The RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board to recruit candidates for various posts in Indian Railways such as Junior Clerk, Accounts Clerk, Goods Guard, Station Master, and more. It is one of the most popular government job exams in India due to the job security, salary, perks, and large number of vacancies.
However, with increasing competition and limited seats, preparing smartly and strategically is the key to cracking this exam. If you are wondering how to prepare for RRB NTPC, you’re in the right place. This guide will give you all the information you need, from syllabus and exam pattern to preparation strategies and book recommendations.
Understanding the RRB NTPC Exam Structure
The RRB NTPC recruitment process has several stages depending on the post you apply for. Here are the common stages:
- 1st Stage CBT (Computer Based Test)
- 2nd Stage CBT
- Typing Skill Test / Computer-Based Aptitude Test (as applicable)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
Let’s break them down:
1. First Stage CBT (Screening Stage)
This stage is common for all posts. It is primarily a screening test to shortlist candidates for the second stage.
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
There is negative marking of 1/3 mark for each wrong answer.
2. Second Stage CBT
This stage is more detailed and post-specific.
- Total Questions: 120
- Total Marks: 120
- Duration: 90 minutes
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
The syllabus remains similar but at a slightly higher difficulty level.
3. Skill Test / Aptitude Test
- Typing Test is required for posts like Junior Clerk, Accounts Clerk, Junior Time Keeper, etc. Candidates must type a given passage in English (30 wpm) or Hindi (25 wpm).
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test is conducted for posts like Station Master and Traffic Assistant. It tests logical thinking, speed, and accuracy.
RRB NTPC Syllabus – What to Study
General Awareness
This section is the most scoring, with 40–50 questions. Key topics include:
- Current Affairs (Last 6 months)
- Indian History & Freedom Struggle
- Geography (India & World)
- Indian Polity and Constitution
- Indian Economy
- General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology – Class 6 to 10 level)
- Railway Budget & Indian Railways (basic facts)
- Culture and Sports
- Important National & International Events
Mathematics
Focus on basic to moderate level quantitative aptitude. Topics include:
- Number System
- BODMAS
- Decimals and Fractions
- HCF & LCM
- Ratio and Proportion
- Percentage
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Profit & Loss
- Algebra
- Geometry & Trigonometry (Basic)
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts)
General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section tests your problem-solving ability and logical reasoning.
- Analogies
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Puzzles
- Number Series
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogisms
- Statement and Conclusion
- Alphabetical and Number Series
- Ranking and Order
Preparation Strategy – How to Crack RRB NTPC
1. Know the Exam Inside Out
Understand the exam pattern, syllabus, marking scheme, and difficulty level. Analyze previous year papers to understand which topics are most important.
2. Create a Personalized Study Plan
Make a timetable based on your strengths and weaknesses. For example:
| Time | Subject | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 2 hrs | Mathematics | Concept + Practice |
| 1.5 hrs | Reasoning | Topic-wise Questions |
| 2 hrs | General Awareness | Static + Current Affairs |
| 30 mins | Revision | Notes/Previous Mistakes |
Make sure you’re studying for at least 5–6 hours daily if you’re a full-time aspirant. Working individuals can aim for 2–3 hours on weekdays and more on weekends.
3. Strengthen Basic Concepts First
Don’t jump into mocks if you’re a beginner. Start with basics:
- For Maths, refer to Class 6–10 NCERTs or basic arithmetic books.
- For Reasoning, start with simpler puzzles and gradually move to complex ones.
- For General Awareness, revise NCERTs and read newspapers.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
- Practice topic-wise questions daily.
- Once basics are clear, start solving mixed questions.
- Try to solve at least 50–70 questions/day in each section.
- Use short tricks and mental math to increase speed in Maths.
5. Attempt Mock Tests Regularly
Mock tests help you simulate the actual exam environment.
- Start with 1 mock per week, increase to 3–4 per week closer to exam.
- Analyze each mock:
- Where did you waste time?
- What kind of mistakes are frequent?
- Which sections need improvement?
Use mock test platforms like Testbook, Gradeup, Oliveboard, or Adda247.
6. Focus on General Awareness Daily
- Read a reliable newspaper like The Hindu or Indian Express.
- Use apps like GKToday, AffairsCloud, or Current Affairs by Adda247.
- Make short notes for quick revision.
- Revise Static GK, Railway Facts, Important Dates, and Scientific Facts.
7. Prepare for Typing Test / Aptitude Test
- Use typing software like TypingMaster, 10FastFingers, or Keybr.com.
- Practice daily – focus on accuracy first, then speed.
- For Aptitude Test, solve speed-based logical reasoning puzzles and practice previous years’ questions.
Best Books for RRB NTPC Preparation
Mathematics
- Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma (Arihant)
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
Reasoning
- A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey
General Awareness
- Lucent’s General Knowledge (for Static GK)
- Manorama Year Book (for general awareness)
Current Affairs
- Monthly magazines by Arihant, Drishti IAS, or Vision IAS
- Follow YouTube daily CA videos (AffairsCloud, StudyIQ, Wifistudy)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the General Awareness section – It’s high-scoring and requires consistent revision.
- Not analyzing mock tests – This leads to repeating the same mistakes.
- Over-relying on coaching – Self-study and practice matter more.
- Procrastination – Consistency is more important than intense but irregular study.
Tips for Working Aspirants
- Use commute time to listen to audio-based current affairs or revise static GK.
- Study at least 2 hours on weekdays and make up on weekends.
- Practice mock tests on mobile apps if you can’t access a laptop during the day.
Final Words – Stay Focused and Consistent
Cracking RRB NTPC is completely achievable if you’re serious and consistent. It doesn’t require high-level intelligence, just smart planning, regular practice, and the right attitude. Remember:
- Stick to your plan.
- Revise regularly.
- Stay calm and motivated.
Even if you don’t see instant progress, trust the process. Success in competitive exams is a game of patience and persistence. You’re not just preparing for a job; you’re preparing for a secure and stable career.