Cracking the IBPS PO (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer) exam is like a dream coming true for many aspiring bankers in India. With lakhs of candidates applying each year and limited vacancies, it is quite to have a well-structured preparation plan. Whether you are a beginner or someone who has attempted for the exam before, this comprehensive guide on how to crack IBPS PO in the first attempt will give you an edge over the competition.
The IBPS PO exam is conducted annually to get the Probationary Officers recruited in public sector banks across India. The exam is conducted in three stages:
-
Preliminary Exam
-
Mains Exam
-
Interview
To crack the IBPS PO exam,
Subjects:
Quantitative Aptitude,
Reasoning Ability,
English Language,
General Awareness, and Computer Aptitude.
IBPS PO Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is the first step in your preparation journey.
Preliminary Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 mins |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 mins |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 mins |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 mins |
Mains Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 mins |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 mins |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 mins |
| Data Interpretation & Analysis | 35 | 60 | 45 mins |
| Essay & Letter Writing (Descriptive) | 2 | 25 | 30 mins |
| Total | 157 | 225 | 3 hr 30 mins |
How to Crack IBPS PO – Step-by-Step Strategy
1. Syllabus
Knowing the detailed syllabus is crucial to avoid studying irrelevant topics. Focus on core areas:
• Quantitative Aptitude: Simplification, Data Interpretation, Quadratic Equations, Number Series, etc.
• Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Inequality, etc.
• English Language: Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Para Jumbles.
• General Awareness: Banking Terms, Current Affairs (last 6 months), Static GK.
• Computer Aptitude: Basics of Computers, MS Office, Internet, Security, etc.
2. How To Apply
Go to official website: www.ibps.in
Age: above 18 years – Below 30 years
Application fees: ₹850/- for all others
₹150/- for sc/st/PWBD/EXSM candidates
3. Use the Right Study Materials
Selecting quality study resources is key to your success. Some trusted books include:
• Quantitative Aptitude: RS Aggarwal, Arun Sharma
• Reasoning Ability: MK Pandey, R.S. Aggarwal, or Kiran Publication
• English Language: SP Bakshi, Wren & Martin
• General Awareness: Banking Awareness by Arihant, Lucent GK, AffairsCloud PDF
• Mock Tests: Practice from Online mock test series
4. Practice Mock Tests Regularly
Mock tests are essential for time management and accuracy. They help simulate the real exam environment and identify your weak areas.
• Start with sectional tests.
• Gradually shift to full-length mock tests.
• Use analytics from test platforms to understand time spent per section.
5. Improve Speed and Accuracy
Time management is a game-changer in IBPS PO. Here’s how to improve:
• Learn shortcuts for calculations (e.g., Vedic Maths).
• Use elimination methods in reasoning.
• Practice RCs daily to improve English speed.
• Revise tables, squares, cubes, and percentage conversions.
Avoid guesswork in the exam, as negative marking applies.
6. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
General Awareness and Banking Awareness can fetch easy marks if prepared well.
• Read The Hindu or Indian Express daily.
• Follow monthly current affairs PDF from AffairsCloud, Gradeup, or BankersAdda.
• Focus on:
o RBI updates
o Monetary policy
o Budget and Economic Survey
o Financial terms and banking history
Prepare static GK from states, important days, awards, national parks, etc.
7. Work on Your Weak Areas
Track your performance through weekly tests. If you’re weak in Quant or English, allocate extra time accordingly.
• Use YouTube channels for detail learnig.
• Practice previous paper.
8. How to Prepare for Descriptive Paper
The descriptive paper in the Mains can make a significant difference.
• Practice 2 essays and 2 letters every week.
• Stick to a formal tone and word limit (150–250 words).
• Topics generally include banking issues, economy, social topics.
• Read Editorial.
Example essay topics:
• “Role of Digital Banking in India”
• “Financial Literacy for Rural India”
9. How to Prepare for Interview
After clearing the Mains, focus on the IBPS PO Interview:
• Know your bio-data thoroughly.
• Prepare questions on banking terms, current affairs, and why you want to join a bank.
• Practice with mock interviews or coaching mentors.
• Prepare questions about your city, hobby, things related to your native place.
Wear formal attire, maintain eye contact, and answer honestly.
10. Stay Consistent and Positive
The journey to cracking IBPS PO is long but achievable. Stay motivated, avoid burnout, and surround yourself with like-minded aspirants.
Join online forums like:
• Quora’s IBPS section
• Gradeup Community
• Pagalguy Banking Forum
• Group study is also beneficial for general knowledge
Final Thoughts
Cracking the IBPS PO exam in your first attempt is very much possible with smart planning, daily practice, and the right attitude. Start early, use the best resources, and stay consistent. The key is not just hard work but strategic preparation. Keep assessing your performance and adapt your strategy accordingly.
If you follow this step-by-step guide on how to crack IBPS PO, you’ll be miles ahead of the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I crack IBPS PO in 3 months?
Yes, with a focused and disciplined schedule, it’s possible to crack IBPS PO in 3 months. Prioritize mock tests and revision.
Q2. What is the cut-off for IBPS PO?
Cut-offs vary yearly based on difficulty level and number of vacancies. Check the official IBPS website for past trends.
Q3. Is coaching necessary for IBPS PO?
Not mandatory. Many aspirants crack IBPS PO through self-study using online resources, books, and mock tests.
Q4. Is there a negative marking in IBPS PO?
Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer in both Prelims and Mains.