IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern and Syllabus
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The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Clerk exam is one of the most sought-after exams for candidates aspiring to work in public sector banks across India. Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for this exam, but only a few aspirants succeed. To crack the IBPS Clerk exam, an understanding of the IBPS Clerk exam pattern and syllabus is crucial.
The journey to becoming an IBPS Clerk is challenging. Every year, the number of applicants increases, making it highly competitive. Candidates should understand the exam structure, syllabus, and required preparation strategy to succeed in the IBPS Clerk Exam. The IBPS Clerk exam consists of multiple sections with different levels of difficulty. Many candidates are unsure about the IBPS clerk Exam Pattern like the structure of the exam for IBPS Clerk Prelims and Mains.
The syllabus for the IBPS Clerk exam covers a wide range of topics in Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, English Language, and General Awareness. Therefore, aspirants preparing for the IBPS Clerk Exam must familiarize themselves with the topics prescribed in IBPS Clerk syllabus before starting their preparation.
Understanding the IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Aspirants who are aiming to secure a job should first understand the IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern and Syllabus. The exam consists of two stages: Preliminary and Mains, where candidates are tested across subjects like Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English Language, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge. Knowing the structure of each section, the types of questions asked, and the weightage of each topic allows candidates to tailor their preparation effectively. Understanding the IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern and Syllabus helps manage time better and ensures that no important area is overlooked during the preparation.
IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern
The IBPS Clerk exam is divided into two phases: Preliminary Exam and Mains Exam. Each phase has its own distinct pattern, and understanding both is crucial for effective preparation.
IBPS Clerk Exam pattern for prelims
The IBPS Clerk Preliminary Exam is the first step in the recruitment process. It assesses your basic aptitude, reasoning ability, and English language skills. Lets know the detailed breakdown:
- Mode of Examination: Online (Computer-based Test)
- Duration: 1 hour
- Total Number of Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 100
Section-wise Breakdown of IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam:
Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allotted |
English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes/1 hour |
Key Points to Note:
- Each question carries 1 mark.
- There is a negative marking of 0.25 mark for every wrong answer.
- Candidates must clear the sectional cut-off and overall cut-off to be eligible for the Mains exam.
IBPS Clerk Mains Exam Pattern
The IBPS Clerk Mains Exam is more extensive and tests candidates on broader range of skills, including general awareness, computer knowledge, and financial awareness. The breakdown of the IBPS Clerk Mains exam pattern is:
- Mode of Examination: Online (Computer-based Test)
- Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes (160 Minutes)
- Total Number of Questions: 190
- Total Marks: 200
Section-wise Breakdown of IBPS Clerk Mains:
Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allotted |
Reasoning Ability | 40 | 50 | 35 minutes |
Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 minutes |
English Language | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 minutes |
Computer Knowledge | 20 | 20 | 10 minutes |
Total | 190 | 200 | 160 minutes |
Key Points:
- Each question carries 1 mark (except for the Computer Knowledge section, where each question carries 0.5 marks).
- There is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
- Candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks in each section and overall cut-off to be eligible for final selection.
What is the Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Exam
Knowing the IBPS Clerk syllabus is the key to cracking the IBPS Clerk exam. The IBPS Clerk Exam Syllabus is divided into two phases: the IBPS Clerk Preliminary Exam and the Mains Exam. Each phase assesses different skills, and the syllabus for each phase is designed to test a candidate’s proficiency in various areas such as Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, English Language, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the IBPS Clerk Exam Syllabus for both the Preliminary and Mains exams:
IBPS Clerk Preliminary Exam Syllabus
The IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam tests the basic skills in three subjects: English Language, Reasoning Ability, and Quantitative Aptitude. This phase, consisting of 100 questions to be completed in 1 hour, assesses your fundamental proficiency and ability to manage time efficiently. The IBPS Clerk Syllabus includes topics like reading comprehension, logical reasoning, puzzles, number series, simplifications, and basic mathematical calculations. A thorough understanding of the syllabus for the IBPS Clerk helps candidates focus on the right areas, improve speed, and build confidence to clear the first stage of the IBPS Clerk exam.
IBPS Clerk English Language Prelims Syllabus
The English Language section of the IBPS Clerk Preliminary Exam evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in Basic English grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. It consists of 30 questions to be answered within 20 minutes. This section tests your ability to understand written text, identify grammatical errors, and use language accurately. A strong command of English will boost your score in this section, so regular practice and vocabulary enhancement is essential for success. The English language syllabus for IBPS Clerk is given below:
· Antonyms
· Synonyms
· Word Formation
· Spelling
· Spotting of Errors
· Phrases and idioms
· Direct and Indirect speech
· Active and Passive voice
· Fill in the blanks
· Para jumbles
· Cloze test
· Sentence Improvement
· Sentence Arrangement
· Reading Comprehension
Reasoning Ability Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Prelims
The Reasoning Ability section of the IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam is designed to assess a candidate’s logical thinking, problem-solving ability, and analytical skills. It comprises a total of 35 questions that need to be completed in 20 minutes. The ability to solve reasoning problems quickly and accurately is crucial, as this section plays a key role in determining your overall score. The syllabus for the reasoning section for IBPS Clerk is:
· Analogy
· Classification
· Alphanumeric Series
· Word formation
· Number, Ranking, and Time Sequence
· Directions
· Alphabet Test
· Coding-Decoding
· Coded Inequalities
· Seating Arrangement
· Blood Relations
· Decision making
· Input/output
· Arrangement
· Puzzle
· Data Sufficiency
· Syllogism
· Statement and conclusions
· Statement and assumptions
· Statement and arguments
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam
The Quantitative Aptitude section of the IBPS Clerk Pre Exam tests a candidate’s mathematical skills and ability to solve problems quickly and accurately. A strong foundation in basic arithmetic and quick problem-solving techniques is essential to perform well in this section. With 35 questions to be answered in 20 minutes, the syllabus is mentioned below.
· Simplification
· Approximation
· Averages
· LCM & HCF
· Ratio and Proportion
· Percentage
· Profit and Loss
· Simple and Compound Interest
· Time and Work
· Time, Speed, and Distance
· Probability
· Permutations and Combinations
· Mensuration
· Data Interpretation
IBPS Clerk Mains Exam Syllabus
The IBPS Clerk Mains Exam Syllabus is more comprehensive and covers a wider range of subjects as compared to that of the Preliminary Exam. It tests candidates on their proficiency in Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General/Financial Awareness, and Computer Knowledge. The IBPS Clerk Mains exam consists of 190 questions, with a time limit of 2 hours and 40 minutes, and requires candidates to demonstrate advanced problem-solving skills, speed, and accuracy across multiple areas. A strong grasp of basic and complex concepts along with the ability to stay updated on current affairs and banking knowledge, is essential to succeed in the Mains. The syllabus for IBPS Clerk for every section is discussed below:
Reasoning Ability Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Mains
The Reasoning Ability section of the IBPS Clerk Mains Exam tests a candidate’s logical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving capabilities. This section, consisting of 40 questions to be answered in 35 minutes, includes more complex topics than the Preliminary Exam. Key areas include Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, Direction Sense, and Input-Output. A thorough understanding of different reasoning concepts, along with consistent practice, is crucial to performing well in this section and securing a good overall score in the IBPS Clerk Mains exam. The list of topics that need to be covered for the IBPS Clerk reasoning syllabus for Mains exams are same as that of the prelims but the candidates should expect tougher and complicated questions. Puzzles play a key role in the IBPS mains exam, so mastering this topic along with others is very important. Important topics are:
- Puzzles
- Coding-Decoding
- Seating Arrangement
- Blood relations
- Data Sufficiency
- Logical Reasoning topics
- Analytical Reasoning topics
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Mains
The Quantitative Aptitude section of the IBPS Clerk Mains comprises of 50 questions that need to be completed in 45 minutes. Unlike the Preliminary Exam, the Mains exam features more challenging questions that require a strong command of mathematical concepts and quick problem-solving techniques. The list of topics to master in the IBPS Clerk Quantitative Aptitude Mains syllabus is:
· Number Series
· Data Interpretation
· Time and Work
· Profit and Loss
· Simple and Compound Interest
· Speed, Time, and Distance
· Permutations and Combinations
· Probability
· Mixtures and Alligations
English Language Syllabus for IBPS Clerk Mains Exam
The English Language section of the IBPS Clerk Mains Exam comprises of 40 questions that needs to be answered in 35 minutes. This section requires a deeper understanding of the English language, unlike the Preliminary Exam. The IBPS Clerk Mains exam requires candidates to handle more complex passages and sentence structures. IBPS Clerk Mains English syllabus requires a strong foundation in grammar, an expansive vocabulary, and regular practice are essential for performing well in this section and securing a good score in the Mains exam. Apart from the general syllabus, the main topics that require a strong grip are:
· Reading Comprehension
· Cloze Test
· Sentence Correction
· Para Jumbles
· Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
· Error Spotting
General and Financial Awareness Syllabus
The General/Financial Awareness section of the IBPS Clerk Mains Exam is designed to test a candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, banking systems, and financial concepts. Comprising 50 questions to be answered in 35 minutes, this section covers a wide range of topics. An all-round understanding of both current affairs and the banking sector is key to performing well in this section. Regular reading of newspapers, financial magazines, and online resources is essential for success in the General/Financial Awareness section.
· Current Affairs (National and International) of the past 6 months
· Banking Awareness (Basics of Banking, Mergers/Acquisitions, RBI, SEBI, NABARD, IMF, World Bank, and Banking Terms)
· Financial Awareness (Overview of Financial system, Monetary Policies, Government Schemes, Interest Rates, Financial Planning)
· Static GK (Economy Terms, History of Banking, etc.)
Computer Knowledge Syllabus
The Computer Knowledge section of the IBPS Clerk Mains Exam tests basic computer concepts and their ability to work with computer applications. With 20 questions to be answered in 10 minutes, this section covers topics like computer hardware and software, operating systems, internet and networking basics, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and cyber security. While the questions are not highly technical, a good grasp of fundamental computer knowledge is essential to perform well. Computer syllabus for the IBPS Clerk exam is:
· Basic Computer Terminology
· Operating Systems
· Software and Hardware
· Internet and Networking Basics
· MS Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
· Cyber Security Basic
How to Prepare for IBPS Clerk Exam
Now that you have understand the IBPS Clerk exam pattern and syllabus, it’s time to discuss the key strategies that can help you succeed in the IBPS Clerk exam:
Know the IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern: Make sure you are familiar with the structure of both the IBPS Clerk Preliminary exam pattern and the IBPS Clerk Mains exam pattern. Allocate time for each section during practice and mock exams. Understanding the weightage of each section helps in effective time management.
Create a Study Plan: Having a clear understanding of the IBPS Clerk syllabus, devise a study plan that focuses on all the sections. Make a priority list of areas where you are weak but also allocate time for practice in all subjects to avoid neglecting any section.
Learning Concepts: A Strong foundation of concepts is the essence of success. Also, a clear understanding of concepts, shortcuts, and logics is essential for which aspirants need the best mentors to guide them. Rankers Hub IBPS Clerk Coaching is the best source for it.
Practice Mock Tests for IBPS Clerk: Any exam preparation is incomplete if you do not check your skills for which IBPS Clerk Mock test practice is essential which is also useful for improving time management and accuracy. They help you simulate the real exam environment and analyze your performance. Pay attention to the areas where you make mistakes and focus on improving them.
Revise Regularly: It is crucial to retain what you have learned. Set aside time for weekly or bi-weekly revisions apart from regular studies. Keep reviewing formulas, tricks, and shortcuts for Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability.
Stay Updated for General Awareness: The syllabus for IBPS Clerk also needs reading newspapers, and current affairs magazines which are helpful for the General Awareness section. Make notes and keep track of important events related to the banking sector, national affairs, and global issues.
Understanding the IBPS Clerk exam pattern and syllabus is the first step toward the success of the IBPS Clerk Exam. With a solid strategy, regular practice, and focus on time management, you can crack the exam and secure your future with a reputed public sector bank. Rankers Hub online coaching and mock tests for the IBPS Clerk exam is one of the best sources in this process, check out the free content of the course and test series before making a decision. Following the steps outlined above and staying disciplined, you will be on the path to achieving your IBPS Clerk goals.
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