SBI PO Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2024
Regarded as one of the most coveted career paths, the State Bank of India (SBI) presents exceptional prospects for professional advancement. As the SBI PO exam for 2024 approaches, it is paramount to recognize the significance it holds. Familiarity with the SBI PO exam pattern and SBI PO syllabus 2024 is indispensable, ensuring a well-informed approach that minimizes errors. Meticulously comprehending the exam's structure, sections, marking scheme, and time allocation will enable you to tailor your preparation with precision.
With career growth opportunities in sight, adopting a proactive stance by understanding the SBI PO exam's like the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern along with its intricacies is a vital step toward success.
The SBI PO exam pattern 2024 consists of three phases:
- Prelims
- Mains
- Group Discussion & Interview
The SBI PO 2024 exam will test you on the basis of various subjects depending upon the phases, i.e. Prelims & Mains as per the SBI PO Syllabus.
To ensure comprehensive readiness, it is prudent to acquire a thorough grasp of the complete SBI PO syllabus and the SBI PO exam pattern2024 encompassing all subjects. This proactive approach to the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern ensures that no crucial component is overlooked and safeguards against any gaps in your preparation journey. Familiarity with the SBI PO Syllabusequips you to strategically allocate time and resources, fortifying your prospects for success in both the Prelims and Mains examinations.
SBI PO Prelims Exam Pattern
The SBI PO Prelims 2024 examination is scheduled to be conducted online, encompassing three distinct sections: English Language, Reasoning Ability, and Quantitative Aptitude. These sections will be presented in a dynamic sequence without a predetermined order. It is crucial to note that you won't have the liberty to switch between sections midway unless the allocated time for a specific section is fully utilized according to the SBI PO Exam Pattern. This format necessitates strategic time management and focused preparation to optimize your performance across all sections. The SBI PO exam pattern is given in the table below.
| SL. No. | Name of Test | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | English Language | 30 | 100 | 20 Minutes |
| 2. | Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 20 Minutes | |
| 3. | Reasoning Ability | 35 | 20 Minutes | |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 1 hour | |
SBI PO Prelims Syllabus
SBI PO Prelims 2024 consists of three tests - English Language, Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability. These tests encompass distinct chapters from which questions are drawn, varying in complexity. Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the complete SBI PO Prelims syllabus proves indispensable for adept preparation. Such familiarity empowers you to navigate each section strategically, optimizing your performance and bolstering your prospects of triumph in the initial stage, thereby positioning you favorably to advance to subsequent phases of the examination process. The detailed SBI PO Syllabus is as follows.
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| Reasoning | Ranking / Direction / Alphabet Test, Data Sufficiency, Logical Reasoning, Alphanumeric Series, Coded Inequalities, Puzzle, Seating Arrangement, Tabulation, Syllogism, Blood Relations, Input Output, Coding Decoding Permutation, Combination & Probability, Analogy, Classification, Word Formation, Statement and Conclusion |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Mixtures & Alligations, Simple Interest & Compound Interest, Simplification, Profit & Loss, Work & Time, Mensuration – Cylinder, Cone, Sphere, Time & Distance, Data Interpretation, Ratio & Proportion, Number Systems, Sequence & Series, Surds & Indices, Percentage, Percentages, Profit,Loss and Discount |
| English Language | Para jumbles, Miscellaneous, Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Fill in the blanks, Paragraph Completion, Multiple Meaning / Error Spotting, Passage Completion, Deriving Conclusion, Rearrangement of Passage, Sentence correction, Spotting Errors, Grammar, Theme Detection |
SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern
Those who qualify for Prelims will appear in the SBI PO Mains 2024 exam. The SBI PO Mains exam will consist of 4 sections and a Descriptive Test of 30 minutes duration in which English writing skills will be tested.
(i) Objective Test
The SBI PO Mains Objective Test comprises multiple-choice questions from four distinct sections: Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, and English Language. Each section carries varying weightage, contributing to the overall assessment of candidates' aptitude and knowledge in the SBI PO Mains examination. For complete details on the SBI PO Mains exam pattern, refer to the table below.
| S.No. | Name of Tests (Objective) | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 50 | 50 minutes |
| 2 | Data Analysis & Interpretation | 30 | 50 | 45 minutes |
| 3 | General/ Economy/ Banking Awareness | 50 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| 4 | English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 3 hours | |
| Descriptive Test | 02 | 50 | 30 minutes | |
| Grand Total | 250 | |||
(ii) Descriptive Test
The SBI PO Mains 2024 Descriptive Test is scheduled immediately after the Objective Test, with evaluation applicable solely to candidates who attain qualifying marks in the preceding SBI PO objective assessment. This sequential arrangement as per the SBI PO Syllabus emphasizes the significance of achieving the necessary threshold to proceed to the descriptive phase of the examination.
| Descriptive Test | Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Letter Writing & Essay | 50 | 30 Minutes |
SBI PO Mains Syllabus
The SBI PO Mains 2024 exam consists of four tests according to the SBI PO Exam Pattern, unlike the SBI PO Prelims, where there are only three. As it is the next phase, therefore, it is essential to understand that the level of the SBI PO Mains exam will be higher than in the previous phase. Here, your General Awareness will also be tested along with your Computer Knowledge. Having information on all the subjects and respective topics from the SBI PO Syllabus will help in forming a fair preparation plan. Also, you can refer to ixamBee's BeePedia, which is a complete package for all General Awareness updates. The complete SBI PO syllabus 2024 for Mains is as follows.
| Section | Topics |
|---|---|
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | Tabular Graph, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Bar Graph, Radar Graph, Missing Case DI, Caselet DI, Data Sufficiency, Probability, Permutation and Combination |
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude |
|
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Verbal Ability, Word Association, Sentence Improvement, Para Jumbles, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Fill in the blanks |
| General / Economy / Banking Awareness | Banking terms, Abbreviations and Economic terminologies, Overview of Indian Financial System, History of Indian Banking System, Recent Credit and Monetary Policies, Important Government Schemes on capital and money market, Introduction to national financial institutions like RBI, SEBI, IRDA, FSDC etc, Introduction to International organisations like IMF, World Bank, ADB, UN etc, Current affairs related to national and international issues of last 6 months |
SBI PO Psychometric Test, Group Discussion & Personal Interview
If you are able to qualify for the SBI PO Mains 2024 exam, then you will be called for Phase 3, which comprises a Psychometric Test, Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) in the ratio of 3:1 with respect to the vacancies, where you will have to participate in group exercises and face an interview board. Furthermore, the Bank will conduct a Psychometric Test for personality profiling to the candidates shortlisted for Phase 3. The results of this test may be presented to the Interview panel to provide a comprehensive insight into the candidates. The SBI PO Group Discussion will be of 20 marks, while the SBI PO Interview will be conducted for 30 marks, making it a total of 50 marks. The qualifying marks or cut-off for this round will be decided later, and the distribution of marks for both is given below.
| Events | Marks |
|---|---|
| Group Discussion | 20 |
| Personal Interview | 30 |
| Total | 50 |
SBI PO Final Selection
Upon the completion of all three phases of the SBI PO exam 2024, a final merit list will be unveiled, depending upon the prevailing number of vacancies within the SBI PO recruitment 2024. The list of selected candidates will be given based on their scores in the SBI PO Mains and Interview round. The amalgamation of these scores will decisively determine the positioning of aspirants on this conclusive list, defining their eligibility and potential selection as SBI Probationary Officers.
| Exam Phase | Total Marks | Converted To |
|---|---|---|
| Written Test | 250 | 75 |
| G.D & PI | 50 | 25 |
| Total | 300 | 100 |
SBI PO Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for the SBI PO exam 2024 remains consistent across both the Prelims and Mains phases according to the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern. This uniformity ensures parity in the evaluation process, with each correct answer typically fetching positive marks, while incorrect responses will result in negative markings. A clear understanding of this marking scheme aids candidates in strategizing their approach and optimizing their scores in both Prelims and Mains examinations. The details for the SBI PO 2024 marking scheme are given below.
SBI PO Marking Scheme
| SBI PO Marking Scheme | Considered Marks |
|---|---|
| For correct answers | 1 mark |
| For wrong answers | -0.25 or 1/4th marks |
| For not attempted | 0 (no marks) |
SBI PO Exam Language
SBI PO exam 2024 will be bilingual in nature, which means you can attempt the exam in either of the languages, i.e. English or Hindi. One thing that should be kept in mind is that the English Language section will be provided in English Language only as per the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern. The Descriptive test conducted to judge writing skills in the SBI PO Mains exam 2024 is also available in English Language only.
Importance of Understanding the SBI PO Exam Pattern & SBI PO Syllabus
Understanding the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern is paramount in your pursuit of success. Here's why delving into these aspects holds immense significance:
- Strategic Preparation: Knowing the SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern empowers you to plan your study routine strategically. You can allocate time based on section weightage, ensuring comprehensive coverage and efficient use of your study hours.
- Focused Study Plan: Familiarity with the SBI PO syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern guides you in crafting a targeted study plan. You can prioritize topics, allocate resources, and concentrate on areas with higher marks potential, optimizing your preparation.
- Time Management: Understanding the exam structure aids in time management during the actual test. You'll be able to pace yourself through different sections, preventing overinvestment in a single segment.
- Question Selection: A grasp of the SBI PO paper pattern lets you identify question types and formats. This helps you select questions judiciously, solving those you're confident about first and maximizing your score within the allotted time.
- Stress Reduction: Knowing what to expect alleviates exam anxiety. You approach the exam with more confidence, having already familiarized yourself with the format and types of questions.
- Resource Selection: A clear understanding of the SBI PO syllabus ensures that you choose suitable study materials. You won't waste time on irrelevant resources. Instead, you can focus on those aligned with the prescribed topics.
- Effective Revision: With a structured syllabus, your revision becomes more efficient. You can revisit topics systematically, ensuring you retain essential information till the exam day.
- Avoid Surprises: An in-depth understanding prevents surprises during the exam. You won't encounter unexpected question types or formats, helping you maintain composure and perform optimally.
- Answering Strategy: Being aware of the exam format guides your answering strategy. You can decide whether to attempt easier or more familiar sections first, ensuring you tackle the exam with a tactical approach.
- Confidence Boost: Mastery of the pattern and syllabus boosts your self-assurance. You enter the exam hall better prepared, knowing you're equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
- Resource Utilization: You make efficient use of study resources, concentrating on relevant topics and chapters, ultimately enhancing your chances of achieving a higher score.
To put it simply, comprehending the SBI PO exam pattern and SBI PO syllabus lays the foundation for a well-rounded preparation strategy. It enables you to navigate the examination with confidence, equipping you to perform at your best and secure your position as an SBI Probationary Officer.
Subject-wise Study Techniques & Resources
English Language
Elevating your English Language skills for the SBI PO exam 2024 demands a strategic approach. Here are some effective tips to excel in this section:
- Reading Practice: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online articles to enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and contextual usage.
- Grammar Mastery: Focus on grammar rules, tenses, prepositions, and sentence structures. Solve grammar exercises and quizzes to reinforce concepts.
- Vocabulary Building: Learn new words daily and use them in sentences. Utilize flashcards, apps, and word lists to expand your vocabulary.
- Practice Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests and sectional tests for the English Language. Analyze your performance to identify weak areas.
- Time Management: During practice, allocate specific time for each question. Develop the ability to read and comprehend swiftly, ensuring efficient time usage.
- Error Identification: Sharpen your skills in spotting errors, improving sentences, and finding appropriate substitutions.
- Cloze Test Strategy: Focus on the context to fill in the blanks effectively. Familiarity with varied topics aids in grasping the underlying message.
- Reading Comprehension: Practice reading passages and answering questions. Develop strategies like skimming, scanning, and understanding the central theme.
- Para jumbles and Rearrangement: Understand the logical flow of sentences to arrange them coherently. Focus on introductory and concluding sentences.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current affairs and diverse topics. This knowledge aids in understanding the context of reading passages and comprehension questions.
- Revision: Regularly revise grammar rules, vocabulary, and sentence structures. A revision schedule ensures retention and application during the exam.
Quantitative Aptitude
Mastering Quantitative Aptitude for the SBI PO exam 2024 requires a structured approach and diligent practice. Here are some practical tips to excel in this section:
- Concept Clarity: Begin by understanding fundamental concepts and formulas. Establish a solid base to tackle a wide range of quantitative problems.
- Topic Prioritization: Identify topics with higher weightage and difficulty level. Allocate more time to challenging areas while ensuring coverage of the entire syllabus.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is vital. Solve a variety of problems, ranging from easy to complex, to enhance speed and accuracy.
- Time Management: During practice, time yourself for each question. Develop the ability to solve problems within the stipulated time to excel in the exam.
- Shortcuts and Techniques: Learn time-saving shortcuts and techniques for calculations, which are crucial for managing time effectively during the exam.
- Mock Tests: Take mock tests regularly to simulate exam conditions. Analyze your performance, identify weak areas, and work on improving them.
- Problem-Solving: Focus on problem-solving strategies rather than rote memorization. Understand the logic behind each solution to apply it to different scenarios.
- Review and Analysis: After solving problems, review your solutions to identify errors and areas needing improvement. Maintain an error log to track your progress.
- Time Allocation: During the exam, allocate time wisely to each question. Avoid getting stuck on a single problem; move on and return if time permits.
- Revision: Regularly revisit essential topics and formulas. A well-maintained revision schedule ensures retention and boosts confidence.
- Study Resources: Utilize quality study materials, textbooks, and online resources. Seek guidance from mentors or online forums for clarification on doubts.
Reasoning
Mastering Reasoning for the SBI PO exam 2024 necessitates a systematic approach. Here are effective tips to excel in this section:
- Conceptual Clarity: Grasp fundamental concepts of logical reasoning, coding-decoding, puzzles, and seating arrangement. A strong foundation is crucial.
- Practice Diversity: Solve a variety of reasoning puzzles, syllogisms, and critical reasoning questions to become proficient in handling different question types.
- Analytical Approach: Develop a logical and analytical mindset to deduce patterns and relationships and draw conclusions accurately.
- Time Management: During practice, allocate time for each question. Enhance your speed by practicing different reasoning puzzles regularly.
- Visualize Solutions: For puzzles and seating arrangement, visualize scenarios mentally to deduce solutions efficiently.
- Solve Old Papers: Practice previous year question papers and mock tests. Analyze patterns to familiarize yourself with the exam's question style.
- Sequencing and Ordering: Focus on arranging items systematically. Practice ordering based on age, height, or other criteria to hone this skill.
- Critical Thinking: Sharpen your ability to infer and draw conclusions from given information. Develop a habit of assessing information objectively.
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning: Practice both verbal and non-verbal reasoning to ensure all question types are covered adequately.
- Stay Calm: Approach puzzles and complex problems calmly. Panicking can hinder your ability to think logically and solve accurately.
- Elimination Strategy: Use the process of elimination for multiple-choice questions. Eliminate improbable options to increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
- Revision: Regularly revisit reasoning concepts and practice problems. Consistent revision solidifies your grasp of various reasoning techniques.
General/Economy/Banking Awareness
Acing General/Economy/Banking Awareness for the SBI PO exam 2024 requires a targeted strategy. Here are effective tips to excel in this section:
- Stay Updated: Regularly follow news sources, newspapers, and financial magazines to stay abreast of current affairs, economic trends, and banking developments.
- Categorize Topics: Segregate topics into banking, economy, and general awareness. Allocate time to each category for comprehensive coverage.
- Make Notes: Create concise notes summarizing important events, policies, and banking terms. These notes aid in quick revisions before the exam.
- Use Online Resources: Utilize reputable websites, online quizzes, and mobile apps dedicated to banking and current affairs to enhance your knowledge.
- Read Banking Journals: Explore specialized banking journals to gain insights into banking operations, policies, and regulatory changes.
- Practice Quizzes: Regularly take quizzes and mock tests on general and banking awareness to test your knowledge and reinforce key concepts.
- Focus on Banking: Understand key banking concepts, terminology, monetary policies, and recent developments in the banking sector.
- Economic Indicators: Familiarize yourself with crucial economic indicators such as GDP, inflation, fiscal deficit, and unemployment rates.
- Banking Abbreviations: Learn common banking acronyms and abbreviations used in the industry.
- Government Schemes: Understand and memorize important government schemes related to banking, finance, and socio-economic development.
- Budget and Finance: Comprehend the Union Budget, financial terms, and concepts related to revenue, expenditure, and taxation.
- Regular Revision: Consistently revisit notes and practice materials to ensure retention of information and concepts.
General Tips for SBI PO Exam 2024 Preparation
- Structured Study Plan: Create a well-organized study schedule that allocates time to each section daily. Consistency is critical to comprehensive coverage.
- Time Management: Practice time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. Develop strategies to manage time effectively during the exam.
- Mock Tests and Analysis: Regularly take full-length SBI PO mock tests and analyze your performance. Identify strengths and weaknesses to fine-tune your preparation.
- Sectional Practice: Focus on individual sections during practice to build expertise. Gradually integrate full-length tests for a comprehensive assessment.
- Revision: Regularly revisit notes, formulas, and concepts to reinforce your understanding and retain information effectively.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current affairs, especially in the banking and economic sectors. This knowledge enhances your performance in the General Awareness section.
- Seek Guidance: Consult experienced mentors, teachers, or online forums to clarify doubts and gain insights into effective preparation strategies.
- Positive Mindset: Cultivate a positive attitude towards challenges and failures. Believe in your capabilities and stay motivated throughout the preparation journey.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced routine with proper sleep, exercise, and a nutritious diet. A healthy body supports a focused mind.
- Stress Management: Employ relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to manage exam-related stress and maintain a clear mindset.
- Breaks and Relaxation: Take regular breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout. Engage in hobbies or activities that help you relax and rejuvenate.
- Stay Adaptable: Be open to adapting your strategies based on mock test results and changing SBI PO Syllabus and the SBI PO Exam Pattern. Flexibility ensures optimal readiness.
By integrating these tips into your SBI PO exam 2024 preparation, you can navigate the challenges effectively, optimize your performance, and approach the exam with confidence and readiness.
Important Books for the SBI PO Exam
Good SBI PO study material is one of the main prerequisites that is essential to ensure success in this examination. Be it online (E-books) or offline, books help immensely in building the basics of any subject. A good book can make or break the preparation; therefore, it is imperative to choose books that prove helpful in the examination. We have listed down some SBI PO books that may help you in your preparation.
| SBI PO Subjects | Useful Books for SBI PO | SBI PO Exam Book’s Author |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude, Data Interpretation and Analysis | Quantum CAT | Sarvesh Kumar Verma |
| Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma | |
| Magical book on Quicker Maths | M Tyra | |
| Fast Track Objective Arithmetic | Rajesh Verma | |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | RS Aggarwal | |
| Reasoning Ability | A New Approach to Reasoning Verbal and Non-Verbal | B.S. Sijwali and Indu Sijwali |
| Analytical Reasoning | MK Pandey (For the chapters required for analytical reasoning) | |
| A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | |
| English Language | Objective General English | SP Bakshi |
| Descriptive General English | SP Bakshi and Richa Sharma | |
| High School English Grammar and Composition | Wren and Martin | |
| Word Power Made Easy | Normal Lewis | |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | Banking Awareness Handbook of Banking Information | N.S.Toor |
| Banking Awareness | Arihant Publication | |
| Static GK General Knowledge | Arihant | |
| Lucent General Knowledge | - | |
| Pratiyogita Darpan | SQ Sachdeva Mahendra Jain | |
| Current Affairs | BeePedia | |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | Data Interpretation and Data Sufficiency | Ananta Ashisha (Arihant) |
| Data Interpretation | BSC Publication | |
| Data Interpretation | Magical Book Series |
SBI PO Free Mock Tests
Practice forms a significant and vital part of the preparation for any examination. SBI PO is one of the toughest competitions in India that offers excellent opportunities to eligible candidates. Thus, apart from learning and practice, testing yourself is also equally important. ixamBee provides 1000+ free mock tests for the SBI PO exam as well as for all the government-related exams where you can practice and prepare well. You need to visit the website’s free mock test section, and you can attempt the SBI PO f mock test 2024 right away.
SBI PO Online Course
ixamBee provides a detailed SBI PO 2024 Exclusive Online Course, which enables the students to cover each and every topic that is given in the SBI PO exam syllabus. It is imperative to work at your best in order to ensure success in the SBI PO exam 2024. Thus, the SBI PO Online course has been formulated by experienced educators. They have tried to incorporate all the necessary information, which is precise and all that is required for your preparation.
