As the IBPS PO Mains 2024 exam is approaching, here are some effective last-minute preparation tips and exam-day strategies that will help you improve your efficiency:
IBPS PO Mains exam will be conducted this year on November 30, 2024. This exam will have more than 3,900 vacancies. It is a crucial stage in the recruitment process of PO in various public sector banks. This stage not only evaluates your knowledge, but also your analytical writing and time-management skills.
IBPS PO Mains is the second stage of the selection process conducted by IBPS. Candidates who clear this stage move on to the final stage, i.e., the personal interview stage.
This exam is conducted online and consists of two parts: an objective test and a descriptive test. The objective test is divided into four sections: English Language, Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation and General/Economy/Banking Awareness. These sections have a total of 155 questions, carrying a maximum of 200 marks, and 3 hours are given to the candidate to complete the exam.
The descriptive test follows immediately after this and candidates have to write an essay and a letter in English. 30 minutes are allotted for this test and it carries 25 marks. Both the tests are conducted at once, and the descriptive test marks are added to the overall score. Each section in the objective test has a predetermined time limit, making time management crucial. Candidates are deducted 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
The IBPS PO Mains result is likely to be declared by the third week of December 2024. Candidates who meet both the overall and sectional cut-offs will be shortlisted for the mains stage, taking them closer to their goal of becoming a Probationary Officer.
Anil Nagar, Founder and CEO, Adda247 shares some last minute tips that can help students perform better and appear for the exam with confidence.
Preparation Guide
Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning: IBPS PO Mains often has new and challenging question patterns, especially in quantitative aptitude and reasoning. To prepare for such scenarios, focus on caselets, mixed graph data interpretation and reasoning for quant, hybrid puzzles, input-output questions and logical challenges. Practice questions based on advanced-level arithmetic DI. Descriptive Test: Descriptive testing is often overlooked, but it can significantly impact your overall score. For essay writing, prepare on trending topics such as digital banking, financial inclusion and climate finance. Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body and conclusion for coherence and flow. In letter writing, practice formal formats, especially those addressing banking complaints, service requests or product inquiries.
General/Economy/Banking Awareness Section: The General Awareness section relies heavily on your grip on current affairs. To prepare effectively, dedicate time daily to cover the news and developments of the last five months. Monthly compilations and reliable sources are excellent for revising top questions. The main topics include banking and financial news, government schemes, international summits and important appointments. Revise diligently and practice as many quizzes as possible to retain the information.
Manage time and stress on the exam day
Allocate time to each section based on its importance, and attempt the easier questions first to build confidence. Accuracy should always be prioritised over speed; as there is a penalty for wrong answers, avoid guessing unless you are reasonably sure.
On the day of the exam, make sure you reach the exam venue early with all the required documents, including your admit card and ID proof. Take some time to read the instructions carefully before starting the exam. Time management is equally important during IBPS PO Mains.
“Believe in your preparation, stay focused, and approach the IBPS PO exam with confidence—your hard work will lead you to success!”