Is the RRB NTPC exam tough?


The RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Category) exam is for the recruitment of candidates like junior clerk cum typists, assistant station masters, commercial apprentices, traffic apprentices, etc. This is a difficult question to answer as the RRB NTPC exam can vary in difficulty depending on a number of factors. However, in general, the RRB NTPC exam is considered to be tough due to the vast amount of material that is covered and the high level of competition. Candidates who are not well prepared or who do not have a strong understanding of the material may find the exam to be challenging. Those who are better prepared and have a good grasp of the material typically find the exam to be more manageable. In either case, it is important to remember that all candidates have an equal chance of success if they put in the necessary effort and prepare properly. 

For the preparation, candidates must have a detailed syllabus and should be aware of the trends in the previous years' papers. For more help in preparations candidates can refer to the online coaching classes, where candidates can get well-prepared courses for the RRB NTPC exam. Achievers Academy is the best online coaching institute for RRB NTPC aspirants. The academy has a team of highly experienced and qualified educators who are experts in their respective fields. Candidates can find the detailed syllabus, exam pattern, and some preparation tips for the exam ahead.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus of RRB NTPC exam

The examination will be conducted in three stages-

  1. Stage I Computer Based Test (CBT I)
  2. Stage II Computer Based Test (CBT II)
  3. Typing Skill Test/Aptitude Test

After all these stages candidates will be called for document verification. The detailed pattern of the examination is given below.

  • CBT-I will consist of 100 objective-type questions for 1 mark each and the duration of this stage will be 90 minutes. The following sections will be there in CBT-I-

1. Mathematics- 30 Questions

2. General Intelligence and Reasoning- 30 Questions

3. General Awareness- 40 Questions

  • CBT-II will consist of 120 objective-type questions for 1 mark each and the duration of this stage will be 90 minutes. The following sections will be there in CBT-II-

1. Mathematics- 35 Questions

2. General Intelligence and Reasoning- 35 Questions

3. General Awareness- 50 Questions

Those who will qualify for CBT-I & II they will be called for Typing Skill Test/Aptitude Test according to the post applied. The detailed syllabus for every section is given below-

1. Mathematics

a) Number System

b) BODMAS

c) Decimals and Fractions

d) LCM and HCF

e) Ratio and Proportion

f) Percentages

g) Mensuration

h) Time and Work

i) Time and Distance

j) Simple and Compound Interest

k) Profit & Loss

l) Algebra

m) Data Interpretation

2. General Intelligence & Reasoning

a) Analogies

b) Alphabetical and Number Series

c) Coding and Decoding

d) Mathematical Operations

e) Relationships Verbal and Figure Classification

f) Arithmetical Number Series

g) Non-Verbal Series

h) Syllogistic Reasoning

i) Venn Diagrams

j) Data Interpretation and Sufficiency

k) Conclusions and Decision Making

l) Analytical Reasoning

3. General Awareness

a) Indian History

b) Indian Geography

c) Indian Constitution

d) Science & Technology

e) Current Affairs- National & International

f) Sports

g) Awards and Honors

h) Books and Authors

i) Environmental Issues

j) Basic of Computer and Computer applications

There is a negative marking of 1/3rd for every wrong answer in CBT-I & II.

Preparation Tips for RRB NTPC exam

1. Candidates must have a detailed syllabus and exam pattern for the examination.

2. Candidates should solve as many previous years' papers as possible to get an idea of the type of questions that are asked in the examination.

3. Candidates should focus on their strengths and work on their weaknesses. They should not try to mug up the material but should focus on understanding the concepts.

4. Candidates should make short notes while preparing for the examination as they can be referred to quickly before the exam.

5. Candidates should also solve mock tests and take online quizzes to test their knowledge and prepare for the examination.

6. Candidates should also focus on current affairs as there is a separate section for it in the examination.

Candidates who are preparing for the RRB NTPC exam should keep these points in mind to score well in the examination. All the best!


Deep Shikha