SBI PO Syllabus 2025, Exam Pattern, Books, Prep Tips

The SBI PO 2025 exam is conducted to recruit 541 Probationary Officers across SBI branches in India. The Prelims syllabus includes Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and English. The Mains syllabus covers Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Interpretation, General Awareness, and English. As the pattern is similar to other bank exams, candidates should review previous year papers for better preparation.

SBI PO Syllabus 2025

The SBI PO 2025 Preliminary Exam includes a total of 100 objective questions covering three key sections: Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. The Mains Exam is more comprehensive and consists of Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, along with a Descriptive Test. Below is a section-wise overview of the SBI PO 2025 Prelims and Mains syllabus to help candidates prepare effectively.

SBI PO Prelims Syllabus 2025

SBI PO Mains Syllabus 2025

SBI PO Exam Pattern 2025

Before appearing for the SBI PO Examination, candidates must thoroughly understand the SBI PO Exam Pattern and mark distribution. Knowing the latest exam structure helps in effective preparation. Refer to the updated SBI PO pattern given below.

SBI PO Prelims Exam Pattern 2025

• The Prelims are an online objective test.
• It consists of 3 sections: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
• Total duration: 60 minutes (20 minutes per section).
• Total marks: 100.
• Negative marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer.
• This stage is qualifying in nature (marks not counted in the final merit).

SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern 2025

• The Mains exam consists of Objective Test and Descriptive Test conducted online on the same day.
• The Objective Test is of 200 marks, and the Descriptive Test carries 50 marks.
• The total duration of the Mains exam is 3 hours 30 minutes.
• There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the objective test.
• Only those who qualify in the Objective Test will have their Descriptive Test evaluated.
• Marks obtained in the Mains exam are considered for final merit.

SBI PO Books 2025

Preparing for the SBI PO 2025 exam requires the right set of books to cover each subject effectively. Below is a list of the best-recommended SBI PO books 2025 for Prelims and Mains, categorized by subject.

SBI PO Preparation Tips 2025

Cracking the SBI PO 2025 exam requires a well-planned strategy, consistent practice, and smart study techniques. With increasing competition, it's essential to follow the right preparation methods for Prelims, Mains, and the Interview round.

1. Understand the Exam Pattern & Syllabus

Before starting your preparation, it’s crucial to understand the SBI PO exam pattern for both Prelims and Mains. Familiarize yourself with the sections, number of questions, marks distribution, and time limits. Know what topics are covered under each section—like Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, English Language, General Awareness, Computer Aptitude, and Descriptive Writing. This clarity will help you prioritize topics based on their weightage and difficulty level.

2. Create a Realistic Study Plan

A personalized and practical study plan is the key to disciplined preparation. Break your daily schedule into subject-wise slots and assign time according to your strengths and weaknesses. Keep buffer time for revision and practice. Avoid overloading your day—include short breaks to stay fresh. A well-balanced plan ensures you cover the full syllabus efficiently while reducing burnout.

3. Practice Mock Tests Regularly

Taking regular mock tests is essential to simulate the real exam environment. It helps you improve time management, question selection, and accuracy. Analyze each mock test carefully—note your mistakes, track your progress, and work on weak areas. 

4. Stay Updated with Current Affairs

For the General/Economic Awareness section, staying updated with current events is critical. Read a national daily like The Hindu or Indian Express and follow monthly current affairs PDFs and banking capsules from reputed sources. Focus on banking, finance, government schemes, RBI updates, and national/international events from the last six months before the exam.

5. Prepare for the Descriptive Test

Many aspirants overlook the Descriptive Paper in the Mains exam, which carries significant marks. Practice writing essays and formal letters within time limits. Topics are often related to banking, social issues, or current affairs. Improve your writing style, vocabulary, and formatting. Reading editorials and sample essays can also enhance your content and coherence.

FAQs

Q1. How many sections are there in the SBI PO Mains 2025 Objective Test?

A1. The SBI PO Mains Objective Test consists of four sections: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, and English Language.

Q2. Is there a Descriptive Test in the SBI PO Mains Exam?

A2. Yes, the Descriptive Test is conducted after the Objective Test and includes one essay and one letter-writing question, carrying a total of 50 marks.

Q3. What is the total duration of the SBI PO Mains Exam 2025?

A3. The total duration is 3 hours 30 minutes—3 hours for the Objective Test and 30 minutes for the Descriptive Test.

Q4. Is there any negative marking in the SBI PO Mains Exam?

A4. Yes, there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the Objective sections of the Mains exam.

Q5. Are Mains marks considered in the final selection?

A5. Yes, marks obtained in the SBI PO Mains and Interview/Group Exercise are considered for preparing the final merit list. Prelims marks are not included in the final selection.