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SBI Clerk Exam Preparation Tips and Strategy, Subject-wise Study Plan

As SBI Clerk 2024 Notification is released with 14191 Junior Associate vacant posts, lakhs of banking aspirants with dreams of joining the State Bank of India, have already started their preparation. Somehow, many aspirants who are beginners are looking forward to proper guidance to start their preparation. If you are one among those and confused about how to begin with, what to follow and what not to follow, then you are at the right place, as in this section, we have shared some SBI Clerk Exam Preparation tips which were followed by the aspirants who are now a part of SBI after clearing the exams with flying colours.

SBI Clerk Exam Preparation

SBI Clerk exam has regularly seen major changes in Exam patterns in the last few years, and therefore the first step for students is to know the latest exam pattern and syllabus. The next most important step for students is to get self-aware. Over years, we have observed that students who successfully crack exams regularly work on understanding their weaknesses and strengths. Therefore, once the exam pattern is clear, map your strengths and weaknesses with different sections of the exam, and this can be analysed by regularly attempting mock tests, and previous year papers and checking detailed analysis reports of your test.

With a proper study plan, you can enormously increase your chances of success in the SBI Clerk exam. The first and foremost step is to understand the exam pattern and subjects to be studied for both prelims and main exams. The marks secured in prelims will not be counted but it is important for the candidates clear the concepts for all three subjects as it is helpful in scoring higher marks in the Mains exam.

Preliminary Exam (Objective Type)

  1. English Language (30 marks, 20 minutes)
  2. Numerical Ability (35 marks, 20 minutes)
  3. Reasoning Ability (35 marks, 20 minutes)

Mains Exam (Objective Test)

  1. General/Financial Awareness (50 marks, 35 minutes)
  2. General English (40 marks, 35 minutes)
  3. Quantitative Aptitude (50 marks, 45 minutes)
  4. Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (60 marks, 45 minutes)

SBI Clerk Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing for the SBI Clerk Exam requires a focused and strategic approach. Here are some SBI Clerk Exam Preparation Tips that might help you to efficiently prepare for the upcoming SBI Clerk exams.

  1. Mastering the basics is a critical step in cracking the SBI Clerk Exam, as it builds the foundation for advanced problem-solving. For this, you have to focus on trusted sources, and solve basic-level problems for each topic daily. Use the Adda247 app and YouTube channels for concept clarity and interactive learning.
  2. Learn Shortcuts to solve mathematical and reasoning questions.
  3. Develop Time Management Skills which can be attained by solving easier questions first and then moving to tougher ones. The most important tip is to learn to skip questions that are too time-consuming as the duration of the exam is less and the number of questions is more.
  4. Practice as many as mock tests and SBI Clerk Previous Year Question Papers as this helps to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.
  5. Revision of what you have studied so far is important. For this you can maintain a notebook for formulas, vocabulary, and current affairs notes for quick revision whenever you finds time.

Effective Study Plan for SBI Clerk Exam

In the beginning, candidates must focus on “Foundation Building” which means understanding the basics and clearing the concepts. Afterwards, the candidates must focus on “Skill Building” which involves strengthening your conceptual understanding, improving speed, and enhancing accuracy. Here’s a skill-building strategy for each subject:

Numerical Ability

To score good marks in this section, calculation speed, formula application, and logical reasoning play a vital role. Follow the

  1. Mental Math- Memorize tables up to 20, squares up to 30, and cubes up to 20. Practice quick addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
  2. Arithmetic- Focus on basic topics like percentages, averages, ratios, and proportions. Solve 15-20 problems daily from each topic.
  3. Data Interpretation- Begin with simple DI sets and gradually progress to complex ones involving multiple graphs. Prioritize accuracy, then work on speed.
  4. Number Series & Simplification: Dedicate 20 minutes daily to practice patterns in number series and approximation.

Reasoning Ability

Aspirants should focus on Logical Thinking, Pattern Recognition, and Time Management which can be attained if follow the preparation tips discussed below-

  1. Start with 2-variable puzzles, then progress to complex multi-variable ones. Practice circular, linear, and rectangular seating arrangements.
  2. Focus on topics like syllogisms, inequalities, and assumptions. Learn Venn diagram methods for solving syllogisms.
  3. Practice letter, number, and symbol coding techniques.
  4. Solve simple and moderate-level questions daily to master the fundamentals.

English Language

To master this subject, the candidates must focus on Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Speed, and Accuracy. The key points to be focussed are as below-

  1. Reading Comprehension: Read editorials from newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily. Practice identifying the main idea, tone, and purpose of paragraphs. Work on skimming and scanning techniques.
  2. Vocabulary: Learn 10-15 new words daily, including their synonyms, antonyms, and usage. Focus on commonly used idioms and phrases.
  3. Grammar & Error Spotting: Revise rules for tenses, prepositions, and subject-verb agreement. Practice spotting errors in sample sentences.
  4. Writing: Summarize news articles to improve your comprehension and writing skills.

General/Financial Awareness

Current Affairs Knowledge and Banking Awareness are the major areas need to be focussed. Further, follow the tips to excel in General/Financial Awareness subject.

  1. Read daily updates from trusted sources.
  2. Focus on government schemes, awards, appointments, and sports events.
  3. Understand the basics of banking terminology, monetary policies, and financial institutions.
  4. Learn about RBI functions, digital banking, and recent mergers.
  5. Memorize important capitals, currencies, and national parks.

Best Book for SBI Clerk Exam Preparation

As there are numerous books in the market these days for SBI Clerk, choosing the best SBI Clerk Preparation Books is important and the most prominent step for clearing the SBI Clerk Exam. While choosing the books, you must make sure that the books completely cover the entire syllabus for all sections including Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, and Data Interpretation. The books offered by Adda247 cover all the subjects and also provide plentiful mock test papers and previous year question papers.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to SBI Clerk Preparation

1. How should I start preparation for the SBI Clerk Exam from zero?

Ans- Preparing for the SBI Clerk Exam from scratch is not so difficult, just follow the road map seriously and be punctual with the preparation plan. Familiarise with the latest exam pattern and syllabus before beginning the preparation. Gather the best books and search for authentic study materials which enhance your conceptual knowledge.

2. How much time does it take to clear the SBI Clerk Exam?

Ans- As shared by the aspirants who had previously cleared the SBI Clerk Exam, it generally takes a 6-month to 1-year period to clear the exam with good marks.

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About the Author

As Associate Manager- Content Writer, I take on leadership within our content creation team, overseeing the development of error-free educational content. My primary responsibility is to produce and analyse high-quality content educating and informing the aspirants about upcoming government exams published on our website. I have more than 6 years experience in content writing wherein 4.5 years of experience in ed-tech content writing.