The IBPS PO (Probationary Officer) exam, one of India’s most competitive banking exams, is scheduled for October 19 and 20, 2024, with over 3,900 vacancies. Conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), this exam tests candidates’ skills in English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
The selection process consists of three stages—Prelims, Mains, and Interview—and is conducted online across the country. As the Prelims approach, it’s essential to fine-tune your strategy for the final days of preparation.
Anil Nagar, Founder and CEO of Adda247, offers last-minute tips to help candidates make the most of their remaining time and ensure they approach the exam with confidence.
1. Section-Wise Preparation Strategy
English Language (30 Marks)
This section can be a good scoring opportunity. Focus on:
- Reading Comprehension
- Error Detection
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Verb Tense
Brush up on grammar rules and practice reading short articles to improve your speed and accuracy in comprehension.
Quantitative Aptitude (35 Marks)
Prioritise:
- Data Interpretation (Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Tables)
- Basic Arithmetic
- Number Series
Allocate 15-20 minutes for Data Interpretation and use the rest for quick problem-solving techniques in Number Series. Use mental math and shortcuts to save time and improve accuracy.
Reasoning Ability (35 Marks)
Key topics include:
- Puzzles
- Seating Arrangements
- Logical Reasoning
Prioritise simpler questions first to gain momentum, leaving complex problems for later. Stay updated on economic indicators and banking policies using RBI’s official website and banking magazines.
2. Focus on Revision and Mock Tests
Avoid starting new topics close to the exam. Instead, focus on revising:
- Key concepts through summaries, bullet points, and mind maps.
- Practice mock tests to get familiar with the exam format and improve time management.
After each mock test, review the solutions to understand mistakes and improve your weak areas. Take short breaks between study sessions to keep your mind refreshed.
3. Exam Day Preparation
On the exam day, ensure you:
- Double-check the exam centre address, location, and reporting time.
- Arrive early with required documents such as your admit card, ID, and photocopies.
Before starting the exam, carefully review the instructions. With 20 minutes allotted to each section, begin with your strongest subject to build momentum.
4. Time Management on Exam Day
Smart time allocation is critical:
- Attempt easier questions first.
- Circle back to tougher questions if time permits.
Make sure not to dwell on any question for too long. The key is speed with accuracy, so focus on maximizing the number of correct answers.
Accuracy is crucial to avoid negative marking. If you have extra time, review your answers before submitting the exam.
5. Keep Calm and Manage Stress During the Exam
Staying calm is essential for top performance:
- Breathe deeply before the exam starts to calm nerves.
- If a question stumps you, move on to the next one and return to it later.
- Remember, it’s a competitive exam, and if it feels tough, it likely is for everyone.
Mental clarity is as important as knowledge in an exam like this, so maintaining composure will help you think more clearly and solve problems efficiently.
