Unictest Team
Updated: 2026-05-12 · English
Many aspirants preparing for the RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) CBT 2 exam often wonder about the scoring pattern, especially concerning Part B, the Trade Test. A common question is: Why are Part B (Trade Test) marks not added to the final merit list for RRB ALP? Let's clarify this crucial aspect for the upcoming RRB ALP 2026 examination.
The RRB ALP CBT 2 examination is bifurcated into two parts: Part A and Part B. While Part A is designed to assess your general aptitude, knowledge, and reasoning abilities, Part B is a specialized test known as the Trade Test. The fundamental reason why Part B marks are not included in the final merit calculation is its qualifying nature. इसका मुख्य उद्देश्य यह सुनिश्चित करना है कि उम्मीदवार के पास संबंधित ट्रेड में न्यूनतम आवश्यक तकनीकी कौशल और ज्ञान है।
Understanding the Qualifying Nature of Part B (Trade Test)
Part B, the Trade Test, is mandatory for all candidates who appear for CBT 2. However, it is purely a qualifying examination. This means you only need to secure the minimum prescribed percentage of marks to clear this section. The marks obtained in Part B are not considered for the preparation of the final merit list. The merit list is exclusively prepared based on the marks secured by candidates in Part A of CBT 2.
Purpose of the Trade Test
The Trade Test serves a vital purpose in the selection process. It ensures that candidates selected for the Assistant Loco Pilot or Technician posts possess the practical and theoretical knowledge specific to their chosen trade (e.g., Fitter, Electrician, Mechanic, Welder). These are operational roles that require specific technical skills to maintain and operate railway equipment safely and efficiently. If the marks were added to the merit list, it might dilute the focus on core aptitude (Part A) or create an imbalance where a candidate with high Part B marks but average Part A marks could secure a position, even if their general aptitude is not as strong. The railway recruitment board aims to select candidates who are both academically sound (Part A) and technically competent (Part B).
Thus, while you must take the Part B Trade Test seriously and prepare thoroughly to meet the qualifying criteria, your primary focus for securing a high rank in the merit list should be on maximizing your scores in Part A. Unictest provides comprehensive study materials and mock tests for both Part A and Part B to help you excel.