RRB ALP CBT 1 Syllabus

The RRB ALP CBT 1 (Computer Based Test Stage 1) is the preliminary screening examination for the RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) and Technician 2027 recruitment. It is common for both ALP and Technician posts. The primary purpose of CBT 1 is to shortlist candidates for CBT 2 in a ratio of approximately 15 times the total post-wise vacancy. The CBT 1 score is NOT counted in the final merit list for either ALP or Technician posts.

CBT 1 consists of 75 questions carrying 75 marks in 60 minutes. It covers four subjects: Mathematics (20 questions), General Intelligence and Reasoning (25 questions), Basic Science and Engineering (20 questions), and General Awareness on Current Affairs (10 questions). The difficulty is set at the 10th to 12th standard level, with Basic Science and Engineering tested at the ITI and Diploma level.

Quick Facts: RRB ALP CBT 1 2027

CBT 1 Exam Pattern

Mathematics Syllabus (20 Questions)

Mathematics in CBT 1 is set at Class 10 level. Questions test arithmetic accuracy, calculation speed, and basic mathematical reasoning. Key topics:

•        Number System: HCF, LCM, divisibility, simplification (BODMAS)

•        Percentage: calculation, increase and decrease, applications

•        Ratio and Proportion: compound ratio, direct and inverse proportion

•        Profit and Loss: SP, CP, MP, trade discount, equivalent discount

•        Simple Interest and Compound Interest: formulae and applications

•        Time and Work: combined work rate, pipes and cisterns

•        Time, Speed and Distance: relative speed, trains, boats and streams

•        Mensuration: area and perimeter of 2D shapes; volume and TSA of 3D shapes

•        Elementary Algebra: linear equations in one and two variables; basic identities

•        Geometry: lines, angles, triangles, Pythagoras theorem, circles, quadrilaterals

•        Trigonometry: standard ratios, values at standard angles, basic identities, heights and distances

•        Statistics: mean, median, mode; bar graph, pie chart, histogram

General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus (25 Questions)

The Reasoning section is the highest-weightage section in CBT 1 with 25 marks. It tests verbal and non-verbal reasoning ability. Key topics:

•        Number and Alphabetical Series: finding missing or wrong terms

•        Analogies: verbal, number, and letter analogies

•        Coding and Decoding: letter coding, number coding, symbol-based coding

•        Syllogism: All/Some/No statements; conclusions using Venn diagrams

•        Blood Relations: direct and coded family relationship problems

•        Directions and Distance: compass directions, total and displacement

•        Mathematical Operations: symbol substitution in arithmetic expressions

•        Venn Diagrams: selecting correct representation; solving from given diagram

•        Seating Arrangement: linear, circular, and floor-based puzzles

•        Statement and Conclusion / Assumption / Courses of Action

•        Non-Verbal: mirror image, water image, paper folding, figure series, matrix completion

•        Classification: odd one out; grouping by common property

•        Data Sufficiency: two-statement problems

Basic Science and Engineering (BSE) Syllabus (20 Questions)

BSE is the most distinctive section of the ALP CBT 1 and is set at the ITI and Diploma level. It covers applied science and engineering concepts that are directly relevant to locomotive and technical operations. This section differentiates ALP from NTPC and Group D preparation.

•        Engineering Mathematics: logarithms; linear algebra basics; differential calculus basics; integral calculus basics

•        Engineering Physics: Units and Measurement; Scalars and Vectors; Newton's Laws of Motion; Work, Energy and Power; Circular Motion; Simple Harmonic Motion; Heat and Temperature (conduction, convection, radiation); Wave Motion; Optics (reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors); Electrostatics; Current Electricity (Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, power); Magnetic Effects of Current; Electromagnetic Induction

•        Engineering Drawing: types of lines; orthographic projection (first and third angle); sectional views; isometric drawing; dimensioning conventions; scale; geometric constructions; reading of engineering drawings

•        Basic Electricity: series and parallel circuits; AC and DC fundamentals; power and energy calculations; transformer basics; motor and generator working principles

•        Levers and Simple Machines: types of levers; mechanical advantage; velocity ratio; efficiency; wheel and axle; pulley systems; inclined plane

•        Occupational Safety and Health: safety signs and signals; PPE types and usage; fire triangle; fire extinguisher types; electric shock first aid; safety in workshops

•        IT Literacy: computer fundamentals; MS Office basics (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); internet and email; data storage; cyber safety basics

•        Environmental Education: types of pollution (air, water, soil, noise); waste management (3R principle); renewable energy sources; global warming and climate change; environmental laws in India

General Awareness on Current Affairs (10 Questions)

With only 10 marks, this section should not consume disproportionate preparation time. Focus on high-frequency and high-probability topics:

•        Current Affairs: national and international events from the last 12 months; government schemes; major appointments

•        Indian Railways: history; 21 zones and headquarters; types of trains; major projects (Vande Bharat, KAVACH, ALP-specific safety systems); railway safety rules

•        Science and Technology: ISRO missions; defence developments; digital India updates

•        Sports, Awards and Static GK: national symbols; UNESCO Heritage Sites; important days; major sports tournaments

Topic-wise Weightage and Priority

CBT 1 Preparation Tips

1. Prioritise Reasoning -- It Carries the Most Marks

With 25 marks from Reasoning, this is the highest-scoring section. Practise series completion, analogies, coding-decoding, and seating arrangements daily. Reasoning can be improved rapidly with targeted practice and is one of the fastest sections to attempt in the examination.

2. Prepare BSE from ITI Trade Theory Sources

The Basic Science and Engineering section is unique to ALP. Candidates without an ITI or Diploma background must systematically study Engineering Physics, Engineering Drawing, Basic Electricity, and Levers and Simple Machines from ITI-level textbooks or NCVT study materials.

3. Time Management in 60 Minutes

With 75 questions in 60 minutes, you have an average of 48 seconds per question. Develop a section-by-section time budget and practise completing full-length mock tests within 60 minutes from the start of your preparation. Reasoning and Mathematics should be attempted first as they have clear correct answers.

4. Aim Comfortably Above Cut-Off

Since CBT 1 is only a screening test, target 55 to 60 marks out of 75 to ensure shortlisting with a safe margin across categories and RRB zones.

Frequently Asked Questions: CBT 1

Q1. Is CBT 1 common for ALP and Technician posts?

Yes. CBT 1 is common for both ALP and Technician posts. All eligible candidates appear in the same CBT 1 examination regardless of whether they applied for ALP or Technician posts.

Q2. Does CBT 1 score count in the final merit list?

No. The CBT 1 score is used only for shortlisting candidates for CBT 2. The final merit for ALP posts is based on CBT 2 Part A scores. For Technician posts, it is based on CBT 2 scores.

Q3. What is the difficulty level of Basic Science and Engineering in CBT 1?

BSE is tested at the ITI and Diploma level - higher than Class 10 but below Degree level. Candidates should study from ITI trade theory books, engineering physics at Class 12 level, and NCVT study materials for BSE preparation.