The Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) is a crucial part of the SSB Interview psychology tests, and the blank slide is the most exciting – and daunting – part of it. In the blank slide, there’s no picture shown, and candidates are expected to create a story from their imagination.
This is a golden opportunity to show a positive attitude without limiting your original thinking, leadership skills, and any image. Let’s dive into how to do it with a test story, expert tips, and real insight.
What is the Blank Slide in TAT?
- It’s usually the 12th and final slide shown in the TAT series.
- Unlike other slides, this one is completely blank.
- You have about 4 minutes to write a story.
- The idea is to reflect your true personality and bring out your Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs).
Important:
Assessors look for creativity, positivity, determination, leadership, initiative, and social adaptability in your story.

Sample Story for Blank Slide in TAT
Title: “The New Dawn”
Story:
Rohan, a young engineering-educated person, saw that his village lacked basic sanitary facilities, which led to health problems among the inhabitants. He was determined to create a difference, and discussed the idea of building low-cost toilets with village heads and the locals.
He organised consciousness campaigns, collaborated with a local NGO, and collected state funds during the Swachh Bharat mission. He led a team of volunteers and managed to build 50 toilets in 3 months. The villagers, inspired by Rohan’s initiative, began to maintain cleanliness strictly.
Rohan’s success not only improved health conditions in his village but also inspired the villages nearby to take similar initiatives. Given the effect of his work, Rohan decided to participate in civilian services to bring major positive changes to society.
Outcome:
Rohan’s leadership, endurance, and selfless service changed society for the better.
Analysis: Why This Story Works?
✅ Positive Theme: Social welfare and community leadership.
✅ Self-Initiative: Rohan didn’t wait for others to act.
✅ Leadership: He took charge and organised resources.
✅ Problem-Solving Attitude: Focused on practical, scalable solutions.
✅ Impact-Oriented: Story ends with broader aspirations and influence.
Tips to Frame a Story for a Blank Slide
1. Focus on a Realistic Scenario
- It could be related to social service, innovation, defence, sports, or personal achievement.
- Pick themes like disaster management, environment protection, education reforms, women empowerment, etc.
2. Project Officer-Like Qualities (OLQs)
Highlight:
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Courage
- Adaptability
- Sense of Responsibility
- Initiative
- Planning and Organising
3. Keep It Simple and Structured
Structure your story as:
- Introduction – Set the scene.
- Problem – Introduce a challenge.
- Action – What steps the hero took.
- Result – Positive and inspiring conclusion.
4. Maintain a Positive Outlook
Even if you describe a tough situation (like floods, accidents), your story should end with hope, victory, or transformation.
5. Relate It to Your Personality
The story should subtly reflect your aspirations or passions. This ensures naturalness and authenticity during later interviews.
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More Sample Story Ideas for Blank Slides
Theme | Story Idea |
Disaster Relief | Rescue operations during a flood |
Innovation | Building an eco-friendly startup |
Sports Leadership | Leading the college cricket team to victory |
Environmental Campaign | Organizing a tree-plantation drive |
Defence Aspirations | Helping a lost child during a parade event |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Writing fantasy or superhero stories.
❌ Showing violence, aggression, or negativity.
❌ Making the story too complicated.
❌ Forgetting to reflect any Officer-Like Quality.
❌ Copy-pasting stories you memorised. (Always create fresh!)
Conclusion: Your Story, Your Strength
The blank slide in TAT is a mirror to your personality. Take it as an opportunity to demonstrate that you possess the courage, vision, and responsibility needed to become a future officer.
Practice writing 5–10 blank slide stories before the SSB. Always keep them natural, inspiring, and aligned with real-world scenarios.
Remember, in SSB, you are not judged on what happens to you, but how you respond.
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FAQs for Sample Story for Blank Slide in TAT of SSB Interview
Ans. Ideally, 100–120 words within the 4-minute limit.
Ans. No. Stick to realistic and practical stories that showcase human effort and positivity.
Ans. Yes. Subtly frame the protagonist to reflect your qualities.
Ans. Positive, impactful, and inspirational endings leave the best impression.
Ans. Practice 2–3 stories per week during your SSB preparation phase.