IBPS RRB PO: Confused about What to Attempt and What to Skip?

The IBPS RRB PO prelims exam scheduled for 22 and 23 November demands quick decision-making, clarity, and the ability to choose the right questions under pressure. Many candidates lose marks simply because they attempt the wrong type of questions or waste time on lengthy sets. Understanding what to attempt first and what to skip can make a huge difference in overall performance. A smart attempt strategy ensures you maximise your score without getting stuck in tricky or time-consuming problems.

IBPS RRB PO: Confused about What to Attempt and What to Skip?

Managing your attempts well in the IBPS RRB PO is as important as knowing the syllabus. Even highly prepared candidates sometimes struggle when deciding the right starting point, especially in Reasoning and Quant, where question patterns vary widely. A predefined plan may help reduce confusion and boost confidence inside the exam hall. With the right approach, you can handle the paper smoothly and use your strengths to your advantage.

Also Read, IBPS RRB PO Admit Card 2025

What to Attempt First in the IBPS RRB PO Exam

Starting with the right questions can set the tone for your entire exam. A confident start helps you maintain momentum and keeps panic away during tougher sections.

• Choose questions that you find naturally comfortable and familiar.
• Start with topics that require less time, such as inequalities, syllogisms, simplification, or word problems.
• Attempt 100% accuracy-friendly questions before moving to moderate-level ones.
• Focus on quick wins to build confidence early in the exam.

What to Skip Initially

Avoid jumping into the toughest questions right at the beginning, as it may consume time and reduce confidence. Skipping wisely can save valuable minutes for other scoring questions.

• Do not start with high-level puzzles, lengthy seating arrangements, or complex DI sets.
• Avoid tricky questions that require long calculations or multiple steps.
• Skip questions that look unfamiliar or confusing at first glance.
• Leave any question that takes more than 40-45 seconds without progress.

Sectional Strategy to Maximise Score in IBPS RRB PO Prelims

Each section has topics that can give quick marks if attempted at the right time. Balancing both speed and accuracy helps maintain control over the paper.

• Finish quick questions first, then move to moderate-level ones.
• Keep a fixed time limit per section to avoid overthinking.
• Always prioritise accuracy over guesswork.
• Attempt easy and moderate questions before touching anything challenging.

Time Management Tips for the RRB PO Exam

Time management is the backbone of your overall exam success. A disciplined approach helps prevent panic and ensures you complete the test smoothly.

• Divide available time into small blocks for different question types.
• Do not spend more than one minute on any single question.
• Mark doubtful questions and revisit them only if time allows.
• Keep track of time after every few questions to maintain pace.