The SBI Clerk Exam is one of the most popular banking exams in India, and many candidates are actively preparing for it. To become an SBI Clerk, you need to clear various stages of the selection process. Before starting your preparation, it’s important to understand the exam syllabus, time duration, structure, and other imp details. So, If you are preparing for the SBI Clerk Exam, make sure to check the syllabus for both the Preliminary and Main exams.
Exam Pattern
If you are preparing for the SBI Clerk exam then you may know that the selection process consists of two main stages: Prelims and Mains. The best part about this exam is that it does not involve an interview. Let’s take a closer look at what each stage involves.
Preliminary Exam
The Preliminary Exam is like a first round to filter candidates. In this exam, there are 100 questions divided into three sections i.e. Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude (math), and English Language. You get a total of 1 hour to complete it, with 20 minutes for each section.
Main Exam
The Main Exam is more detailed and checks your knowledge thoroughly. This exam has four sections i.e. Financial Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning & Computer Aptitude. This exam lasts 2 hours and 40 minutes, with specific time limits for each section.
One important thing to remember is the negative marking in both stages. For every wrong answer, 0.25 marks are deducted, so accuracy is the key. Focus on accuracy rather than attempting multiple no. of questions.
| Exam Stage | Preliminary Exam, Main Exam |
| Total Questions | 100 (Prelims), ~190 (Mains) |
| Total Marks | 100 (Prelims), 200 (Mains) |
| Duration | 1 Hour (Prelims), 2 Hours 40 Minutes (Mains) |
| Sections | Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language (Prelims), Financial Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (Mains) |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 Marks Per Wrong Answer (Both) |
SBI Clerk Exam Syllabus
1. Quantitative Aptitude
This part of the exam checks your math and problem-solving skills. It covers various topics like simplifying calculations, approximations, and understanding data through graphs, charts, and tables. You will also need to know basic arithmetic like averages, ratios, percentages, time and work, profit and loss, and interest calculations (both simple and compound). Some advanced topics like permutations, combinations, and probability are also important.
To do well in this section, practice is the key. You should work on solving problems regularly, and focus on being quick and accurate. Take mock tests and review past exam papers to understand the types of questions that commonly appear in exams. This will also help you improve your speed through regular and focused practice.
2. Logical Reasoning
The Logical Reasoning section checks how well you can analyze situations and solve problems. In this section, you will have to solve the questions related to topics like puzzles, seating arrangements, coding-decoding, and blood relations. You will also see questions on inequalities, syllogisms, and alphanumeric series.
The questions in this section can be tricky, so you need to think carefully and solve them smartly. The best way to get better at Logical Reasoning is through practice. The more you work on different types of problems, the easier it becomes to spot patterns and use shortcuts to save time.
3. English Language
The English Language section tests your understanding of grammar and how well you can read and comprehend. It covers things like reading passages, finding grammar mistakes, filling in blanks, and rearranging sentences to make sense. You will also need to know synonyms, antonyms, and common idioms.
To do well here, make it a habit to read newspapers or books regularly. This will help you improve your vocabulary and understand English better. Also, learn basic grammar rules and practice with mock tests to get familiar with the types of questions you will face.
4. General Awareness
The General Awareness section tests how well you know what is happening around the world and general facts. It covers various topics like current national and international news, sports events, government schemes, and recent appointments. You will also need to know about banking and financial topics like economic policies, digital banking updates, and partnerships.
To do well in this section, stay updated with daily news. Reading newspapers and following reliable websites for current affairs will help. Also, revise monthly current affairs summaries to make sure you don’t miss anything important.
Tips for Effective Preparation
- Exam Format: You should know the exam format before starting preparations for this exam. Check the structure of the exam, the types of questions asked, and also how the marks are given or deducted.
- Create a Study Plan: You should make your study plan because planning is very important before starting the preparation. Make a daily schedule that covers all subjects and stick to it. Consistency is key.
- Practice: In this exam, the practice is the key. So, work on mock tests and previous year’s question papers. This will help you get faster and more accurate.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: You should read newspapers every day to stay updated up with the latest national and international news.
- Use Good Study Materials: Choose trusted books and also reliable online resources to prepare for this exam. As you know quality matters more than quantity.
Also check: FCI Job Salary, Profiles 2025 Revealed: Perks, Allowances, and Career Opportunities!
FAQs
The syllabus focuses on four major areas: Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.
Yes, there is a negative marking in the SBI Clerk Exam. A penalty of 0.25 marks is applied for every incorrect answer in both Prelims and Mains.
Read newspapers daily, follow banking news, and revise monthly current affairs notes.
No, there is no interview required to become an SBI Clerk.
Conclusion
The SBI Clerk Syllabus for 2024 covers a lot of topics, so you need a good plan to prepare well. First, understand the syllabus properly. Then, practice regularly and stay updated on current affairs. These steps will help you do better in the exam. Start preparing today by making a clear study schedule and stick to it every day. With hard work and focus, you can definitely pass the SBI Clerk Exam.
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