How to Prepare Numerical Ability for IBPS RRB Prelims Officer Scale I 2020 Exam: The IBPS RRB Officer Scale 1 Prelims examination was scheduled to be held on September [12^th, 13^th, 19^th, 20^th& 26^th] 2020after a long hiatus. However, it is postponed again due to some unavoidable circumstances and revised dates will be posted soon.

IBPS RRB Officer Scale I prelims 2020 exam consists of two sections, namely, Reasoning and Numerical/Quantitative Ability. A considerable number of students struggle to find the right approach to prepare in the Numerical Ability section as well as in managing time. But fret not, in this article, we list down the highly effective tips which will help you in shaping up your IBPS RRB Numerical Ability preparation in the right direction.

IBPS RRB Prelims Officer Scale 12020 Exam: Pattern

Before diving into tips forIBPS RRB Numerical Ability preparation 2020, let us look at the exam pattern in general. The paper will be completely objective-based with a total time allotted to applicants standing at 45 minutes for both sections, reasoning and numerical ability. Test-takers are required to clear the separate cut-offs of each section to be shortlisted for the Mains exam. Further, there is a 0.25 marks penalty for every incorrect answer.Here is a brief look at the exam outline.

Section	Marks	Questions
Reasoning	40	40
Numerical/Quantitative Ability	40	40

IBPS RRB Numerical Ability Preparation 2020: Topics

The following table categorizes the relevant topics in the Numerical Ability for IBPS RRB into fundamental, intermediate, and advanced level topics so that you can devise your plan accordingly.

Fundamental Topics	Intermediate Level Topics	Advanced Topics
Ratio & Proportion, Number System, Speed & Distance, Simplification, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Average, HCF & LCM	Linear Equations, Series, Introductory Probability, Simple & Compound Interest, Ages, Mensuration [Circles, Triangles, Rectangles, Polygons]	Quadratic Equations, Permutation & Combination, Probability, Graphs & Tables, Data Interpretation

IBPS RRB Numerical Ability Preparation 2020: Tips & Tricks

• Difficulty Level & Portions: Typically, the difficulty level of the IBPS RRB Numerical Ability section overall hovers around easy to moderate with occasional advanced level questions.

The portions of approximation and simplification tend to have around 13-15 questions in the easy region. Further, around 4-5 questions belong to number series and sequences topics of easy level as well. For the Data Interpretation question, you can expect a passage/table/graph with a set of 5 questions based on the information given following it. Sprinkled throughout, there are typically 15-18 questions from all the other topics which have a difficulty level of easy or easy-moderate.

• Strategy: It is important to realize that the prelims examination is only a qualifying test and scoring the bare minimum secures your place in the mains. Remember, only your mains score matters. Thus, in terms of marks, having an aim of 24-27 correct answers is adequate to qualify the prelims. Furthermore, do not rely on guesswork as it can bring down your score.

• For your IBPS RRB Numerical Ability preparation 2020, focus on fundamental topics that cement your foundation over quant. This includes the number system, types of numbers, series, percentages, averages, ratio & proportion, simplification. Further, you just thoroughly revise rules and conventions like BODMAS, divisibility, comparison with numbers, signs and conversion, variables, etc.

• For advanced topics in the Numerical Ability for IBPS RRB like quadratic equations, probability, etc., there is no shortcut than practice. Refer to the books mentioned in the following paragraphs.

• For Data Interpretation, the question paper tends to combine multiple concepts and presents them in the form of table or graph. Make sure to connect and see the pattern in the information presented. Read it slowly and switch frequently. Make sure to approximate values and eliminate irrelevant and extreme options. If you are accurate enough, it is easy 5 marks.

• Divide your preparation into two phases. In phase one, attempt 3-4 short topic-based tests every two days which club only a few related topics together and 1-2 full-length mock test every three days. Measure your progress, assess your strong and weak areas and correct your mistakes. In the second phase, move onto attempting 1 full-length mock test every day in a strictly timed manner.

• For better memorization of formulae and unique strategies concerning mensuration and other topics, utilize creative learning techniques such as flow charts, diagrams, mind maps, quizzes, puzzles and games. You can also take the aid of online tutorials, explanatory videos, assessment and feedback sessions.

• Time Management: As you have a composite time of 45 minutes, the 40 questions of Numerical Ability for IBPS RRB section must be completed in 22.5 minutes or less. This gives you only about 33.75 seconds per question so if you are not sure of something and have crossed the above mark, skip to the next one instantly.

• Start,after having a glance over the question paper and shortlist the questions on simple equations, averages, ratios, percentages and like. In the first 10 minutes, quickly finish off such questions as it helps in boosting confidence and give you a good head start. Remember to leave 3-4 minutes in the end for revision, calculation and revisiting questions you left at the start.

• The more you practice, the more you improve on your test-taking skills and your shortcuts. This helps in being confident in solving not only common questions but also the uncommon or new question.

• Recommended IBPS RRB Numerical Ability Books: NCERT Mathematics textbooks Class IX & X; Quantitative Aptitude by R.S Aggarwal; Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma; Quantitative Aptitude for All Competitive Examinations by Abhijit Guha/ McGraw Hill Education.

• In the last week or 10 days, refrain from learning any new topic and stick to mock tests, revision and formulae memorization. Go through the ways and techniques you have developed to tackle specific questions. Revisit the flow charts and diagrams to refresh your memory.

While it is alright to be a little stressed out, don’t let family expectations or peer pressure overpower you. Eat a light and healthy diet, sleep adequately and avoid outside food. Have faith in your abilities and give it your best shot. We firmly believe you will sail through with flying colours.