How Many Answers to Attempt in RBI Grade B Phase 2?

One of the most common questions among RBI Grade B aspirants is “How many answers should I attempt in Phase 2?” The answer is not about attempting the maximum number of questions but attempting the right questions with quality. Since Phase 2 is a mix of objective and descriptive papers, your strategy should focus on accuracy, content quality, and time management rather than simply increasing attempts.

How Many Answers to Attempt in RBI Grade B Phase 2?

The official RBI Grade B Phase 2 pattern requires candidates to attempt a fixed number of descriptive questions in ESI and Finance & Management, while the objective sections carry negative marking.

Paper-wise Attempt Strategy

Completing every mandatory task is essential because leaving any section unanswered can significantly reduce your score.

1. Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

• Objective Questions: Attempt 22–26 out of 30 if you are confident.
• Avoid guessing, as each wrong answer attracts negative marking.
• Descriptive Questions: Attempt all the mandatory questions (typically 4 out of 6 as per the current pattern) with well-structured answers.

2. Finance & Management (FM)

• Objective Questions: A safe attempt is 20–25 questions with high accuracy.
• Descriptive Questions: Write all compulsory answers while maintaining a logical structure, relevant examples, and proper conclusions.

3. English (Writing Skills)

Unlike ESI and FM, English is entirely descriptive. Attempt all the compulsory sections, which generally include:

• Essay
• Precis Writing
• Reading Comprehension

Focus on Quality Over Quantity

The biggest mistake candidates make is trying to attempt every objective question. Since there is negative marking, random guessing often reduces the overall score. Instead:

• Attempt only questions where you are reasonably confident.
• Spend sufficient time on descriptive answers.
• Support answers with facts, reports, government schemes, RBI initiatives, and relevant examples.
• Maintain a proper introduction, body, and conclusion.
• A well-written 10-mark answer usually scores much higher than a lengthy but poorly organized response.

Ideal Time Distribution

A candidate attempting 22 objective questions with 90% accuracy is often in a stronger position than someone attempting all 30 with several incorrect answers. Phase 2 rewards knowledge, presentation, and precision not just the number of attempts.

Should Candidates Attempt Every Objective Question?

Not necessarily. Unlike Phase 1, Phase 2 rewards accuracy rather than quick attempts. If you’re unsure about a question, avoid making random guesses.

A good benchmark is:

• 80–90% accuracy in objective questions
• 100% completion of all mandatory descriptive answers

What Candidates Should Do Final Strategy

There is no fixed number of attempts that guarantees selection in RBI Grade B Phase 2. Successful candidates usually focus on:

• High accuracy in objective questions.
• Completing every mandatory descriptive answer.
• Writing analytical, balanced, and well-structured responses.
• Effective time management to avoid leaving questions unanswered.