CBT 1 structure
| Subject | Indicative questions |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 |
| Mathematics | 30 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 30 |
| Total | 100 |
The ordinary duration is 90 minutes. The notice provides 120 minutes for candidates eligible for use of a scribe. CBT 1 is a screening stage, and the notification describes the use of normalised scores for shortlisting.
CBT 2 structure
| Subject | Indicative questions |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 |
| Mathematics | 35 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 35 |
| Total | 120 |
The ordinary duration is again 90 minutes, with the notified provision for eligible scribe users. The section-wise distribution is indicative: the notification allows variation in the actual question paper.
Negative marking and qualifying standards
Each question carries one mark and each wrong answer attracts a one-third-mark deduction in these CBTs. The minimum qualifying percentage is not the same as the competitive cut-off for shortlisting. Reservation conditions, normalisation and the relevant RRB’s vacancies also affect the stage-specific process.
Which posts have a skill or aptitude test?
The Graduate notice assigns CBAT to Station Master and Traffic Assistant candidates. Typing requirements apply to the specified typist posts. Do not assume that every NTPC applicant takes both aptitude and typing tests. Match the exact post category with the selection table in your CEN.
For the Graduate CBAT route, the notification sets a minimum T-score of 42 in each test battery, without category relaxation in that minimum. It describes the merit combination of CBT 2 and CBAT for the relevant posts. The typing route has different rules and should be read separately.
How to practise the format
- Use the correct stage: CBT 2 has more questions than CBT 1 in the ordinary duration.
- Record attempted, correct and incorrect answers; do not judge a mock only by attempts.
- Apply the notified negative marking when scoring practice.
- Prepare the skill test relevant to your post after checking the qualification rules.
Related guides
Official sources
Official reference: rrb.indianrailways.gov.in