If you're someone prepping for RRB NTPC 2025, chances are you've already heard the phrase "syllabus is key." And it's true — knowing exactly what to study (and what not to waste time on) can make a huge difference in your preparation strategy.
Let’s break it down. No jargon. No stress.
What’s the RRB NTPC Exam Structure Like?
Before we jump into the syllabus, a quick look at the exam format will make things easier to digest.
The RRB NTPC exam is held in multiple stages:
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| CBT 1 | First stage (screening) |
| CBT 2 | Main stage (more detailed) |
| Skill Test / Typing / CBAT | Depending on the post you applied for |
| Document Verification & Medical Test | Final selection process |
RRB NTPC Syllabus for CBT 1
This stage is more about filtering candidates, but don’t take it lightly. It has three sections:
1. General Awareness
This section is often a game-changer because it has the highest weightage. Focus on:
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs | Last 6-8 months (important news, events, government schemes) |
| Static GK | Important days, books, Indian polity, geography |
| Basic Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology — NCERT level |
| History & Culture of India | Indian Independence, Ancient & Medieval History |
| Indian Economy | Basic economic concepts, government initiatives |
| Railway Facts | Important railway facts and figures |
2. Mathematics
Expect mostly class 10-level math, but speed and accuracy are key. Topics include:
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Number System | Decimals, fractions |
| Percentage | Profit & loss |
| Ratio & Proportion | Basic ratio concepts, solving word problems |
| Time, Speed & Distance | Solving related problems |
| Interest | Simple & compound interest |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 2D & 3D shapes, areas, volumes |
| Statistics & Algebra | Mean, median, algebraic expressions |
3. General Intelligence & Reasoning
This one tests your ability to think quickly and logically:
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Analogies | Logical relationships between different things |
| Classification | Grouping of similar objects |
| Series | Numerical and letter series |
| Coding-Decoding | Pattern recognition and coding logic |
| Blood Relations | Family relation puzzles |
| Venn Diagrams | Diagrammatic representation of sets |
| Puzzles | Logical puzzles and reasoning |
| Syllogism | Conclusion-based reasoning |
| Statement & Conclusion | Identifying valid conclusions |
Total Questions: 100
Duration: 90 minutes
Negative Marking: 1/3 per wrong answer
RRB NTPC Syllabus for CBT 2
Now this is where it gets a bit more detailed, but the subjects remain exactly the same — just the level of questions goes up.
General Awareness
More in-depth, focus on current affairs, government schemes, and budget/economy.
Mathematics
Slightly tougher questions; expect 2-step or tricky problems.
Reasoning
Puzzles, arrangements, and logic-based questions take the spotlight.
Total Questions: 120
Duration: 90 minutes
Again, 1/3rd negative marking
Shift Timings for RRB NTPC Exam 2025
The RRB NTPC exam will be conducted between June 5 and June 23, 2025. The exam will have three shifts each day. Here are the shift timings:
| Shift | Reporting Time | Exam Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 | 7:30 AM | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Shift 2 | 11:15 AM | 12:45 PM – 2:15 PM |
| Shift 3 | 3:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
How Should You Prepare?
Here’s what I’ve found to work well:
- Stick to the syllabus — don’t go off-track chasing everything.
- Read one newspaper daily for current affairs.
- Use apps or notes for daily quizzes (helps with retention).
- Solve previous year papers — these are gold.
- Practice full-length mock tests weekly, then analyze your mistakes.
Final Thoughts
The RRB NTPC syllabus isn’t rocket science, but it does demand consistency. The competition is huge — over a crore candidates, yes — but if you focus on mastering the basics, manage your time well, and stay calm, you’ll be way ahead of most.
If you’re aiming for roles like station master, junior clerk, goods guard, or traffic assistant, this is your starting point. Get the syllabus right. The rest will follow.
Good luck, and stay consistent! If you'd like a PDF of the full syllabus or some topic-wise strategy posts, drop a message anytime.