To crack the RRB Loco Pilot 2025 exam, knowing the updated syllabus and exam pattern is essential. The recruitment process includes three major stages—CBT 1, CBT 2, and the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), followed by Document Verification. Each phase tests different skills, and knowing what to expect will help you build a focused preparation strategy that works.
Table of Contents
CBT 1 Pattern
The first stage of the RRB ALP selection process is CBT 1. This phase acts as a screening round and is qualifying in nature.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 | |
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 | |
| General Science | 20 | 20 | Total: 60 mins |
| Total | 75 | 75 | 1 Hour |
There’s a negative marking of 1/3 mark for each incorrect answer.
CBT 1 Syllabus
Here’s what to study for each section of CBT 1:
General Awareness
- Art & Culture
- Indian Polity
- Indian Economy
- Science and Technology
- Awards & Honours
- Sports
- Static GK
Reasoning
- Analogies
- Classification
- Direction Sense
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogism
- Series
- Blood Relations
- Data Sufficiency
- Coding-Decoding
- Mathematical Operations
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
Mathematics
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Simplification (BODMAS)
- Ratio and Proportion
- Time and Work
- Time and Distance
- Number System
- LCM & HCF
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Data Interpretation
- Mensuration
- Statistics
General Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Life Science (Class 10 level)
CBT 2 Pattern
The second stage is divided into two parts—Part A and Part B.
| Part | Subject | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | Math, Reasoning, Basic Science & Engg. | 100 | 90 Minutes |
| Part B | Relevant Trade/Professional Knowledge | 75 | 60 Minutes |
| Total | 175 | 150 mins |
Part B is qualifying in nature but must be cleared to proceed further.
CBT 2 Syllabus
This includes subjects like Mathematics, Reasoning, and Basic Science & Engineering. It is similar to CBT 1 but more in-depth.
Trade/Technical Subjects
Depending on the trade you selected, your questions will come from relevant technical subjects like:
Electrical Engineering
- Fundamentals of Electricity
- Motors, Transformers
- Light and Magnetism
- Cables and Switches
- Single/Three-phase Systems
Electronics Engineering
- Digital Electronics
- Semiconductors
- Computer & Microprocessor Basics
- Networking
- Robotic and Radio Systems
Mechanical Engineering
- Applied Mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Material Strength
- Heat and Refrigeration
- Production Technology
- Machine Design
Automobile Engineering
- IC Engines
- Heat Transfer
- System Theory
- Metallurgy
- Power Plant Components
CBAT
Only candidates applying for the ALP post and clearing CBT 2 Part A are eligible for CBAT.
- No negative marking
- Each test battery requires a minimum score of 42
- Final merit is calculated using:
- 70% weightage from CBT 2 Part A
- 30% from CBAT
Recommended Books
| Subject | Book Titles |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Fast Track by Rajesh Verma, RS Aggarwal, Rakesh Yadav |
| Reasoning | RS Aggarwal, A.K. Gupta, Edgar Thorpe |
| General Science | Lucent’s Science, NCERT Class 9 & 10, Arihant Science |
| General Awareness | Manorama Yearbook, Pratiyogita Darpan |
| Trade Knowledge | Relevant ITI or Diploma books based on your trade |
Preparation Tips
- Focus first on CBT 1 topics since it’s the gatekeeper for further stages
- For CBT 2, strengthen both theory and application-based technical topics
- Use online test series and previous year papers to improve speed and accuracy
- Practice mock CBAT tests to understand your response time and accuracy
- Keep a printed syllabus copy on your study desk for daily revision tracking
Following a smart and structured preparation plan can significantly boost your chances of success in the RRB ALP Exam 2025. Prioritize your time based on strengths and weaknesses, and take consistent steps toward mastering each stage.
FAQs
How many stages are in RRB ALP 2025?
There are three: CBT 1, CBT 2, and CBAT.
What is the duration of CBT 1 exam?
The CBT 1 exam duration is 60 minutes.
Is there negative marking in RRB ALP exam?
Yes, 1/3 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.
What is the qualifying mark for CBAT?
Minimum 42 marks are required in each test battery.
What is the weightage of CBT 2 Part A in final merit?
CBT 2 Part A carries 70% weightage in final merit.
