Syllabus and Exam Pattern for ISRO Technical Assistant Exam 2024
Eligibility Criteria
Before diving into the syllabus and exam pattern, let’s clarify the eligibility criteria for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a Diploma in Engineering or equivalent qualification in the relevant discipline.
- Age Limit: The age limit varies depending on the category. Refer to the official notification for detailed information.
Exam Pattern
The ISRO Technical Assistant exam is conducted in two stages:
Stage 1: Computer Based Test (CBT)
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 2 hours
- Number of Questions: 120
- Marking Scheme: Each correct answer carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- Sections:
- General Awareness: This section covers current affairs, general knowledge, and basic science.
- Reasoning Ability: This section tests logical reasoning, analytical ability, and problem-solving skills.
- Quantitative Aptitude: This section assesses numerical ability, data interpretation, and basic mathematical concepts.
- Technical Knowledge: This section covers the core subjects related to the candidate’s diploma specialization.
Stage 2: Interview
- Mode: Face-to-face
- Duration: Varies depending on the candidate’s performance and the panel’s questions.
- Assessment: The interview assesses the candidate’s technical knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role.
Detailed Syllabus
The detailed syllabus for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam is vast and covers a wide range of topics. Here’s a breakdown of the syllabus for each section:
General Awareness
- Current Affairs: National and international events, major developments in science and technology, sports, and culture.
- General Knowledge: Indian history, geography, polity, economy, and general science.
- Basic Science: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at the 10+2 level.
Reasoning Ability
- Verbal Reasoning: Analogies, synonyms, antonyms, sentence completion, and verbal classification.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Series, analogies, classification, and spatial reasoning.
- Logical Reasoning: Syllogisms, puzzles, coding-decoding, and blood relations.
- Analytical Reasoning: Data interpretation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Quantitative Aptitude
- Arithmetic: Number systems, percentages, ratios, proportions, averages, time and work, time and distance, and profit and loss.
- Algebra: Linear equations, quadratic equations, inequalities, and basic algebraic operations.
- Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, and mensuration.
- Trigonometry: Basic trigonometric ratios, identities, and applications.
- Data Interpretation: Pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, and tables.
Technical Knowledge
The technical knowledge syllabus varies depending on the candidate’s specialization. Here’s a general overview of the topics covered for some common diploma branches:
Mechanical Engineering:
- Engineering Mechanics: Statics, dynamics, and strength of materials.
- Fluid Mechanics: Fluid properties, fluid statics, fluid dynamics, and fluid machinery.
- Thermodynamics: Laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and power cycles.
- Machine Design: Design of machine elements, gears, bearings, and shafts.
- Manufacturing Processes: Casting, forging, machining, and welding.
Electrical Engineering:
- Circuit Theory: DC and AC circuits, network theorems, and circuit analysis.
- Electrical Machines: DC machines, AC machines, and transformers.
- Power Systems: Power generation, transmission, and distribution.
- Control Systems: Feedback control systems, stability analysis, and system design.
- Electronics: Semiconductor devices, amplifiers, oscillators, and digital electronics.
Civil Engineering:
- Engineering Mechanics: Statics, dynamics, and strength of materials.
- Fluid Mechanics: Fluid properties, fluid statics, fluid dynamics, and hydraulics.
- Soil Mechanics: Soil properties, soil classification, and foundation design.
- Structural Analysis: Analysis of beams, columns, and trusses.
- Construction Materials: Concrete, steel, and timber.
Computer Science Engineering:
- Programming Fundamentals: C, C++, Java, and Python.
- Data Structures and Algorithms: Arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs.
- Database Management Systems: SQL, relational databases, and database design.
- Operating Systems: Process management, memory management, and file systems.
- Computer Networks: Network protocols, network topologies, and network security.
Electronics and Communication Engineering:
- Electronic Devices: Diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits.
- Analog Circuits: Amplifiers, oscillators, and filters.
- Digital Circuits: Logic gates, flip-flops, and counters.
- Communication Systems: Analog and digital communication, modulation and demodulation, and wireless communication.
- Microprocessors and Microcontrollers: Architecture, programming, and applications.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly go through the detailed syllabus and identify the key topics for each section.
- Refer to Relevant Books and Study Materials: Choose reliable textbooks and study materials that cover the entire syllabus.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year papers is crucial to understand the exam pattern, difficulty level, and time management strategies.
- Join Online Test Series: Online test series provide a simulated exam environment and help you assess your preparation level.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to improve your understanding of those topics.
- Time Management: Practice time management techniques to ensure you can complete the exam within the allotted time.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated on current affairs.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: Practice your communication skills for the interview stage.
Important Resources
- ISRO Official Website: The official website of ISRO is the primary source of information regarding the exam, syllabus, and notification.
- Previous Year Papers: Previous year papers are available online and can be downloaded for practice.
- Online Study Materials: Several online platforms offer study materials, mock tests, and video lectures for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam.
- Coaching Institutes: Reputed coaching institutes offer comprehensive preparation programs for the exam.
Table 1: Exam Pattern Summary
| Stage | Mode | Duration | Number of Questions | Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1: CBT | Online | 2 hours | 120 | +1 for correct answer, -0.25 for incorrect answer |
| Stage 2: Interview | Face-to-face | Varies | NA | Based on performance and panel’s assessment |
Table 2: Technical Knowledge Syllabus (Example for Mechanical Engineering)
| Subject | Topics |
|---|---|
| Engineering Mechanics | Statics, dynamics, strength of materials |
| Fluid Mechanics | Fluid properties, fluid statics, fluid dynamics, fluid machinery |
| Thermodynamics | Laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, power cycles |
| Machine Design | Design of machine elements, gears, bearings, shafts |
| Manufacturing Processes | Casting, forging, machining, welding |
Note: The syllabus and exam pattern may vary slightly from year to year. It is always advisable to refer to the official notification for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam?
- Candidates must possess a Diploma in Engineering or equivalent qualification in the relevant discipline. The age limit varies depending on the category. Refer to the official notification for detailed information.
2. What is the exam pattern for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam?
- The exam is conducted in two stages: a Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by an interview. The CBT assesses general awareness, reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, and technical knowledge. The interview evaluates technical knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role.
3. What are the sections covered in the CBT?
- The CBT consists of four sections: General Awareness, Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and Technical Knowledge.
4. What is the syllabus for the General Awareness section?
- This section covers current affairs, general knowledge, and basic science.
5. What is the syllabus for the Reasoning Ability section?
- This section tests logical reasoning, analytical ability, and problem-solving skills. It includes topics like verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, and analytical reasoning.
6. What is the syllabus for the Quantitative Aptitude section?
- This section assesses numerical ability, data interpretation, and basic mathematical concepts. It covers topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and data interpretation.
7. What is the syllabus for the Technical Knowledge section?
- This section covers the core subjects related to the candidate’s diploma specialization. The syllabus varies depending on the branch of engineering.
8. How can I prepare for the Technical Knowledge section?
- Refer to textbooks and study materials related to your specialization. Practice solving problems and focus on understanding the core concepts.
9. How important is the interview stage?
- The interview is a crucial stage of the selection process. It assesses your technical knowledge, communication skills, and suitability for the role.
10. What are some tips for preparing for the interview?
- Brush up on your technical knowledge, practice your communication skills, and prepare for common interview questions.
11. Where can I find previous year papers for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam?
- Previous year papers are available online and can be downloaded for practice.
12. Are there any coaching institutes that offer preparation programs for the exam?
- Yes, several coaching institutes offer comprehensive preparation programs for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam.
13. What are some important resources for preparing for the exam?
- The ISRO official website, previous year papers, online study materials, and coaching institutes are valuable resources.
14. When is the ISRO Technical Assistant exam scheduled for 2024?
- The exact exam dates are announced in the official notification. Keep an eye on the ISRO website for updates.
15. What are the selection criteria for the ISRO Technical Assistant exam?
- Candidates are selected based on their performance in the CBT and interview. The final merit list is prepared based on the combined score of both stages.