IBPS PO Exam is one of the most competitive exams in Indian banking. Thousands of candidates appear for this exam each year to get a coveted job in public sector banks. But cracking the IBPS PO exam is not a cakewalk. It has two important stages: Prelims and Mains. It is important to know the differences between these two stages for intelligent preparation.
The IBPS PO exam is a two-stage process: Prelims and Mains, with major differences in pattern and difficulty. To prepare wisely, it is important to know these major aspects. The Prelims phase is a screening test, whereas the Mains is tougher and decides selection. A good strategy for both is needed to crack the IBPS PO exam. This blog will lead you to prepare wisely by concentrating on major differences and smart study methods.
Key Differences Between Prelims and Mains of IBPS PO
For an easy victory in the IBPS PO exam, it is crucial to know the key differences between Prelims and Mains. The Mains phase is tougher with a more profound strategy needed. To study intelligently, look at patterns in exams, difficulty levels, and time management. Below is a comparison table showing these key differences:
| Feature | IBPS PO Prelims | IBPS PO Mains |
| Purpose | Screening test to shortlist candidates for Mains | Final selection test before the Interview round |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate | Moderate to Difficult |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 155 + 2 (Descriptive) |
| Total Marks | 100 | 200 + 25 (Descriptive) |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 3 hours 30 minutes |
| Sections | English, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning | English, Data Analysis, Reasoning, General Awareness, Computer Aptitude, Descriptive Test |
| Negative Marking | Yes (0.25 marks deducted for wrong answers) | Yes (0.25 marks for incorrect answers) |
| Descriptive Test | No | Yes (Essay & Letter Writing) |
You can observe from this table that Mains is tougher and demands extensive preparation than Prelims.
Understanding IBPS PO Prelims Exam
The Prelims exam is the initial phase of the IBPS PO exam and is a qualifying round. Your Prelims marks will not be considered for the final selection, but clearing the cutoff is necessary to proceed to the Mains level. Knowing the major differences between both levels will enable you to prepare wisely. To crack the IBPS PO exam, pay attention to speed, accuracy, and smart strategies to excel in Prelims and proceed to Mains successfully.
Exam Pattern of IBPS PO Prelims
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Time Allocated |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
Preparation Tips for IBPS PO Prelims
- Focus on Speed & Accuracy – Since the time is limited, practice solving questions quickly.
- Clear Your Basics – Strengthen your basic concepts in Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning.
- Improve Reading Skills – Reading skills are strong in the English section, so read the newspaper every day.
- Take Mock Tests – Practice through ixamBee’s IBPS PO Prelims Mock Tests to understand your performance.
- Manage Time Wisely – Do not waste much time on one question.
Understanding IBPS PO Mains Exam
Once Prelims are cleared, the second challenge of the IBPS PO exam is the Mains, which is tougher.Understanding the differences is essential to prepare strategically. The Mains stage checks your comprehensive knowledge, analytical, and writing skills. As compared to Prelims, your score in Mains matters in the final selection. In order to crack this stage, practice hard concepts, manage your time effectively, and ensure accuracy. Proper strategy planning will guide you towards success in the IBPS PO Mains exam.
Exam Pattern of IBPS PO Mains Section
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Time Allocated |
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| Descriptive Test (Essay & Letter Writing) | 2 | 25 | 30 minutes |
| Total | 155 + 2 | 200 + 25 | 3 hours 30 minutes |
Preparation Tips for IBPS PO Mains
- Strengthen Your Concepts – Emphasize deep understanding, particularly in Data Interpretation and Reasoning.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs – Read newspapers and keep track of Banking & Economy news.
- Improve Your Writing Skills – Good writing is necessary for the Descriptive Test, so practice essay and letter writing on a daily basis.
- Attempt Full-Length Mock Tests – ixamBee’s IBPS PO Mains Mock Tests enable you to practice in an exam-like setting.
- Work on Time Management – Practice solving long questions within the time frame.
Smart Preparation Strategy for IBPS PO Exam
A strong strategy is the most important thing to crack the IBPS PO exam. To study wisely, know the major differences between Prelims and Mains and work on good concepts. Utilize your time wisely, practice regularly, and enhance accuracy. Adhere to these expert suggestions to clear the IBPS PO Mains exam confidently:
- Make a Study Plan – Allocate time for each section and adhere to a disciplined routine.
- Practice Daily – Practice a minimum of 20-30 questions every day from each section.
- Revise Regularly – Keep on revising key formulas, tricks, and concepts.
- Take Mock Tests – Try ixamBee’s IBPS PO Mock Tests to identify your weak points.
- Solve Previous Year Papers – This will make you familiar with the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Stay Motivated – Have faith in yourself and remain positive during the preparation.
Final Thoughts
The IBPS PO Prelims and Mains exams vary with respect to the difficulty level, syllabus, and exam pattern. To ace the IBPS PO exam wisely, you should know these essential differences and prepare accordingly. Give emphasis to concepts, practice, time management, and mock tests to improve your preparation.
If you want to seriously crack the IBPS PO exam, begin your preparation right now with ixamBee’s IBPS PO Online Courses & Mock Tests. These will keep you one step ahead of the competition and make your dream of becoming a Probationary Officer come true!
All the best with your IBPS PO preparation! 🎯
If you are preparing for the IBPS PO exam, ixamBee is your ultimate learning partner. With IBPS PO Mains mock tests, IBPS PO Prelims PYP, and a comprehensive IBPS PO Interview online course, you can prepare smartly and boost your confidence. Additionally, ixamBee’s Target Banking Online Course provides expert guidance to help you ace the exam. Start your preparation today with ixamBee and stay ahead of the competition!
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