CBT-2 Part A and Part B

Introduction to CBT-2

The Computer Based Test 2 (CBT-2) for the RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) recruitment is a crucial stage in the selection process. It comprises two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A is common for all trades and assesses candidates' knowledge in subjects like Mathematics, Reasoning, General Science, and General Awareness. Part B is trade-specific, testing the technical knowledge relevant to the trade the candidate has applied for. Candidates must pass both parts to be considered for the next stage of the recruitment process.

CBT-2 Part A: Structure and Syllabus

Part A of CBT-2 is designed to evaluate the general aptitude and foundational knowledge of the candidates. It consists of 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) to be answered within a duration of 90 minutes. For candidates eligible for Scribe, the duration is extended to 120 minutes.

Mathematics

The Mathematics section in Part A is extensive and covers topics from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra and geometry. A strong grasp of these concepts is essential for scoring well.

  • Number System: Properties of numbers, divisibility rules, LCM, HCF, fractions, decimals, surds, and indices.
  • Arithmetic: Percentage, profit and loss, simple interest, compound interest, time and work, time and distance, average, ratio and proportion, partnership.
  • Algebra: Linear and quadratic equations, factorization, sets, functions, logarithms.
  • Geometry & Trigonometry: Basic geometric shapes, areas and volumes, angles, basic trigonometric ratios, identities, and equations.
  • Mensuration: Areas and volumes of different geometric figures (squares, rectangles, triangles, circles, cylinders, cones, spheres).

Example: If a train travels at a speed of 60 km/h, how long will it take to cover a distance of 150 km?

Solution:

Time = Distance / Speed

Time = 150 km / 60 km/h = 2.5 hours.

2.5 hours is equal to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Maths Shortcut: For percentage change problems, instead of calculating the absolute values, focus on the net percentage change. For example, if a price increases by 10% and then decreases by 10%, the net change is not zero. Using the formula (x + y + xy/100), where x = +10 and y = -10, the net change is (10 - 10 + (10 * -10)/100) = -1%, meaning a 1% decrease.

Reasoning Ability

The Reasoning section assesses a candidate's logical thinking and problem-solving skills. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.

  • Analogies: Word analogies, number analogies, letter analogies.
  • Series Completion: Number series, alphabet series, alphanumeric series.
  • Coding-Decoding: Letter coding, number coding, symbol coding.
  • Blood Relations: Understanding family relationships and deducing connections.
  • Directions and Distances: Calculating distances and directions based on given statements.
  • Syllogisms: Logical deduction from given statements.
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning: Figure completion, pattern recognition, visual analogies, spatial reasoning.

Example: In a certain code, 'CAT' is written as '3120'. How is 'DOG' written in that code?

Solution: The code assigns the alphabetical position of each letter. C is the 3rd letter, A is the 1st, and T is the 20th. So, CAT = 3-1-20. Following the same logic, D is the 4th letter, O is the 15th, and G is the 7th. Therefore, DOG = 4157.

Reasoning Trick: For blood relation problems, visualize the relationships by drawing a simple family tree. Use symbols like '+' for male and '-' for female, and lines to represent relationships (e.g., a horizontal line for siblings, a vertical line for parent-child).

General Science

This section tests the understanding of fundamental principles in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, often with an emphasis on their application in daily life and railway operations.

  • Physics: Units and dimensions, motion, force, work, energy, power, gravity, properties of matter, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, modern physics.
  • Chemistry: Atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodic classification of elements, acids, bases, and salts, metals and non-metals, carbon and its compounds, stoichiometry, fuels.
  • Biology: Basic concepts of cell biology, human physiology, plant physiology, health and diseases, nutrition, common biological terms.

Example: What is the SI unit of force?

Solution: The SI unit of force is the Newton (N).

Formula: Force (F) = mass (m) × acceleration (a). So, 1 Newton = 1 kg × 1 m/s2.

Science Mnemonic: To remember the order of planets from the Sun: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune. A common mnemonic is "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles".

General Awareness

This section covers current affairs and static general knowledge, including topics relevant to India and its railway system.

  • Current Events: National and international importance, awards, sports, important personalities, government schemes.
  • Indian Polity: Constitution of India, basic structure, fundamental rights, directive principles, parliamentary system.
  • Indian Economy: Basic economic concepts, five-year plans, Indian financial system.
  • Geography: India's physical geography, climate, resources, major industries.
  • Indian Railways: History of Indian Railways, organizational structure, major railway zones, important railway projects, railway budget.
  • Static GK: History, art, and culture of India.

Example: Who is the current Minister of Railways in India? (Note: This is a dynamic question and requires up-to-date knowledge).

Answer: (As of the current knowledge cutoff, this would be the name of the incumbent minister. Candidates must check the latest information.)

General Awareness Tip: For current affairs, regularly read newspapers, follow reputable news websites, and use monthly current affairs compilations. For static GK, focus on key facts related to Indian history, polity, and geography, especially those with relevance to railways.

CBT-2 Part B: Trade Syllabus

Part B of CBT-2 is trade-specific and aims to assess the technical proficiency of the candidates in the trade they have applied for. This part consists of 75 MCQs, and candidates must score a minimum of 35% to pass. The syllabus for Part B varies significantly based on the trade. Some common trades and their key areas are:

Electrician Trade

  • Basic Electrical Engineering: Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's laws, AC/DC circuits, series and parallel circuits.
  • Electrical Machines: DC generators, DC motors, AC generators (alternators), AC motors (induction motors, synchronous motors), transformers.
  • Wiring and Installation: Types of wiring, wiring accessories, earthing, safety precautions.
  • Measuring Instruments: Ammeters, voltmeters, ohmmeters, multimeters, their working principles and applications.
  • Basic Electronics: Diodes, transistors, resistors, capacitors, basic circuits.
  • Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Fault finding in electrical circuits and equipment.

Fitter Trade

  • Hand Tools and Power Tools: Types, uses, and safety precautions.
  • Measuring Instruments: Vernier caliper, micrometer, height gauge, dial indicator, their uses and least counts.
  • Fitting Operations: Marking, chipping, filing, sawing, drilling, reaming, tapping, dieing.
  • Bench Work: Bench vices, bench tools, types of benches.
  • Grinding and Sharpening: Types of grinding wheels, sharpening of tools.
  • Metals and Metallurgy: Properties of metals, types of steel, heat treatment processes.
  • Assembly and Disassembly: Principles of assembly and disassembly of machine parts.
  • Safety Practices: Personal protective equipment (PPE), workshop safety rules.

Mechanic (Diesel) Trade

  • Internal Combustion Engines: Working principle, types (2-stroke, 4-stroke), components.
  • Fuel Systems: Diesel fuel injection systems, pumps, injectors, filters.
  • Lubrication Systems: Purpose, types of lubricants, oil filters.
  • Cooling Systems: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, types of coolants.
  • Engine Overhauling: Procedures for dismantling, inspecting, and assembling engines.
  • Electrical Systems: Batteries, starting systems, charging systems, ignition systems (for petrol engines).
  • Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Common engine problems and their solutions.
  • Safety Precautions: Handling fuels, oils, and working with machinery.

Electronics Mechanic Trade

  • Basic Electronics Components: Resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors, ICs.
  • Electronic Circuits: Amplifiers, oscillators, filters, power supplies.
  • Digital Electronics: Logic gates, flip-flops, counters, microprocessors.
  • Communication Systems: AM, FM, antennas, transmission lines.
  • Instrumentation: Sensors, transducers, measurement devices.
  • Troubleshooting and Repair: Fault finding in electronic circuits and equipment using test instruments like oscilloscopes and multimeters.
  • Soldering and Desoldering: Techniques and tools.
Trade-Specific Study Tip: For Part B, focus on practical applications and troubleshooting. Understand the working principles of machines and components. Refer to standard textbooks and practical manuals specific to your trade. Practice drawing diagrams and explaining processes.

Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

The CBT-2 is conducted in two parts, A and B, on the same day. Candidates need to qualify in both parts separately.

  • Part A: 100 questions, 100 marks, duration 90 minutes (120 minutes for scribe candidates).
  • Part B: 75 questions, 75 marks, duration 60 minutes (80 minutes for scribe candidates).
  • Total Questions: 175 questions.
  • Total Marks: 175 marks.
  • Negative Marking: There is negative marking for incorrect answers. For every incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks allotted to that question are deducted.
  • Qualifying Marks: Candidates need to score minimum qualifying marks in Part B (35% for General/OBC/EWS, 30% for SC/ST, 25% for ST). However, the marks obtained in Part B are NOT counted for shortlisting candidates for the next stage.
  • Weightage for Shortlisting: Only the marks obtained in Part A are considered for shortlisting candidates for the subsequent stages of recruitment (Computer Based Aptitude Test for ALP).

Preparation Strategy for CBT-2

A structured approach is key to excelling in CBT-2.

  • Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Go through the detailed syllabus for both Part A and Part B.
  • Focus on Fundamentals: Ensure a strong foundation in the core subjects for Part A (Maths, Reasoning, Science).
  • Practice Regularly: Solve a variety of questions from each topic. Consistent practice builds speed and accuracy.
  • Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions, identify weak areas, and improve time management.
  • Revise Weak Areas: Dedicate extra time to topics where you make frequent mistakes.
  • Trade-Specific Study: For Part B, concentrate on the syllabus of your specific trade. Refer to standard technical books and previous year's papers.
  • Stay Updated: For General Awareness, keep track of current events.
  • Time Management: Practice solving questions within the stipulated time limits. Learn to prioritize questions.
Exam Strategy: In Part A, aim to score as high as possible as these marks determine your chances for the next stage. In Part B, focus on clearing the qualifying marks (35% or as per category) with accuracy. Don't spend too much time on difficult trade-specific questions if you are already comfortably above the cut-off.

Post CBT-2 Stages

Candidates who qualify in both Part A and Part B of CBT-2 are then shortlisted for the next stage, which is the Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). The CBAT is specifically for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) post. Marks obtained in Part A of CBT-2 are used for shortlisting candidates for the CBAT. The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in the CBAT and the document verification.

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