The RRB NTPC exam takes place in different stages and CBT 1 and CBT 2 are the most important for selecting candidates. Many people seeking RRB NTPC posts often enquire about the difference between CBT 1 and CBT 2. Let’s take a closer look at this.
What does CBT 1 mean in RRB NTPC?
CBT 1 is the initial part of the selection process. It is mostly used to select candidates who will take the CBT 2. Many positions at NTPC such as Clerk, Typist and Commercial Apprentice, are common for all posts.
What does CBT 2 mean in RRB NTPC?
CBT 2 is the next step for people who qualify in CBT 1. Difficulty and topics depend on the job being applied for, so they are job-specific.
Key Differences Between CBT 1 and CBT 2
Here’s a comparative table to clearly understand the differences:
|
Feature |
CBT 1 |
CBT 2 |
|
Purpose |
Screening Test |
Final Selection for Skill Test/Typing |
|
No. of Questions |
100 |
120 |
|
Subjects |
General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence |
Same but with increased difficulty |
|
Duration |
90 minutes |
90 minutes |
|
Difficulty Level |
Moderate |
Moderate to High |
|
Post-Specific? |
No |
Yes |
|
Weightage |
Qualifying in Nature |
Crucial for Final Merit |
Read More: What is the RRB NTPC Age Limit?
Is the Syllabus Same for CBT 1 and CBT 2?
While the subjects remain the same—General Awareness, Mathematics, and General Intelligence & Reasoning—the depth of questions increases in CBT 2. Candidates should refer to reliable resources such as RRB NTPC books to prepare effectively for both stages.
How to Prepare Differently for CBT 1 and CBT 2?
-
CBT 1 Focus: Speed and accuracy. Revise basics.
-
CBT 2 Focus: Depth and concept clarity. Practice higher-level problems.
-
Solve questions from RRB NTPC previous year question paper book to understand patterns.
-
Take regular RRB NTPC mock test series to simulate real exam pressure.
Is it Necessary to Prepare Separately for Both CBTs?
Yes. CBT 2 demands a more detailed approach to the subject areas than CBT 1 does. A lot of people can pass CBT 1, but CBT 2 proves to be more difficult because it covers specialist topics. As a result, your NTPC railway book should have topic-based questions for both levels.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between the two exam parts helps you plan your studies. CBT 1 introduces you to the course, but CBT 2 is what determines your selection. Pick RRB NTPC books and practice with RRB NTPC mock test papers and RRB NTPC previous year question paper book content to steadily improve your skills. Take advantage of mock tests to see how you are doing and use your NTPC railway book to improve your knowledge in areas you find difficult.
