Direct tool links (tap and go)
Recommended workflow (Registration → DV)
- Check lighting before live capture: Enhance Lab
- Signature size + KB accuracy: Launch Toolkit or Image Resize Tool
- Certificates clarity first: Enhance Lab
- Convert each certificate: Image to PDF Tool
- One dossier file: Merge PDF Tool
- If PDF is too big: PDF to Image Tool → compress → convert back to PDF
SSC Steno Grade C & D 2026: Official Document Guide • Registration vs. Skill Test Requirements
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Stenographer Grade 'C' & 'D' examination is one of the most unique recruitment drives in India. While most exams focus on Quant and Reasoning, the Steno exam tests a candidate's speed and accuracy in shorthand and typing. However, many brilliant stenographers never get to showcase their skills because they fail the "Technical Phase"the document upload and verification process.
In the 2026 recruitment cycle, the SSC has implemented a two-layered document requirement system. There are specific rules for your initial Registration (OTR) and a different set of standards for the Skill Test/Document Verification (DV) stage. As a fellow Bank Exam aspirant, I know that managing these documents while practicing shorthand at 80-100 wpm is exhausting.
At SarkariPixel.in, we have built the specialized SSC Preset and PDF Tools to handle this two-stage process. In this guide, we break down exactly what you need for both phases of the SSC Steno 2026 journey using Launch Toolkit, Enhance Lab, Image Resize Tool, Image to PDF Tool, and Merge PDF Tool.
Phase 1: The Registration (Application) Phase
When you first apply for the Steno Grade C & D posts, the portal (ssc.gov.in) focuses on your identity. One error here means you won't even receive an admit card for the Computer Based Examination (CBE).
1. The "Live Photo" standard
The 2026 SSC portal primarily uses Live Capture.
The Problem: Taking a live photo on a mobile browser often results in a "Yellowish" or "Dark" image due to room lighting.
The Fix: Before you start the live process, use our Image Enhance Tool on a test photo. It will show you how "White" your background needs to be for the AI to accept it.
2. The Scanned Signature
This is where most Steno aspirants get stuck.
- Dimensions: 4.0 cm (width) x 2.0 cm (height).
- File Size: 10 KB to 20 KB.
- The Gold Standard: Use a Black Gel Pen on unruled white paper. Use the SSC Preset in our Launch Toolkit to hit exactly 15KB with the correct dimensions (or use Image Resize Tool + Compression Lab if you want manual control).
Phase 2: The Skill Test & Document Verification (DV)
If you clear the CBE, you will be called for the Stenography Skill Test. At this stage, you often need to carry a "Dossier" of digital and physical documents. If the department asks for digital uploads of your certificates, the rules change from JPG to PDF.
Documents Required for the Steno DV Stage
- Matriculation (10th) Certificate: Proof of Date of Birth.
- 12th Standard Marksheet: Minimum educational qualification.
- Caste/Category Certificate: (OBC/SC/ST/EWS) in the Central Government format.
- PWD/Ex-Servicemen Certificates: If applicable.
Technical Data Table (DV Upload Standard)
| Document Type | Format | File Size Limit | SarkariPixel Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Marksheets | Under 300 KB | Image to PDF (+ Compression Lab if needed) | |
| Category Certificate | Under 300 KB | Image to PDF (+ Enhance Lab first for seals/dates) | |
| Merged Dossier | Under 1 MB | Merge PDF Tool (+ Compression Lab) |
3. How to Use SarkariPixel Tools for Steno Success
Since Steno candidates need both Image and PDF tools, our platform is their perfect "Command Center."
For the Application (Image Tools)
Use the Launch Toolkit and select the "SSC Preset." It will guide you to enhance your signature photo and compress it to the exact 10-20KB limit.
For the Skill Test Dossier (PDF Tools)
Usually, you need to keep all your certificates in one place.
- Scan your certificates using your phone (use natural light!).
- Enhance: Use our Enhance Lab to make the black text of your marksheet stand out against the white background.
- Convert: Use our Image to PDF Tool to turn those photos into official-looking documents under 300 KB.
- Merge: If you need to send a single file to a department for scrutiny, use our Merge PDF Tool to combine 10th, 12th, and Caste certificates into one professional file.
4. Why "Client-Side" Processing is a Must for Steno Candidates
As a future Stenographer in a Central Ministry, you will be handling sensitive government data. You should start practicing data security now.
Most "Free" resizing websites upload your marksheets to their servers. SarkariPixel is 100% Privacy-First.
Our tools are Client-Side. This means your 10th marksheet and your signature never leave your device. The processing happens in your browser's RAM. We provide the "Gold Standard" of security that every Indian aspirant deserves.
5. Common Rejection Traps in SSC Steno Forms
- Signature in ALL CAPS: Stenographers are expected to have a professional signature. Signing in block letters is an automatic rejection.
- Blurry Date of Issue: On your Caste certificate, the "Date of Issue" is critical to determine the "Creamy Layer" or "EWS" status. If the text looks soft, use Enhance Lab to sharpen it before converting to PDF.
- Spectacles in Live Photo: Even if they are not tinted, spectacles often cause a glare that hides your eyes. The SSC AI will reject the capture. Remove them!
6. Pro-Tip: The "Digital Steno Folder"
As an aspirant balancing study and work, I recommend creating a folder on your phone titled "SSC_Steno_Ready."
Inside, keep:
- Your photo (resized to 40KB via SarkariPixel).
- Your signature (resized to 15KB via SarkariPixel).
- A merged PDF of your ID proofs and 12th marksheet.
Having these ready ensures that even if the server is slow on the last day, you can finish your application in 2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a digital signature (drawn on screen)?
A: No. For SSC Steno, you must sign on paper and scan it. However, for other office work, you can use our Sign PDF Tool!
Q: Is the "Date on Photo" required for Steno 2026?
A: As per current rules, the date is not mandatory, but the photo must be current (not more than 3 months old).
Q: My PDF marksheet is 400 KB, but the limit is 300 KB. Help!
A: Use our PDF to Image Tool, then use the Image Compressor to hit a target of 2–50 KB, and finally convert it back to PDF using our Image to PDF tool. This loop keeps it sharp but small.
Final Word from the Founder
To all the shorthand masters: Your skill requires immense patience and precision. Don't let a technicality like a "File Size Error" stop you from reaching the Ministry of Home Affairs or the MEA. I built SarkariPixel.in to be the most precise tool for the most precise candidates.
Take 5 minutes to organize your documents with our Launch Toolkit today. Get it done, get it right, and get back to your Pitman Shorthand practice. Your future in the Central Secretariat is waiting!