The State Bank of India (SBI) Clerk exam is a popular choice for many aspiring to join the banking sector. If you’re targeting the SBI Clerk exam in 2025, it’s crucial to understand the exam pattern, syllabus, and effective preparation strategies. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to ace the exam.
Overview of SBI Clerk Exam 
The SBI Clerk exam is conducted in two phases:
- Preliminary Examination: This is a qualifying exam, and the scores are not considered for the final merit list.
- Main Examination: Candidates who clear the preliminary exam are eligible to appear for the main examination. The final selection is based on the marks obtained in the main exam.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Exam Frequency | Usually once a year |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Stages of Exam | Preliminary and Main Examination |
| Negative Marking | Yes (for incorrect answers) |
| Official Website | sbi.co.in |
SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025 (Preliminary) 
The preliminary exam is designed to filter candidates for the main exam. It consists of three sections:
| Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 mins |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 mins |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 mins |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 mins |
Key Points:
- Each section has a separate time limit.
- There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every wrong answer.
- The marks obtained in the preliminary exam are not counted for the final selection.
SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025 (Main) 
The main examination is more comprehensive and tests the candidate’s overall knowledge and aptitude. It comprises four sections:
| Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 mins |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 mins |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 mins |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 mins |
| Total | 190 | 200 | 2 hours 40 mins |
Key Points:
- There are sectional timings in the main exam as well.
- There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
- The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the main examination.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2025 
A thorough understanding of the syllabus is essential for effective preparation. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics:
Preliminary Exam Syllabus:
- English Language: Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Fill in the blanks, Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, Para Jumbles.
- Numerical Ability: Simplification, Number Series, Data Interpretation, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Problems (Percentage, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Time & Work, etc.).
- Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Inequality, Coding-Decoding, Direction Sense.
Main Exam Syllabus:
- General/Financial Awareness: Current Affairs, Banking Awareness, Financial News, Static GK.
- General English: Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement, Para Jumbles, Vocabulary.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Data Interpretation, Simplification, Number Series, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Problems, Data Sufficiency.
- Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Input-Output, Coding-Decoding, Computer Fundamentals.
Preparation Tips for SBI Clerk Exam 
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Start by thoroughly understanding the exam pattern and syllabus.
- Create a Study Plan: Prepare a realistic study plan and stick to it. Calendar
- Focus on Fundamentals: Build a strong foundation in all the subjects.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous year’s question papers and mock tests to get familiar with the exam format.
- Improve Time Management: Practice solving questions within the stipulated time.
- Stay Updated on Current Affairs: Read newspapers and follow reliable news sources to stay updated on current events.
- Analyze Your Performance: Analyze your performance in mock tests to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Revision is Key: Regularly revise the topics you have studied.
- Stay Positive and Confident: Maintain a positive attitude and believe in yourself.
FAQs 
Q1: Is there an interview for SBI Clerk?
A: No, there is no interview for the SBI Clerk exam. The final selection is based on the marks obtained in the main examination.
Q2: Are there sectional cutoffs in the SBI Clerk exam?
A: Yes, there are sectional cutoffs in both the preliminary and main examinations.
Q3: What is the age limit for the SBI Clerk exam?
A: The age limit varies depending on the category. Generally, it is between 20 to 28 years. It’s best to refer to the official notification for the exact details.
Q4: How can I prepare for the General/Financial Awareness section?
A: Read newspapers, follow financial news websites, and refer to banking awareness books.
Q5: Where can I find previous year’s SBI Clerk question papers?
A: You can find previous year’s question papers on various online platforms and coaching websites.
By understanding the SBI Clerk exam pattern, syllabus, and following a strategic preparation plan, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to stay focused, dedicated, and confident throughout your preparation journey. Good luck! 