RRB ALP 2026 Syllabus for CBT-1 and CBT-2
RRB ALP 2026 Syllabus & Preparation Guide
1️⃣ CBT-1 (Stage 1)
Objective: Screening test, basic aptitude, reasoning, and general awareness.
| Section | Topics | Weightage / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Number System, HCF & LCM, Fractions, Decimals, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Average, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration | Focus on speed & accuracy. Practice shortcuts for calculations. |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Analogies, Series, Coding-Decoding, Syllogisms, Blood Relations, Directions, Clocks, Calendar, Venn Diagram, Puzzle & Seating Arrangement | Solve puzzles daily; use diagrams for reasoning problems. |
| General Science | Physics (Basics), Chemistry (Periodic Table, Common Compounds), Biology (Human Body, Plants, Environment) | Cover class 10 NCERT-level science. Important for scoring quickly. |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs (last 12 months), Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Awards, Sports, Books & Authors | Read newspapers, monthly GK magazines, and online quizzes. |
CBT-1 Strategy:
- 60–90 minutes, ~75 questions.
- Accuracy > attempting all questions.
- Practice previous year RRB papers for pattern familiarity.
2️⃣ CBT-2 (Stage 2)
Objective: In-depth testing including technical knowledge (trade-specific).
| Section | Topics | Weightage / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics & General Intelligence | Same as CBT-1 but more advanced: algebra, geometry, probability, higher reasoning puzzles | Practice time-bound tests to improve speed. |
| General Awareness | Same as CBT-1, plus Railway-specific GK (e.g., zones, engine types, railway history) | Focus on railway current affairs and general knowledge books. |
| Technical / Trade Knowledge | Depends on your qualification: | |
| ITI (Electrician, Fitter, Mechanic, Electronics, etc.) | Workshop tools, Electrical Machines, Measurement Instruments, Circuit Basics, Safety Rules | Focus on trade manuals and ITI textbooks. |
| Diploma / Engineering | Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics fundamentals, Machines, Electrical Circuits, Thermodynamics, Basic Electronics, Safety Norms | Revise core subjects from diploma syllabus. |
CBT-2 Strategy:
- 2 hours, ~100–120 questions.
- Allocate time based on your strongest section.
- Practice technical questions from previous RRB ALP papers.
3️⃣ CBAT (Computer Based Aptitude Test)
Objective: Aptitude specific to ALP role, tests suitability for loco-pilot.
| Test Type | Topics / Skills | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Memory & Concentration | Short-term memory, number and figure sequences | Practice memory exercises & pattern recognition |
| Spatial Ability | Cube counting, mirror images, water tank, folding/unfolding | Visualize mentally, draw diagrams |
| Logical Reasoning | Problem-solving, analytical reasoning | Solve puzzles and seating arrangements |
| Reaction Time | Time-bound response tests | Use online reaction time simulators |
CBAT Strategy:
- Train reaction time daily (~15–20 min).
- Use mock CBAT tests to simulate real test environment.
4️⃣ Preparation Plan
Step 1: Mathematics & Reasoning
- Daily practice 1–2 hours.
- Use shortcuts for calculations.
Step 2: General Awareness
- Daily GK/Current Affairs reading (20–30 min).
- Focus on Indian Railways news & GK.
Step 3: Trade/Technical Knowledge
- Daily 1–2 hours revision of ITI/Diploma subjects.
- Solve previous year RRB technical papers.
Step 4: CBAT Practice
- Online CBAT simulators & aptitude books.
- Improve accuracy and speed.
Step 5: Mock Tests
- Take full-length mock CBT-1 and CBT-2 tests weekly.
- Analyze mistakes and track improvement.
