SBI PO 2025 Mains Strategy: Next Steps After Prelims to Ace the Exam

Congratulations on clearing the SBI PO 2025 Prelims! Now that you’ve crossed the first hurdle, it’s time to focus on the Mains exam, which is more challenging and comprehensive. With the right strategy and consistent effort, you can ace the SBI PO Mains and move closer to your dream job. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively for the SBI PO 2025 Mains exam.

SBI PO Mains 2025: Exam Overview

• Exam Date: April/ May 2025
• Exam Pattern:
  • Objective Test: 200 marks (Duration: 3 hours)
    • Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: 50 marks
    • Data Analysis & Interpretation: 50 marks
    • General/Economy/Banking Awareness: 50 marks
    • English Language: 50 marks
  • Descriptive Test: 50 marks (Duration: 30 minutes)
    • Letter and Essay Writing
• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer

Step-by-Step Strategy for SBI PO Mains 2025

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

• Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and exam pattern.
• Focus on high-weightage topics and prioritize them in your preparation.

2. Create a Study Plan

• Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
• Dedicate at least 6-8 hours daily for focused preparation.

3. Section-Wise Preparation Tips

• Reasoning & Computer Aptitude:
  • Practice puzzles, seating arrangements, and coding-decoding questions.
  • Focus on logical reasoning and computer fundamentals.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation:
  • Master data interpretation (tables, graphs, charts) and arithmetic topics like percentages, ratios, and averages.
  • Practice speed calculations to improve accuracy.
• General/Economy/Banking Awareness:
  • Stay updated with current affairs, especially banking and economic news.
  • Revise static GK topics like banking terms, RBI policies, and government schemes.
• English Language:
  • Focus on reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
  • Practice essay and letter writing for the descriptive test.

4. Practice Mock Tests and Previous Years’ Papers

• Take at least 2-3 mock tests weekly to simulate the exam environment.
• Analyze your performance and work on weak areas.
• Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the difficulty level and question trends.

5. Focus on Time Management

• Practice solving questions within the allotted time to improve speed and accuracy.
• Allocate time wisely during the exam, ensuring you attempt all sections.

6. Revise Regularly

• Dedicate the last 2-3 weeks before the exam to revision.
• Focus on key concepts, formulas, and current affairs.

Recommended Reads:

SBI PO 2025 Expected Cut-Off – What’s a Safe Score?

Key Resources for SBI PO Mains Preparation

• Books:
  • Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal
  • English Language by SP Bakshi
  • Banking Awareness by Arihant Publications
• Online Platforms:
  • Testbook, Oliveboard, and Gradeup for mock tests and study materials.
  • YouTube channels like Adda247 and Bankersadda for free tutorials.
• Current Affairs:
  • Read newspapers like The Hindu or Economic Times daily.
  • Follow monthly current affairs magazines.

FAQs About SBI PO Mains 2025

Q1. How many questions should I attempt to clear the cutoff?
Aim to attempt 70-80% of the questions with high accuracy to ensure you clear the cutoff.

Q2. Is the descriptive test qualifying in nature?
Yes, the descriptive test is qualifying, but you must score well to improve your overall score.

Q3. How important is current affairs for the Mains exam?
Current affairs are crucial for the General Awareness section. Focus on the last 6-8 months of news.

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