The IBPS PO selection process is designed to evaluate candidates' reasoning ability, numerical aptitude, English language skills, banking awareness and suitability for a career in banking.
The recruitment process generally involves the following stages:
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Preliminary Examination
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Main Examination
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Personality Test, where applicable under the notified process
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Interview
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Provisional Allotment to a participating bank
Candidates must qualify the applicable stages in accordance with the official notification. The final allotment depends on the prescribed selection criteria, candidate performance, preferences, vacancies and other applicable conditions.
IBPS PO Preliminary Exam Pattern
The Preliminary Examination is an objective-type online examination consisting of three sections.
| Subject | Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
The examination is conducted online, with separate time limits for the three sections.
Important points:
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Candidates must attempt all sections within their prescribed time limits.
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Negative marking generally applies to incorrect answers.
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A penalty of one-fourth of the marks assigned to a question is generally deducted for each incorrect answer.
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Candidates must satisfy the applicable sectional and overall qualifying requirements, where prescribed.
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Preliminary Examination marks are used for shortlisting candidates for the Main Examination and are not included in the final merit calculation.
Candidates should verify the exact examination rules in the CRP PO/MT-XVI notification.
IBPS PO Main Exam Pattern
The Main Examination tests candidates in objective subjects and descriptive English writing.
The examination structure for CRP PO/MT-XVI should be checked against the official notification, as the prescribed pattern and sectional timing are specific to the recruitment cycle.
The principal areas generally include:
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Reasoning and Computer Aptitude
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General/Economy/Banking Awareness
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English Language
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Data Analysis and Interpretation
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Descriptive English writing
The Main Examination is more comprehensive than the Preliminary Examination and requires a strong understanding of banking concepts, data interpretation, reasoning and written communication.
Candidates should also note that the Main Examination score has an important role in the final selection process.
IBPS PO Syllabus
The IBPS PO syllabus covers English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, Computer Aptitude, Banking Awareness, General Awareness and descriptive writing.
A systematic preparation plan should include concept learning, regular practice, revision and mock examinations.
1. English Language
The English Language section evaluates grammar, vocabulary, comprehension and written communication skills.
Important topics include:
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Reading Comprehension
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Cloze Test
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Error Spotting
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Sentence Correction
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Fill in the Blanks
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Para Jumbles
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Sentence Rearrangement
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Phrase Replacement
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Vocabulary
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Synonyms and Antonyms
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Word Usage
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Descriptive Essay and Letter Writing, as applicable
Candidates should practise reading comprehension regularly and revise grammar rules and commonly used vocabulary.
2. Quantitative Aptitude
This section evaluates numerical ability and mathematical problem-solving skills.
Important topics include:
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Simplification and Approximation
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Number Series
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Percentage
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Ratio and Proportion
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Average
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Profit and Loss
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Simple and Compound Interest
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Time and Work
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Time, Speed and Distance
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Partnership
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Mixture and Alligation
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Probability
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Permutation and Combination
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Data Interpretation
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Quadratic Equations
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Data Sufficiency
Candidates should practise calculations, learn useful shortcuts and focus on accuracy under timed conditions.
3. Reasoning Ability
The Reasoning section tests logical thinking, analytical ability and problem-solving skills.
Important topics include:
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Seating Arrangement
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Puzzles
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Syllogism
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Inequality
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Coding-Decoding
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Blood Relations
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Direction and Distance
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Order and Ranking
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Alphanumeric Series
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Input-Output
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Data Sufficiency
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Logical Reasoning
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Statement and Assumption
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Statement and Conclusion
Regular practice of puzzles and seating arrangements can help candidates become more comfortable with complex questions.
4. Computer Aptitude
Computer-related questions may be included in the relevant Main Examination section.
Important topics include:
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Computer Fundamentals
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Hardware and Software
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Operating Systems
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Internet and Networking
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Computer Memory
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Input and Output Devices
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MS Office Fundamentals
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Keyboard Shortcuts
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Database Basics
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Cybersecurity Awareness
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Computer Abbreviations
Candidates should refer to the official syllabus and examination pattern to understand the precise coverage of computer aptitude.
5. Banking and General Awareness
The General Awareness section is important for candidates preparing for the Main Examination.
Important topics include:
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Indian Banking System
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Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
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Monetary Policy
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Banking Regulations
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Financial Institutions
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Financial Inclusion
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Digital Banking
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Payment Systems
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Government Schemes
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Indian Economy
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National and International Current Affairs
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Important Appointments
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Awards and Honours
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Reports and Indexes
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Sports and Important Days
Candidates should regularly revise current affairs and focus on banking and economic developments relevant to the examination.
6. Descriptive English
The Main Examination may include a descriptive English component designed to assess writing ability.
Preparation areas generally include:
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Essay Writing
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Formal Letter Writing
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Professional Communication
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Clear Expression of Ideas
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Grammar and Sentence Structure
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Logical Organisation of Content
Candidates should practise writing within the prescribed word limit and time duration specified in the official examination instructions.