IBPS PO Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2024 For Prelims and Mains

IBPS PO Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2024

The IBPS PO (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer) exam is undeniably one of the most coveted positions in the banking sector, and its competitive nature demands a comprehensive understanding of the exam pattern. Over recent years, IBPS has consistently raised the difficulty level of the exam, making it imperative for aspirants to be well-acquainted with the evolving pattern.

The IBPS PO Exam typically consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Interview. The Preliminary Exam assesses candidates' proficiency in English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability. Successful candidates then advance to the Main Exam, which includes sections such as Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, and Data Analysis & Interpretation. The final stage involves a personal interview.

Aspirants must stay abreast of these evolving patterns, adopt effective study strategies, and cultivate a strong foundation in relevant subjects to navigate the challenges posed by the IBPS PO exam successfully.

There will be three phases in the IBPS PO exam:

• Prelims
• Mains
• Interview

Familiarizing yourself with the IBPS PO syllabus is crucial to ensure you are aware of key details essential for success in the exam. Understanding the syllabus lets you understand the exam pattern and effectively tailor your preparation. By thoroughly knowing the IBPS PO syllabus, candidates can strategically focus on each section, enhancing their readiness to crack the exam and increasing their chances of success.

IBPS PO Prelims Exam Pattern

The initial phase of the IBPS PO Recruitment Process is the IBPS PO Prelims, marked by objective-type questions. The exam pattern for IBPS PO Prelims is defined as follows, presenting candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the structure and format. Familiarizing oneself with these details is pivotal for aspirants to navigate the Preliminary stage successfully.

Candidates must pass each of the sections of the IBPS PO Preliminary test by achieving the minimum cut-off marks set by IBPS. A sufficient number of candidates from each category, as determined by IBPS based on requirements, will be shortlisted for the next stage, which is the IBPS PO Online Main Examination.

IBPS PO Prelims Syllabus 

IBPS PO Prelims syllabus comprises three core sections: Reasoning, English Language, and Quantitative Aptitude. A detailed insight into Prelims' IBPS PO exam syllabus is outlined below, offering candidates a roadmap to navigate each subject effectively and optimize their preparation for success.

IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern

The IBPS PO Mains exam pattern encompasses four sections and an additional English descriptive test, whose evaluation is contingent on securing the expected cut-off marks in the IBPS PO objective test. A comprehensive outline of the IBPS PO Mains exam pattern is provided below, emphasizing the significance of achieving the requisite scores to consider the descriptive test in the evaluation process.

The Descriptive Paper for English Language (Letter writing & Essay) of the IBPS PO Mains exam may be assessed using an automated scoring system that identifies writing proficiency features. This validated system objectively evaluates candidates' English writing skills, ensuring there are no inherent biases in the evaluation process.

Also, in both the IBPS PO objective tests, there is a penalty for incorrect answers. For each wrongly answered question, one-fourth (0.25) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted from the total score. If a question is left unanswered, no penalty will be applied.

Candidates must achieve a minimum score in each section of the IBPS PO Mains exam, as well as a minimum overall score, to be considered for interview shortlisting. Based on the available vacancies, cut-off marks will be determined, and candidates will be shortlisted accordingly. Scores from the IBPS PO Mains exam will not be disclosed to those shortlisted for interviews until the interview process is completed. The decision of IBPS regarding the shortlisting and the number of candidates invited for common interviews or provisional allotment is final.

IBPS PO Mains Syllabus

Besides the standard sections, the IBPS PO Mains exam syllabus introduces two supplementary sections, namely 'General Awareness' and 'Computer Aptitude.' A comprehensive breakdown of the topic-wise IBPS PO Mains syllabus is presented in the table below, offering candidates a detailed overview to facilitate focused and strategic preparation for these additional segments.

Also, you can refer to BeePedia to prepare for the General Awareness section.

IBPS PO Interview

Upon successfully clearing the IBPS PO Mains exam, candidates proceed to the crucial Personal Interview stage. The scores obtained in the Mains exam contribute significantly to securing a position in the final interview round, which holds a total weightage of 100 marks. During the interview, candidates can expect questions spanning personal and professional domains. Adequate preparation beforehand is strongly recommended to ensure confidence and a comprehensive understanding of diverse topics, maximizing the chances of success in the IBPS PO Interview.

IBPS PO Interview Syllabus

The IBPS PO Interview round is a platform for assessing your overall personality. Expect inquiries ranging from personal life to academic background and current affairs. A consistent habit of daily newspaper reading is recommended to stay informed. The culmination of your Mains and Interview scores will ultimately decide your selection, underscoring the importance of thorough preparation across these aspects to enhance your chances of success in the competitive IBPS PO recruitment process.

IBPS PO Final Selection

After completing the IBPS PO interview process, a merit list will be released, incorporating the final cut-off. This merit list is based on the cumulative marks obtained in the online IBPS PO Mains exam and the Interview. The minimum qualifying marks for the interview will be at least 40% for general candidates and 35% for SC, ST, OBC, and PWBD candidates. The weightage for the IBPS PO online Main exam and the Interview will be 80:20, respectively. The combined final score for candidates will be calculated based on the scores they obtain in the IBPS PO online Main examination and the interview.

Successful qualification in the interview stage ensures your appointment as a Probationary Officer (PO) in diverse Public Sector Banks, marking the culmination of the rigorous selection process in the competitive realm of IBPS PO recruitment.

IBPS PO Marking Scheme

Now that candidates understand the detailed IBPS PO exam pattern and syllabus, it is also important to understand how the exam will be marked. The IBPS PO exam adheres to a specific marking scheme that contributes to the overall difficulty level of the examination. Examining the following table provides insight into the allocated marks, shedding light on the nuanced criteria that candidates must navigate to optimize their performance in the IBPS PO exam. Understanding this marking scheme is a pivotal part of the IBPS PO syllabus and exam pattern for aspirants as they strategize their approach to tackle the challenges posed by the varying sections of the examination.

IBPS PO Exam Language

Candidates from diverse backgrounds will be preparing for the upcoming IBPS PO exam. This makes the language of the exam a critical part of IBPS PO syllabus and exam pattern. The IBPS PO (Prelims + Mains) exam allows you to choose your medium of the exam between English and Hindi. Except for the test of English Language, all the other tests can be given in your desired language. Also, the IBPS PO exam interface allows you to view any question in a different language from the one selected at the start.

IBPS PO 2024 Preparation Tips & Strategies

To succeed in the IBPS PO exam, you must adopt a systematic and strategic approach to your preparation. In addition to dedicating yourself to hard work, you must employ intelligent methods to cover the extensive IBPS PO syllabus within the allocated time. Here are some invaluable tips and strategies that will prove advantageous in your preparation for the IBPS PO exam.

• Understand the Exam Pattern: Start by familiarizing yourself with the IBPS PO syllabus and exam pattern, which consists of multiple-choice questions divided into different sections like English language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, General Awareness, and Computer Aptitude. Understand each section's marking scheme, time duration, and number of questions.

• Syllabus Familiarization: Thoroughly review the IBPS PO syllabus and list important topics from each section. This will help you prioritize your studies and cover all the essential areas.

• IBPS PO Study Material : Collect reliable and comprehensive study materials such as textbooks, previous years' question papers, and IBPS PO preparation guides. These resources will help you understand the IBPS PO exam syllabus and provide practice questions for each section.

• Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that covers all the subjects and allows you to allocate sufficient time for each. Divide your time effectively, considering your strengths and weaknesses in different sections. Pay more attention to challenging areas while ensuring you revise and practice regularly.

• Strengthen your Basics: Focus on building a strong foundation in English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning. Practice grammar rules, vocabulary, reading comprehension, data interpretation, and logical reasoning regularly to improve your skills.

• Stay Updated with Current Affairs: General Awareness plays a significant role in the IBPS PO Mains exam. Stay updated with daily current affairs, including national and international news, financial awareness, and banking sector developments. Read newspapers, magazines, and online sources to enhance your knowledge.

• Practice & Revision: Practice is the key to success in any competitive exam, including the IBPS PO exam. Solve a wide range of practice questions and attempt sample papers regularly that cover topics from the IBPS PO syllabus. Additionally, revise the concepts, formulas, and shortcuts to ensure you retain the information.

• Be Happy: Maintain a positive mindset, stay motivated, and care for your physical and mental well-being. Sleep well, exercise regularly, and follow a balanced diet to stay focused and energized during your preparation.

It is important to remember that consistency and perseverance are key to succeeding in the IBPS PO exam. With diligent preparation, strategic planning, and focused efforts, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score and securing a position as a Probationary Officer in a reputable bank.

Subject-wise Preparation Study Techniques & Resources for the IBPS PO Exam 2024

Quantitative Aptitude

• Familiarize yourself with the IBPS PO Quantitative Aptitude syllabus. Make a list of topics that are frequently covered, such as Number System, Simplification, Data Interpretation, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Profit and Loss, Time and Work, etc.
• Start by building a strong foundation in basic mathematical concepts. Understand the fundamental principles, formulas, and shortcuts for various topics. Focus on topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and number systems.
• Regular practice is crucial for this section. Solve various quantitative aptitude questions, including concept-based and application-based problems. Gradually increase the level of difficulty as you progress.
• Work on improving your calculation speed. Learn shortcut techniques, mental math tricks, and approximation methods to solve problems quickly. This will help you save time during the exam and increase your efficiency.
• Data Interpretation (DI) is an important component of the Quantitative Aptitude section. Practice different DI questions, including bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, and tables. Learn to analyze and interpret data accurately to answer the related questions.
• Since time is limited in the exam, practice solving questions within a time limit. Set time goals for different questions and learn to allocate time accordingly. This will help you manage time effectively during the actual exam.
• Regularly evaluate your performance and identify your weak areas. Focus on improving those areas by practicing more questions and seeking clarification on concepts you find challenging.
• Create a formula sheet or flashcards for quick reference. Note down important formulas, concepts, and shortcut techniques. Revise these regularly to ensure you remember them during the exam.
• Solve previous years' question papers and mock tests to simulate the exam environment.

English Language

• Make a list of frequently covered topics in the IBPS PO English Language syllabus, such as Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar, Error Spotting, Para Jumbles, Cloze Test, and Sentence Improvement.
• Develop a habit of reading English newspapers, magazines, and online articles regularly. This will help improve your vocabulary, comprehension skills, and exposure to different writing styles. Focus on current affairs, business, and finance topics to align with the banking context.
• Build a strong vocabulary by learning new words every day. Use vocabulary-building techniques such as flashcards, word lists, and context-based learning. Practice using synonyms, antonyms, and contextual vocabulary through exercises and quizzes.
• Brush up on your grammar skills by revisiting essential concepts such as tenses, parts of speech, subject-verb agreement, sentence structure, and punctuation rules. Identify your weak areas and practice grammar exercises to strengthen your understanding.
• Reading Comprehension passages are a significant part of the English Language section. Practice reading passages and answering questions about the main idea, inference, tone, author's viewpoint, and vocabulary. Focus on improving reading speed while maintaining comprehension.
• Solve a variety of practice exercises and questions from previous years' question papers. This will help you become familiar with the different question types, enhance your comprehension skills, and improve your ability to spot errors, complete sentences, and rearrange paragraphs.
• Develop your writing skills by practicing essay writing, letter writing, and paragraph formation. Focus on maintaining coherence, clarity, and proper grammar in your writing. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to improve your writing style and accuracy.

Reasoning Ability

• Get acquainted with the IBPS PO Reasoning Ability syllabus. List frequently covered topics, such as Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Puzzles, Inequality, and Input-Output.
• Understand the fundamental concepts and techniques for each topic. Learn different types of arrangements, coding patterns, and logical reasoning principles. Familiarize yourself with common reasoning puzzles and their solutions.
• Reasoning Ability tests your analytical and logical reasoning skills. Practice solving problems that require critical thinking, deduction, and pattern recognition. Enhance your ability to analyze and interpret information quickly and accurately.
• Regular practice is crucial for the Reasoning Ability section. Gradually increase the level of difficulty as you progress. Solve previous years' question papers and mock tests to simulate the exam environment.
• Reasoning Ability questions often involve identifying patterns, relationships, and logical connections between elements. Train yourself to observe and analyze the given information systematically. Look for clues, keywords, and hidden connections to solve the problems.
• Since time is limited in the exam, practice solving reasoning questions within a time limit. This will help you manage time effectively during the actual exam.
• Reasoning Ability questions can sometimes be complex and time-consuming. Stay calm and focused while solving these questions. Avoid making assumptions or rushing through the problem. Take a systematic and step-by-step approach to arrive at the correct solution.

General/Economy/Banking Awareness

• Stay updated with current affairs by regularly reading newspapers like The Hindu, The Economic Times and magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan. Focus on news related to national and international events, business, finance, and banking sectors.
• Use reliable online sources such as government websites, banking and financial websites, and reputable news portals. These sources provide information on banking policies, economic developments, and current affairs.
• Familiarize yourself with key banking terminologies and concepts such as types of accounts, banking products, financial instruments, monetary policy, regulatory bodies, and banking reforms. Understand the functions of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other important institutions in the banking sector.
• Gain a basic understanding of the Indian economy, including important economic indicators, government schemes, fiscal policies, and economic reforms. Focus on sectors like agriculture, industry, services, and their economic contribution.
• Stay updated with financial awareness topics such as banking products and services, insurance, mutual funds, capital markets, and money market instruments. Understand the basics of financial statements and financial ratios.
• While studying, make concise notes and flashcards of important information, facts, and figures. This will help you revise and remember key points easily. Categorize your notes based on banking, current affairs, and economic concepts.
• Take online quizzes and practice tests specifically designed for General/Economy/Banking Awareness. These resources will help you assess your knowledge, improve speed, and familiarize yourself with the exam format.
• Dedicate time for regular revision of the topics you have studied. Focus on reinforcing important facts, figures, and concepts. Revise your notes, flashcards, and practice quizzes to ensure you retain the information effectively.

IBPS PO Study Plan 2024

If you find it challenging and overwhelming to create a reliable study plan, don’t worry, we have got you covered. ixamBee provides a comprehensive 60-day study plan designed for IBPS PO exam preparation. This well-structured plan built by keeping in mind the needed learner outcomes and IBPS PO syllabus, will provide a strategic roadmap to cover all the essential subjects and topics within the given timeframe. With a focus on effective time management, the IBPS PO study plan ensures that you devote sufficient time to each section, practice regularly, and revise key concepts.

General Tips for the IBPS PO Exam 2024 Preparation

• Devise a Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study plan that includes all the subjects and topics within the IBPS PO syllabus and exam pattern. Divide your time effectively, considering each section's weightage and difficulty level. Give more focus to challenging areas while ensuring you revise and practice regularly.

• Reliable Study Material: It is important to gather trustworthy and extensive study materials, including textbooks, previous year question papers, and IBPS PO preparation guides. These resources will aid in developing a strong grasp of the exam syllabus and offer practice questions for all sections, enabling effective preparation.

• Time Management: Develop effective time management skills. Set time goals for each section and question type. Practice solving questions within the allotted time to improve your speed and accuracy during the exam
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in the IBPS PO exam. Solve various practice questions, mock tests, and previous year papers to improve your speed, accuracy, and problem-solving skills. This will also help you get familiar with the exam pattern.
• Consistent Revision: Set aside dedicated time for regularly revising all subjects. Revise the concepts, formulas, and shortcuts to ensure you retain the information. Regular revision will help reinforce your understanding and improve your memory retention.
• Take Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests designed specifically for the IBPS PO exam. This will help you assess your preparation level, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and adapt to the exam environment. Analyze your performance and work on improving areas that need more attention.
• Positive Mindset: Ensure to maintain a positive mindset throughout preparation. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by obtaining adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and maintaining a balanced diet. Taking breaks and finding moments of relaxation is crucial to prevent burnout.

By following these tips, staying disciplined, and putting in consistent effort, you can enhance your chances of performing well in the IBPS PO exam.

IBPS PO Books

There is a large pool of books available in the market (online + offline), so it is necessary to pick the right ones and cancel out the unnecessary ones to avoid wastage of time. We have listed some IBPS PO books that are relevant to exam preparation based on the IBPS PO syllabus and exam pattern, that will benefit the preparation process.

IBPS PO Free Mock Test 2024

After completing the IBPS PO exam syllabus, it is crucial to reinforce your knowledge through practice. One effective way to achieve this is by attempting online mock tests designed for IBPS PO Prelims and Mains. These mock tests provide a simulated real-time environment closely resembling the exam conditions. By practicing the IBPS PO Prelims Mock Test, you can familiarize yourself with the exam format, enhance your time management skills, and improve your speed in answering questions. Additionally, these tests help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus on areas that require further improvement.

Attempting mock tests becomes even more crucial for aspirants aiming to excel in the IBPS PO Mains exam. IBPS PO Mains Mock Tests offer a higher difficulty level, presenting challenging questions. Regularly practicing these mock tests can boost your accuracy, develop problem-solving techniques, and gain familiarity with different question patterns and formats. This helps you build confidence and perform better in the actual exam. Furthermore, analyzing your performance in these mock tests enables you to identify areas that need additional focus, allowing you to fine-tune your preparation strategy.

IBPS PO Online Course

ixamBee has developed an IBPS PO Exclusive Online Course that our expert faculty design. This comprehensive course results from extensive research and analysis of IBPS PO previous year papers, the IBPS PO exam pattern, and the latest IBPS PO syllabus. Enrolling in this exclusive online course allows aspiring candidates to fulfill their dream of becoming a Probationary Officer in a public sector bank. With the guidance of experienced faculty, students will gain valuable insights, effective study strategies, and expert tips and tricks to excel in the IBPS PO exam. Join the ixamBee IBPS PO Exclusive Online Course to receive the necessary support and knowledge to pursue your goal of a successful banking career confidently.