To make your RRB NTPC preparation stand out, you need to show dedication, hard work, and determination. Are you prepared to turn your efforts into exceptional success in the exam?
How was this guide made for RRB NTPC Aspirants?
EduRev experts have carefully crafted this guide using tips and insights from successful RRB NTPC candidates. We’ve studied the study routines, schedules, and methods of top performers to give students a clear, effective path for their preparation.
Why did EduRev make this guide for RRB NTPC Aspirants?
Our goal was to provide a clear answer to the question, "How to Prepare for RRB NTPC," in the best way possible for all candidates. Many people waste valuable time, energy, and resources during their preparation because they lack proper guidance. We believe this guide will be very helpful for every RRB NTPC candidate.
This resource is meant to offer a structured plan, helping you succeed in the RRB NTPC exam with less time, effort, and cost by focusing on the important areas. We have created a strategic framework for your RRB NTPC preparation to help you reach your goals.
How to Prepare for RRB NTPC Exam ?
This guide is here to help you create a clear, step-by-step study plan for the upcoming RRB NTPC exam. Let’s go over an effective step by step preparation strategy to get you ready for success.
Step 0: What to do before you begin your RRB NTPC preparation?
Before you start preparing for the RRB NTPC exam, it’s important to read and understand this guide thoroughly. Take a moment to think about how you currently study and make sure you’re using effective strategies to reach your goal of getting a government job.
- Set Clear Goals and Manage Your Time: Get ready for the exam by setting realistic goals and managing your time well.
- Make a Study Plan: Create a detailed study plan that includes all subjects and topics, while also allowing time for breaks to keep your mind and body healthy.
- Make a Timetable: Having a timetable is essential for success. Set specific deadlines for each subject and make sure you leave enough time for revision and practice.
- Focus on Daily and Weekly Planning: Make daily and weekly plans to stay organized, recognize your strengths and weaknesses, and track your progress

Step 1: Understand the RRB NTPC Exam Pattern and Syllabus
A clear understanding of the RRB NTPC exam pattern and syllabus is important for effective preparation. The exam typically comprises multiple-choice questions divided into several sections:
- Mathematics
- General Intelligence and Reasoning
- General Awareness
Understanding the Syllabus
Before you start preparing for the RRB NTPC exam, it’s very important to understand the updated syllabus. The exam has multiple stages, including CBT 1 (Computer-Based Test 1) and CBT 2 (Computer-Based Test 2), and each stage has its own syllabus. Knowing what topics are covered in each stage is key to preparing well and doing well on the exam.
Understanding the Exam Pattern
Getting to know the exam pattern is essential for creating an effective study plan. It helps you understand what types of questions will be asked, how is the marking scheme for different sections, and how long the exam will take. By reviewing the patterns for CBT 1 and CBT 2 of the RRB NTPC exam, you can organize your preparation better.
The RRB NTPC exam consists of three main stages, so it's important to customize your preparation for each stage:
- Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT 1)
This is the first screening stage and includes sections on Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning and General Awareness. - Stage 2: Computer-Based Test (CBT 2)
This stage is more specific to the post you've applied for. It tests similar subjects but with a higher difficulty level and more questions. - Stage 3: Document Verification, CBAT, or Skill Test
Based on your post preference, this stage includes document verification, the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), or a Skill Test, such as typing for clerical positions.
Prepare thoroughly for each stage to ensure success at every level of the RRB NTPC recruitment process.
Overview of RRB NTPC Exam |
Organization | Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) |
Exam Name | Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) |
Vacancies | 11558 |
Selection Stages | CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT, Document Verification |
Mode of Exam | Online (Computer- based) |
Negative Marking | 1/3rd |
Duration Of Exam | 90 Minutes (Both CBT 1 and 2) |
Question Type | Objective |
Step 2: Understand Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Analyzing previous year questions is important for identifying key topics and patterns in the exam.
- Focus on Mathematics and General Awareness: Many candidates also prepare for other competitive exams; thus, it’s essential to focus on the RRB NTPC’s emphasis on quantitative skills and general awareness.
- Target High-Weightage Topics: It's important to look at how much each topic is worth in the syllabus to make your studying more effective. Spend more time on the topics that carry more weightage to improve your chances of doing well on the exam. You can spend less time on topics that are worth fewer points, which will help you use your time and energy better.
- Identify the type of Questions: Moreover, reviewing previous years' questions (PYQs) can give you valuable insights into the actual exam and help you become familiar with the types of questions typically asked. It also allows you to identify repeated patterns or question formats, enabling you to tailor your preparation accordingly.
Step 3: Standard Refrence Books for RRB NTPC Preparation
High-quality study materials is very important for success.
- Relevant Books: For subjects like General Science and General Awareness, focus on books like Lucent’s General Science and Lucent’s General Knowledge, along with current affairs magazines for comprehensive preparation as per to the RRB NTPC exam and for maths you can refer to Fast Track by Rajesh Verma , Advance Maths by Rakesh Yadav
- Include video lectures and notes in your study materials: Utilize video resources and topic-based tests to deepen your understanding. EduRev's Infinity Package offers comprehensive study materials.
- RRB NTPC Previous Year Papers: Solving past question papers is a highly effective way to prepare for the RRB NTPC exam. Make sure to solve at least five years' previous papers to understand the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. Utilizing previous year question papers will help you practice and prepare efficiently for the actual exam.
Step 4: Strategy For CBT-1
Here’s a guide on how to prepare for each subject in the CBT-1 exam:
Sections | No of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
Mathematics | 30 | 30 | 90 minutes |
General Intelligence and Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
General Awareness | 40 | 40 |
Total | 100 | 100 |
1. Mathematics (30 Questions)
Topics to Cover:
- Profit and Loss, LCM and HCF, Ratios and Proportions, Percentage, Number System, Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Decimals, Fractions, Simple and Compound Interest, Elementary Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry, Elementary Statistics.
Study Materials:
- Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal
- Fast Track by Rajesh Verma
- NCERT Maths (Grade 6 to 11)
- Magical Books on Quicker Maths by M Tyra
- Advance Maths by Rakesh Yadav
Preparation Tips:
- Practice problem-solving daily to build speed and accuracy.
- Focus on shortcuts and tricks to solve questions more efficiently.
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning (30 Questions)
Topics to Cover:
- Analogies, Number and Alphabet Series Completion, Coding and Decoding, Relationships, Analytical Reasoning, Mathematical Operations, Syllogism, Jumbling, Similarities and Differences, Venn Diagrams, Puzzles, Data Sufficiency, Statement-Conclusion, Statement-Courses of Action, Graph Interpretation.
Study Materials:
- Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey
- Test of Reasoning by Edgar Thorpe
- A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal
- New Approach to Reasoning Verbal, Non-Verbal, and Analytical by BS Sijwali and Indu Sijwali
- Lucent’s General Intelligence and Reasoning
Preparation Tips:
- Solve puzzles and reasoning problems daily to improve logical thinking
- Practice previous years’ questions to familiarize yourself with question types.
3. General Awareness (40 Questions)
Topics to Cover:
- Current Events, Games and Sports, Indian Art and Culture, Literature, Monuments, General Science, Indian History, Geography, Polity, Science and Technology, World Organizations, Environment, Computers, Abbreviations, Indian Transport, Economy, Famous Personalities, Government Programs, Flora and Fauna, Public Sector Organizations.
Study Materials:
- Lucent’s General Knowledge
- Manorama Yearbook
- Online Resources
Preparation Tips:
- Make notes for current affairs and revise them weekly.
- Use flashcards for important dates and events.
Step 5: Strategy For CBT-2
The RRB NTPC CBT-2 exam builds upon the basics tested in CBT-1, featuring a more challenging level of questions and a slight shift in focus. Here’s how you can adapt your preparation strategy for CBT-2 compared to CBT-1:
Key Differences Between CBT-1 and CBT-2:
1. Difficulty Level:
- CBT-1 mainly tests basic knowledge.
- CBT-2 requires deeper understanding, particularly in areas like maths and reasoning.
2. Exam Duration and Question Count:
- CBT-1 comprises 100 questions (90 minutes), while CBT-2 includes 120 questions in the same time frame, making time management even more important.
3. Weightage of Topics:
- CBT-2 places greater emphasis on General Awareness and Mathematics, expecting you to solve more difficult math problems and reasoning questions.
Subject-Wise Strategy for CBT-2:
Sections | No of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
Mathematics | 35 | 35 | 90 minutes |
General Intelligence and Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
Total | 120 | 120 |
1. Mathematics (35 Questions)
Focus Areas:
- Higher-Level Maths and Advanced Topics : Practice questions on topics like trigonometry, geometry, and algebra.
- Data Interpretation : This section can be more analytical in CBT-2.
Strategy:
- Work on improving accuracy and speed through daily problem-solving.
- Develop shortcuts for time-consuming topics like data interpretation and geometry as these areas are given more importance in CBT 2
2. General Intelligence and Reasoning (35 Questions)
Focus Areas:
- Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability : Be prepared for more complex questions, such as puzzles and multi-step reasoning problems.
Strategy:
- Practice with high-difficulty reasoning problems and familiarize yourself with various question formats.
- Increase speed by setting time limits while practicing different types of reasoning questions to mirror the exam pressure.
3. General Awareness (50 Questions)
Focus Areas:
- Deeper Knowledge of Current Affairs : Follow daily news for in-depth understanding of major national and international events.
- Advanced Static GK : Focus on awards, sports, literature, historical events, and famous personalities.
Strategy:
- Regularly revise current affairs, especially the past six months, as CBT-2 may have a higher weightage on recent events.
- Use mock tests and quizzes to reinforce memory and improve recall speed.
In summary, while CBT-1 tests your basic aptitude and knowledge, CBT-2 requires a more in-depth approach with greater time management and subject-specific focus. This strategy will help refine and enhance your preparation to perform well in this advanced stage.
Step 6: Mock Test Strategies
Attempting mock tests and previous year papers helps identify your weaknesses and enhances performance.
- Track Difficult Questions: Note challenging questions, especially in quantitative sections, and revisit them after each mock test.
- Use Effective Strategies: Categorize questions into Easy, Moderate, and Hard to manage them effectively during the exam.
Step 7: Include Daily Revision
Integrate daily revision of notes, formulas, and strategies into your study routine. Regular revision reinforces your learning and keeps concepts fresh.
Step 8: Clear Up Doubts Quickly
Resolve any doubts or queries you encounter during preparation immediately. This approach will strengthen your understanding and boost your confidence.
Step 9: Consistent Preparation
Consistency is key to succeeding in the RRB NTPC exam. Maintain dedication and discipline throughout your preparation journey, ensuring you stay focused on all aspects of the exam.
Step 10: Develop Confidence in Yourself
Self-confidence is essential for optimal performance on exam day. Stay consistent in your preparation, and remember that hard work and perseverance will lead to success.
Conclusion
Doing well in the RRB NTPC exam can be tough, but with hard work and good strategies, you can succeed. Be ready for some difficulties along the way, learn from them, and stay positive during your studies. Keep in mind that the best candidates are those who tackle challenges directly; it's important to know how to overcome obstacles and stay focused on your goals.