Introduction:

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam to recruit candidates for various clerical and administrative posts such as Commercial Apprentice, Traffic Assistant, Goods Guard, Station Master, Junior Clerk, and more. The NTPC exam is conducted in multiple stages and requires focused preparation across different subjects. Understanding the complete syllabus is the first step toward a well-planned study strategy. Below is a detailed breakdown of the NTPC syllabus categorized by exam stages and subject areas.

1. NTPC Exam Structure Overview

The RRB NTPC recruitment process involves the following stages:

• 1st Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-1)
  
  
• 2nd Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-2)
  
  
• Typing Skill Test / Computer Based Aptitude Test (as applicable)
  
  
• Verification of documents
  
  
• Medical Examination
  
  

Only candidates who qualify each stage proceed to the next, with CBT-1 and CBT-2 being common for most posts.

2. CBT-1 Syllabus (Preliminary Stage)

The CBT-1 is a screening exam with the following pattern:

• Total questions: 100
  
  
• Time duration: 90 minutes
  
  
• Subjects Covered:
  
  
• General Awareness (40 Questions)
  
  
• Mathematics (30 Questions)
  
  
• General Intelligence and Reasoning (30 Questions)
  
  

General Awareness: This section assesses the candidate's knowledge of current events, general knowledge, and static awareness.

Topics include:

• Current Affairs (National & International)
  
  
• History, Culture, and Geography of India
  
  
• Indian Economy
  
  
• General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology - basic level)
  
  
• Indian Polity and Constitution
  
  
• Environmental Issues and Sustainable Development
  
  
• Basics of Computers and Applications
  
  
• Common Abbreviations
  
  
• Indian Railways: History and Organization
  
  
• Important Government Schemes
  
  

Mathematics: Covers basic arithmetic and quantitative aptitude.

Topics include:

• Number System
  
  
• BODMAS
  
  
• Decimals and Fractions
  
  
• Ratio and Proportion
  
  
• Percentages
  
  
• Time and Work
  
  
• Time, Speed ​​and Distance
  
  
• Simple and Compound Interest
  
  
• Profit and Loss
  
  
• Geometry and Mensuration
  
  
• Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs)
  
  
• Algebra (Basic Level)
  
  

General Intelligence and Reasoning: This section evaluates logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Topics include:

• Analogies
  
  
• Coding–Decoding
  
  
• Puzzles and Sitting Arrangement
  
  
• Syllogisms
  
  
• Statement and Conclusion
  
  
• Blood Relations
  
  
• Direction Sense
  
  
• Venn Diagrams
  
  
• mathematical operations
  
  
• Series (Number & Alphabetical)
  
  

3. CBT-2 Syllabus (Main Stage)

CBT-2 is more detailed and job-specific. The exam pattern is:

• Total questions: 120
  
  
• Time duration: 90 minutes
  
  
• Subjects Covered:
  
  
• General Awareness (50 Questions)
  
  
• Mathematics (35 Questions)
  
  
• General Intelligence and Reasoning (35 Questions)
  
  

The topics remain largely the same as in CBT-1 but are tested at a higher difficulty level, requiring deeper conceptual clarity and faster problem-solving.

4.Typing Skill Test / CBAT

Typing Skill Test (TST): Applicable for posts like Junior Clerk, Accounts Clerk, Senior Clerk, etc.

• Candidates must be able to type at least 30 words per minute (WPM) in English or 25 WPM in Hindi.
  
  
• No relaxation is allowed in speed for any category.
  
  

Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT): Only for candidates applying for posts like Station Master and Traffic Assistant.

• Focuses on logical reasoning, memory, observation, and other cognitive skills.
  
  
• No negative marking is applied in CBAT.
  
  
• Candidates must secure a minimum T-score to qualify.
  
  

5. Document Verification and Medical Fitness

After clearing all exams, shortlisted candidates are invited for Document Verification (DV) . It is crucial to carry original certificates regarding age, qualification, caste, disability (if any), and other relevant documents.

Post DV, a Medical Examination is conducted to ensure candidates meet the medical standards relevant to their chosen post. Fitness levels are categorized from A-1 (highest) to C-1 depending on the job requirements.

Conclusion

Preparing for the NTPC exam demands a well-structured approach based on the complete understanding of the NTPC syllabus . While CBT-1 filters candidates with general aptitude, CBT-2 delves deeper into subject proficiency. Regular practice, up-to-date awareness of current affairs, and consistent revision are key to cracking the exam. Whether you're aiming for clerical roles or supervisory positions, a clear grasp of the syllabus sets the foundation for success.