The SBI Clerk Prelims Exam is one of the most competitive banking exams in India. Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for this prestigious position at the State Bank of India (SBI), making it crucial for candidates to have a well-structured study plan and effective preparation strategy.
If you are aiming to ace the SBI Clerk Prelims Exam, understanding the exam date, syllabus, and expert tips is essential. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you crack the exam with ease.
SBI Clerk Prelims Exam
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SBI Clerk Prelims Exam 2025 |
| Conducting Body | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Exam Dates | 22nd, 27th, 28th February & 1st March 2025 |
| Exam Mode | Online (CBT) |
| Total Sections | 3 (English Language, Numerical Ability, Reasoning Ability) |
| Duration | 60 Minutes (20 minutes per section) |
| Negative Marking | Yes (0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer) |
| Admit Card Release Date | 10-15 days before the exam |
| Result Declaration | Expected within 30-45 days after the exam |
| Official Website | SBI Official Website |
Cracking the SBI Clerk Prelims Exam requires smart preparation, time management, and consistent practice. Understanding the exam pattern, syllabus, and important topics will give you a competitive edge. Use mock tests, previous year papers, and expert strategies to boost your performance. With the right mindset and dedication, you can secure your dream banking job at SBI!
SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Pattern
Before jumping into the syllabus and preparation strategy, let’s first understand the exam pattern. The SBI Clerk Prelims consists of three sections:
- English Language (30 questions, 30 marks)
- Numerical Ability (35 questions, 35 marks)
- Reasoning Ability (35 questions, 35 marks)
Each section is timed for 20 minutes, and the total duration of the exam is 60 minutes. Negative marking of 0.25 marks per incorrect answer applies, so accuracy is key.
SBI Clerk Prelims Syllabus
1. English Language
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Error Detection
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Para Jumbles
- Idioms & Phrases
2. Numerical Ability
- Simplification & Approximation
- Data Interpretation
- Number Series
- Quadratic Equations
- Profit & Loss
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Ratio & Proportion
- Probability & Permutations
3. Reasoning Ability
- Puzzles & Seating Arrangements
- Syllogism
- Blood Relations
- Coding-Decoding
- Direction Sense Test
- Inequality
- Input-Output
- Logical Reasoning
How to Prepare for SBI Clerk Prelims? (Expert Tips)
1. Understand the Exam Format & Syllabus
Before starting preparation, go through the official syllabus and exam pattern. Identify the weightage of topics based on previous years’ exams.
2. Create a Study Plan
A structured study plan is essential for success. Here’s an ideal study schedule:
- Monday to Friday: Cover topics from all three sections
- Saturday: Attempt full-length mock tests
- Sunday: Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas
3. Practice with Mock Tests & Previous Papers
Mock tests help you improve speed, accuracy, and time management. Solve at least one mock test daily in the last month before the exam.
4. Focus on High-Scoring Topics
Prioritize simplification, data interpretation, puzzles, and reading comprehension as they carry higher weightage.
5. Time Management Strategies
- Don’t spend more than 20 minutes per section.
- If stuck on a question, move on and return later.
- Accuracy matters more than speed due to negative marking.
6. Work on Weak Areas
Identify weak topics using mock test analysis and dedicate extra time to improving them.
7. Keep Revision Consistent
- Maintain short notes for formulas and tricks.
- Revise vocabulary words and grammar rules regularly.
- Solve 10-15 questions daily from each section.
8. Improve Speed & Accuracy
Use the 30:20:10 strategy:
- First 30 minutes: Solve the easiest questions to gain confidence.
- Next 20 minutes: Attempt moderate questions.
- Last 10 minutes: Tackle the toughest questions.
9. Best Books & Study Resources
- English: “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis
- Numerical Ability: “Quantitative Aptitude” by R.S. Aggarwal
- Reasoning: “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
- Mock Tests: Test series from Oliveboard, Testbook, and Adda247
FAQs On SBI Clerk Prelims Exam
1. Is there a sectional cutoff in SBI Clerk Prelims?
No, SBI Clerk Prelims does not have a sectional cutoff. However, you must score above the overall cutoff to qualify.
2. How many attempts are allowed for SBI Clerk?
There is no limit on the number of attempts, but you must meet the age eligibility criteria (20-28 years for general category).
3. How difficult is the SBI Clerk Prelims Exam?
The difficulty level is easy to moderate. With consistent practice, candidates can score well.
4. What is the salary of an SBI Clerk?
The initial salary of an SBI Clerk is around ₹29,000 – ₹32,000 per month, including allowances.
5. Can I crack SBI Clerk Prelims in 2 months?
Yes, with a disciplined study plan and daily practice, you can crack the exam in 2 months.
6. How can I download my admit card?
You can download the admit card from the SBI official website here once it’s released.
7. What happens after the Prelims Exam?
Candidates who clear the Prelims Exam are eligible for the Mains Exam, which has a more detailed syllabus and higher difficulty level.
