How difficult is the IBPS PO Exam, Check Here

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How difficult is the IBPS PO Exam

How difficult is the IBPS PO Exam: The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the IBPS PO Exam every year. Thousands of students sit for this examination annually, but only a few manage to succeed. Many candidates experience multiple failures before eventually passing. The IBPS PO exam, aimed at recruiting Probationary Officers (PO) across various banks nationwide, stands out as one of the most competitive exams in the banking sector. Exams like IBPS PO are challenging to crack, with the number of successful candidates significantly lower than those who fail. Each year witnesses a surge in the number of candidates, paralleled by an increase in the failure rate.

Understanding the IBPS PO Exam Challenges

The IBPS PO exam’s competitiveness often leaves many well-prepared candidates unable to qualify, despite their rigorous preparation and hard work. While many clear the written exam, they often falter during the interview round. Consequently, even those who pass the written examination based on merit fail to secure the final selection as Bank PO. Several factors contribute to candidates failing the IBPS PO examination. In this blog, we delve into some of these reasons, addressing the burning question on many minds: “Just how difficult is the IBPS PO exam?”

Reasons for failing in the Bank PO exam:

  • Now knowing the syllabus well: Many candidates make the mistake of starting their IBPS PO exam preparation without familiarizing themselves with the syllabus. This oversight leads them to cover unnecessary topics that hold little weight in the exam. To succeed, it Is crucial to identify which topics are less important and can be avoided while preparing.
  • Not knowing the previous year Exam papers and cut-offs: Candidates often overlook the importance of reviewing previous year exam papers and cut-offs. By solving past papers, candidates gain insight into the types of questions asked in the actual exam, giving them an advantage over those who skip this step. Understanding previous year cut-off trends also helps in making informed decisions during the exam.
  • Ignorance towards the competition: Some candidates underestimate the level of competition in bank exams, which can lead to failure. With thousands of aspirants vying for limited vacancies, success rates are low. It’s essential to recognize the high competition and strive to perform at your best to secure a position.
  • Attempting questions for the sake of increasing attempts: Attempting questions just to increase the number of attempts is a common mistake. Guessing answers without confidence can lead to negative marking, significantly reducing the chances of selection. It’s important to refrain from guessing unless entirely sure of the answer.
  • Not able to deal with exam anxiety: Many candidates struggle with exam anxiety, especially with the sectional timing in the IBPS PO exam. The pressure to solve all questions within a restricted timeframe can increase anxiety and lead to marking incorrect answers. To combat this, practicing mock tests extensively can help build confidence and alleviate exam hall anxiety.

How difficult is the IBPS PO exam?

The preliminary level of the IBPS PO exam is just qualifying in nature; that means you just need to clear the overall and the sectional cut-offs in order to appear for the mains. The overall cut-off depends on the number of candidates, number of seats, difficulty of the exam. The prelims exam is not that difficult to clear as practicing mock tests will make you familiar with the exam. With proper 4-5 month preparation, it is possible to clear the exam(If you already have basic knowledge of quant, English, and reasoning). The candidates have a mindset that if they want to qualify for the exam, they will be able to do this in 3-4 attempts. It is not true as many candidates qualify for the exam on their first attempt. Clearing the exam in the first attempt needs practice and constant effort.

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When we talk about the difficulty level of IBPS PO, then the exam and questions asked themselves are not tough. Basic questions are asked in the IBPS PO exam consisting of basic quant, English, and reasoning. The number of seats and the number of candidates make the exam Lil bit hard.

So overall the exam is not difficult to clear if you follow the proper strategy and avoid the mistakes mentioned above.

IBPS PO Exam Pattern:

Here is the IBPS PO Prelims exam pattern:

Sl. No.Name of TestsNo. of QuestionsMaximum MarksDuration
1English Language303020 minutes
2Numerical Ability353520 minutes
3Reasoning Ability353520 minutes
 Total10010060 minutes

Here is the IBPS PO Mains exam pattern:

Sl. No.Name of testNo. of QuestionsMax. MarksMedium of ExaminationTime Allotted
1Reasoning and Computer Aptitude4560English and Hindi60 minutes
2English Language3540English only40 minutes
3Data Analysis and Interpretation3560English and Hindi45 minutes
4General, Economy/Banking Awareness4040English and Hindi35 minutes
 Total155200 180 minutes
 English Language (Letter and Essay writing)225English30 minutes

IBPS PO Exam: General Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to clear the IBPS PO Exam.

  1. Make Time Table- Many students apply for any exam but then do not study systematically. For systematic study you need a proper time table. So first of all prepare a time table covering all the topics asked in the exam.
  2. Read good books: There are plenty of books available in the market, but reading all of them will be of no use. Refer to the standard books only. If you have notes from your coaching institute then refer to them for your preparation.
  3. Practice is the key: One thing that sets toppers apart is the habit of Practicing as much as they can. For this exam, Practice is the key, you have to practice a lot of questions before appearing in the actual exam.
  4. Mock Tests: Join a mock test series for better understanding of the actual exam level, test series can immensely help you in acing this exam.
  5. Previous Year Question Papers: Go through the previous year question papers, It will help you to get a better idea of the level of exam and the kind of questions asked.

This is all from our side in this blog. ALL THE BEST for your exam!



How difficult is the IBPS PO exam – FAQs

Q1. Is the IBPS PO Exam difficult?

Ans. The difficulty level of the IBPS PO Exam can vary from candidate to candidate based on their preparation and aptitude. While some may find it challenging, others may perceive it as manageable with thorough preparation.

Q2. What makes the IBPS PO Exam challenging?

Ans. The IBPS PO Exam covers a wide range of topics, including English language, quantitative aptitude, reasoning ability, and general awareness. The time constraint and the competitive nature of the exam add to its difficulty.

Q3. What are some strategies to tackle the difficulty of the IBPS PO Exam?

Ans. Some strategies to tackle the difficulty of the IBPS PO Exam include understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, practicing time management, focusing on weak areas, and seeking guidance from experienced mentors.

Q4. Are there any tips to make the IBPS PO Exam less difficult?

Ans. Yes, some tips to make the IBPS PO Exam less difficult include maintaining a consistent study schedule, staying updated with current affairs, improving speed and accuracy through regular practice, and staying calm and confident during the exam.

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