Before getting onto the last minute tips and strategy it is important to go through the pattern of the exam once again so that candidates have clarity about how they have to go about attempting the paper.
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern
The IBPS PO Main exam also takes place online. The Mains exam comprises of -
- Total sections - 5(4+1)
- The total score - 200+25 marks.
- Total duration - 180+30 minutes.
IBPS also conducts a descriptive paper in its mains exam for the selection of candidates to the post of PO. All the sections must be attempted in the same chronological order in the allotted time period which is illuminated during the exam.
| S.No. | Name of Tests(Objective | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
| 1 | Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| 2 | English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| 3 | Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| 4 | General Economy & Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 3 Hours | |
| 5 | English Language (Letter Writing & Essay) | 2 | 25 | 30 minutes |
A face to face interview takes place with the candidates who have qualified the Mains exam which carries a maximum of 100 marks. The minimum qualifying marks in the interview is 40% for the General category and 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD candidates.
The IBPS then prepares the final merit list of the candidates on the basis of marks obtained in mains examination followed by interview. After this process IBPS then calculates the final score with weightage of marks given to the main examination and interview which is in the ratio of 80:20 respectively.
IBPS PO Mains Exam Last Minute Tips
1. Plan A Strategy for Yourself
It is very important to have a strategy for any exam. Candidates should have an idea about how will they be attempting the question paper. For this, candidates should analyse their mock tests and understand the sections they are good at and can score better than in other sections. Candidates should know how much time they will be spending on each section so that they can complete the paper in time.
2. Revision of Important Topics
Candidates should go through the previous years papers and check the topics from which questions are asked frequently and revise those topics thoroughly before the exam. It is not wise to revise the entire syllabus only important topics should be revised. Candidates should focus on those sections from which questions are asked frequently and which have more weightage.
3. Make Short Notes
Candidates should know the topics that they have to revise and make short notes for those so that they can easily revise from them.
4. Guesswork Should Be Limited
Candidates should make sure that they submit guessed asnwers as less as possible. Candidates should know the previous year cut-offs and know well in advance the number of questions they should attempt to be sure to be clearing the expected cuut-off. Guesswork can make the entire exam very risky and can also lead to negative marking. It should be limited as much as possible.
5. Time Management
Candidates should know well in advance through their startegy the amount of time they should be spending on every sections. Do not spend too much time after any question. If you are unable to understand the question, then leave that question and go to the other questions and come back to that question later if you have time.
6. Read The Questions Carefully
Candidates must read all the questions very carefully with a calm mind and understand the question before attempting it. Candidates should also check all the options and then select their answer.
7. Be Calm and Happy Before the Exam
Do not be tensed before the exam. Try to be calm and happy. With a calm mind you will surely perform way better. Always remember that that exam duration is important and you have worked hard for it and that time will not come back to you, so enjoy the exam.
8. Carry the Required Documents to the Centre
Make sure that you reach the centre well before time and carry your Admit Card, Identity Proof, a photocopy of your Identity Proof and a pen. Rough sheets are provided in the exam centre.