
SSC Time & Work Problems - Complete Guide
Welcome to the comprehensive guide on Time & Work problems for SSC exams! This is one of the most important topics in Quantitative Aptitude section and appears frequently in SSC CGL, CHSL, MTS, and other competitive exams.
Understanding Time & Work Basics
Time and Work problems are based on the concept that if a person can complete a work in ‘n’ days, then the person’s one day work = 1/n part of the total work.
Key Formulas You Need to Know
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Basic Formula
- If A can complete a work in ‘a’ days and B can complete the same work in ‘b’ days, then working together they can complete the work in: ab/(a+b) days
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Work Rate Formula
- A’s one day work = 1/a
- B’s one day work = 1/b
- Combined work rate = 1/a + 1/b
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Time Efficiency Formula
- If A is ‘n’ times as efficient as B, then:
- A : B = n : 1 (ratio of work rates)
- Time ratio = 1 : n (inverse of efficiency ratio)
Types of Time & Work Problems
Type 1: Two People Working Together
Example 1: A can complete a work in 12 days and B can complete the same work in 18 days. In how many days can they complete the work together?
Solution:
- A’s one day work = 1/12
- B’s one day work = 1/18
- Combined work = 1/12 + 1/18 = (3+2)/36 = 5/36
- Time taken together = 36/5 = 7.2 days
Type 2: Work and Wages
Example 2: A can do a piece of work in 20 days and B in 30 days. They work together for 4 days, then A leaves. In how many more days will B finish the remaining work?
Solution:
- Combined work rate = 1/20 + 1/30 = 5/60 = 1/12
- Work done in 4 days = 4 × 1/12 = 1/3
- Remaining work = 1 - 1/3 = 2/3
- Time for B to complete remaining work = (2/3) ÷ (1/30) = 20 days
Important Shortcuts and Tips
Quick Methods:
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LCM Method:
- Assume total work = LCM of individual times
- Calculate work rates and solve accordingly
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Efficiency Method:
- Compare efficiencies directly
- Use ratios to solve problems faster
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Time Proportions:
- More efficient person takes less time
- Time is inversely proportional to efficiency
Practice Questions
Question 1:
A and B together can complete a work in 6 days. A alone can complete it in 10 days. In how many days can B alone complete the work?
Answer: 15 days
Question 2:
12 men can complete a work in 8 days. How many men are required to complete the same work in 6 days?
Answer: 16 men
Question 3:
A is twice as efficient as B. If together they can complete a work in 18 days, find the time taken by A alone.
Answer: 27 days
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not converting fractions properly - Always find common denominators
- Confusing efficiency with time - Remember they are inversely related
- Wrong application of formulas - Practice different types thoroughly
- Calculation errors - Double-check your arithmetic
Exam Strategy
For SSC Exams:
- Time allocation: 2-3 minutes per question
- Difficulty level: Medium to High
- Expected questions: 2-4 questions in Tier-I
- Preparation time: 15-20 hours of focused practice
Recommended Practice Schedule:
- Week 1: Learn basic concepts and formulas
- Week 2: Practice Type 1 & 2 problems
- Week 3: Advanced problems and shortcuts
- Week 4: Mock tests and time management
Conclusion
Time & Work is a scoring topic if you master the basic concepts and practice regularly. Focus on understanding the underlying principles rather than memorizing formulas. With consistent practice, you can easily score 100% in this topic.
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Master the Fundamentals Start with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These are the building blocks of web development.
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