The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducted the RRB NTPC Graduate Level CBT 1 exam on 18 March 2026 as part of the ongoing recruitment process for various graduate posts. Based on candidate feedback and expert evaluation, the exam was moderate in overall difficulty, following a pattern similar to earlier shifts conducted during the month.
RRB NTPC Overall Difficulty and Good Attempts
According to early reactions from candidates who appeared on 18 March 2026, the RRB NTPC paper maintained an even mix of questions from all sections. Experts have indicated the exam was of moderate difficulty with a good attempt range of 72–80 questions for aspirants.
- Overall Difficulty: Moderate
- Good Attempts: 72–80 questions(
RRB NTPC Section‑Wise Analysis
Mathematics Section
The Mathematics section posed a moderate challenge, with questions that required calculation and time management skills. Topics included:
- Percentage, Ratio & Proportion
- Mensuration and Geometry
- Time, Speed & Work
- Algebra and Average
- Simple & Compound InterestThe Mathematics section contributed significantly to the overall difficulty for many candidates. Estimated good attempts in Maths: 22–24 questions
General Intelligence & Reasoning
The General Intelligence & Reasoning section was considered easy to moderate by most candidates. Many questions were straightforward and reasoning‑oriented, helping aspirants score well Estimated good attempts in Reasoning: 24–28 questions
General Awareness
The General Awareness section was also viewed as moderate, with a mix of static GK and current affairs. Certain questions tested candidate knowledge on recent events and basic general awareness topics. Estimated good attempts in General Awareness: 26–28 questions
What This Means for Aspirants?
A moderate difficulty level suggests that candidates who have thoroughly prepared across all sections and managed their time effectively could achieve competitive scores. The blend of easy reasoning questions and moderately challenging maths and GK makes overall performance dependent on balanced preparation. Aspiring candidates who will appear in upcoming shifts should continue revision with a focus on:
- Solving previous year papers
- Practising mock tests under timed conditions
- Strengthening weaker sections, especially Mathematics and GK
The RRB NTPC CBT 1 examination continues through multiple dates in March 2026, and this analysis provides useful insights for candidates appearing in future shifts to calibrate their preparation strategy.
