It is not easy to clear the SBI PO on the first attempt. You need rigorous practice and attempt regular mock tests to qualify for the preliminary round of SBI PO. The effectiveness of your preparation begins with understanding the sbi po syllabus and exam pattern and developing strategies accordingly. You can check the following section for tips and techniques to clear the cutoff marks on your first attempt.
- Know the syllabus and exam pattern
There are three sections in the preliminary exam: Quantitative Aptitude, English and Reasoning. In the mains, there are four sections: Reasoning and Computer Ability, English, General Awareness and Data Interpretation and Analysis. While there is no sectional cutoff in both stages, there is sectional timing, so you must be careful about attempting each section accurately within the provided time.
- Practice previous years’ question papers
Once you have the list of topics for preparation, go through the question paper of previous years to understand the trends and patterns. You can attempt these papers, check your scores to know where you stand, and take further steps to improve your performance.
- Develop a study plan
After assessing your strengths and weaknesses, you should develop a study plan to improve your weak areas and brush up on the areas of strength. Most candidates tend to focus only on the weak spots and overlook the areas of their powers. However, that should not be the case. You must allocate enough time to practice each section to clear all the rounds quickly.
To improve your weak areas, develop a list of topics. Based on this knowledge and the level of complexity, allocate time to each topic. Also, remember when you practice questions, check your accuracy and speed.
- Prepare for both preliminary and main rounds simultaneously
Students start preparing for the Mains only after clearing the preliminary round. However, this strategy will not reap benefits for you. As soon as you get the sbi po syllabus in your hands, you should start preparing for both stages simultaneously. You should focus on current affairs, which can help you score higher in the Main examination. You should also continuously revise banking history and terminology and remain updated on other financial news.
- Practice sectional Mock Test
When you can complete a particular section of your paper within the time limit, you can develop your strategy accordingly for your final exams. Mock tests will help you be mindful of the silly mistakes and figure out the most time-consuming topics. It is best to attempt more than 25 questions in each section and score more than 20 in each section in the preliminary test.
- Attempt full-length mocks
Once you develop a good pace in sectional mocks, you should try attempting 20 full-length mocks before the exam. It will help you improve your score and maintain accuracy. Remember, speed and accuracy should work in tandem. So, you should pay attention to both aspects to score well.
- Devise a strategy for the exam
You should have a clear plan to approach your exams. So, prepare a list of topics you want to attempt first. Also, try not to waste too much time on a single problem.
With a good enough understanding of the syllabus and recent trends, you can clear your SBI PO exam. It is a good idea to start with fundamental and high-weightage chapters that set the study’s pace. After that, you can move on to complex topics. You can also be benefitted from solving previous years’ question papers. Remember, the goal is to remain focused and take proper steps at the time of preparation.