The RRB Pharmacist exam is designed to assess candidates’ technical knowledge, general aptitude, and suitability for the role. The selection process generally involves a written examination followed by document verification.
RRB Pharmacist Exam Pattern
The exam pattern outlines the structure and marking scheme of the test. Here are the key details:
- Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Marks: 100
- Number of Questions: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
- Marking Scheme:
- Each correct answer carries 1 mark.
- 1/3 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
Subject-Wise Weightage
| Section | Marks | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy Subject (Core) | 70 | 70 |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 |
| General Intelligence/Reasoning | 10 | 10 |
| Arithmetic/Quantitative Aptitude | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
RRB Pharmacist Syllabus
The syllabus for the RRB Pharmacist exam is divided into four main sections: Pharmacy Subject (Core), General Awareness, General Intelligence/Reasoning, and Arithmetic/Quantitative Aptitude.
1. Pharmacy Subject (Core)
This section evaluates your professional knowledge in pharmacy. Key topics include:
- Pharmaceutics:
- Dosage Forms
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Biopharmaceutics
- Pharmacology:
- Mechanism of Action
- Adverse Drug Reactions
- Drug Interactions
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Analytical Techniques
- Structure and Activity Relationships
- Pharmacognosy:
- Plant-Based Medicines
- Natural Products
- Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy:
- Inventory Management
- Patient Counseling
- Drug Distribution Systems
- Laws and Ethics:
- Pharmacy Act
- Drugs and Cosmetics Act
2. General Awareness
This section tests your knowledge of current events and general topics. Key areas include:
- Current Affairs (National and International)
- Indian Railways-related Updates
- Basic Science and Technology
- Environmental Issues
- History, Geography, and Polity
3. General Intelligence/Reasoning
This section assesses logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Topics include:
- Logical Reasoning
- Series Completion
- Puzzles
- Blood Relations
- Coding-Decoding
4. Arithmetic/Quantitative Aptitude
This section evaluates numerical ability. Key topics include:
- Basic Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Averages)
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Data Interpretation
- Time and Work
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure and marking scheme.
- Focus on Core Subjects: Allocate more time to pharmacy-related topics, as they carry the highest weightage.
- Practice Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Revise Regularly: Make concise notes for quick revision.
- Stay Updated: Follow current affairs and updates about the Indian Railways.
Recommended Books
- Pharmacy Subjects: “Essentials of Medical Pharmacology” by K.D. Tripathi
- General Awareness: “Lucent’s General Knowledge”
- Reasoning and Aptitude: “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
Key Highlights
- Negative Marking: Avoid guesswork to minimize deductions.
- Time Management: Practice completing mock tests within 90 minutes.
Final Thoughts
The RRB Pharmacist exam offers an excellent opportunity for candidates aiming for a secure and prestigious career in Indian Railways. Focus on understanding the syllabus thoroughly and practicing consistently to enhance your chances of success.
FAQs
Q: Is there negative marking in the RRB Pharmacist exam?
A: Yes, 1/3 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
Q: How many questions are there in the pharmacy subject section?
A: The pharmacy subject section comprises 70 questions.
Q: What is the duration of the RRB Pharmacist exam?
A: The exam duration is 90 minutes.
For official notifications and updates, visit the RRB website regularly.