SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Analysis 2025: Latest Reviews

January 17, 2025
sbi clerk prelims exam analysis

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

The State Bank of India (SBI) conducts an exam to select candidates for the position of Junior Associate across its various branches. This is a highly sought-after role for those looking to start their career in banking. The recruitment process is conducted in two phases: the Prelims and Mains. Both phases are designed to test the candidate’s skills and knowledge in different areas, and clearing both is essential to secure a position. The SBI clerk prelims exam analysis is important for all aspiring candidates to understand the exam in detail.

The Prelims exam is the first step in this process. It is an online test that evaluates candidates’ proficiency in areas like English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability. This phase is crucial as it acts as a filtering stage to shortlist candidates for the Mains exam. To prepare effectively, candidates should analyze the Prelims exam in detail, which will help them understand the type of questions asked, the marking pattern, and time management strategies. This detailed understanding can guide them to focus on the right topics and improve their chances of qualifying.

Once candidates clear the Prelims, they must shift their focus to the Mains exam. The Mains is a more in-depth test that assesses candidates on a broader range of topics. It is important to thoroughly analyze the Mains exam to understand its structure and difficulty level. By preparing for both phases with dedication and a clear strategy, candidates can increase their chances of success and secure the position of Junior Associate in SBI.

This article will discuss the SBI clerk analysis for mains and prelims in detail for a better understanding.

sbi clerk prelims exam analysis

SBI clerk prelims exam analysis and format

The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis provides essential insights into the exam’s structure and difficulty level. By reviewing the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, candidates can identify important topics, question patterns, and time management strategies. This analysis helps in creating an effective study plan, ensuring better preparation for the exam and increasing chances of success.

SectionQuestions MarksTime
Quantitative Aptitude353520 minutes
English303020 minutes
Reasoning353520 minutes
Total10010060 minutes
SBI clerk prelims exam analysis and format
  1. Each day there were four shifts.
  2. Each section would have separate timings.
  3. 0.25 marks would be deducted for every wrong answer.
  4. The candidates from the prelims are decided as per the vacancies. The number is generally 10 times the total vacancies.
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SBI clerk mains exam analysis and format

The SBI Clerk Mains exam requires a more in-depth preparation compared to the Prelims. By reviewing the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, candidates can understand the exam pattern and topics covered in the Prelims, which form the foundation for the Mains. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis provides valuable insights into the structure, helping candidates plan their strategy for the Mains effectively.

SectionQuestionsMarksTime
Quantitative Aptitude505045 minutes
English404035 minutes
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude506045 minutes
General/Finance Awareness505035 minutes
Total1902002 hours 40 minutes
SBI clerk mains exam analysis and format
  1. All the sections except English are objective type. In addition, the paper will be in two languages – English and Hindi.
  2. Moreover, 0.25 marks would be deducted for every wrong answer.
  3. The merit list would be decided as per the State and categories. 
  4. SBI would decide the minimum qualifying marks as per different factors. However, some of the deciding factors are the difficulty of the paper, the number of candidates who attended, and the number of vacancies.

SBI clerk prelims exam analysis – Syllabus

Understanding the syllabus is crucial for effective preparation for the SBI Clerk exam. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis provides valuable insights into the key topics and sections that are frequently tested. By reviewing the syllabus and focusing on high-weightage areas, candidates can streamline their preparation. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis also helps in identifying the most important subjects to prioritize. Here’s a breakdown of the important topics for each subject, as per the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis:

1. English Language

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Cloze Test
  • Spelling Correction
  • Error Detection
  • Fill in the Blanks
  • Phrase Replacement

2. Quantitative Aptitude

  • Quadratic Equations
  • Simplification/Approximation
  • Data Interpretation
  • Comparison of Quantities
  • Mixture Problems
  • Number Systems
  • Profit & Loss
  • Average/Percentage
  • Probability/Mensuration
  • Ratio/Proportion
  • Permutation/Combination

3. Reasoning Ability

  • Syllogism
  • Inequality
  • Coding-Decoding
  • Linear Seating Arrangements
  • Order & Pattern
  • Puzzles
  • Data Sufficiency
  • Input & Output
  • Sitting Arrangements

These topics, as outlined in the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, are crucial for scoring well in each section. Prioritizing these areas will ensure a strong performance in the exam.

Section-wise SBI clerk prelims exam analysis

Prelims exam analysis

Let’s take a closer look at the analysis of the SBI Clerk Prelims exam. Understanding the exam pattern, important topics, and the difficulty level is essential for effective preparation. Knowing the types of questions asked and how they are distributed across sections helps candidates plan their approach strategically.

By reviewing past trends and insights, candidates can identify key areas that require more attention. This allows them to focus on topics that carry more weight and are frequently tested. With a clear understanding of the exam structure, candidates can create a well-organized study schedule, improving their chances of performing well and achieving success in the exam.

 Quantitative AptitudeEnglishReasoning
5th January 2024
Shift 1
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2822-2327-29
Shift 2
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2823-2426-29
Shift 3
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2822-2427-29
Shift 4
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts25-2623-2427-29
6th January 2024
Shift 1
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts27-2922-2428-30
Shift 2
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2823-2427-29
Shift 3
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2822-2527-29
Shift 4
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2823-2528-30
11th January 2024
Shift 1
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2721-2327-29
Shift  2
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts22-2524-2627-29
Shift 3
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts27-2928-3023-25
Shift 4
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateEasy to Moderate
Good attempts26-2827-2921-23
Prelims exam analysis

Also Read: SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2024: Prelims and Mains, Negative Marking & more

Mains exam analysis

Next, let’s dive into the analysis of the SBI Clerk Mains exam. Understanding the exam’s structure, key sections, and difficulty level is crucial for effective preparation. Knowing how questions are distributed across different sections will help candidates approach the exam with a clear strategy.

By analyzing past trends and papers, candidates can identify high-weightage topics and areas that need more focus. This allows them to prioritize their preparation and allocate more time to topics that are frequently tested. With a well-planned approach, candidates can improve their chances of performing well in the Mains and increase their overall success in the exam.

 4th March 2024Quantitative AptitudeEnglishReasoning and computer proficiencyGeneral and finance awareness
Shift 1
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateModerate to difficultModerate
Good attempts14-2121-2420-2522-26
Shift 2
Difficulty levelEasy to ModerateEasy to ModerateModerate to difficultModerate
Good attempts13-1716-2120-2516-20
Mains exam analysis

Key insights for SBI clerk exam success

Preparing for the SBI Clerk exam requires a strategic approach to understanding the syllabus and exam pattern. Following the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis will help you focus on key topics, manage your time, and improve your problem-solving skills. A well-structured plan that includes solving mock tests and revising thoroughly will ensure that you are fully prepared for the exam.

  • Understand the syllabus and exam pattern: Before starting preparation, always refer to the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis to understand the syllabus and exam pattern. A clear grasp of these elements will help you know the topics to focus on and plan your study schedule accordingly for maximum efficiency.
  • Solve mock papers and previous year’s papers: Solving mock papers and analyzing the previous year’s papers based on the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis is crucial. It helps you get used to the exam format and identify important question types, increasing your chances of success in both phases of the exam.
  • Create a study plan: Design a study plan to cover all the topics as suggested by the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis. Ensure that you allocate enough time for each subject, prioritize difficult areas, and give more time to sections that carry more marks.
  • Complete all topics before revision: As per the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, ensure that you complete all topics in your study plan well before the exams. This will leave you ample time for revisions, making it easier to go over key concepts and focus on weak areas.
  • Prioritize high-weightage topics: The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis suggests focusing on topics with the highest weight in the exam. By mastering these areas, you can score easily and increase your overall chances of performing well in both the Prelims and Mains.
  • English section preparation: Focus on critical English topics like Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, and Error Detection, as highlighted in the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis. These topics frequently appear in the exam, so thorough practice will help you score well in this section.
  • Quantitative aptitude topics: According to the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, focus on key quantitative topics like Quadratic Equations, Simplification, Data Interpretation, and Profit & Loss. These areas are commonly tested, so practicing them will ensure a higher score in the Quant section.
  • Reasoning section focus: As per the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, important reasoning topics like Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, and Linear Seating Arrangements should be prioritized. Practicing these topics will increase your speed and accuracy in the reasoning section.
  • Thorough practice is essential: Lastly, the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis emphasizes the importance of consistent practice. Cover all critical topics thoroughly, and regularly test your knowledge with mock exams to boost your confidence and improve your exam performance.

Common mistakes in the SBI Clerk exam

Preparing for the SBI Clerk exam requires focus, strategy, and avoiding common mistakes that many candidates make. By understanding the key areas where students tend to falter, you can avoid these pitfalls and enhance your chances of success. The following points highlight the most common mistakes identified through the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, offering insights for improvement.

  • Lack of a Study Plan: Many candidates fail to create a proper study plan, leading to missed topics and incomplete preparation. Following the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, a structured study plan helps cover all topics efficiently and prevents last-minute cramming.
  • Attempting Too Many Questions: Some candidates focus on attempting all questions, regardless of accuracy. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis emphasizes the importance of attempting only those questions you are sure of to avoid negative markings. Quality over quantity is key.
  • Ignoring Revision: Candidates often prioritize learning new topics right up to the exam, neglecting revision. According to the SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis, the last few days should be reserved for revising previously studied topics to consolidate knowledge and improve recall during the exam.
  • Not Analyzing Mock Tests: Solving mock papers without analyzing mistakes is a waste of effort. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis stresses the importance of reviewing mock test results to understand weaknesses and correct errors, thereby improving performance for the actual exam.
  • Skipping Important Topics: Some candidates skip topics they find difficult, which can negatively impact their scores. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis recommends covering all topics in your syllabus, as neglecting any section may lead to a poor overall score.
  • Losing Motivation and Neglecting Health: Many candidates lose motivation as the exam approaches, neglecting their physical and mental well-being. The SBI Clerk Prelims exam analysis suggests maintaining a balanced diet, staying confident, and managing stress for optimal performance on exam day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, analyzing the exam is an essential step for candidates to understand the overall exam pattern and structure. By thoroughly reviewing the analysis, candidates can gain valuable insights into the difficulty level of each section. This understanding helps them determine how many correct answers they need to achieve in order to successfully clear the exam. Knowing the distribution of marks across sections allows candidates to focus on areas that are more important and carry higher weight, improving their chances of success.

The analysis of both the Prelims and Mains exams provides candidates with detailed information on the topics and types of questions that are likely to appear. For the Prelims, understanding the difficulty level and pattern of questions helps candidates prepare effectively, ensuring they are equipped to tackle each section confidently. It’s essential to know which topics are often tested and how to approach different question types in the Prelims exam. This strategic approach is key to qualifying for the next stage.

Most importantly, analyzing the Mains exam is crucial for focused preparation. The Mains exam has more complex and in-depth questions, and understanding its structure enables candidates to prioritize advanced topics and fine-tune their time management skills. Thorough preparation for both the Prelims and Mains is vital for success. By gaining a clear understanding of the exam analysis for both stages, candidates can plan their study approach effectively and increase their chances of securing a position.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the SBI clerk prelims exam tough?

The SBI Clerk Prelims can be challenging, requiring candidates to cover a wide range of topics. To qualify, it’s essential to focus on answering as many correct questions as possible. A solid understanding of the exam pattern and efficient time management will help improve the chances of success in the Prelims.

2. Is SBI clerk prelims easy?

No, the SBI prelims are not easy. Therefore the candidate has to clear the exam by answering questions based on English, Quantitative, and reasoning. Moreover, the exam has negative marks for wrong answers. Additionally, there are lakhs of candidates appearing for the exam.

3. How are SBI clerk prelims marks calculated?

One mark is awarded for every correct answer. 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. No marks are awarded for unanswered questions. There are 100 questions, and the total marks are 100.

4. Are 2 months enough for SBI clerk exam preparation?

Yes, it is possible to clear the SBI Clerk exam in two months with focused preparation and dedication. By following a structured study plan, practicing regularly, and focusing on key topics, candidates can boost their chances of success and perform well in both the Prelims and Mains.

5. What is the SBI clerk prelims cut-off?

The SBI Clerk prelims previous year’s cut-off for the General Category ranged from 62 to 80, varying across different states. Candidates had to meet the specific cut-off for their respective state to qualify for the next stage.