Exam Pattern of SBI PO Exam 2024
The State Bank of India (SBI) Probationary Officer (PO) exam is a highly competitive examination conducted annually to recruit eligible candidates for the post of Probationary Officer in SBI. The exam is conducted in three phases:
- Phase I: Preliminary Exam
- Phase II: Mains Exam
- Phase III: Interview
Phase I: Preliminary Exam
The SBI PO Preliminary Exam is a computer-based online exam that consists of three sections:
- Reasoning Ability: This section tests the candidate’s ability to analyze and solve problems using logical reasoning. It includes topics like:
- Puzzles: Seating arrangement, blood relations, direction sense, etc.
- Logical Reasoning: Syllogisms, coding-decoding, inequalities, etc.
- Data Interpretation: Pie charts, bar graphs, line graphs, etc.
- Quantitative Aptitude: This section tests the candidate’s ability to solve numerical problems. It includes topics like:
- Arithmetic: Percentage, profit and loss, simple and compound interest, time and work, etc.
- Number System: HCF and LCM, number series, etc.
- Data Interpretation: Tables, charts, etc.
- English Language: This section tests the candidate’s understanding and usage of the English language. It includes topics like:
- Reading Comprehension: Passages with questions based on their content.
- Verbal Ability: Synonyms, antonyms, sentence correction, etc.
- Grammar: Tenses, articles, prepositions, etc.
Table 1: SBI PO Preliminary Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 105 | 105 | 60 minutes |
Note: There is a sectional time limit for each section. Candidates need to clear the sectional cut-off in each section to be eligible for the Mains Exam.
Phase II: Mains Exam
The SBI PO Mains Exam is also a computer-based online exam that consists of four sections:
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: This section tests the candidate’s reasoning ability and knowledge of computer fundamentals. It includes topics like:
- Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, seating arrangement, blood relations, etc.
- Computer Aptitude: Basic computer knowledge, MS Office, etc.
- Data Analysis & Interpretation: This section tests the candidate’s ability to analyze and interpret data. It includes topics like:
- Data Interpretation: Tables, charts, graphs, etc.
- Data Sufficiency: Analyzing data to determine sufficiency for solving problems.
- General Awareness: This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, banking awareness, and static GK. It includes topics like:
- Current Affairs: National and international events, banking news, etc.
- Banking Awareness: Financial institutions, banking regulations, etc.
- Static GK: History, geography, science, etc.
- English Language: This section tests the candidate’s understanding and usage of the English language. It includes topics like:
- Reading Comprehension: Passages with questions based on their content.
- Verbal Ability: Synonyms, antonyms, sentence correction, etc.
- Grammar: Tenses, articles, prepositions, etc.
Table 2: SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 45 | 60 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 35 | 45 minutes |
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 160 | 160 | 205 minutes |
Note: There is a sectional time limit for each section. Candidates need to clear the sectional cut-off in each section to be eligible for the Interview.
Phase III: Interview
The SBI PO Interview is a personal interview conducted by a panel of experts. The interview is designed to assess the candidate’s personality, communication skills, and suitability for the role of a Probationary Officer. The interview is typically conducted for 30 minutes and carries a weightage of 100 marks.
Table 3: SBI PO Interview Pattern
| Aspect | Weightage |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | 20 |
| Communication Skills | 20 |
| Personality | 20 |
| Banking Knowledge | 20 |
| Current Affairs | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
Note: The final selection of candidates for the SBI PO post is based on the candidate’s performance in all three phases of the exam. The final merit list is prepared based on the candidate’s scores in the Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview.
Preparation Tips for SBI PO Exam 2024
- Start early: The SBI PO exam is highly competitive, so it is important to start preparing early.
- Understand the syllabus: Go through the detailed syllabus for each section of the exam.
- Practice mock tests: Taking mock tests is essential for understanding the exam pattern and improving your time management skills.
- Focus on your weak areas: Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them.
- Stay updated with current affairs: Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with current affairs.
- Develop your communication skills: Practice your communication skills by participating in group discussions and mock interviews.
- Stay motivated: The journey to becoming an SBI PO can be challenging, so it is important to stay motivated and focused.
Important Points to Remember
- The exam pattern and syllabus may change from year to year. It is important to refer to the official notification for the latest information.
- The SBI PO exam is conducted online. Candidates need to be familiar with computer-based testing.
- The exam is conducted in multiple languages. Candidates can choose their preferred language.
- There is a negative marking for incorrect answers in the objective type questions.
- Candidates need to clear the sectional cut-off in each section to be eligible for the next stage of the exam.
By following these tips and preparing diligently, candidates can increase their chances of success in the SBI PO Exam 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the SBI PO exam?
- Candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university.
- Age limit varies, check the official notification for details.
2. How many phases are there in the SBI PO exam?
- There are three phases: Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview.
3. What is the syllabus for the SBI PO Preliminary Exam?
- Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language.
4. What is the syllabus for the SBI PO Mains Exam?
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General Awareness, and English Language.
5. What is the duration of the SBI PO Preliminary Exam?
- The exam lasts for 60 minutes with a sectional time limit for each section.
6. What is the duration of the SBI PO Mains Exam?
- The exam lasts for 205 minutes with a sectional time limit for each section.
7. What is the weightage of the Interview in the final selection?
- The Interview carries a weightage of 100 marks.
8. Is there any negative marking in the SBI PO exam?
- Yes, there is a negative marking for incorrect answers in the objective type questions.
9. How can I prepare for the SBI PO exam?
- Start early, understand the syllabus, practice mock tests, focus on weak areas, stay updated with current affairs, develop communication skills, and stay motivated.
10. Where can I find the official notification for the SBI PO exam?
- The official notification is available on the SBI website.
11. When is the SBI PO exam conducted?
- The exam is conducted annually, the exact dates are announced in the official notification.
12. What are the important books for SBI PO exam preparation?
- Refer to popular books and study materials recommended by coaching institutes and previous year toppers.
13. What are some tips for clearing the SBI PO exam?
- Time management, accuracy, and regular practice are crucial for success.
14. What are the career prospects after clearing the SBI PO exam?
- A successful candidate becomes a Probationary Officer in SBI, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization.
15. What are the salary and benefits of an SBI PO?
- The salary and benefits are competitive and include a good starting salary, allowances, and other perks.