IBPS PO Exam 2024: Tips, Tricks and Strategies To Crack PO Prelims Exam

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts annual competitive exams to recruit prospective banking employees across various positions in public sector banks, excluding the State Bank of India. The exams focus on positions such as Probationary Officers (PO), Clerks, and Specialist Officers. 

With the prelims for the IBPS PO exams scheduled for October 19 and 20, 2024, serving as a precursor to the Mains in November and the subsequent interview process, it becomes essential to develop a holistic approach to exam preparation. The following pointers given by Vishal Parihar, Top Educator for the IBPS exam at Unacademy can help streamline your preparation process and improve your chances of success in this competitive exam environment:

Understand the IBPS PO Exam Structure and Syllabus

The IBPS exam is considered one of India’s toughest due to the high stakes involved in securing a spot for the next round. Understanding the exam structure is crucial for formulating an effective study plan and adjusting one’s preparation strategies accordingly. The prelims exam focuses on three key areas: English language, quantitative aptitude, and reasoning ability. Identifying the main topics within each of these areas can help streamline one’s preparation.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, distributed across the three sections—30 questions in the English language, 35 questions in quantitative aptitude, and 35 questions in reasoning ability—and is set for 60 minutes. This makes it essential to know how to allocate time effectively for each section. Grasping the syllabus is also important for pinpointing the topics that require special attention. 

For the English language section, focus on grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. For quantitative aptitude, prioritize topics like simplification, number series, profit and loss, and data interpretation. In the reasoning ability section, concentrate on logical reasoning, puzzles, and blood relations. A comprehensive understanding of the exam structure is key to creating a focused and efficient study plan.

Develop a Comprehensive Yet Realistic Study Plan

Using one’s understanding of the syllabus, it’s important to draft a study plan that targets one’s weaker subject areas while also reinforcing one’s strengths. This approach ensures a balanced study structure that effectively covers all areas. Allocate appropriate time for each section to manage one’s time well and cover as many topics as possible. Additionally, focusing on specific topics with higher weightage in the exam allows one to prioritize areas that can significantly impact the overall score. Regular revisions are also crucial, as they help retain information and reduce discrepancies. Keeping summary notes of key concepts and formulas can aid in quick revisions, making the process more efficient.

Utilize Mock Tests Effectively

Mock tests are invaluable for assessing the time required to attempt the exam while also evaluating the efficiency of one’s study strategy. They simulate the actual exam environment, providing insight into time constraints and question patterns. Moreover, mock tests reflect the trends in questions, helping one familiarize oneself with the type of questions likely to appear in the actual exam. Regular practice with mock tests allows one to track one’s progress over time, with scores serving as a self-assessment tool. Analyzing these results helps aspirants to capitalize on their strengths and address their weaknesses, enabling them to refine their study and exam strategy for optimal performance.

Master Specific Techniques for Each Section

Given that the exam is divided into the English language, quantitative aptitude, and reasoning ability sections, employing targeted techniques for each section is crucial for success. For English, focus on improving reading comprehension and building a strong vocabulary through materials like newspapers and magazines, and by engaging with English media such as news channels and informative podcasts. Mastering shortcut techniques for quantitative problems, such as mental math tricks and key formulas, helps manage time effectively, allowing more time to be allocated to complex questions. Practicing logical reasoning with a focus on puzzles and syllogisms helps one quickly comprehend logical patterns, allowing one to visualize and solve these questions efficiently during the exam.

Maintain a Clear Mind Throughout Exam Preparation

Given the extensive syllabus and the intense pressure to perform well, it's vital to take care of one’s mental health during the preparation process. Consistency in preparation helps one pace yourself and allocate time appropriately while absorbing as much information as possible. Taking mental breaks through activities like walking, cycling, or spending time with family and friends provides much-needed support and relaxation. Additionally, engaging in positive self-talk can boost one’s confidence and reduce anxiety, helping one maintain a positive outlook throughout their preparation.

With its structured approach and meticulous selection process, the exam ensures that only qualified candidates get appointed to the next round. Thus, by keeping these strategies in mind, aspirants can work towards success in the exams.

Disclaimer: Views expressed here are personal. The author, Vishal Parihar, is a top educator for the IBPS exam at Unacademy.