Syllabus and Exam Pattern for SBI PO Exam 2024
The State Bank of India (SBI) Probationary Officer (PO) exam is a highly competitive examination for recruitment into the prestigious banking sector. The exam is conducted in multiple stages, each with its own syllabus and pattern. Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and success in the SBI PO exam.
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
Exam Pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 20 minutes |
| English Language | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 60 minutes |
Syllabus:
Reasoning Ability:
- Logical Reasoning:
- Syllogisms
- Puzzles
- Seating Arrangements
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Coding-Decoding
- Inequalities
- Data Sufficiency
- Verbal Reasoning:
- Reading Comprehension
- Para Jumbles
- Cloze Test
- Critical Reasoning
Quantitative Aptitude:
- Arithmetic:
- Simplification
- Number Series
- Percentage
- Profit and Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Speed, Time and Distance
- Ratio and Proportion
- Mixtures and Allegations
- Data Interpretation:
- Bar Graphs
- Line Graphs
- Pie Charts
- Tables
- Caselets
English Language:
- Reading Comprehension:
- Passages based on various topics
- Verbal Ability:
- Error Spotting
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Para Jumbles
- Cloze Test
- Vocabulary
- Idioms and Phrases
Stage 2: Mains Examination
Exam Pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning and Computer Aptitude | 60 | 60 minutes |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation | 60 | 60 minutes |
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 200 | 200 minutes |
Syllabus:
Reasoning and Computer Aptitude:
- Logical Reasoning:
- Syllogisms
- Puzzles
- Seating Arrangements
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Coding-Decoding
- Inequalities
- Data Sufficiency
- Computer Aptitude:
- Basics of Computer
- MS Office
- Internet and its Applications
- Computer Networks
- Data Security
- Operating Systems
Data Analysis and Interpretation:
- Data Interpretation:
- Bar Graphs
- Line Graphs
- Pie Charts
- Tables
- Caselets
- Data Sufficiency:
- Problems based on data sufficiency
General Awareness:
- Current Affairs:
- National and International Current Affairs
- Banking and Financial Awareness
- Economy
- Static GK
- Static GK:
- History
- Geography
- Polity
- Science and Technology
- Indian Economy
English Language:
- Reading Comprehension:
- Passages based on various topics
- Verbal Ability:
- Error Spotting
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Para Jumbles
- Cloze Test
- Vocabulary
- Idioms and Phrases
Stage 3: Interview
Syllabus:
- General Awareness:
- Current Affairs
- Banking and Financial Awareness
- Economy
- Static GK
- Personality and Communication Skills:
- Confidence
- Communication Skills
- Leadership Qualities
- Decision-Making Abilities
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Teamwork
- Adaptability
- Stress Management
Interview Pattern:
The interview is a personal assessment of the candidate’s suitability for the role of a Probationary Officer. The interview panel will assess the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and personality traits. The interview may cover topics related to the candidate’s academic background, work experience, hobbies, and general awareness.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Thoroughly understand the syllabus and exam pattern for each stage of the exam.
- Prepare a Study Plan: Create a realistic study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus.
- Refer to Relevant Study Materials: Use reliable study materials such as books, online resources, and mock tests.
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice is essential for improving your speed and accuracy.
- Take Mock Tests: Take mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Work on Your Weak Areas: Focus on improving your weak areas by dedicating more time to them.
- Develop Time Management Skills: Time management is crucial for success in the exam.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Keep yourself updated with current affairs related to banking, finance, and the economy.
- Develop Your Communication Skills: Practice your communication skills by participating in mock interviews and group discussions.
- Stay Positive and Motivated: Maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
Resources for Preparation
- Books:
- Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
- General Knowledge by Lucent
- Banking Awareness by Disha Publications
- Online Resources:
- Bankers Adda
- Gradeup
- Oliveboard
- Testbook
- Adda247
- Mock Tests:
- Oliveboard
- Testbook
- Adda247
- Gradeup
- Bankers Adda
Important Points to Remember
- The SBI PO exam is a highly competitive exam, so it is important to start your preparation early.
- The syllabus and exam pattern may change from year to year, so it is important to refer to the official notification for the latest information.
- The exam is conducted in online mode, so it is important to be familiar with the online exam interface.
- The final selection for the SBI PO exam is based on the candidate’s performance in all three stages of the exam.
Table 1: Comparison of SBI PO Exam Stages
| Stage | Exam Pattern | Syllabus | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | Objective Type | Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language | 60 minutes |
| Mains | Objective Type | Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, General Awareness, English Language | 200 minutes |
| Interview | Personal Assessment | General Awareness, Personality and Communication Skills | Varies |
Table 2: Important Dates for SBI PO Exam 2024
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | To be announced |
| Online Application | To be announced |
| Preliminary Exam | To be announced |
| Mains Exam | To be announced |
| Interview | To be announced |
| Final Result | To be announced |
Note: The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change. Please refer to the official notification for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the SBI PO exam?
- You must be a graduate from a recognized university.
- Age limit varies, check the official notification.
- You must be an Indian citizen.
2. What is the exam pattern for the SBI PO exam?
- The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview.
- Each stage has a different syllabus and pattern.
- The exam is conducted online.
3. What is the syllabus for the SBI PO exam?
- The syllabus covers topics like Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, Computer Aptitude, and Data Analysis and Interpretation.
- The detailed syllabus is available on the official SBI website.
4. How can I prepare for the SBI PO exam?
- Start your preparation early.
- Refer to reliable study materials and practice regularly.
- Take mock tests to assess your preparation level.
- Work on your weak areas.
- Stay updated with current affairs.
5. What are some good resources for SBI PO exam preparation?
- There are many books, online resources, and mock tests available.
- Some popular resources include Bankers Adda, Gradeup, Oliveboard, Testbook, and Adda247.
6. What is the selection process for the SBI PO exam?
- The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in all three stages of the exam.
- The candidates need to clear the cut-off marks in each stage to be eligible for the next stage.
7. What is the salary of an SBI PO?
- The salary of an SBI PO is attractive and includes a basic salary, allowances, and other benefits.
- The exact salary may vary depending on the location and experience.
8. What are the career growth opportunities for an SBI PO?
- SBI POs have excellent career growth opportunities within the bank.
- They can progress to higher positions like Assistant Manager, Deputy Manager, and Branch Manager.
9. How can I apply for the SBI PO exam?
- The application process is online.
- You need to fill out the application form on the official SBI website.
10. What are some tips for the SBI PO interview?
- Be confident and well-prepared.
- Dress professionally.
- Be honest and polite.
- Be aware of current affairs and banking trends.
- Practice your communication skills.