The PPDT screening test in detail

The second stage of the ISSB Screening Test is the PPDT (Picture Perception and Description Test). Only candidates who qualify in the Intelligence Test are eligible to participate in this stage. For practice, we divide the written task into three clear parts that mirror the real answer sheet. This structure helps you stay consistent, logical, and complete under time pressure.

The PPDT consists of two parts.

• Written Phase
• Discussion Phase

Before each phase begins, candidates are given detailed instructions regarding the test procedure, as well as the dos and don'ts of the assessment.

The Written Phase

In the Written Phase, an unclear or ambiguous picture is displayed on the screen for 30 seconds. After viewing the picture, candidates are required to briefly describe its setting and central theme in the prescribed form. They must also mention the probable characters and objects depicted in the picture.

Candidates are then given four minutes to write a logical story based on the scene and the elements shown in the picture.

1. Spot Box

This is where you record what you actually perceived, for each person you believe you saw. Inside the rectangular box, make a small circle exactly where you think each character's head appeared in the picture. Think of it as placing a mark on their head. Then below each circle, write the age, sex, and mood for that character.

List only what you genuinely believe you saw. Usually this is 1 to 3 characters, at most 4. Do not overload the box to look impressive. For each person, write Age as a specific number such as 24, not a vague word like young, Sex as Male or Female, and Mood as one clear word such as happy, worried, determined, or curious.

There is no single correct reading of the picture. The image is intentionally hazy and open to interpretation. Whatever you write should be something you can logically explain. You can justify age from body physique, sex from hair length and clothing such as shirt and pant or sari and salwar, and mood from body posture and the setting.

Pick ages and moods that are plausible for what is visible in posture, setting, and clothing cues. Do not overthink this part. The box needs to be internally consistent with the story you are about to write.

2. Action Box

Here you write the main gist or theme of your story in about three short lines. It is usually a short description of the characters, the environment, and what they are doing. You do not give it a title. This box forces you to decide your plot before you start writing, so the story does not wander.

This is your story's logline. Do not try to make it overly dramatic, negative, or force a problem where none is needed. The more realistic and normal the story is, the better. A simple and plausible action is stronger than an exaggerated one.

3. The Story

The ideal length is roughly the amount that fills the story box you are given. Try to fill that space and that is enough for a complete and clear message. It should not be a saga. Structure it in three parts.

• Opening: Introduce the character or characters from your Spot box and briefly set the scene.
• Middle: The character encounters the situation stated in your Action line and does something about it.
• Ending: Give a concrete resolution. The story should end properly and meaningfully. Do not leave it hanging.

Keep it clear and structured. Use simple language and short sentences. Stay logical and positive without being forced. There is no such thing as an inherently positive or negative picture. Bring out the facts as you see them. An optimistic person will naturally notice good facts and a pessimistic person will notice bad ones, so aim for balance. Writing something extraordinary or over the top will not help you get screened in. What matters is how logically you can explain why you saw what you saw and why this story fits.

If you cannot finish in time, stop. Do not write anything after time is called, or you risk disqualification. If your story is unfinished, you should mention that you could not finish writing in time. You can ask the GTO for permission to complete it verbally later during the read out if your story is otherwise vague or not understandable.

How to Explain Your Story in the Discussion

In the group discussion, explain how many characters you believe you saw in the blurred image. Then mention their age, sex, and mood. You can explain this from body physique for age such as tall and grown body structure for adults and short for children, and from hair length and clothing such as shirt and pant for men, sari and salwar for women, for sex. Explain body posture and setting cues for mood. Explain what you think the setting and environment was. For these reasons, show why you believe your story is a good fit for the picture shown.

The Discussion Phase

During the discussion phase, candidates are divided into small groups. At the beginning of the session, each candidate receives a copy of their own written script. Following the examiner's instructions, candidates take turns reading their stories aloud. Once everyone has finished presenting, the group is given an opportunity to discuss their stories.

The discussion is generally conducted in English, although candidates may be allowed to use Bangla if necessary. In the discussion, candidates explain the reasoning behind their interpretation of the picture and the context of their story. It is natural for different candidates to have different interpretations. Candidates are encouraged to support their viewpoints with logical arguments and work together to develop a common story.

The PPDT is designed to assess a candidate's communication skills, mental aptitude, observation ability, creativity, and clarity of thought.

To prepare effectively, practice writing spontaneous stories on a variety of hazy pictures, develop fluency in both Bangla and English, and learn to express ideas clearly and logically. On test day, approach the picture with an open mind, avoid preconceived ideas, and present your interpretation with confidence.