The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) successfully conducted the preliminary examination for the Regional Rural Banks (RRB) Office Assistant (Clerk) recruitment on December 6, 2025. Candidates who appeared for this nationwide banking exam are now eagerly looking for a detailed analysis to gauge their performance. Based on feedback from test-takers and expert reviews, the overall exam was reported to be of moderate difficulty.
Section-Wise Difficulty Level and Good Attempts
The IBPS RRB Clerk Prelims exam pattern consisted of two key sections: Reasoning Ability and Numerical Ability. Each section had 40 questions, carrying a total of 80 marks, with a composite time limit of 45 minutes. Here is a breakdown of how each section fared.
Reasoning Ability: Manageable with Tricky Puzzles
The Reasoning section was largely considered manageable by most candidates. The questions covered a familiar range of topics. However, some puzzles and seating arrangement problems presented a challenge, requiring careful time management. The level of this section is best described as easy to moderate.
Experts suggest that a successful attempt of 32 to 36 questions in this section, with high accuracy, would be considered a strong performance. This range is seen as a good benchmark for candidates aiming to clear the sectional and overall cut-off.
Numerical Ability: A Mix of Straightforward and Calculative Problems
The Numerical Ability section presented a mixed bag for aspirants. While a significant number of questions from topics like simplification, number series, and data interpretation were straightforward, the arithmetic word problems (including time & work, profit & loss, and time-speed-distance) demanded careful calculation and application of concepts.
Consequently, this section was perceived as slightly tougher than Reasoning, pegged at a moderate difficulty level. For this section, attempting 28 to 32 questions correctly is estimated to be a good score, balancing both speed and precision.
Overall Exam Analysis and Expected Cut-Off
Considering the combined performance in both sections, the overall good attempts for the IBPS RRB Clerk Prelims 2025 are estimated to be in the range of 62 to 68 questions out of 80. Achieving attempts within this bracket with a high accuracy rate (above 85-90%) significantly enhances the chances of qualifying for the mains examination.
The expected cut-off marks are projected to vary state-wise and also depend on the number of vacancies per RRB. However, based on the moderate difficulty of the paper, the overall cut-off is not expected to see a drastic spike compared to previous years. Candidates must now focus on preparing for the IBPS RRB Clerk Mains exam, which will be the next decisive stage in the selection process.
It is crucial for candidates to remember that the preliminary exam is only a qualifying stage. The final selection will be based on the performance in the Mains examination. All aspirants are advised to continue their preparation with diligence and refer to the official IBPS website for updates and admit cards for the next phase.
