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RRB Group D Syllabus: Subject-Wise Exam Pattern & Topics

Getting ready for the RRB Group D exam can feel daunting—there’s a lot to cover, and everyone’s prep journey looks a bit different. Yet, mastering the subject‑wise syllabus and understanding the exam pattern really is the foundation of any effective strategy. We’ll walk through each section—from General Science to Reasoning—and sketch out how things are structured. Expect a balance of clarity with a touch of imperfection, because well… nobody’s preparation is ever perfectly linear.


Exam Pattern & Structure Overview

The RRB Group D Computer-Based Test (CBT) consists of four main sections: General Science, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness & Current Affairs. The exam is 90 minutes long, featuring 100 multiple‑choice questions worth 1 mark each, with a ⅓ negative marking for every incorrect answer .

Subject-wise, the breakdown is typically:

  • General Science: 25 questions
  • Mathematics: 25 questions
  • General Intelligence & Reasoning: 30 questions
  • General Awareness & Current Affairs: 20 questions

Beyond this, aspirants must also clear the Physical Efficiency Test (PET), document verification, and medical exam—a reminder that while the CBT is crucial, the journey doesn’t stop there .


Subject-Wise Syllabus Deep-Dive

Mathematics: The Precision Playground

The Mathematics section focuses on Class 10 level concepts. Topics typically include:

  • Number System, LCM & HCF, Decimals, Fractions, BODMAS
  • Ratio & Proportion, Percentages, Averages
  • Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Speed & Distance
  • Mensuration, Algebra, Geometry & Trigonometry
  • Simple & Compound Interest, Data Interpretation, Series Problems

Anecdotally, candidates often mention that chapters like Ratio & Proportion and Time & Work tend to attract more questions—though this varies from exam to exam.

“Practice the mechanics, but more importantly, make them fluid—like reacting on instinct, not on forced recall.”

That emphasizes how fluency beats rote‑learning—every time.


General Intelligence & Reasoning: The Strategic Arena

This section is often a scoring one when approached smartly, focusing on:

  • Analogies, Series, Classification
  • Coding & Decoding, Puzzles, Seating Arrangements
  • Blood Relations, Syllogisms, Direction & Distance, Venn Diagrams
  • Non-Verbal Reasoning, Mirror & Water Images, Paper Folding, etc.

Beyond rote patterns, practising with real-world mocks—like puzzles simulating workplace schedules or spatial arrangements—can really sharpen speed and accuracy.


General Science: Back to Basics

Covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at the 10th‑grade level, key topics include:

Physics: Motion, Work & Energy, Electricity, Light & Sound, Lenses
Chemistry: Periodic Table, Acids & Bases, Reactions, Everyday Chemistry
Biology: Human Anatomy, Diseases, Ecosystems, Cell Structure, Life Processes

The trick is learning concepts like the human circulatory system fundamentally, not just memorizing facts.


General Awareness & Current Affairs: The Dynamic Portion

This section requires both breadth and recency, covering:

  • National/International Events, Awards & Honors, Books & Authors
  • Business & Economy, Art & Culture, Sports, Government Policies & Schemes
  • Geography, History, Polity, Economy, Environment, Committees & Recommendations, People & Places in News

Varied sources like monthly current affairs digests, plus periodic revision of Indian history and geography, give an edge here. Many aspirants find that timely, daily updates help keep this section fresh.


Strategic Preparation Insights

1. Map Your Syllabus

Start by laying out the syllabus table subject-wise. Familiarity helps, and it’s amazing how small gaps become obvious through mapping.

2. Timed Practice with Negative Marking in Mind

Simulating the 90-minute setting—especially when there’s -⅓ penalty for wrong answers—teaches balance between speed and precision.

3. Topic Sensibility, Not Memorization

From Reasoning puzzles to Math, practice with purpose. Knowing how often algebra or Venn diagrams recur helps allocate time wisely.

4. Strengthen Your General Awareness Early

Current affairs and surprises like new government schemes or sports events can change rapidly. A monthly revision cadence, plus mock quizzes, keeps you in rhythm.


Example Preparation Scenario

Imagine Simran, an aspirant who’s good at Maths but slow at Reasoning. She dedicates early mornings to Reasoning puzzles—like coding‑decoding and seating arrangements—timed and recorded. Evenings are for Science and static GK with flashcards. Over time, her accuracy and confidence plateaued upward. Meanwhile, Math and GA stay steady, but her odds in Reasoning go from average to strong, tipping her overall score balance.


Conclusion

RRB Group D preparation is more than just memorizing topics—it’s about building speed, accuracy, and the ability to anticipate question patterns. By understanding the subject‑wise syllabus in depth, simulating real exam conditions, and steadily refreshing current affairs, candidates set themselves up for meaningful progress. The journey’s often flawed and bumpy, yet that’s what makes it human—and ultimately, stronger.


FAQs

What’s the negative marking scheme for RRB Group D CBT?

For every wrong answer, 1/3 of a mark is deducted, so accuracy is just as important as speed .

How many questions are there from each section?

There are typically 25 questions each from General Science and Mathematics, 30 from Reasoning, and 20 from General Awareness & Current Affairs .

Is the mathematics too advanced for RRB Group D?

Not at all—it’s mostly Class 10 level: number systems, basic algebra, geometry, percentages, and related topics .

How can I cover General Awareness effectively?

Use monthly current affairs compilations, revise historical and geographical basics periodically, and integrate quick quizzes into your routine .

What’s the benefit of practicing reasoning puzzles daily?

Reasoning is speed-driven: regular, timed drills help build both quick thinking and accuracy—key for maximizing scoring potential .

How should I structure my study week?

Alternate heavy‑focus subjects (like Math and Reasoning) with lighter, revision‑based tasks (like Science and Awareness). Simulate once‑a‑week timed full‑CBT drills to track progress.

Brian Howard

Certified content specialist with 8+ years of experience in digital media and journalism. Holds a degree in Communications and regularly contributes fact-checked, well-researched articles. Committed to accuracy, transparency, and ethical content creation.

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