If you’re eyeing a banking job, the IBPS SO (State Officer) exam is a big door. It’s not a mystery – you just need the right plan, the right resources, and a steady pace. Below you’ll find a quick rundown of the exam layout, the topics that matter most, and practical ways to keep your study time effective.
The IBPS SO test has three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The prelims are a 60‑minute, 100‑question MCQ set covering English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning. There is no negative marking, so aim to answer every question. The mains are a 150‑minute paper with 120 questions – English, Reasoning, Data Interpretation, and General/Computer Awareness. Lastly, the interview checks your communication and personality.
Key topics you’ll face:
1. Make a realistic timetable. Break your day into 2‑hour slots, each dedicated to a single subject. Stick to the plan for at least 30 days before the prelim.
2. Use a single, trusted book. Switching between many books wastes time. Pick a popular guide that covers all three stages and stick with it.
3. Practice with real questions. After you finish a chapter, solve a set of MCQs from the same topic. This builds speed and shows where you’re weak.
4. Take timed mock tests every weekend. Simulate exam conditions – no phone, no interruptions. Review each test, note the mistakes, and redo those questions.
5. Focus on accuracy, not just speed. In prelims you can’t lose marks, but careless errors will eat your score. Train yourself to double‑check answers quickly.
6. Stay updated on current affairs. Read a reliable news summary for 15 minutes each morning. Note any banking‑related headlines – they often pop up in the GK section.
7. Revise smartly. In the last two weeks, create a one‑page formula sheet for math and a shortcut list for English. Review it daily.
8. Don’t ignore the interview. Practice speaking about your strengths, why you want a banking career, and any recent banking news. A confident voice can lift your overall score.
Stick to these steps, keep your study space tidy, and take short breaks to stay fresh. The IBPS SO exam may look tough, but with a clear roadmap you can turn it into a manageable challenge.
