Preparing for the IBPS PO 2025 exam? Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Let’s break down the structure and marking scheme for both the Preliminary and Main examinations to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Key Highlights ✨
- Organization Name: Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
- Exam Name: IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025
- Selection Process: Three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview
- Prelims Exam Date: October 4th, 5th, and 11th, 2025
- Mains Exam Date: November 29th, 2025
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer
- Descriptive Paper: Included in Mains Exam
- Official Website: www.ibps.in
Preliminary Examination Structure 📝
The Preliminary Exam serves as the first hurdle in the selection process. It’s designed to assess your proficiency in three key areas:
- English Language: 30 questions, 30 marks, 20 minutes
- Quantitative Aptitude: 35 questions, 35 marks, 20 minutes
- Reasoning Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks, 20 minutes
Total: 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes
Each section is timed separately, so effective time management is essential. Remember, 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer, so accuracy matters.
Main Examination Structure 📚
Upon clearing the Prelims, candidates advance to the Main Exam, which is more comprehensive and includes both objective and descriptive components.
Objective Test
This part evaluates candidates across four sections:
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: 45 questions, 60 marks, 60 minutes
- English Language: 35 questions, 40 marks, 40 minutes
- Data Analysis & Interpretation: 35 questions, 60 marks, 45 minutes
- General/Economy/Banking Awareness: 40 questions, 40 marks, 35 minutes
Total: 155 questions, 200 marks, 180 minutes
Descriptive Test
Following the objective test, there’s a Descriptive Paper to assess written communication skills:
- Content: Essay and Letter Writing
- Marks: 25
- Duration: 30 minutes
This section is conducted immediately after the objective test and requires candidates to type their responses on a computer.
Marking Scheme and Time Management ⏰
- Negative Marking: Both Prelims and Mains have a penalty of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
- Sectional Timing: Each section has a fixed time limit. Unanswered questions within the allotted time cannot be revisited.
- Descriptive Test Evaluation: Only evaluated if the candidate meets the cut-off in the objective test.
Preparation Tips 🏆
- Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the topics under each section.
- Practice Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to build speed and accuracy.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Allocate extra time to subjects where you need improvement.
- Stay Updated: Regularly read newspapers and journals to enhance General Awareness.
By grasping the exam structure and marking scheme, you can strategize your preparation effectively. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a Probationary Officer!