The SBI PO exam is one of the most sought-after banking recruitment tests in India, offering a prestigious position with excellent growth opportunities. As we gear up for SBI PO 2026, understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Whether you’re a fresher or a working professional, this comprehensive guide covers everything from the SBI PO Prelims syllabus 2026 to the Mains syllabus, including topic-wise breakdowns, exam patterns, and pro tips to ace the exam.
The SBI PO 2026 notification is expected soon, but based on the 2025 patterns—which are likely to remain consistent—the syllabus emphasizes quantitative skills, logical reasoning, language proficiency, and current affairs. Download the SBI PO syllabus PDF from official sources once released, and start your prep today!
SBI PO Exam Pattern 2026: Prelims and Mains Overview
The SBI PO selection process includes three phases: Prelims, Mains, and Interview (including Group Exercises). There’s a negative marking of 0.25 marks for wrong answers in objective sections, so accuracy matters.
SBI PO Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
The Prelims is a qualifying stage with 100 objective questions worth 100 marks, to be completed in 60 minutes. Sectional timing applies—no switching between sections.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
- Key Notes: No sectional cut-off; merit based on overall score. Around 10 times the vacancies are shortlisted for Mains.
SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern 2026
The Mains is more comprehensive, with an objective test (170 questions, 220 marks) and a descriptive test (50 marks), totaling 3.5 hours.
Objective Test
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 50 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 170 | 220 | 3 hours |
Descriptive Test
- Topics: Letter Writing & Essay (2 questions, 50 marks, 30 minutes).
- Mode: Computer-based (typed).
- Key Notes: Sectional cut-offs apply. Top 3 times vacancies shortlisted for Interview.
The final merit combines normalized Mains (75%) and Interview (25%) scores.
SBI PO Prelims Syllabus 2026: Section-Wise Topics
Focus on speed and basics for Prelims. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
English Language Syllabus
This section tests grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Key topics include:
- Reading Comprehension (including inference-based questions)
- Cloze Test
- Para Jumbles
- Spotting Errors/Multiple Meaning Words
- Fill in the Blanks
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms)
- Sentence Improvement/Completion
- Word Association/Pair Formation
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
Emphasizes arithmetic and data handling. Essential topics:
- Simplification/Approximation
- Number Series
- Quadratic Equations
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts)
- Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest
- Time & Work, Time & Distance
- Ratio & Proportion, Percentage
- Mensuration (Cylinder, Cone, Sphere)
- Mixtures & Alligations
- Permutation, Combination & Probability
Reasoning Ability Syllabus
Logical puzzles dominate this section. Must-know topics:
- Puzzles (Floor-based, Box-based)
- Seating Arrangement (Linear, Circular)
- Syllogism
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Alphanumeric Series
- Input-Output
- Inequalities (Coded)
- Data Sufficiency
- Ranking & Order
SBI PO Mains Syllabus 2026: Advanced Topics Breakdown
Mains dives deeper into analytical and awareness-based questions. Prepare for higher difficulty.
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude Syllabus
Combines logic with basic computing. Topics:
- Reasoning: Critical Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Course of Action, Analytical Decision Making, Scheduling, Double Lineup, Blood Relations, Directions, Ordering & Ranking, Data Sufficiency, Code Inequalities, Input-Output, Seating Arrangements & Puzzles, Syllogism.
- Computer Aptitude: Internet & Networking Basics, Keyboard Shortcuts, Microsoft Office, Computer Hardware/Software, Operating Systems, Number Systems, Memory, Computer Abbreviations, Logic Gates.
Data Analysis & Interpretation Syllabus
Advanced quant with case studies. Key areas:
- Data Interpretation (Caselet DI, Missing DI)
- Tabular Graph, Line Graph, Bar Graph, Pie Charts, Radar Graph
- Probability, Permutation & Combination
- Data Sufficiency
- Quantity Comparison
- Double Line Up
General/Economy/Banking Awareness Syllabus
Stay updated on current events (last 6 months). Topics:
- Current Affairs (National/International)
- Banking & Financial Awareness (RBI Policies, Schemes)
- Static GK (Economy, History, Geography)
- Principles of Insurance
- Government Schemes & Budget Highlights
English Language Syllabus (Mains)
Similar to Prelims but with more emphasis on writing skills:
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar (Error Spotting, Sentence Correction)
- Verbal Ability (Para Jumbles, Cloze Test)
- Vocabulary & Word Usage
- Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Improvement
Descriptive English Syllabus
- Essay Writing (200-250 words on socio-economic topics)
- Letter Writing (Formal/Informal)
- Precis Writing or Situation Analysis
Preparation Tips to Crack SBI PO 2026
- Create a Study Plan: Dedicate 6-8 hours daily, balancing all sections. Use the first 3 months for basics, next for mocks.
- Practice Mock Tests: Solve 2-3 full-length mocks weekly. Analyze errors to improve speed (aim for 80% accuracy).
- Focus on Weak Areas: If Quant is tough, start with NCERT basics. For Awareness, read newspapers like The Hindu and follow apps like Adda247.
- Revise Regularly: Make short notes for formulas, GK facts, and vocab. Revise weekly.
- Time Management: Practice sectional timing strictly. Use tools like Oliveboard for simulated exams.
- Resources: Books like RS Aggarwal (Quant), Arun Sharma (Reasoning), and Norman Lewis (English). Download free PDFs from official sites.
With consistent effort, cracking SBI PO 2026 is achievable. Stay motivated, track progress, and remember—success favors the prepared mind!
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