The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) exam is a highly competitive exam in India that attracts thousands of applicants yearly. The IBPS exam is conducted to recruit candidates in various public sector banks across India. The exam is considered one of the country’s toughest exams, but is it really as hard as they say? Let’s debunk some of the prevalent myths surrounding the IBPS exam and provide significant tips and strategies to help prepare for success.
What is the IBPS exam?
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts a nationwide examination known as the IBPS exam, which aims to recruit candidates for positions in various public sector banks in India. The exam is segmented into two phases: the preliminary and main exams. The preliminary exam is a qualifying exam, and applicants who clear the preliminary exam are eligible to appear for the main exam. The main exam is followed by an interview round, after which the final selection is made.
The IBPS exam comprises five sections: Reasoning Ability, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge. Each part has a specific number of questions and a specific time limit. The exam’s total duration is 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Different Types of IBPS Exams
IBPS PO (Probationary Officer): This IBPS PO exam is conducted to recruit candidates for the probationary officer post in public sector banks. The job responsibilities of a probationary officer include managing customer accounts, handling cash transactions, and resolving customer queries. The selection process for IBPS PO includes a preliminary exam, mains exam, and interview.
IBPS Clerk: This exam is conducted to recruit candidates for the clerk position in public sector banks. The job responsibilities of a clerk include handling customer accounts, issuing cash receipts, and maintaining records. The selection process for IBPS Clerk includes a preliminary exam, mains exam, and interview.
IBPS SO (Specialist Officer): This IBPS SO is conducted to recruit candidates for specialist officer positions in public sector banks, such as IT Officer, Marketing Officer, HR Officer, and more. The job responsibilities of a specialist officer depend on their field of specialisation. The selection process for IBPS SO includes a preliminary exam, mains exam, and interview.
IBPS RRB (Regional Rural Bank): This IBPS RRB exam is conducted to recruit candidates for various regional rural bank positions. The job responsibilities in regional rural banks include providing banking services to customers in rural areas. The selection process for IBPS RRB includes a preliminary exam, mains exam, and interview.
Is IBPS exam hard to clear? Why is the IBPS exam considered difficult?
The IBPS exam is known as the toughest exam in India due to the high level of competition and the vast syllabus that candidates must cover. The competition for the IBPS exam is intense, with lakhs of candidates applying for a few thousand vacancies. Additionally, the syllabus for the exam is vast, and candidates need to cover a wide range of topics in each section.
The negative marking system is another reason why the IBPS exam is considered difficult. For a wrong answer, 0.25 marks are deducted from the total score. This means that candidates need to be careful while attempting the questions and only attempt those they are sure of.
Common myths about the IBPS exam
Several myths surrounding the IBPS exam make it seem daunting and unattainable. Let’s examine the most common myths regarding IBPS Exam:
Myth 1: Only candidates with a strong background in mathematics can excel in the IBPS exam.
This is the most prevalent misconception/myth about the IBPS exam. While it is true that the Quantitative Aptitude section of the exam tests candidates’ mathematical skills, it does not mean that only candidates with a strong background in mathematics can excel in the exam. With the right preparation and practice, candidates from any background can excel in the Quantitative Aptitude section.
Myth 2: The English Language section of the IBPS exam is easy and requires little preparation.
This is another common myth about the IBPS exam. The exam’s English Language section is just as important as the other sections, and candidates must thoroughly prepare for it. The section tests candidates’ proficiency in English, including their grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
Myth 3: The General Awareness section of the IBPS exam is too vast, and candidates cannot prepare for it.
This is a common misconception among candidates, but it is not true. While the General Awareness section of the IBPS exam covers a wide range of topics, applicants can prepare for it by staying up-to-date with current affairs, reading newspapers and magazines, and watching news channels.
Tips for preparing for the IBPS exam
Preparing for the IBPS exam requires a systematic approach and hard work. Here are some important tips to aid you prepare for the exam:
Tip 1: Acquaint with the exam pattern and syllabus
The first step to preparing for the IBPS exam is familiarising the exam pattern and syllabus. To enhance their preparation, candidates should ensure they are well-informed about the exam’s sections, including the total number of questions in each section and the allotted time for completing them.
Tip 2: Create a study plan and stick to it
Applicants should create a study plan that covers all the exam sections and allocate enough time for each section.
When formulating a study plan, it is crucial to ensure that it is both realistic and attainable. It is advisable to adhere to the plan consistently in order to increase the likelihood of success.
Tip 3: Practise the previous year’s question papers and mock tests
Practise as much as possible; Practice is key to cracking the IBPS exam. Practising previous year’s question papers and mock tests is essential to IBPS exam preparation. It helps candidates get accustomed to the exam pattern and time management. To improve their chances, candidates should practice frequently and take advantage of as many mock tests as possible.
Tip 4: Focus on weak areas
Applicants should identify their weak areas and focus on improving them. They can seek help from mentors, teachers, or coaching institutes to improve their weak areas.
Tip 5: Stay updated with current affairs
The General Awareness section of the IBPS exam tests candidates’ knowledge of current affairs. Candidates should stay updated with the latest news and events.
Tip 6: Stay motivated
Staying motivated throughout the preparation is crucial to cracking the IBPS exam. Candidates should set achievable goals, reward themselves for their achievements, and stay positive.
How to stay motivated during IBPS exam preparation
Staying motivated during IBPS exam preparation can be a challenge. Here are some tips to aid you in staying motivated:
Tip 1: Set achievable goals
Establishing attainable objectives can assist in maintaining your motivation. Break down your preparation into smaller goals and reward yourself when you achieve them.
Tip 2: Stay positive
Staying positive is crucial to staying motivated. Visualise yourself cracking the exam and focus on your strengths.
Tip 3: Take breaks
Taking breaks is important to avoid burnout. Take short breaks between study sessions and engage in activities that you enjoy.
Study materials and resources for IBPS exam preparation
There are several study materials and resources available for IBPS exam preparation. Here are some of the best resources:
Books
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
Banking Awareness by Arihant Publications
Computer Awareness by Arihant Publications
Online resources
Online coaching platforms
YouTube channels
Strategies for time management during the exam
Time management is crucial during the IBPS exam, as each section has a specific time limit. Here are some strategies for time management during the exam:
Strategy 1: Prioritise easy questions
Candidates should prioritise easy questions and attempt them first. This will help them save time and gain confidence.
Strategy 2: Avoid spending too much time on a single question
Candidates should avoid spending too much time on a single question. If they find it difficult to solve a question within a minute, it is advisable to move on to the next question.
Strategy 3: Use rough sheets effectively
Candidates should use rough sheets effectively to solve calculations and jot down important points. They should avoid wasting time erasing and rewriting.
Cracking the IBPS exam requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and effective strategies due to its highly competitive nature. It is important to maintain focus, stay motivated, and have confidence in your abilities. By following an effective strategy, you can excel in the IBPS exam and achieve your aspirations of securing a coveted job in the banking sector. Finprov gives you the best training for your journey of cracking the IBPS exam. You can access online and offline coaching sessions with daily and consolidated mock test series. At Finprov, aspiring individuals can receive guidance from experienced faculty members to prepare for top bank exams like SBI, IBPS, LIC, and cooperative bank exams.
