SIDBI Grade A Exam Syllabus and Exam Pattern 

The Small Industries Development Bank of India conducts the SIDBI Grade A Officer Exam, a very competitive government exam. The selection is sought for managerial positions, especially from the kind of talent to be nurtured further in the development of Indian MSMEs. The SIDBI Grade A selection consists of two main stages. These are the Phase 1 Online Objective Test and Phase 2 Descriptive and Objective Test. Candidates who pass these two phases of online written exams will move on to the final interview.  

Each phase tests a different aspect of the candidate’s analytical and logical abilities, reasoning skills, professional knowledge, and most importantly, writing proficiency. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the SIDBI Grade A exam syllabus. It should help you make better sense and plan your preparations. 

SIDBI Grade A Phase 1: Online Objective Test 

The Phase 1 assessment is an online test intended to assess a candidate’s proficiency in general aptitude, reasoning, and domain-specific knowledge. The test is comprehensive in nature, consisting of multiple sections, which contribute to the overall score. This SIDBI Grade A Phase 1 online test with a totally bilingual test (except for the English Language part). 

It includes seven sections designed to test your skill in areas such as English, reasoning, quantitative aptitude, computer knowledge, and general awareness, besides MSME-specific topics and stream-specific knowledge. 

Sections of this stage of the SIDBI exam include: 

English Language: 

This section checks your ability in English grammar, comprehension, and usage. It includes: 

Reading Comprehension: Passages with interpretative, inferential, and fact-based questions. 

Grammar: Questions on error spotting, sentence improvement, and phrase replacement. 

Vocabulary: Cloze tests, fill-in-the-blanks, and synonym-antonym identification. 

Sentence Arrangement: Questions in which sentences need to be reordered logically to form understandable paragraphs. 

Reasoning Aptitude: 

It is used as a measure of logical reasoning and problem-solving ability. Some key topics include: 

Puzzles and Seating Arrangements: Linear, circular, and floor-based arrangements. 

Logical Reasoning: Questions involving cause-effect, assumptions, and conclusions. 

Syllogisms: Deductive reasoning problems. 

Blood Relations and Coding-Decoding: Relationship and pattern identification. 

Quantitative Aptitude: 

This section is used to evaluate mathematical and numerical ability. Some key areas include: 

Data Interpretation: Graphs, tables, and charts requiring analysis. 

Simplification and Approximation: Rapid calculations for solving numerical problems. 

Arithmetic Problems: Time, work and their application, profit, loss, ratio, percentage, and averages. 

Number Series and Quadratic Equations: Patterns and algebraic problem-solving 

Computer Awareness: 

Testing your awareness of computers, networking, and the cross-section of cybersecurity. The major areas include: 

Basic Concepts: Hardware, software, operating systems, and input-output devices 

MS Office Applications: MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint 

Cyber Security: Safe internet practices and data security 

General Awareness: 

Focus Area: Banking, Financial, and Current Affairs Specific Areas include: 

Banking & Financial Awareness: Key Terms, Policies, and Recent Developments. 

Economic and Social Issues: Government Schemes, Sustainable Development, and Social Sector Policies. 

Current Affairs: National as well as International news, Awards, Appointments, and Agreements. 

MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises):  

A special section testing your knowledge of MSME policies, their respective regulatory framework, and the role of SIDBI. Topics include: 

Government Schemes for MSMEs: PMEGP, CGTMSE, etc. 

Policy Framework: Growth of MSMEs under initiatives of SIDBI. 

Management of MSMEs: Financing, legal and operational strategy. 

Streams-Specific Knowledge: 

This differs according to area of interest (e.g. law, finance, economics). This talks about technical know-how as used in your area. 

SIDBI Grade A Phase 2: Descriptive and Objective Test 

Phase 2 Testing is more about testing your expression of ideas and professional expertise. Questions are both descriptive as well as objective. 

Phase 2 Paper 1: English Descriptive Test 

This test assesses your writing ability, such as clarity of thought, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Candidates have to: 

Write an Essay: Usually the topics relate to banking, finance, MSME development, or some socio-economic issue. 

Draft a Precis: Summarize a passage concisely without losing key points. 

Compose a Formal or Informal Letter: Typically based on professional scenarios such as drafting letters to government officials or financial institutions. 

Phase 2 Paper 2: MSMEs and Professional Knowledge 

This is a two-part test that combines:- 

Objective Questions: – 

Focuses on the policies related to MSMEs, initiatives undertaken by SIDBI, and domain-specific knowledge 

Key areas included here are financing strategies for MSMEs, NPA management, equity financing, and development policies 

Descriptive Questions: 

Contains questions that require intensive knowledge of your stream. 

Candidates shall answer 4 out of 10 questions, comprising short (10 marks) and long (15 marks) answers. 

Characteristics of Good Preparation Books 

While studying for the SIDBI Grade A exam, studying from the right study material plays a vital role. The best preparation books must have certain characteristics that make your study session a worthwhile one. 

Exam-oriented Content 

Also, the books would be specifically designed for the SIDBI Grade A examination. It should cover all topics relevant to the examination; candidates would not feel burdened by information that is unnecessarily lengthy but could focus on preparing all they need to prepare for the examination. Focused content helps streamline the study process, allowing candidates to concentrate on what is essential for the exam. 

Conceptual Clarity 

Another important feature is conceptual clarity. Preparation books should explain the topics in a simple and lucid fashion. Conceptual clarity can be achieved through simple language, examples and illustrations of intricate concepts. When the basis or the candidates is clear, they are better prepared to answer more complex questions later on. 

Practice-oriented Approach 

Practice-oriented preparation best prepares an individual for a test. The best books would include a range of practice questions that can cater to different level of difficulty beginning from basic to an advanced level of difficulty. These books should also be able to provide detailed solutions to each question so candidates can learn from their mistakes as well as understand the solution to correct answers. Regular practice not only boosts confidence but enhances one’s problem-solving ability. 

Recent Developments 

Books in areas like General Awareness and knowledge about MSMEs shall always be current. Resources to be used must always include updated data, policies, and developments in these issues. Keeping abreast of current events and the most recent changes in regulations would help achieve success in the exams. 

Mock Test Incorporation 

Lastly, some preparation books come with integrated mock tests, which serve as an excellent tool for self-assessment. These mock tests simulate the actual exam environment and help candidates gauge their readiness. By practicing under timed conditions, candidates can improve their time management skills and identify areas where they need further improvement. This way, making sure that your chosen preparation books embody these characteristics will help you make better preparation for the exam and thereby increase the chances of success in SIDBI Grade A. 

Books for SIDBI Grade A Preparation: Phase 1 

Preparing for the SIDBI Grade A exam requires a strategic approach, along with selecting the right resources to ensure thorough preparation. The exam’s structure is comprehensive, covering sections such as reasoning, English, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, MSME and SIDBI-specific knowledge, and stream-specific expertise. Each section demands focused preparation that can be truly achieved only by using books and study materials specifically catering to the unique requirements of this examination. Let us discuss the resources required for each section and what makes a good book, coupled with additional resources like mock tests and previous year papers, online courses etc. 

English Language Section Preparation 

The English Language section is designed to test a candidate’s grammar and vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills in the language. In order to prepare well, candidates require books explaining grammatical rules fairly lucidly, supplemented with numerous examples and exercises. They should also include vocabulary building through exercises focused on the usage of synonyms, antonyms, idioms, and phrases. Reading comprehension, a sizeable part of the English section, requires books to contain diversity in passages for practice, ranging from factual and analytical to abstract topics. Mastering this section not only drives up your score but also strengthens your communication skills as a whole, quite helpful in the corporate sphere too. 

Recommended Books: 

• “High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren & Martin: An excellent resource for grammar and sentence formation. 

• “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis: Ideal for building vocabulary. 

• “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant): Covers grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension exercises. 

Preparing for the Reasoning Aptitude Section 

The Reasoning Aptitude section tests logical reasoning, analytical skill, and ability to solve problems. The section includes topics like puzzles, seating arrangements, syllogisms, coding-decoding, and many more. To prepare for this part, the candidate needs books that explain reasoning fundamentals step by step. The books should have a lot of solved examples with wide-range explanations of different solving techniques so that candidates can handle tough ones with relative ease. The practice sets at different levels of difficulty are also important to the building of speed and accuracy necessary to master this section. The area of mastering reasoning involves testing your ability to think critically and apply logic under time-constrained conditions. 

Recommended Books: 

• “A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal: A comprehensive book covering all reasoning topics. 

• “Analytical Reasoning” by M.K. Pandey: Ideal for strengthening logical and analytical reasoning. 

Building Your Quantitative Aptitude Skills 

Quantitative Aptitude is the most challenging section in many candidates’ opinions as it requires solid numerical and problem-solving skills. Candidates who want to prepare effectively require books that explain complex mathematical concepts in a simple manner with clear illustrations. Good quantitative aptitude books have to focus on basic topics, such as arithmetic, algebra, data interpretation, and number systems. Shortcut techniques and time-saving strategies to solve problems quicker is another feature that should be able to find in a good quantitative aptitude book. For this section, ample practice is the most significant thing, so books need to have a large amount of questions with solutions catered to all the difficulties arising in a question. A good command of quantitative aptitude does not only help you clear the exam but also develops analytical skills, which is invaluable in the banking and finance sector. 

 Recommended Books: 

• “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal: Covers all quantitative topics with plenty of solved examples. 

• “Fast Track Objective Arithmetic” by Rajesh Verma (Arihant): Focuses on shortcut techniques and practice questions. 

• “Data Interpretation” by Arun Sharma: Essential for mastering DI questions. 

Computer Knowledge 

The Computer Knowledge section is crucial for assessing the familiarity of a candidate with computer basics, networking, and cybersecurity concepts. Suitable resources for this section should be current and include topics like computer fundamentals, hardware and software, operating systems, networking concepts, and IT security. A good book about computer awareness would include theoretical explanations followed by multiple-choice questions as practice opportunities. Understanding the latest trends in cybersecurity and new digital trends is essential, as technology forms the cornerstone of the financial sector. This section helps the candidates showcase their ability to perform in a banking environment driven by technology. 

Recommended Books: 

• “Computer Awareness” by Arihant Experts: A comprehensive guide for computer basics. 

• “Objective Computer Awareness” by R. Pillai: Includes theory and MCQs for practice. 

Achieving Excellence in General Awareness 

General Awareness is a critical section in that it examines the candidate’s awareness of current affairs, banking, finance, and economic awareness. The candidate would require regular updates in the appropriate resources in respect of government policies, new developments in banks, and world economy trends. Books on banking awareness, financial systems, and economic policies are the mainstays of preparation for this part. To be updated on current affairs, the candidate should support his reading with monthly magazines, newspapers such as The Hindu or Economic Times, and dedicated current affairs compendiums. This section is dynamic in nature and requires consistent effort to stay updated with recent developments, especially those relevant to MSMEs and the banking sector. 

Recommended Books: 

• “Banking Awareness” by Arihant Experts: A go-to book for banking and financial knowledge. 

• “Manorama Yearbook”: Ideal for general knowledge and current affairs. 

• Monthly Magazines and Newspapers: Read publications like Pratiyogita Darpan, Economic Times, or The Hindu for updated content. 

Special Preparation for MSME and SIDBI-Specific Knowledge 

The MSME and SIDBI Knowledge section is unique to this exam and requires targeted preparation. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the functioning of MSMEs, government schemes like PMEGP, CGTMSE, and SIDBI’s initiatives. Some of the best resources for this section include government publications, annual reports from SIDBI, and materials that provide a detailed understanding of MSME policies and frameworks. The candidate must also pay special attention to the role SIDBI plays in the economic development of the country and its efforts supporting small businesses. Mastering this section showcases the candidate’s awareness of the fundamental missions of SIDBI, thereby making them a strong contender for the post. 

Recommended Books: 

• “Indian Economy” by Ramesh Singh: Offers a good understanding of MSMEs and the economy. 

• Government Scheme Booklets: Publications by the Ministry of MSME. 

• SIDBI’s Official Website and Annual Reports: For accurate and up-to-date information on its operations. 

Stream-Specific Knowledge Preparation 

For those appearing in specialized streams like law, finance, or economics, preparation requires domain-specific resources. Ideally, books selected should cover the basic concepts with broad detail and their practical application in the form of a previous year’s question paper or case study. For example, the books for legal aspirants would be ones dealing with Indian laws and legal reasoning. The finance aspirants require materials to go deep into financial management, capital markets, and taxation. For economics candidates, the books could clarify areas of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and public policy. These resources should include both objective questions and descriptive exercises. 

Books for SIDBI Grade A Preparation: Phase 2 

The descriptive writing section is crucial in the exam, as it will assess the candidate’s ability to articulate his thoughts in a coherent yet concise manner. In any SIDBI Grade A exam, this section consists essentially of essay writing, letter writing, and precis writing. Books that cover all of these very basic writing skills and provide enough practice exercises along with examples relating directly to the banking and finance realm should be essential in acing this area. 

Here are a few books that can be referred to for descriptive writing: 

1. “Descriptive English” by S.P. Bakshi and Richa Sharma This is an all-encompassing guide in writing essay, letter, and precis. It has been especially designed for competitive exams to provide clear and structured guidance on how to really present meaningful responses. 

It simply breaks down essay writing into doable steps so that candidates can organize thoughts so effectively. Moreover, with the focus on formal and informal letter-writing formats, the requirement of SIDBI candidates is also met correctly. Highly practical for candidates because of relevant practice exercises. 

2. “Essays for Civil Services and Other Competitive Examinations” by Pulkit Khare 

It lays an excellent foundation for essay writing, especially on topics that overlap with the banking and financial sectors. 

The essays on economic policies, financial inclusion, and governance in this book closely align with SIDBI’s key focus areas. The tips for structuring essays, using relevant data, and articulating ideas are truly practical and of great help in developing professional writing skills required in the exam. 

3. “151 Essays for Competitive Exams” by Disha Experts 

This book is ideal for candidates who are searching for varied essay topics. It contains pre-written essays based on current issues and guides the candidate to frame his/her style. 

The essays on financial reforms, MSMEs, and global economic trends present a perfect relevance in this book for the SIDBI exam. It also gives tips on how to present excellent introduction and conclusions so that the applicants present a lasting impression in their descriptive answers. 

4. “High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren & Martin (with Key) 

This classic book is, therefore, an invaluable publication to enhance one’s grammar, sentence construction, and composition skills that are essentially vital for writing well. 

Although it mainly deals with grammar, the book has sections on letter writing and comprehension- enabling candidates to hone their basic writing skills. In so doing, its exercises ensure that the candidates write essays and letters free from grammatical and other types of errors that are always considered vital in a competitive exam scenario. 

5. “Banking Awareness” by Arihant Experts (Descriptive Writing Section) 

This book provides a very unique combination of banking awareness topics and practice for descriptive writing. 

It specifically targets essays and letters related to banking applications, requests, and complaints, often asked in the SIDBI Grade A exams. It gives ample experience to candidates to take up any genre as well as banking-specific writing tasks. 

6. “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis 

It is only by having an ample vocabulary that good essays and letters are written, and so this book is the perfect source for vocabulary building. 

The book then offers simple practice exercises to build a rich vocabulary. Moreover, it maintains that proper usage of words makes the written communication effective enough in descriptions, allowing candidates to churn out writing with a professional look. Clarity and crispness are usually what differentiates high-scoring essays from mediocre ones. 

7. “Art of Effective Letter Writing” by S.C. Gupta 

This book is a perfect choice when it comes to mastering formal as well as business letter writing. The book offers detailed formats and examples of formal letters on professional communication. This becomes extremely useful for the SIDBI exam, where the candidate may be asked to write complaint letters, requests, or banking-related correspondence. 

The Importance of Supplementary Resources 

While books form the study material, supplemental materials are as important to ensure success. SIDBI mock tests are a necessity, as they represent the actual environment at the time of examination, which builds up the candidate’s speed and accuracy along with a certain level of confidence. Solving previous year papers gives candidates insights into the pattern, types of questions, and difficulty levels involved in the exam. Furthermore, seeking SIDBI Grade A online courses comes with structured support from expert faculty members, video lessons, and interactive sessions. Additional aid in preparing can also be created by using monthly current affairs PDFs, descriptive writing practice materials, and also group study sessions. 

Conclusion

The SIDBI Grade A exam requires quality books with a balance of regular practice through strategic use of supplementary resources. Candidates can augment their chances of success in this highly competitive exam by focusing on the right material and consistent effort. 

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