How do I prepare for the RRB NTPC exam to crack the preliminary and position?

The RRB NTPC (Railway Recruitment Board Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam attracts thousands of aspirants yearly. To secure a position, candidates must clear the preliminary (Stage 1) and main (Stage 2) exams. To prepare for this exam, candidates need to cover a broad syllabus efficiently and effectively. Before diving into preparation, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus. The RRB NTPC exam consists of two stages:

1. Stage 1 (Preliminary Exam):
   • General Awareness: 40 questions
   • Mathematics: 30 questions
   • General Intelligence and Reasoning: 30 questions
2. Stage 2 (Main Exam):
   • General Awareness: 50 questions
   • Mathematics: 35 questions
   • General Intelligence and Reasoning: 35 questions

Understanding the distribution of questions and marks helps in planning your study schedule and focusing on important topics. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare and crack the exam.

(A) Create a Study Plan

A well-structured study plan is essential for covering the extensive syllabus of the RRB NTPC exam. Here are some tips for creating an effective study plan:

1. Daily Schedule: Allocate specific time slots for each subject daily. Ensure you cover all subjects regularly to maintain a balanced preparation.
2. Weekly Targets: Set weekly targets to complete certain topics or chapters. This helps in tracking your progress and staying motivated.
3. Revision Time: Dedicate time for regular revision to retain what you’ve studied. Revision is crucial for long-term memory retention.

(B) Focus on Important Topics

While the entire syllabus is important, focusing on key topics can help you score better. Here are some important topics for each section:

1. General Awareness:
   • Current Affairs
   • Indian History
   • Geography
   • Polity
   • Economy
   • Static GK (General Knowledge)
2. Mathematics:
   • Arithmetic (Number System, Simplification, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion)
   • Algebra
   • Geometry and Trigonometry
   • Data Interpretation
   • Mensuration
3. General Intelligence and Reasoning:
   • Analogies
   • Coding-Decoding
   • Series (Number and Alphabet)
   • Blood Relations
   • Puzzles
   • Syllogism

(C) Practice with Mock Tests and Previous Papers

Mock tests and previous year's papers are invaluable resources for RRB NTPC preparation. They help in:

1. Understanding Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.
2. Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively during the exam.
3. Identifying Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them.
4. Building Confidence: Regular practice builds confidence and reduces exam-day anxiety.

(D) Enhance General Awareness

General Awareness is a significant part of the RRB NTPC exam. To enhance your general awareness reading newspapers daily to keep you updated with current affairs. Use apps that provide daily current affairs updates.

(E) Join Coaching or Online Courses

Enrolling in a coaching institute or online course for RRB NTPC exam can provide structured guidance and support. Coaching centers offer expert faculty, study materials, and regular tests. Online platforms like Achievers Academy provide comprehensive courses, live classes, and doubt-solving sessions.

Lastly, maintaining a positive attitude and good health is vital for effective preparation. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep improve concentration and reduce stress. By applying these tips in preparation candidates can significantly improve their chances of success. Stay positive, stay healthy, and keep pushing towards your goal. Good luck!