Mains Syllabus of NRA CET Exam 2024
The National Recruitment Agency (NRA) Common Eligibility Test (CET) is a nationwide examination conducted for recruitment to various Group ‘B’ and ‘C’ posts in various government organizations. The exam is designed to assess the candidates’ knowledge and aptitude in various subjects. The syllabus for the NRA CET Mains exam is vast and covers a wide range of topics. Here is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for each subject:
General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section tests the candidate’s ability to think logically and solve problems. The syllabus includes:
1. Analogies:
- Number Analogy: Identifying the relationship between two numbers and applying it to find the missing number in another pair.
- Letter Analogy: Identifying the relationship between two letters and applying it to find the missing letter in another pair.
- Word Analogy: Identifying the relationship between two words and applying it to find the missing word in another pair.
2. Classification:
- Number Classification: Identifying the common characteristic among a group of numbers and classifying them accordingly.
- Letter Classification: Identifying the common characteristic among a group of letters and classifying them accordingly.
- Word Classification: Identifying the common characteristic among a group of words and classifying them accordingly.
3. Series:
- Number Series: Identifying the pattern in a series of numbers and finding the missing number or the next number in the series.
- Letter Series: Identifying the pattern in a series of letters and finding the missing letter or the next letter in the series.
- Word Series: Identifying the pattern in a series of words and finding the missing word or the next word in the series.
4. Coding-Decoding:
- Letter Coding: Assigning codes to letters and decoding messages based on the given code.
- Number Coding: Assigning codes to numbers and decoding messages based on the given code.
- Symbol Coding: Assigning codes to symbols and decoding messages based on the given code.
5. Blood Relations:
- Understanding family relationships and solving problems based on given information.
6. Direction Sense:
- Understanding directions and solving problems based on given information.
7. Logical Venn Diagrams:
- Representing relationships between different entities using Venn diagrams.
8. Syllogisms:
- Analyzing arguments and drawing conclusions based on given premises.
9. Data Sufficiency:
- Determining whether the given information is sufficient to answer a question.
10. Non-Verbal Reasoning:
- Solving problems based on visual patterns, shapes, and figures.
Quantitative Aptitude
This section tests the candidate’s ability to solve mathematical problems. The syllabus includes:
1. Number Systems:
- Types of Numbers: Natural numbers, whole numbers, integers, rational numbers, irrational numbers, real numbers.
- Number Properties: Divisibility rules, prime numbers, composite numbers, factors, multiples, HCF, LCM.
- Fractions and Decimals: Operations on fractions and decimals, conversion between fractions and decimals.
- Percentages: Calculation of percentages, percentage increase and decrease, profit and loss.
- Ratio and Proportion: Ratios, proportions, direct and inverse proportions.
- Averages: Mean, median, mode.
2. Algebra:
- Linear Equations: Solving linear equations in one or two variables.
- Quadratic Equations: Solving quadratic equations, finding roots, discriminant.
- Inequalities: Solving linear and quadratic inequalities.
- Surds and Indices: Operations on surds and indices.
- Logarithms: Properties of logarithms, solving logarithmic equations.
3. Geometry:
- Lines and Angles: Types of angles, parallel lines, transversal, angles formed by parallel lines.
- Triangles: Types of triangles, properties of triangles, congruence and similarity of triangles.
- Quadrilaterals: Types of quadrilaterals, properties of quadrilaterals, area and perimeter of quadrilaterals.
- Circles: Properties of circles, circumference, area, chords, tangents.
- Solid Geometry: Surface area and volume of cubes, cuboids, cylinders, cones, spheres.
4. Trigonometry:
- Trigonometric Ratios: Sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, cosecant.
- Trigonometric Identities: Basic trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations.
- Heights and Distances: Solving problems involving heights and distances using trigonometric ratios.
5. Data Interpretation:
- Tables: Analyzing data presented in tables and answering questions based on the data.
- Graphs: Analyzing data presented in bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, and answering questions based on the data.
- Data Sufficiency: Determining whether the given data is sufficient to answer a question.
General Awareness
This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, science, and the Indian Constitution. The syllabus includes:
1. Current Events:
- Major national and international events of the past year.
- Important personalities and their contributions.
- Awards and honors.
- Sports events.
2. History:
- Indian History: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India.
- Important historical events, personalities, and movements.
- Indian National Movement.
3. Geography:
- Physical Geography: Landforms, climate, vegetation, natural resources.
- Indian Geography: Major rivers, mountains, plateaus, deserts, and their significance.
- World Geography: Major countries, continents, oceans, and their features.
4. Science:
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Basic concepts and principles of science.
- Recent scientific discoveries and inventions.
5. Indian Constitution:
- Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.
- Union and State Governments.
- Judiciary and the Supreme Court.
- Important amendments to the Constitution.
6. Economy:
- Indian Economy: Major sectors, economic policies, current economic issues.
- Global Economy: Major economic powers, international organizations.
7. Polity:
- Indian Polity: Structure of the government, political system, elections, political parties.
- Current political issues.
8. Environment:
- Environmental issues: Climate change, pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss.
- Environmental protection measures.
English Language
This section tests the candidate’s proficiency in the English language. The syllabus includes:
1. Reading Comprehension:
- Understanding and interpreting passages from various sources.
- Identifying the main idea, supporting details, and author’s purpose.
- Answering questions based on the passage.
2. Vocabulary:
- Understanding the meaning of words in context.
- Identifying synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms.
- Using appropriate vocabulary in writing and speaking.
3. Grammar:
- Understanding the rules of English grammar.
- Identifying and correcting grammatical errors.
- Using correct tenses, subject-verb agreement, and punctuation.
4. Sentence Structure:
- Identifying and correcting errors in sentence structure.
- Using different types of sentences (simple, compound, complex).
- Understanding the use of clauses and phrases.
5. Composition:
- Writing clear and concise sentences and paragraphs.
- Organizing ideas logically.
- Using appropriate language and style.
6. Comprehension:
- Understanding the meaning of words and phrases in context.
- Identifying the main idea and supporting details.
- Answering questions based on the passage.
7. Vocabulary:
- Understanding the meaning of words and phrases.
- Identifying synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms.
- Using appropriate vocabulary in writing and speaking.
8. Grammar:
- Understanding the rules of English grammar.
- Identifying and correcting grammatical errors.
- Using correct tenses, subject-verb agreement, and punctuation.
9. Sentence Structure:
- Identifying and correcting errors in sentence structure.
- Using different types of sentences (simple, compound, complex).
- Understanding the use of clauses and phrases.
10. Composition:
- Writing clear and concise sentences and paragraphs.
- Organizing ideas logically.
- Using appropriate language and style.
General Studies
This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of various subjects related to general studies. The syllabus includes:
1. History:
- Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India.
- Important historical events, personalities, and movements.
- Indian National Movement.
2. Geography:
- Physical Geography: Landforms, climate, vegetation, natural resources.
- Indian Geography: Major rivers, mountains, plateaus, deserts, and their significance.
- World Geography: Major countries, continents, oceans, and their features.
3. Polity:
- Indian Polity: Structure of the government, political system, elections, political parties.
- Current political issues.
4. Economy:
- Indian Economy: Major sectors, economic policies, current economic issues.
- Global Economy: Major economic powers, international organizations.
5. Science:
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Basic concepts and principles of science.
- Recent scientific discoveries and inventions.
6. Environment:
- Environmental issues: Climate change, pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss.
- Environmental protection measures.
7. Current Events:
- Major national and international events of the past year.
- Important personalities and their contributions.
- Awards and honors.
- Sports events.
8. Art and Culture:
- Indian Art and Culture: Music, dance, literature, painting, architecture.
- Major cultural festivals and traditions.
9. Disaster Management:
- Types of disasters, disaster preparedness, and mitigation measures.
- Role of government agencies in disaster management.
10. Ethics and Values:
- Ethical principles and values.
- Integrity, honesty, and accountability.
- Public service ethics.
Table 1: NRA CET Mains Exam Syllabus – Subject-wise Weightage
| Subject | Weightage |
|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25% |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25% |
| General Awareness | 25% |
| English Language | 25% |
| General Studies | 0% |
Note: General Studies is not a separate subject in the NRA CET Mains exam. However, questions related to General Studies may be included in the General Awareness section.
Table 2: NRA CET Mains Exam Syllabus – Topic-wise Weightage (Approximate)
| Topic | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | 10% |
| Algebra | 10% |
| Geometry | 10% |
| Trigonometry | 5% |
| Data Interpretation | 5% |
| Current Events | 15% |
| History | 10% |
| Geography | 10% |
| Science | 10% |
| Indian Constitution | 10% |
| Economy | 5% |
| Polity | 5% |
| Environment | 5% |
| Reading Comprehension | 15% |
| Vocabulary | 10% |
| Grammar | 10% |
| Sentence Structure | 5% |
| Composition | 5% |
Note: The actual weightage of each topic may vary depending on the difficulty level of the exam.
This detailed breakdown of the NRA CET Mains exam syllabus will help candidates understand the scope of the exam and prepare accordingly. It is important to note that this syllabus is subject to change at the discretion of the NRA. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notification for the latest syllabus and exam pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:
General Intelligence and Reasoning:
Q: What are some common types of analogies tested in the exam?
A: Number, letter, and word analogies are common. They test your ability to identify relationships between pairs.
Q: How can I improve my skills in coding-decoding?
**A: ** Practice different types of coding-decoding problems, including letter, number, and symbol coding.
Q: What are some tips for solving blood relation problems?
A: Draw family trees to visualize relationships and use logical deduction to solve problems.
Quantitative Aptitude:
Q: What are the essential topics in number systems for the exam?
A: Types of numbers, number properties, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and averages are crucial.
Q: How can I improve my speed in solving algebraic equations?
A: Practice solving linear and quadratic equations, and learn shortcuts for simplifying expressions.
Q: What are some common geometric shapes tested in the exam?
A: Triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, and solid shapes like cubes and cylinders are frequently tested.
General Awareness:
Q: How can I stay updated on current events for the exam?
A: Read newspapers, magazines, and online news sources regularly.
Q: What are some important historical events to focus on for the exam?
A: Key events from Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India, including the Indian National Movement, are important.
Q: What are some essential topics in Indian Geography?
A: Major rivers, mountains, plateaus, deserts, and their significance are crucial.
English Language:
Q: How can I improve my reading comprehension skills?
A: Practice reading different types of passages and identifying the main idea, supporting details, and author’s purpose.
Q: What are some common grammatical errors tested in the exam?
A: Tenses, subject-verb agreement, and punctuation are frequently tested.
Q: How can I improve my writing skills for the exam?
A: Practice writing clear and concise sentences and paragraphs, and organize your ideas logically.
General Studies:
Q: What are some important topics in Indian Polity?
A: The structure of the government, political system, elections, and political parties are crucial.
Q: How can I prepare for the Environment section of the exam?
A: Understand key environmental issues like climate change, pollution, and deforestation.
Q: What are some tips for preparing for the Current Events section?
A: Stay updated on major national and international events, important personalities, awards, and sports events.
Note: These are just a few examples of frequently asked questions. The actual questions may vary depending on the exam pattern and syllabus.