching a difficult cliff section, he assessed the route and organised the team. He guided members to climb carefully using support and ensured proper coordination between both sides. He monitored safety and motivated everyone to stay focused.
The team successfully crossed the challenging section without any issue. His leadership and planning ensured a safe and successful expedition.
Sample PPDT Story 21:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a learning or awareness situation. Choose the person explaining the chart as the main character, show clarity, communication, and guidance, and ensure a positive learning outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Rohit, a 30-year-old teacher, was explaining important information to a group using a chart.
He presented the topic clearly, explained key points step by step, and encouraged students to ask questions. He ensured everyone understood the concept and maintained an interactive environment.
The students gained clear understanding and actively participated. His effective communication and guidance made the session productive and beneficial for everyone.
Sample PPDT Story 22:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a mountaineering or adventure situation. Choose the climber as the main character, show courage, planning, and safety awareness, and ensure a successful and controlled outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Aman, a 26-year-old trained mountaineer, was climbing a steep mountain using rope support during an expedition.
He carefully assessed each step, maintained proper grip, and used safety equipment effectively. He stayed focused, followed planned techniques, and ensured controlled movement while climbing the difficult section.
He successfully reached the top safely. His preparation, confidence, and disciplined approach ensured a successful and secure climb.
Sample PPDT Story 23:
Quick Guide
Identify this as a rest or post-work situation. Choose one person as the main character, show responsibility and discipline before rest, and ensure a balanced and positive outcome.
Sample PPDT Story
Ramesh, a 35-year-old worker, was resting with his team after completing a long day of physical work.
Before taking rest, he ensured that all assigned tasks were completed properly and tools were safely arranged. He checked on his teammates and made sure everyone was comfortable and had basic needs fulfilled.
After proper rest, the team resumed work with better energy and efficiency. His disciplined and responsible approach helped maintain productivity and teamwork.
