SBI PO Overview

The SBI PO (State Bank of India Probationary Officer) exam is one of the most popular banking exams in India. Many candidates look forward to the announcement each year, hoping to get a prestigious job at one of India’s top banks. This blog will give you all the important information about the SBI PO Exam 2024, including exam dates, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, tips, strategies, and resources to help you succeed.

The SBI PO exam is conducted annually by the State Bank of India to recruit Probationary Officers (PO). The selection process involves three phases: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Group Exercises & Interview. Candidates who clear all three phases are appointed as Probationary Officers in various branches of SBI across the country.

When is SBI PO?

While the exact dates for the SBI PO Exam 2024 are yet to be announced, here’s a tentative timeline based on previous years’ schedules:

• Release of Official Notification: September 2024
• Online Registration: September – October 2024
• Preliminary Examination: November 2024
• Main Examination: December 2024
• Group Exercises & Interview: February – March 2025
• Final Result Declaration: April 2025

SBI PO Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the SBI PO Exam 2024, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens.
2. Age Limit: The age of the candidate should be between 21 and 30 years as of April 1, 2024. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.
3. Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university or possess an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.

SBI PO Exam Syllabus

The SBI PO exam syllabus is divided into two main parts: Preliminary Examination and Main Examination.

Preliminary Examination Syllabus:

1. English Language: Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Para Jumbles, Error Spotting, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Improvement.
2. Quantitative Aptitude: Simplification, Number Series, Data Interpretation, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Problems (Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Profit & Loss, etc.).
3. Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Inequalities, Direction Sense, Order & Ranking.

Main Examination Syllabus:

1. Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: Logical Reasoning, Data Sufficiency, Input-Output, Coding-Decoding, Computer Fundamentals.
2. Data Analysis & Interpretation: Data Interpretation, Data Sufficiency, Probability, Permutation and Combination.
3. General/Economy/Banking Awareness: Current Affairs, Banking Awareness, Economic News, Static GK.
4. English Language: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Verbal Ability, Descriptive Writing (Essay & Letter).

SBI PO Exam Pattern

Preliminary Examination Pattern:

• Duration: 1 hour
• Total Marks: 100
• Sections: English Language (30 marks), Quantitative Aptitude (35 marks), Reasoning Ability (35 marks)
• Each section has a separate time limit of 20 minutes.

Main Examination Pattern:

• Duration: 3 hours (Objective Test) + 30 minutes (Descriptive Test)
• Total Marks: 250 (200 marks for Objective Test + 50 marks for Descriptive Test)
• Sections: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language
• Descriptive Test: Essay and Letter Writing (50 marks)

Group Exercises & Interview:

• Total Marks: 50

Tips and Strategies for SBI PO Exam 2024

1. Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and exam pattern. This will help you to strategize your preparation effectively.
2. Make a realistic study plan covering all subjects. Allocate more time to your weak areas while revising strong areas regularly.
3. Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to build your speed and accuracy. This will also help you get accustomed to the exam pattern and manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
4. While speed is essential, accuracy is equally important. Avoid guesswork as there is negative marking for wrong answers.
5. Keep yourself updated with the latest current affairs, especially related to banking and economy. Reading newspapers and following reliable news sources will be beneficial.
6. Regularly read English newspapers, magazines, and books to improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills. Practice writing essays and letters to excel in the descriptive test.
7. Revise Regularly, Stay Positive and Healthy.

Resources

Books:

• “SBI-PO Phase I Booster Test Series – 15 Mock Tests” by GKP
• “SBI-PO Phase I & II – Solved Papers (2005-2022)” by GKP
• “Bank PO 2024 – Previous Years’ Solved Papers (2017-2022)” by GKP
• “SBI-PO Phase I & II – Guide” by GKP

Conclusion

The SBI PO Exam 2024 is a great opportunity for those aiming for a career in the banking sector. With a well-structured preparation strategy, dedication, and consistent efforts, you can crack the exam and achieve your dream of becoming an SBI Probationary Officer. Stay focused, stay positive, and keep working towards your goal. Good luck!