Biggest Change in IBPS RRB Exam Pattern 2024

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has made a significant change to the IBPS Regional Rural Banks (RRB) Exam Pattern for the year 2024. The introduction of sectional timing for each section in both the Preliminary and main exams for Clerk and Probationary Officer (PO) positions marks a notable shift in the examination process. This change aims to streamline the assessment process and ensure a more balanced evaluation of candidates’ skills. In this detailed article, we explore the implications and specifics of this new development.

This change is for the IBPS RRB Clerk (Office Assistant) and IBPS RRB PO (Officer Scale I) from the previous format where candidates had to complete all tests within a fixed duration, of 45 minutes. Now implemented, this new approach would allow IBPS to allocate different time slots for various sections of both preliminary and main examinations.

Change in IBPS RRB Exam Pattern 2024: Introduction to Sectional Timing

Sectional timing refers to the allocation of a fixed time period for each section of the exam, compelling candidates to complete one section before moving on to the next. This change will affect both the Clerk and PO exams, transforming the way candidates approach their preparation and execution during the exam.

Prelims Exam Duration Change Notice

The Preliminary Exam for IBPS RRB Clerk and PO consists of two sections: Reasoning Ability and Numerical Ability. With the introduction of sectional timing, candidates will now have a specific time limit to complete each section.

• Reasoning Ability: 40 questions, 40 marks, 25 minutes
• Quantitative Aptitude: 40 questions, 40 marks, 20 minutes

The total duration of the Preliminary Exam remains 45 minutes, but candidates must now manage their time within each section independently.

Download the IBPS RRB PO Admit Card 2024

Mains Exam Duration Change Notice

The Mains Exam for IBPS RRB Clerk and PO includes five sections. The introduction of sectional timing means candidates need to allocate their time effectively across these sections.

• Reasoning Ability: 40 questions, 50 marks, 30 minutes
• Numerical Ability: 40 questions, 50 marks, 30 minutes
• General Awareness: 40 questions, 40 marks, 15 minutes
• English Language / Hindi Language: 40 questions, 40 marks, 30 minutes
• Computer Knowledge: 40 questions, 20 marks, 15 minutes

The total duration of the Mains Exam is 2 hours.

Key Highlights of the Change

• Sectional Timing: IBPS has introduced the duration of each test based on its specific requirements and difficulty level.
• Focus on Each Section: By allocating specific times for each test, candidates can better manage their focus and efforts, potentially leading to improved performance in individual sections.
• Official Notice: Detailed information regarding the separate test durations will be provided to candidates in the official Information Handout, ensuring that all necessary guidelines and instructions are clearly communicated.

Hey, check the official IBPS RRB Notification 2024 PDF Here

Implications for Candidates

This strategic change in the IBPS RRB exam pattern underscores the organization’s commitment to maintaining a fair and efficient examination process. Here’s what candidates need to consider:

• Strategic Preparation: Candidates need to focus on their strengths and weaknesses in each section. Time management skills become crucial, and practice must involve timed sectional tests.
• Balanced Assessment: Sectional timing ensures a balanced assessment of a candidate’s abilities across all sections. It prevents over-reliance on strong sections while neglecting weaker areas.
• Reduced Exam Anxiety: With fixed time limits for each section, candidates can better manage their anxiety and focus on one section at a time without worrying about the overall time.
• Enhanced Focus: Sectional timing encourages candidates to concentrate on one section at a time, improving accuracy and performance.
• Changes in Exam Strategy: Candidates must adapt their exam strategies to fit the new pattern. This may include prioritizing high-scoring sections and ensuring that they complete each section within the allocated time.
• Practice with Time Duration: Candidates should practice with varied time constraints for each section to simulate the actual exam conditions. This will help in building speed and accuracy tailored to the new format.