The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has introduced significant changes to the recruitment process and exam pattern for the post of Station Master. Starting in 2026, recruitment for the Station Master post will be distinct from other NTPC posts, and a separate Centralized Employment Notification (CEN) will be issued for it. Under the new system, the selection process will consist of four stages. Unlike the previous system, the new notification does not include two Computer-Based Tests (CBTs); instead, only a single CBT will be conducted. This will be followed by a Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), document verification, and a medical examination. The CBT will carry a total of 100 marks, with a duration of 120 minutes. A negative marking scheme of one-third of a mark per incorrect answer will apply.

**Introduction of English Comprehension**

A key change in the new exam is the inclusion of English reading comprehension, categorized under 'Logical Capability.' Candidates will be required to read English passages and answer questions based on them. These passages may cover topics such as history, society, literature, science, the environment, technology, culture, mythology, and abstract subjects.

**Dedicated 30 Marks for Data Interpretation**

Data analysis and interpretation have also been given specific importance in the new exam, with 30 marks allocated to this section. Questions in this section will be based on tables, graphs, pie charts, scatter plots, statistical distributions, Venn diagrams, data sufficiency, and data arrangement. The focus will be on the candidate's ability to analyze provided data and draw conclusions.

**30 Marks for Mathematics and Basic Science**

A total of 30 marks have been allocated for Basic Science and Mathematics in the CBT. The syllabus includes topics such as Number Systems, Ratio-Proportion, Average, Percentage, Profit-Loss, Time, Speed-Distance, Work, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Area, Volume, Probability, and Statistics. The Science section will feature basic questions related to Units and Measurement, Mass, Density, Energy, Motion, Friction, Heat, Temperature, Electricity, and Simple Machines.

20 marks are allocated for Logical Capability. This section covers Binary Logic, Syllogism, Clocks and Calendars, Perception, Blood Relations, Family Trees, and logic-based puzzles. Meanwhile, the 20 marks for Mental Reasoning will consist of questions on Analogy, Series, Coding-Decoding, Ranking, and Arrangement.

**Final Merit List Based on CBAT**

The Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) retains its role in the new selection process. Only candidates who qualify in the CBAT will be considered for the final merit list. The final merit list will be determined by a weighted score comprising 70% from the CBT and 30% from the CBAT.

**How ​​Does It Differ from the Old Pattern?**

Previously, Station Master recruitment was part of the NTPC Graduate recruitment drive and involved a two-stage CBT. Now, the recruitment will be conducted separately, and there will be only one CBT. While General Awareness constituted a significant portion of the old pattern, it has been removed in the new pattern and replaced with Basic Science, Data Interpretation, and English Reading Comprehension. Additionally, the exam duration has been increased from 90 minutes to 120 minutes.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.