IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) Guide 2026
Overview
The IBPS PO exam is conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection for the recruitment of Probationary Officers in Public Sector Banks.
Exam Pattern
- Preliminary Exam: 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes (Sectional timing).
- Main Exam: 155 questions, 200 marks, 180 minutes + Descriptive Test.
- Interview: Conducted by participating banks and coordinated by IBPS.
Detailed Syllabus
- Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Input-Output.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Data Interpretation (DI), Arithmetic, Quadratic Equations.
- English Language: Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Fillers.
- General Awareness: Focus on Banking, Economy, and Financial Awareness.
Marking Scheme
- Negative Marking: 0.25 of marks assigned to that question.
Preparation Strategy
- DI Mastery: Practice complex Data Interpretation sets daily.
- Sectional Strategy: Since there is sectional timing, plan how to maximize scores in each 20-minute window.
- Banking News: Stay updated with RBI circulars and monthly financial news.