Bank Exam Preparation

The bank PO exams are almost similar for all banks. These consist of two tests:
1.    Objective test
2.    Descriptive test
Objective test:
The objective test consists of four sections:
Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness and English language.
Sometimes there is one more section on Computer awareness.
Total number of questions in the objective test would be 200-300 and time to attempt would be 2-3 hrs. Normally there is negative marking (1/4) for every question.
Note: Sometimes candidates are required to pass in each section.
Descriptive test:
Not all bank PO exams have descriptive test. If it’s there, candidates would be required to write essay type answers in ~60 mins. The test is only to qualify and the marks obtained are not added to final selection or ranking.
Few tips:
·         Take 2-4 mins to go through the paper and analyze the paper. This would help you to prepare the strategy.
·         There is sectional cut off. So, do not stick to one section for a long time.
·         When you are sure that you have cleared cut off, go to your stronger section to grab more marks.
·         Identify which section is your strength. Try to score maximum in this section.
·         Do not try to attempt all the questions. You would be pretty safe if you answer 80% questions with an 80-90% accuracy.
·         Attempt only those questions you are most likely sure of. You cannot be always 100% sure, so better take a few chances even if you are 75% sure.
What’s the definition of 100% and 75% surety? See there are 4 options (a, b, c, d) to choose from and you have figured out that a & b couldn’t be correct answer. In this case, take your chance to tick either c or d.
·         For the English section, try building up your vocabulary and comprehension skills by reading the editorial section in newspapers. Make notes of all the new words you encounter, along with their meanings and possible usage in a sentence.
·         Do not try group questions (example, comprehension) in the start and in the end.
The reason is that during the beginning of examination, invigilator comes to you for some formalities and it may disturb you. During the end of examination, you would not be able to efficiently utilize your time. Example, let’s assume that a group question needs 6 mins to understand and 2 mins to solve 4 questions. If you are left with less than 8 mins, you will miss easy question and if you are left with more than 8 mins, you would waste some time.
Better attempt those questions in the beginning and end which does not need much thinking like GK questions.
·         Try to be sure when you tick an answer because you do not have to revise.
·         Prepare well before the examinations. Try solving atleast 10 previous year bank PO papers. Out of these, 2-3 papers should be of the same bank that you are going to appear for. The more you solve, the better it is.
·         When you try previous/sample papers, build your strategy. Different strategies work for different people.
·         Do not panic and loose heart if you do not know answers to some questions because other candidates would also feel the same problem.