Exam Pattern of IB ACIO Exam 2024
The IB ACIO Exam is conducted by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) for recruitment to the post of Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) Grade II/Executive. The exam is held in two tiers: Tier I and Tier II.
Tier I Exam
The Tier I exam is a Computer Based Test (CBT) consisting of four sections:
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| English Language | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 1 hour |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 4 hours |
Note: There is a negative marking of 1/4th mark for each incorrect answer.
General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section tests the candidate’s ability to analyze, interpret, and solve problems. The questions are based on topics like:
- Analogies: Identifying relationships between words or concepts.
- Similarities and Differences: Finding commonalities and distinctions between objects or ideas.
- Classification: Grouping items based on shared characteristics.
- Series: Identifying patterns in sequences of numbers or letters.
- Coding-Decoding: Deciphering coded messages.
- Blood Relations: Understanding family relationships.
- Direction Sense: Navigating through directions.
- Logical Reasoning: Solving logical puzzles and deducing conclusions.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Analyzing and interpreting visual patterns.
Quantitative Aptitude
This section assesses the candidate’s mathematical skills and ability to solve numerical problems. The questions are based on topics like:
- Number Systems: Understanding different types of numbers and their properties.
- Arithmetic: Operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, ratios, and proportions.
- Algebra: Solving equations and inequalities.
- Geometry: Understanding shapes, their properties, and calculations.
- Mensuration: Calculating areas, volumes, and perimeters.
- Data Interpretation: Analyzing and interpreting data presented in tables, graphs, and charts.
English Language
This section evaluates the candidate’s proficiency in English grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. The questions are based on topics like:
- Reading Comprehension: Understanding and interpreting passages.
- Grammar: Identifying and correcting grammatical errors.
- Vocabulary: Recognizing synonyms, antonyms, and meanings of words.
- Sentence Completion: Filling in missing words to complete sentences.
- Error Detection: Identifying grammatical errors in sentences.
- Para Jumbles: Rearranging jumbled paragraphs.
- Cloze Test: Filling in missing words in a passage.
General Awareness
This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, science, and general knowledge. The questions are based on topics like:
- Current Events: Recent happenings in India and the world.
- History: Important events, personalities, and movements in Indian history.
- Geography: Physical features, climate, and resources of India and the world.
- Science: Basic concepts of physics, chemistry, and biology.
- Polity: Indian Constitution, governance, and political system.
- Economy: Indian economy, financial institutions, and economic policies.
- Culture: Indian art, literature, music, and dance.
- Sports: Major sporting events and achievements.
Tier II Exam
The Tier II exam is a Descriptive Paper (pen-and-paper based) consisting of one section:
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 1 | 100 | 3 hours |
Note: The candidates need to write an essay on a given topic. The essay should be well-structured, grammatically correct, and should demonstrate the candidate’s ability to express their thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the IB ACIO Exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.
- Age: Minimum 18 years and maximum 27 years as on the closing date of application. Age relaxation is available for reserved categories as per government norms.
- Educational Qualification: Graduate degree from a recognized university.
Selection Process
The selection process for the IB ACIO Exam consists of the following stages:
- Tier I Exam: Candidates need to clear the Tier I exam to be eligible for Tier II.
- Tier II Exam: Candidates need to clear the Tier II exam to be eligible for the final selection.
- Medical Examination: Candidates who clear the Tier II exam will be called for a medical examination.
- Final Selection: The final selection will be based on the candidate’s performance in the Tier I and Tier II exams, and the medical examination.
Preparation Tips
Here are some tips for preparing for the IB ACIO Exam:
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme.
- Prepare a Study Plan: Create a realistic study plan and stick to it.
- Refer to Relevant Study Material: Use reliable study materials like textbooks, mock tests, and previous year papers.
- Practice Regularly: Practice mock tests and previous year papers to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and work on them diligently.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with current events.
- Improve Your English: Work on your grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
- Manage Time Effectively: Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Avoid stress and stay calm and focused during the exam.
Important Points to Remember
- The IB ACIO Exam is a highly competitive exam.
- The syllabus is vast and requires thorough preparation.
- Time management is crucial during the exam.
- Practice is essential for success.
- Stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation.
Conclusion
The IB ACIO Exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can achieve success in this exam and secure a career in the Intelligence Bureau.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the exam pattern for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A1: The exam is conducted in two tiers: Tier I (Computer Based Test) and Tier II (Descriptive Paper). Tier I consists of four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness. Tier II is an essay writing paper.
Q2: What is the syllabus for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A2: The syllabus covers topics like General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, and Essay Writing. Specific topics within each section are detailed in the official notification.
Q3: What is the duration of the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A3: Tier I exam is conducted in four separate sections, each with a duration of 1 hour. Tier II exam has a duration of 3 hours.
Q4: Is there any negative marking in the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A4: Yes, there is a negative marking of 1/4th mark for each incorrect answer in Tier I. There is no negative marking in Tier II.
Q5: What is the eligibility criteria for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A5: Candidates must be Indian citizens, aged between 18 and 27 years (relaxations apply for reserved categories), and possess a graduate degree from a recognized university.
Q6: How can I prepare for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A6: Prepare a study plan, refer to relevant study materials, practice mock tests, focus on weak areas, stay updated with current affairs, and manage time effectively.
Q7: What are some important tips for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A7: Understand the exam pattern, practice regularly, manage time effectively, stay calm and focused, and believe in yourself.
Q8: What is the selection process for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A8: The selection process involves clearing Tier I and Tier II exams, followed by a medical examination. Final selection is based on performance in both tiers and the medical examination.
Q9: When is the IB ACIO Exam 2024 expected to be held?
A9: The exact dates for the exam are announced by the IB through official notifications. Stay updated on the IB website for the latest information.
Q10: Where can I find the official notification for the IB ACIO Exam 2024?
A10: The official notification is usually published on the official website of the Intelligence Bureau (IB).