The SBI PO (Probationary Officer) exam is one of the most competitive exams in India, attracting thousands of aspirants every year. The exam evaluates candidates on multiple aspects, including their reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, English language proficiency, and computer knowledge. If you are gearing up for the SBI PO exam in 2025, understanding the detailed syllabus and exam pattern is crucial to your preparation.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the SBI PO syllabus 2025, breaking it down by sections, topics, and important details that will help you navigate the exam preparation process with confidence.
Introduction to the SBI PO Syllabus 2025
The SBI PO exam comprises three stages:
Preliminary Exam (Phase 1)
Main Exam (Phase 2)
Interview (Phase 3)
The syllabus for each phase varies, and it’s important to prepare for each stage separately while ensuring your overall strategy is aligned with the topics covered in the exam. Here’s an in-depth look at the syllabus for each phase.
SBI PO Syllabus 2025: Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam)
The preliminary exam tests candidates' skills in three key areas: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability. This phase consists of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a total time limit of 1 hour.
1. English Language
Topics Covered:
Reading Comprehension
Cloze Test
Para Jumbles
Error Spotting
Sentence Completion
Synonyms & Antonyms
Fill in the Blanks
Sentence Rearrangement
Skills Developed:
In this section, students will improve their ability to understand written material, spot grammatical errors, and quickly process information. A strong command of the English language is essential for scoring well in this section.
2. Quantitative Aptitude
Topics Covered:
Number Series
Simplification & Approximation
Quadratic Equations
Data Interpretation (Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, Pie Charts, Tables)
Time and Work
Speed, Distance, and Time
Profit and Loss
Simple & Compound Interest
Percentage & Ratio
Skills Developed:
This section tests your mathematical ability and problem-solving skills. Candidates will develop a solid understanding of basic arithmetic and data interpretation, which are essential for the subsequent stages of the exam.
3. Reasoning Ability
Topics Covered:
Puzzles and Seating Arrangements
Coding-Decoding
Syllogism
Blood Relations
Direction Sense
Alphabetical and Number Series
Input-Output
Inequality
Skills Developed:
This section helps candidates hone their logical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Success in reasoning ability requires sharp thinking and quick decision-making.
SBI PO Syllabus 2025: Phase 2 (Main Exam)
The main exam is more challenging than the preliminary exam and includes four sections: English Language, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, and General/Financial Awareness. This exam consists of 155 questions and lasts 3 hours.
1. English Language
Topics Covered:
Reading Comprehension
Cloze Test
Sentence Rearrangement
Error Spotting
Paragraph Completion
Vocabulary
Word Usage
Synonyms & Antonyms
Skills Developed:
Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of the English language and possess the ability to comprehend and analyze written passages. Effective time management is essential in this section as the passages can be lengthy.
2. Data Analysis and Interpretation
Topics Covered:
Data Sufficiency
Data Interpretation (Tabular, Line Graph, Bar Graph, Caselets)
Profit & Loss
Averages & Percentages
Time, Speed & Distance
Ratio & Proportion
Simplification
Skills Developed:
This section tests your ability to analyze and interpret data quickly and accurately. Proficiency in basic mathematical operations and problem-solving is crucial to scoring well here.
3. Reasoning and Computer Aptitude
Topics Covered:
Puzzles and Seating Arrangement
Coding-Decoding
Input-Output
Logical Reasoning
Computer Basics (Hardware, Software, Networking, MS Office)
Skills Developed:
This section tests your logical reasoning skills while also assessing your basic knowledge of computers. Familiarity with computer-related concepts is essential for this section.
4. General/Financial Awareness
Topics Covered:
Current Affairs (National and International)
Banking Awareness
Financial Awareness (Budget, Economic Survey, Financial Terms)
Government Schemes and Policies
Static GK (Countries, Capitals, Currencies)
Skills Developed:
This section assesses your general awareness and knowledge of current events. Keeping up-to-date with the latest news and developments in banking, finance, and the economy is key to performing well.
SBI PO Syllabus 2025: Phase 3 (Interview)
The final phase involves a personal interview, which focuses on assessing your personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role of a Probationary Officer. Although there is no fixed syllabus for this phase, it typically includes questions on:
Your academic background
Current affairs
Situational questions
Reasoning behind pursuing the job
General discussion on banking and finance
SBI PO Exam Pattern 2025
Preliminary Exam (Phase 1)
Total Questions: 100 MCQs
Time Limit: 1 hour
Sections:
English Language (30 questions)
Quantitative Aptitude (35 questions)
Reasoning Ability (35 questions)
Main Exam (Phase 2)
Total Questions: 155
Time Limit: 3 hours
Sections:
English Language (35 questions)
Data Analysis & Interpretation (35 questions)
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (45 questions)
General/Financial Awareness (40 questions)
Interview (Phase 3)
Total Marks: 100
The interview is conducted for candidates who qualify in the main exam. Marks obtained in the interview are added to the final score.
Recommended Study Materials for SBI PO 2025
Books for Quantitative Aptitude:
"Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Agarwal
"Fast Track Objective Arithmetic" by Rajesh Verma
Books for English Language:
"High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin
"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis
Books for Reasoning Ability:
"A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Agarwal
Books for General Awareness:
"Banking Awareness" by R.K. Gupta
"Current Affairs Yearbook" by Manohar Pandey
Study Tips and Exam Preparation Strategy
Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern:
Start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus for each phase and creating a study plan based on it.
Focus on Time Management:
With limited time for each section, practicing speed and accuracy is essential. Use time-bound mock tests to improve your speed.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs:
Keep up-to-date with daily news, particularly related to banking, finance, and current affairs, as these topics will help you in both the General Awareness and Interview stages.
Revise Regularly:
Regular revision is key to retaining concepts. Make it a habit to revise daily and review areas where you are weak.
Mock Tests:
Take regular mock tests to simulate exam conditions and identify areas that need more focus.
By following this guide and staying consistent in your preparation, you can confidently approach the SBI PO 2025 exam. Best of luck with your preparation!
FAQ for SBI PO Syllabus 2025 Exam Pattern
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the SBI PO syllabus and exam pattern for 2025:
1. What is the SBI PO exam pattern for 2025?
The SBI PO exam for 2025 consists of three phases:
Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam): A 1-hour online exam with 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in three sections: English Language (30 questions), Quantitative Aptitude (35 questions), and Reasoning Ability (35 questions).
Phase 2 (Main Exam): A 3-hour exam with 155 questions divided into four sections: English Language (35 questions), Data Analysis & Interpretation (35 questions), Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (45 questions), and General/Financial Awareness (40 questions).
Phase 3 (Interview): A personal interview conducted for candidates who clear the Main Exam. It carries 100 marks.
2. How many marks are allotted for the SBI PO interview?
The interview is conducted for candidates who qualify the Main Exam. It is worth 100 marks and assesses candidates' personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role of a Probationary Officer.
3. How many questions are asked in the SBI PO Prelims exam?
In the SBI PO Preliminary Exam, there are a total of 100 questions, which are divided into three sections:
English Language: 30 questions
Quantitative Aptitude: 35 questions
Reasoning Ability: 35 questions
4. What is the time duration for the SBI PO exam?
Preliminary Exam (Phase 1): 1 hour
Main Exam (Phase 2): 3 hours
Interview (Phase 3): No fixed time limit, but it typically lasts between 15-30 minutes.
5. Are there any negative marks in the SBI PO exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking in both the Preliminary and Main Exams. For every wrong answer, one-fourth (0.25) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted. There is no penalty for leaving a question unanswered.
6. What are the subjects covered in the SBI PO syllabus?
The subjects tested in the SBI PO exam are:
Preliminary Exam: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability
Main Exam: English Language, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Financial Awareness
7. What is the weightage of each section in the SBI PO Main Exam?
The Main Exam consists of four sections, and the number of questions in each section is as follows:
English Language: 35 questions
Data Analysis & Interpretation: 35 questions
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: 45 questions
General/Financial Awareness: 40 questions
Each section has a different weightage, and the total number of questions in the Main Exam is 155.
8. How can I prepare for the General/Financial Awareness section?
For the General/Financial Awareness section, keep yourself updated with:
Current Affairs (National and International)
Banking Awareness (including recent banking developments, financial terms, and policies)
Government Schemes
Important events in economics and finance Read newspapers like The Hindu or The Economic Times, and use apps or websites dedicated to current affairs preparation.
9. Is there any specific syllabus for the Interview round?
While there is no fixed syllabus for the Interview, it generally focuses on:
Your academic background
Work experience (if any)
Reason for pursuing the SBI PO job
General knowledge about banking and finance
Current affairs and government schemes It is important to be well-versed in current events and have a clear understanding of why you want to join SBI as a Probationary Officer.
10. What are some recommended study materials for SBI PO 2025?
Some of the best books and resources for preparing for the SBI PO exam are:
Quantitative Aptitude: "Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations" by R.S. Agarwal
English Language: "High School English Grammar & Composition" by Wren & Martin
Reasoning Ability: "A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning" by R.S. Agarwal
General Awareness: "Banking Awareness" by R.K. Gupta Additionally, practice mock tests, sample papers, and previous year question papers to improve your speed and accuracy.
11. Is there any sectional cutoff in the SBI PO exam?
Yes, there is a sectional cutoff in both the Preliminary and Main Exams. You must score minimum marks in each section to qualify for the next phase of the exam. The exact cutoff varies each year depending on factors like exam difficulty and the number of applicants.
12. How can I stay organized while preparing for the SBI PO exam?
To stay organized:
Create a Study Plan: Divide your syllabus into weekly goals.
Follow a Timetable: Allocate fixed hours for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses.
Use Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to track your progress and identify areas that need improvement.
Review and Revise: Make sure to revise the topics regularly, especially your weak areas.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Dedicate time daily to reading newspapers and magazines for general knowledge.
By following this FAQ guide, you can ensure you're well-prepared and informed about the SBI PO exam for 2025. Good luck with your preparation!
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