SBI Clerk Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2024-25 - Prelims & Mains

SBI Clerk Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2025

The SBI Clerk recruitment notification has been released. The notification provides all the essential details for the SBI Clerk Exam, including important information such as the SBI Clerk Exam Date, SBI Clerk Syllabus, SBI Clerk Pattern, and other details like the SBI Clerk Eligibility Criteria. 

To secure your position among the successful candidates, it's important to navigate through all stages of the SBI Clerk selection procedure 2025 successfully. Your journey begins with comprehending the SBI Clerk exam pattern and SBI Clerk syllabus. A solid grasp of this pattern will provide a foundation for your preparation, enabling you to strategize effectively and enhance your chances of progressing smoothly through the recruitment process. Candidates can devise a study plan by utilizing their understanding of the syllabus to ensure they cover all necessary topics efficiently.

There will be three stages in the SBI Clerk 2025 recruitment procedure, they are-

• Prelims
• Mains
• Language Proficiency Test (qualifying in nature)

For candidates preparing for the exam, it's imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the areas you'll be evaluated on. To achieve this, it's essential to be well-acquainted with the entirety of the SBI Clerk Syllabus 2025. A thorough familiarity with the syllabus will facilitate effective exam preparation, enabling you to organize your efforts efficiently. Equipped with a prior understanding of the SBI Clerk 2025 Syllabus, you'll streamline your preparation process and enhance your overall readiness for the examination. Additionally, being mindful of the SBI Clerk Pattern will help you navigate through the exam structure, ensuring that you allocate time and effort to each section proportionately.

We have provided the information for you below, with clear explanations for each stage of the SBI Clerk 2025 exam. Please note that for the SBI Clerk Exam 2025, there will be no interview stage as it is a clerical-level post.

We strongly suggest that you read all the details of the SBI Clerk Exam Pattern and SBI Clerk Syllabus clearly and carefully. Doing so will ensure that you understand exactly what to expect from the exam and how you can plan your preparation to move forward effectively.

SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Pattern 2025

The SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025 for Prelims is an objective test consisting of three sections: English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. All the sections in the SBI Clerk 2025 Prelims Exam Pattern are allotted separate marks and sectional timings. There are no minimum qualifying marks set for individual tests or for the overall aggregate score. Additionally, marks will not be recorded on a section-wise basis. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam lasts for 1 hour and consists of 100 questions in total. Understanding both the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern for the Prelims is important for candidates aiming to succeed in the exam. Further details on the SBI Clerk 2025 Prelims exam pattern are given below.

Note: No minimum qualifying marks are prescribed for each section OR for the aggregate score.

SBI Clerk Prelims Syllabus 2025

The SBI Clerk Prelims 2025 exam will consist of 100 questions for a total of 100 marks. The SBI Clerk 2025 Exam Syllabus is divided into three sections: English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. Understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and the SBI Clerk Pattern is essential for effective preparation. Each section has its weightage and time limit, and candidates must be well-versed with the structure to excel in the exam:

• English Language
• Numerical Ability
• Reasoning Ability

All the sections hold equal importance. Therefore, it becomes mandatory to study the complete SBI Clerk Prelims syllabus 2025 properly and prepare yourself sufficiently for the exam.

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2025

If you clear the SBI Clerk 2025 Prelims exam, you will need to appear for the SBI Clerk Mains. As mentioned earlier, there won't be much gap between the SBI Clerk Prelims and Mains, so it's important to stay in preparation mode from the beginning. The SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025 for Mains is also an online test, consisting of four sections: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. Each section in the SBI Clerk Exam 2025 is allotted different marks and sectional timings. Being familiar with the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern is vital for your preparation. Further details on the SBI Clerk 2025 Exam Pattern for Mains are provided below.

Note: There is no sectional cut-off in the SBI Clerk exam 2025.

SBI Clerk Mains Syllabus 2025

The SBI Clerk Mains syllabus 2025 consists of four subjects in the objective type format. The subjects assessed are:

• English Language
• Numerical Ability
• Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude
• General Awareness

The SBI Clerk Mains 2025 will consist of 190 questions for a total of 200 marks. You will be given multiple answer choices, and you must choose the correct one. Therefore, with proper practice and preparation, you will be able to spot the correct answers quickly. To achieve this, you need to be well-versed with the complete SBI Clerk 2025 Mains Syllabus. Understanding the detailed SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern is essential for efficient preparation. The comprehensive syllabus for the SBI Clerk 2025 Exam for all subjects can be found in the table below.

Language Proficiency Test

Upon successfully clearing the SBI Clerk Mains examination, the next stage involves the Language Proficiency Test (LPT). This test evaluates your proficiency in the specific local language you selected during the application process. Before finalizing your appointment, your fluency in the chosen language will be assessed. It's important to demonstrate competency, as failure to do so can result in disqualification. This step highlights the importance of regional language proficiency for effective communication with customers and ensuring smooth operations within the bank. Thus, along with understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern, your local language proficiency plays a pivotal role in determining your eligibility for the role.

Note: If you have a 10th or 12th standard mark sheet/ certificate of having studied the specified opted local language, then you will not be needed to take any language test.

Final Selection

The ultimate selection process for the SBI Clerk 2025 hinges on candidates' performance in the SBI Clerk Mains Exam. Scores from the SBI Clerk 2025 Prelims will not be considered in the final selection. As part of the selection procedure, your eligibility documents and pertinent information will undergo meticulous verification before you receive your joining letter.

Moreover, candidates must successfully qualify in the specified opted local language through the Language Proficiency Test (LPT), where applicable. This ensures that candidates have the requisite linguistic skills for effective communication with clients and smooth functioning within the bank.

The culmination of these steps leads to the final selection, primarily based on the outcomes of the SBI Clerk Mains Exam. Therefore, excelling in this stage is imperative, as it will be the decisive factor for your eventual placement in the State Bank of India. Understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern is essential for thorough preparation and success in the exam.

Reserved List

In addition to the final selections, SBI generally publishes a State/category-wise Waiting (Reserved) List. This waitlist holds validity for one year from the date of the result declaration. Candidates on this list may be appointed if initially selected candidates resign during their tenure or fail to join as expected. This strategic waitlist mechanism ensures a continuous pool of qualified candidates, ready to step in and maintain operational efficiency should any vacancies arise post the initial appointment phase. The waiting list reaffirms SBI's commitment to efficient manpower management and uninterrupted service delivery.

Marking Scheme

There is a provision for negative marking in the SBI Clerk 2025 Exam. For every wrong answer marked in the SBI Clerk Prelims, 1/4th of the marks allotted to that question will be deducted. This translates to a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the SBI Clerk Prelims 2025 exam.

For the SBI Clerk Mains exam, the marks allotted to each section vary, and if you incorrectly mark a question, 1/4th of the marks allotted to that question will be deducted. Understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern will help you approach the exam with a better strategy and minimize negative marking. Please refer to the table below for a detailed breakdown of the SBI Clerk marking scheme.

Exam Language

In the SBI Clerk exam 2025, all questions within the objective tests will be presented in a bilingual format, accessible in both Hindi and English languages, except for the English Language test in both phases. This design allows you to choose the language you're most comfortable with. You're at liberty to attempt questions in your preferred language and even switch between languages for individual questions. This flexibility accommodates candidates' language preferences, fostering a conducive environment for efficient problem-solving and optimal performance across all sections of the examination.

SBI Clerk Preparation Tips & Strategies

To excel in a highly competitive exam like the SBI Clerk Exam, a well-thought-out strategy is essential. It requires a combination of dedicated and intelligent efforts to efficiently cover the SBI Clerk Syllabus within the allotted time. Presented below are some invaluable tips and strategies that will significantly aid you in your preparation for the SBI Clerk Exam. Understanding the SBI Clerk Pattern will also play an important role in shaping your study plan, allowing you to allocate time effectively to each section and improve your chances of success.

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the SBI Clerk exam syllabus. This forms the foundation of your preparation.
• Exam Pattern Awareness: Grasp the exam pattern for both SBI Clerk Prelims and Mains. This knowledge helps you allocate time effectively and strategize your approach.
• Create a Study Plan: Develop a detailed study schedule, breaking down topics day by day. Ensure a balanced allocation of time to each subject.
• Prioritize Weak Areas: Identify your weaker subjects or sections and dedicate more time to them. Stronger preparation in these areas enhances overall performance.
• Use Quality Study Material: Utilize reliable study materials, such as textbooks, online resources, and mock tests, for comprehensive coverage.
• Practice Regularly: Solve a variety of mock tests, sample papers, and previous years' question papers. This hones your problem-solving skills and enhances time management.
• Mock Test Analysis: After taking SBI Clerk mock tests, analyze your performance meticulously. Identify errors and focus on areas needing improvement.
• Time Management: Practice time management while solving mock tests. This skill proves invaluable during the actual exam.
• Sectional Focus: Pay attention to all sections but prioritize based on their weightage. A balanced approach ensures better overall scores.
• Revision Strategy: Regularly revise concepts and formulas. Revise periodically to retain information effectively.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current affairs, especially in banking and finance, for the General Awareness section.
• Avoid Last-Minute Rush: Avoid cramming near the exam date. Instead, focus on revision and mock test practice.
• Analyze Mistakes: Learn from mock test errors. Understand the concepts behind incorrect answers and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
• Online Resources: Leverage online platforms for mock tests, quizzes, and study materials for a comprehensive preparation experience.
• Interactive Learning: Engage in group discussions, forums, or study groups for shared insights and peer learning.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and ensure sufficient sleep. A healthy body supports cognitive function.
• Stay Confident: Maintain a positive mindset. Believe in your abilities and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
• Stay Calm: Maintain composure during the exam. Stress can negatively impact performance, so practice relaxation techniques.
• Regular Breaks: While intense preparation is vital, it's equally important to avoid burnout. Incorporate regular short breaks during your study sessions. These breaks allow your mind to recharge and prevent information overload. This approach contributes to your overall well-being, making your preparation journey smoother and more effective.

Subject-specific Study Techniques & Resources

English Language

• Begin by thoroughly understanding the English Language syllabus. This includes topics like comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
• Develop a habit of reading regularly. This can include newspapers, magazines, novels, and online articles. Exposure to different writing styles enhances your language skills.
• Expand your vocabulary by learning new words daily. Use flashcards, apps, or a physical notebook to jot down unfamiliar words and their meanings.
• Revise fundamental grammar rules. Focus on topics like tenses, articles, prepositions, conjunctions, and sentence structures.
• Solve a variety of grammar exercises to reinforce your understanding of grammar rules.
• Enhance your comprehension skills by reading passages and answering related questions. Practice extracting key information and understanding the context.
• Learn new words in context. Understand how they are used in sentences, as this helps you remember and apply them effectively.
• Practice with synonyms and antonyms regularly. This improves your word usage and understanding of word relationships.
• Familiarize yourself with common phrasal verbs and idioms. Understand their meanings and usage in sentences.
• Solve grammar worksheets available online or in study materials. These worksheets help reinforce grammar concepts.
• Take regular mock tests and solve sample papers. Analyze your performance to identify areas needing improvement.
• During the exam, manage time efficiently. Allocate a specific time to each question and move on if you're stuck.
• Analyze your grammar mistakes in practice tests. Identify common error types and work on rectifying them.
• Stay Updated: Stay informed about current events, as it helps in understanding passages related to current affairs.
• Utilize online resources like grammar tutorials, vocabulary-building apps, and language-learning websites.
• Regularly revise grammar rules, vocabulary, and techniques. Repetition aids memory retention.
• Cultivate a positive attitude toward English language preparation. Approach it as a gradual improvement process rather than an instant achievement.

Numerical ability

• Begin by thoroughly understanding the Numerical Ability syllabus. This includes topics like arithmetic, algebra, geometry, number series, and data interpretation.
• Revise fundamental mathematical concepts like fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions. A strong foundation is essential.
• Familiarize yourself with mathematical shortcuts and tricks for quick calculations. These save time during the exam.
• Regular practice is critical. Solve a variety of numerical problems from different topics to enhance your problem-solving skills.
• Divide your preparation into different topics. Focus on one topic at a time, practicing both easy and complex questions.
• Practice interpreting data from charts, graphs, and tables. Understand how to extract relevant information quickly.
• Identify the types of problems you struggle with the most. Devote extra time to those areas to improve proficiency.
• Take mock tests and timed practice sessions. This helps simulate exam conditions and enhances your speed and accuracy.
• Manage time efficiently during the exam. Allocate specific time to each question and move on if you're stuck.
• Memorize fundamental formulas and theorem. Regular revision helps retain these formulas in memory.
• Solve a variety of questions, including ones from SBI Clerk previous year papers. This exposes you to different question formats.
• Utilize online resources like video tutorials and practice quizzes to reinforce your understanding of concepts.
• If allowed, practice using a calculator effectively for calculations that might be time-consuming.
• After solving practice tests, analyze incorrect answers. Understand the mistakes made and rectify them.
• If you encounter doubts, seek clarification from mentors, teachers, or online forums.
• Regularly revisit previously studied topics. This reinforces your learning and ensures retention.
• During the exam, stay composed. Avoid panic and tackle questions methodically.
• Consistency is key. Dedicate a fixed amount of time each day to numerical practice.

Reasoning Ability

• Begin by comprehending the Reasoning Ability syllabus. This encompasses topics like coding-decoding, puzzles, seating arrangement, syllogism, and logical reasoning.
• Familiarize yourself with reasoning concepts like directions, blood relations, inequalities, and series.
• Enhance your logical thinking skills. Practice solving puzzles and questions that require step-by-step reasoning.
• Regular practice is essential. Solve a variety of reasoning problems to build a strong foundation.
• Practice different types of puzzles, such as arrangement, circular, linear, and floor puzzles. Develop strategies to solve them efficiently.
• Practice coding-decoding problems. Understand patterns and rules to decode sequences accurately.
• Master syllogism concepts. Practice solving statements and drawing valid conclusions.
• For data sufficiency questions, practice analyzing the given information to determine if it's enough to answer the question.
• Familiarize yourself with visual reasoning problems like analogies, figure matrix, and pattern completion.
• Practice seating arrangement problems involving linear, circular, and mixed arrangements.
• Take mock tests regularly to simulate exam conditions. Analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement.
• During the exam, manage time effectively. Allocate specific time to each question and avoid getting stuck.
• Regularly revisit previously solved problems to reinforce concepts and techniques.
• Solve questions from previous years' papers to get acquainted with different question formats.
• Ensure your answers are logically consistent with the information provided in the question.
• Utilize online tutorials and practice quizzes to enhance your reasoning skills.
• Practice critical thinking. Analyze the given information before arriving at conclusions.
• After attempting practice tests, analyze incorrect answers. Understand the mistakes made and rectify them.
• Stay composed during the exam. Avoid rushing through questions; read them carefully before answering.
• Cultivate a positive mindset. Approach reasoning questions as puzzles to be solved logically.

Computer Aptitude

• Begin by grasping the Computer Aptitude syllabus. This includes topics like computer fundamentals, hardware, software, networking, and basic computer applications.
• Revisit fundamental computer concepts such as input/output devices, memory, and processing units.
• Understand different operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS) and their functions.
• Familiarize yourself with common software applications like word processing, spreadsheet software, and presentation tools.
• Learn about computer networks, protocols, and types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN).
• Understand internet basics, web browsers, search engines, and web security.
• If applicable, practice typing to improve your typing speed and accuracy.
• Learn about various hardware components like CPU, motherboard, RAM, and storage devices.
• Familiarize yourself with essential keyboard shortcuts and basic commands in operating systems.
• Understand digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and wearable technology.
• Study computer security concepts, including antivirus software, firewalls, and safe browsing practices.
• Learn about data storage options, including hard drives, SSDs, and cloud storage.
• Understand networking concepts such as IP addresses, DNS, and routers.
• Explore applications like email, word processing, and spreadsheet software.
• Solve computer aptitude mock tests to simulate exam conditions and gauge your preparedness.
• Practice using different software applications and tools to gain practical familiarity.
• Regularly revisit previously studied concepts to reinforce your learning.
• Stay Updated: Keep up with technology trends and new developments in the field of computers and software.

General/Financial Awareness

• Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online news portals to stay informed about current events, especially in the banking and financial sectors.
• Pay attention to economic indicators, government policies, and financial reforms that impact the country's economy.
• Familiarize yourself with the structure, functions, and recent developments of financial institutions like RBI, SEBI, NABARD, etc.
• Learn important banking and financial terms, including concepts related to loans, deposits, interest rates, and monetary policy.
• Understand the components of the Union Budget and major tax reforms. Stay updated on changes in tax rates and fiscal policies.
• Keep track of global financial news, international trade agreements, and economic partnerships involving India.
• Learn the basics of stock markets, indices, and major stock exchanges. Understand terms like bulls, bears, IPOs, etc.
• Familiarize yourself with important government schemes related to financial inclusion, social welfare, and rural development.
• Study the history and evolution of the banking sector in India, major banking reforms, and milestones.
• Solve online quizzes and mock tests dedicated to general and financial awareness. This hones your knowledge and boosts confidence.
• Stay updated on government initiatives aimed at financial inclusion, digital payments, and economic growth.
• Familiarize yourself with economic indicators like GDP, inflation, unemployment rate, and industrial production.
• Learn about significant world and national events, historical figures, and geographical landmarks.
• Regularly revise critical facts and concepts to ensure retention and recall during the exam.
• Participate in group discussions or online forums to exchange ideas and gain different perspectives.

Important Books for SBI Clerk 2025

You will need competitive study material and high-quality books if you want to practice effectively for the SBI Clerk Exam 2025. Given that the exam is expected to be challenging, it's important to be very careful when selecting your SBI Clerk reference books and study materials. Some recommended books for the SBI Clerk 2025 Exam are mentioned below. Additionally, you can refer to ixamBee's BeePedia for all the latest updates on General Awareness issues, which will help you stay informed. Understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern will further enhance your preparation strategy and guide your choice of study materials.

Free mock Tests

The SBI Clerk recruitment notification covers various positions, including Probationary Officers and Junior Associates. To excel in these exams, practicing SBI Clerk mock tests will be immensely beneficial in clearing the examination. Engaging with the SBI Clerk mock test series will enhance your speed and scoring ability, bolstering your confidence for the exam. If you're aiming to elevate your accuracy and familiarize yourself with a diverse range of questions across varying difficulty levels, attempting the SBI Clerk free mock test is highly recommended. You can access both SBI Junior Associate mock tests and SBI PO mock tests at no charge on the ixamBee platform. A simple registration on the website grants you immediate access to these valuable resources. Additionally, understanding the SBI Clerk Syllabus and SBI Clerk Pattern will help you focus your preparation effectively while using these mock tests.