RRB PO & RRB Clerk Mains Preparation Strategy 2025: Cut Off, Tips & FAQs

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(Last Updated January 2026)

The RRB PO and RRB Clerk Mains exam is the most crucial stage in the Regional Rural Banks recruitment process. Clearing prelims is only the first step; final selection depends heavily on mains performance (and interview for PO). Many candidates fail not because of lack of knowledge, but due to poor strategy, wrong prioritization, and time mismanagement.

For complete preparation, visit our Bank Exams page.

In this detailed guide, you will learn:

  • Complete RRB PO & Clerk Mains exam strategy
  • Section-wise preparation plan
  • What to follow and what to avoid
  • Last year cut-off (state-wise range)
  • Expected cut-off for this year
  • Most frequently asked questions (FAQs)

RRB PO & RRB Clerk Mains Exam Overview

RRB Clerk Mains Pattern

Section Questions Marks Time Reasoning Ability 40 50 Quantitative Aptitude 40 50 General Awareness 40 40 English / Hindi 40 40 Computer Knowledge 40 20 Total2002002 Hours

RRB PO Mains Pattern

Section Questions Marks Reasoning & Computer Aptitude 40 50 Quantitative Aptitude 40 50 General Awareness 40 40 English / Hindi 40 40 Total160200

➡️ Negative marking: 0.25 marks
➡️ Sectional cut-off applies (state-wise)

Major update on SBI vacancies 2026.

How to Prepare for RRB PO & Clerk Mains – Complete Strategy

1. Understand the Nature of Mains Exam

  • Questions are lengthy and calculation-oriented
  • GA is deciding factor
  • Speed + accuracy matters more than attempts
  • Mains is not about learning new things, but perfecting what you know

Section-Wise Preparation Strategy

Quantitative Aptitude (High Scoring but Risky)

Important Topics

  • Data Interpretation (Caselet, Pie, Line, Table)
  • Missing DI
  • Arithmetic (Percentage, Ratio, Time & Work, SI/CI)
  • Quadratic Equations
  • Number Series

Preparation Tips

  • Practice DI daily (2–3 sets)
  • Focus on short calculation tricks
  • Avoid blind attempts in lengthy DI
  • Use approximation wherever possible

Ideal Attempts

  • Clerk: 22–26
  • PO: 20–24

Reasoning Ability (Logic + Accuracy)

Important Topics

  • Puzzles & Seating Arrangement
  • Syllogism (Advanced)
  • Inequality
  • Blood Relation
  • Input-Output (PO)

Preparation Tips

  • Master 2–3 puzzle types
  • Do not spend more than 6–7 minutes on one puzzle
  • Practice moderate-level reasoning daily

Ideal Attempts

  • Clerk: 25–30
  • PO: 22–26

General Awareness (Game Changer Section)

Important Topics

  • Banking & Financial Awareness
  • Current Affairs (Last 6 months)
  • RBI, NABARD, Schemes
  • Static GK (Currencies, Headquarters)

Preparation Tips

  • Revise monthly PDFs multiple times
  • Focus on banking terms & reports
  • Avoid reading news randomly

Ideal Attempts

  • Clerk: 28–35
  • PO: 30–36

English / Hindi Language

Important Topics

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Cloze Test
  • Error Detection
  • Para Jumbles

Preparation Tips

  • Focus on accuracy
  • Do not over-attempt RC
  • Improve vocabulary through revision

Ideal Attempts

  • Clerk: 22–28
  • PO: 24–30

Computer Knowledge (Easy Marks)

Important Topics

  • Basics of Computer
  • Internet, Networking
  • MS Office
  • Security & Malware

Preparation Tips

  • Read basic theory once
  • Revise short notes
  • Attempt maximum questions

Ideal Attempts

  • Clerk: 30–35

Time Management Strategy for Mains

  • Start with strong section
  • Keep GA for middle or end
  • Avoid ego attempts
  • Accuracy > Attempts
  • Keep last 5 minutes for review

What to Do Before the Exam

✔️ Revise GA at least 3 times
✔️ Attempt 15–20 full-length mocks
✔️ Analyze each mock deeply
✔️ Revise formulas & short notes
✔️ Sleep well before exam

What NOT to Do

❌ Do not attempt new topics
❌ Do not ignore sectional cut-off
❌ Do not attempt all questions
❌ Do not panic if one section goes bad
❌ Do not depend only on mocks

Last Year RRB Clerk & PO Mains Cut-Off (State-Wise Range)

⚠️ Cut-off varies every year by state, vacancies, difficulty level

RRB Clerk Mains Cut-Off (2024 – Approx Range)

  • General: 75 – 85
  • OBC: 70 – 80
  • SC/ST: 60 – 70

RRB PO Mains Cut-Off (2024 – Approx Range)

  • General: 80 – 90
  • OBC: 75 – 85
  • SC/ST: 65 – 75

(Bihar, UP, MP generally remain on the higher side)

Expected Cut-Off for This Year (RRB PO & Clerk)

Based on:

  • Increased competition
  • Normal difficulty level
  • Moderate vacancies

Expected Cut-Off

  • RRB Clerk: 78 – 88
  • RRB PO: 82 – 92

➡️ Safe Score Target:

  • Clerk: 90+
  • PO: 95+

How to Crack RRB PO / Clerk Mains in First Attempt

  • Focus on GA + Accuracy
  • Avoid guesswork
  • Attempt mocks like real exam
  • Learn from mistakes, not marks
  • Stay calm during exam

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is sectional cut-off important in RRB mains?

Yes, clearing both sectional and overall cut-off is mandatory.

Q2. Is 1 month enough for RRB mains?

Yes, if basics are clear and revision is strong.

Q3. How many mocks should I attempt?

At least 15–20 full-length mocks with analysis.

Q4. Which section decides final selection?

General Awareness plays the biggest role.

Q5. Can I clear mains with average math?

Yes, if GA + reasoning + accuracy are strong.

Final Words

RRB PO & Clerk Mains is not about studying more, but studying smart. Focus on revision, accuracy, and calm execution. One good exam day can change everything.

👉 Bookmark this page and revise it before your exam.

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