Securing a position in Indian Railways through the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) examination is a dream for many. Among the crucial stages of this selection process is the Typing Skill Test (TST), which evaluates candidates for posts like Senior Clerk Cum Typist and Junior Account Assistant Cum Typist. This blog dives deep into everything you need to know about the Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test:
Overview of the Railway NTPC Examination
The Railway NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) examination is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) for graduate and undergraduate positions in Indian Railways. It offers a variety of posts such as Station Master, Goods Guard, Junior Clerk, Senior Clerk, and Junior Account Assistant, among others.
The selection process typically involves multiple stages:
| 1st Stage- CBT (Computer-Based Test) | A preliminary test focusing on general awareness, reasoning, and mathematics. |
| 2nd Stage- CBT (Computer-Based Test) | A more focused examination assessing knowledge relevant to specific roles |
| Skill Tests (CBAT/TST) | Depending on the post, candidates may need to clear the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) or Typing Skill Test (TST). |
| Document Verification and Medical Examination | The final steps to ensure candidates meet eligibility and health standards. |
Among these stages, the Typing Skill Test is crucial for clerical roles and ensures candidates are proficient in typing—a skill essential for day-to-day responsibilities.
What is the Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test?
The Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test (TST) is a specialized evaluation designed to assess the typing speed and accuracy of candidates vying for clerical positions in Indian Railways, such as Senior Clerk Cum Typist and Junior Account Assistant Cum Typist. These roles involve handling large volumes of data, preparing reports, and maintaining records, making typing proficiency a vital requirement.
Key highlights of the TST include:
- Qualifying Nature: Unlike the CBT stages, the Typing Skill Test is not scored or ranked but serves as a qualifying step. Candidates must meet the minimum typing speed to proceed in the recruitment process.
- Language Flexibility: Candidates can choose to type in either English or Hindi, depending on their comfort and language proficiency.
- Technical Setup: The test is conducted in a controlled environment with designated computer systems and typing software to ensure uniform evaluation.
Why is the Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test Important?
Clerical and account-related positions demand precise and efficient typing to maintain data integrity and productivity. The TST ensures that only candidates with the required typing abilities are considered for these posts. It eliminates the chances of errors that can arise from slower typing speeds or inaccuracies, ensuring operational efficiency in railway offices.
Test Structure and Evaluation:
| Duration | Typically 10 minutes, where candidates are required to type a provided passage accurately |
| Assessment Criteria | The software evaluates both speed (words per minute) and accuracy (percentage of correctly typed text) |
| Minimum Speed Requirement | Candidates must type at least 30 WPM in English or 25 WPM in Hindi |
This test is a make-or-break stage for many candidates. Even those who perform well in earlier stages can lose out if they fail to meet the TST standards, emphasizing its importance in the recruitment process.
Railway NTPC TST Eligibility and Exemptions
Railway NTPC TST Eligibility:
To qualify for the TST, candidates must:
- Clear the 2nd Stage CBT.
- Be shortlisted at eight times the number of vacancies based on merit.
Railway NTPC TST Exemptions:
Candidates with benchmark disabilities such as blindness, locomotor disability (affecting writing), or cerebral palsy (with specific conditions) are exempted from the TST. However, they must produce valid certificates to avail of this exemption.
Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test Requirements
The test mandates:
| Language Options | Typing in either English or Hindi |
| Speed Criteria | A minimum typing speed of 30 words per minute (WPM) in English or 25 WPM in Hindi |
Note: Candidates opting for Hindi must use a Krutidev or Mangal font.
How is the Railway NTPC TST Conducted?
The Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test (TST) is conducted under controlled conditions to ensure fair evaluation of all candidates. Below is an overview of how the test is conducted:
| Aspect | Details |
| Test Environment | Conducted at designated centers with standardized computer systems. |
| Content | A paragraph provided to candidates for typing during the test. |
| Duration | Typically 10 minutes for all candidates. |
| Typing Language | Candidates can choose to type in either English or Hindi. |
| Font for Hindi Typing | Krutidev or Mangal font must be used for Hindi typing. |
| Result Evaluation | Software evaluates both speed (measured in words per minute) and accuracy (percentage of correctness) to determine if the minimum requirements are met. |
This structured approach ensures consistency and fairness, allowing candidates to showcase their typing proficiency effectively.
What Happens After the Railway NTPC TST?
The Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test is qualifying in nature. This means:
- Candidates who meet the required speed are considered eligible for further stages, but their typing test scores do not affect their overall merit ranking.
- Failure to meet the speed requirement results in disqualification from the recruitment process for TST-relevant posts.
Preparation Tips for the Railway NTPC TST
- Practice Regularly:
- Dedicate at least an hour daily to typing practice.
- Use online typing software to track your progress and identify areas of improvement.
- Familiarize Yourself with the Keyboard:
- Ensure you’re comfortable typing on both QWERTY (for English) and the Hindi keyboard (Krutidev or Mangal font).
- Simulate the Test Environment:
- Practice typing paragraphs within a stipulated time to mimic actual test conditions.
- Accuracy Over Speed:
- Typing errors can lead to deductions. Prioritize accuracy before attempting to improve speed.
- Use the Right Software and Tools:
- For Hindi typing, practice with the Krutidev or Mangal font to get accustomed to the test software.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing for Railway NTPC TST
Challenges are something, aspirant can’t avoid. Challenges are the part and parcel of the preparation. So if you really want to clear the Railway NTPC TST in your first attempt, then you should follow some sure shot toppers tips. Below, we have provided some toppers’ hidden secrets to get success:
- Neglecting Speed Tests: Regularly test your typing speed to ensure it meets the required standard.
- Ignoring Font Requirements for Hindi: Using the wrong font can lead to disqualification.
- Typing Errors: Errors like missed words or incorrect spellings can significantly affect your results.
- Skipping Practice in Test-Like Conditions: Familiarity with the test setup reduces anxiety and boosts performance.
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Additional Resources for Railway NTPC TST Preparation
- Online Typing Tools: Websites and apps offering typing practice in English and Hindi. https://typingtestexam.com/
- Railway Exam Groups: Joining online forums and study groups for shared resources and peer advice.
- Typing Certification Programs: Enroll in short-term courses to enhance your typing skills under professional guidance.
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Conclusion
The Railway BTPC exam is an excellent opportunity for graduates looking to work in the Railway Sector.
Keep track of the official notifications from the Railway, stay updated on the syllabus and exam pattern, and use the recommended books and resources to guide your preparation. Remember, a clear understanding of the exam’s structure and consistent effort can help you succeed.
Good luck with your Railway NTPC TST preparation!
Access our specialised courses and test series for rock solid preparation on our website.
Railway NTPC TST Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test?
The test duration is typically 10 minutes, during which candidates must demonstrate their typing proficiency.
2. Can I use any font for the Hindi typing test in Railway NTPC TST?
No, candidates must use either the Krutidev or Mangal font for the Hindi typing test, as specified by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs).
3. Is the Typing Skill Test mandatory for all Railway NTPC posts?
No, the Railway NTPC TST is mandatory only for posts like Senior Clerk Cum Typist and Junior Account Assistant Cum Typist.
4. Can I appear for the Railway NTPC TST if I haven’t cleared the 2nd Stage CBT?
No, only candidates shortlisted after clearing the 2nd Stage CBT are eligible for the Typing Skill Test.
5. Will Railway NTPC Typing Skill Test score affect my final merit ranking?
No, the TST is qualifying in nature. It does not contribute to the final merit score but is mandatory for eligibility.
6. How can I improve my typing speed and accuracy for Railway NTPC TST?
Practice regularly using typing software, simulate test conditions, and focus on accuracy before speed. For Hindi, ensure you’re familiar with the Krutidev or Mangal font.
7. What happens if I fail to meet the required typing speed for Railway NTPC TST?
Failure to meet the required typing speed disqualifies a candidate from posts requiring the TST.
