Banking is one of the most respected and sought-after career choices in India. Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for Bank PO (Probationary Officer) exams conducted by various public sector banks such as SBI, IBPS, and others. With lucrative salaries, job security, and career growth, becoming a Bank PO is a dream for many.
However, cracking the Bank PO exam is not a cakewalk. It requires smart planning, consistent practice, and a strategic approach. If you’re wondering how to start your Bank PO preparation, this guide will walk you through every important aspect you need to know.
Understanding the Bank PO Exam Structure
Before diving into preparation, it’s crucial to understand the exam pattern. The Bank PO selection process generally involves three main stages:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Examination
- Interview / Group Discussion (depending on the bank)
1. Preliminary Examination
This is the first stage and is qualifying in nature. It consists of:
- English Language – 30 Questions (30 Marks)
- Quantitative Aptitude – 35 Questions (35 Marks)
- Reasoning Ability – 35 Questions (35 Marks)
Total Duration: 1 hour
2. Mains Examination
This is the decisive stage. The structure may slightly vary between IBPS and SBI, but generally includes:
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude
- Data Analysis & Interpretation (Quantitative Aptitude)
- General/Economy/Banking Awareness
- English Language
- Descriptive Test (Essay & Letter Writing)
Total Duration: Around 3.5 hours
3. Interview
After clearing the Mains, shortlisted candidates are called for a Personal Interview or Group Discussion + Interview (depending on the bank). Final selection is based on Mains + Interview marks.
Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy for Bank PO
1. Know the Syllabus Thoroughly
Understanding the syllabus is your first step. Here are the key topics:
Reasoning Ability:
- Puzzles & Seating Arrangement
- Coding-Decoding
- Syllogism
- Inequality
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Input-Output
- Logical Reasoning
Quantitative Aptitude:
- Simplification / Approximation
- Data Interpretation
- Number Series
- Quadratic Equations
- Arithmetic Topics (Profit-Loss, SI & CI, Time-Work, Time-Speed-Distance, etc.)
English Language:
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Error Spotting
- Sentence Improvement
- Para Jumbles
- Vocabulary – Synonyms, Antonyms
General Awareness:
- Current Affairs (last 6 months)
- Banking Terms & Concepts
- Static GK (Capitals, Currency, Important Days)
- Financial Awareness
2. Create a Realistic Study Plan
Make a daily study timetable that suits your lifestyle. A balanced plan could look like this:
- 2 hours for Quant & DI
- 1.5 hours for Reasoning
- 1 hour for English
- 1 hour for GK/Current Affairs
- 30 mins for Descriptive practice or Revision
Stick to the plan but be flexible enough to adjust as per progress.
3. Start With Basics, Then Move to Advanced
If you’re a beginner, don’t jump straight into mock tests. Start with building your conceptual clarity:
- Use NCERTs or basic books for maths (Class 6–10).
- Watch YouTube videos or use platforms like Unacademy, Adda247, Testbook, or BYJU’S for conceptual clarity.
- Practice topic-wise questions before moving to full-length mocks.
4. Practice is the Key
- Solve 20–30 questions per topic before moving to the next.
- Practice previous year papers (at least past 5 years).
- Focus on your speed and accuracy.
- Learn short tricks for arithmetic, number series, and simplification.
5. Take Regular Mock Tests
Mock tests are the heart of your preparation. Here’s how to approach them:
- Start with 1 mock test per week, then increase to 3–4 per week.
- Analyze your performance:
- Which section did you score the least in?
- Where did you waste the most time?
- What kind of questions did you get wrong?
Top mock test platforms include Oliveboard, PracticeMock, Testbook, and Gradeup.
6. Read Newspapers Daily
For the General Awareness and English section:
- Read The Hindu or Indian Express daily.
- Focus on:
- Economy and Banking News
- Government Schemes
- RBI Updates
- Business and Finance Articles
Make short notes or use apps like AffairsCloud, GKToday, and BankersAdda for daily current affairs.
7. Build Vocabulary and Grammar
English can be a scoring section if prepared right:
- Learn 5–10 new words daily (with usage).
- Use apps like Magoosh, Knudge.me for vocabulary building.
- Practice grammar questions regularly.
- Read editorials for comprehension improvement.
8. Focus on Descriptive Writing
Many aspirants ignore the Descriptive Test, which is a big mistake.
- Practice writing essays on current affairs, economy, banking topics.
- Practice formal and informal letters (bank-related scenarios).
- Improve typing speed (as it’s an online test).
9. Interview Preparation Tips
- Be confident and clear in your answers.
- Brush up on your academic background and work experience.
- Prepare banking-related questions:
- What is a Bank PO?
- What is CRR, SLR, Repo Rate, etc.?
- Why do you want to join the banking sector?
- Keep track of recent developments in the economy and banking.
Best Books for Bank PO Preparation
Here are some highly recommended books:
Quantitative Aptitude:
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
- Fast Track Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
Reasoning Ability:
- A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Puzzle Mania by Oliveboard
English Language:
- Objective English by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant)
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
General Awareness:
- Banking Awareness by Arihant
- Lucent’s General Knowledge (for static GK)
Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring weak areas – Identify and work on them early.
- No revision – Make time for revision weekly.
- Skipping mock analysis – Without analyzing, mocks are less effective.
- Neglecting descriptive test and interview – They’re crucial for final selection.
Motivation & Consistency
Preparing for Bank PO can be mentally exhausting. Here’s how to stay motivated:
- Set small, achievable goals.
- Reward yourself when you meet targets.
- Avoid comparing yourself with others.
- Take short breaks, but avoid long distractions like binge-watching.
Remember, consistency beats intensity. Even if you study for 4–5 hours consistently, it’s better than studying 12 hours a day once in a while.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Bank PO is not impossible, but it demands dedication, discipline, and strategic preparation. Thousands of aspirants crack these exams every year, many without coaching. You can too!
Start with a plan, stay consistent, keep practicing, and believe in your abilities. This journey is not just about getting a job – it’s about building the mindset of a future officer.