Understanding the exam pattern is essential for preparing an effective study plan. The Preliminary and Main examinations have separate sectional timings.
SBI PO Preliminary Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
Important points:
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The examination is conducted online.
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Each section has a separate time limit.
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The total duration is one hour.
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There is no sectional cut-off in the Preliminary Examination under the 2026 notification.
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Candidates are shortlisted for the Main Examination based on category-wise merit.
SBI PO Main Exam Pattern
The Main Examination contains an objective test and a descriptive test.
Objective Test
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning and Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 50 Minutes |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation | 30 | 60 | 45 Minutes |
| General Awareness / Economy / Banking Knowledge | 60 | 60 | 45 Minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 20 | 40 Minutes |
| Total | 170 | 200 | 180 Minutes |
Descriptive Test
| Component | Questions / Tasks | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Skills | 3 tasks | 30 | 30 Minutes |
The descriptive test is conducted immediately after the objective test. Candidates must type their answers on a computer.
The 2026 descriptive paper covers the following areas:
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Emails
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Situation Analysis
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Report Writing or Precis Writing
The Main Examination therefore carries a total of 230 marks, including both objective and descriptive components.
Negative Marking
There is a penalty for incorrect answers in the objective tests of both the Preliminary and Main examinations.
For every incorrect answer, one-fourth of the marks assigned to that question is deducted. No penalty is applied to questions left unanswered.
Candidates should avoid random guessing and attempt questions carefully.
SBI PO Syllabus 2026
The SBI PO syllabus covers English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, General Awareness and Banking Knowledge.
The detailed topic-wise syllabus below is a preparation guide. Candidates should also review the official examination pattern and instructions.
English Language Syllabus
English Language tests reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary and communication skills.
Important topics include:
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Reading Comprehension
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Cloze Test
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Error Detection
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Sentence Correction
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Para Jumbles
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Fill in the Blanks
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Phrase Replacement
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Vocabulary
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Word Usage
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Sentence Rearrangement
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Grammar and Usage
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Sentence Completion
For the descriptive paper, practise writing professional emails, situation-based responses, reports and precis.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
Quantitative Aptitude 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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Quadratic Equations
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Percentage
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Profit and Loss
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Simple and Compound Interest
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Ratio and Proportion
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Average
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Time and Work
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Time, Speed and Distance
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Mixture and Alligation
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Partnership
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Mensuration
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Probability
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Permutation and Combination
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Data Interpretation
Candidates should practise calculations regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
Reasoning Ability Syllabus
Reasoning Ability evaluates logical thinking and analytical 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
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Critical Reasoning
Puzzles and seating arrangements are important areas for regular practice.
Computer Aptitude Syllabus
Computer-related topics may be covered in the Reasoning and Computer Aptitude section of the Main Examination.
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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Input and Output Devices
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Memory and Storage
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Internet and Networking
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Computer Security
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Database Fundamentals
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MS Office
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Computer Abbreviations
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Basic Cybersecurity Concepts
Data Analysis and Interpretation Syllabus
The Data Analysis and Interpretation section is an important part of the Main Examination.
Candidates should prepare:
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Tabular Data Interpretation
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Bar Graphs
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Line Graphs
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Pie Charts
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Caselet DI
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Missing Data Interpretation
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Probability
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Permutation and Combination
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Data Sufficiency
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Quantity Comparison
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Advanced Arithmetic
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Mathematical Reasoning
General Awareness and Banking Knowledge Syllabus
General Awareness is a major component of the SBI PO Main Examination.
Important topics include:
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Current Affairs
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Banking Awareness
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Financial Awareness
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Indian Economy
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Monetary Policy
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Reserve Bank of India
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Government Schemes
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Budget and Economic Survey
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Banking Terminology
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Financial Institutions
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National and International News
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Important Appointments
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Awards and Honours
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Sports News
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Important Days
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Reports and Indexes
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Digital Banking
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Financial Inclusion
Candidates should regularly read current affairs and revise important banking and financial developments.