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IBPS PO Syllabus 2025: Complete Guide for Banking Aspirants

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Probationary Officer (PO) exam is one of the most sought-after banking examinations in India. With thousands of candidates vying for limited positions, understanding the comprehensive syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the IBPS PO Syllabus 2025.

Overview of IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025

The IBPS PO selection process consists of three stages:

Stage 1: Preliminary Examination

Duration: 1 hour
Total Questions: 100
Maximum Marks: 100
Sections: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability

Stage 2: Main Examination

Duration: 3 hours
Total Questions: 155
Maximum Marks: 200
Sections: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation

Stage 3: Interview

Maximum Marks: 100
Nature: Personal Interview

IBPS PO Preliminary Exam Syllabus 2025

English Language (30 Questions, 30 Marks)

Reading Comprehension

Passage-based questions testing comprehension skills
Vocabulary in context
Main idea identification
Inference-based questions
Tone and author's perspective

Grammar and Vocabulary

Error spotting in sentences
Sentence improvement and correction
Fill in the blanks with appropriate words
Synonyms and antonyms
Idioms and phrases
One-word substitution

Verbal Ability

Para jumbles (sentence rearrangement)
Cloze test (fill in the blanks in passages)
Sentence completion
Word usage and contextual meaning

Quantitative Aptitude (35 Questions, 35 Marks)

Number System

Properties of numbers
LCM and HCF
Prime and composite numbers
Divisibility rules
Decimal fractions and percentages

Arithmetic

Profit and loss calculations
Simple and compound interest
Ratio and proportion
Partnership problems
Time and work
Time, speed, and distance
Mixture and alligation
Percentage calculations

Algebra

Linear equations
Quadratic equations
Inequalities
Number series and sequences

Geometry and Mensuration

Area and perimeter of basic shapes
Volume and surface area
Coordinate geometry basics
Angles and triangles

Data Interpretation

Bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts
Tables and case studies
Data sufficiency questions

Reasoning Ability (35 Questions, 35 Marks)

Logical Reasoning

Coding and decoding
Blood relations
Direction sense and distance
Ranking and arrangement
Syllogisms
Statement and assumptions
Statement and conclusions
Cause and effect relationships

Analytical Reasoning

Seating arrangements (linear and circular)
Grouping and selection problems
Scheduling and calendar problems
Input-output questions
Floor-based puzzles

Verbal Reasoning

Analogies and classifications
Series completion (alphabetical and numerical)
Pattern recognition
Logical sequences

IBPS PO Main Exam Syllabus 2025

Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (45 Questions, 60 Marks)

Advanced Reasoning

Complex seating arrangements
Multi-level puzzles
Data sufficiency in reasoning
Advanced input-output questions
Inequality-based problems
Advanced coding-decoding

Computer Aptitude

Computer fundamentals and terminology
Operating systems (Windows, Linux basics)
Microsoft Office applications
Internet and networking concepts
Computer security and safety
Database management basics
Programming concepts (basic level)
Hardware and software components

General/Economy/Banking Awareness (40 Questions, 40 Marks)

Current Affairs

National and international news (last 6 months)
Important government schemes and policies
Awards and honors
Sports events and achievements
Books and authors
Important days and dates

Banking Awareness

History of banking in India
Types of banks and financial institutions
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) functions and policies
Monetary policy and fiscal policy
Banking regulations and guidelines
Payment systems and digital banking
Financial inclusion initiatives
Banking terms and abbreviations

Economic Awareness

Basic economic concepts
Union Budget highlights
GDP, inflation, and economic indicators
International economic organizations
Trade and commerce
Stock market basics
Insurance sector overview

Static General Knowledge

Indian geography, history, and culture
Indian Constitution basics
Government structure and governance
International organizations
Countries, capitals, and currencies

English Language (35 Questions, 40 Marks)

Advanced Reading Comprehension

Multiple passages with complex themes
Critical reasoning questions
Vocabulary in advanced context
Inference and implication questions

Advanced Grammar

Complex error detection
Sentence improvement with multiple options
Para completion
Word usage in different contexts

Writing Skills

Essay writing (descriptive)
Letter writing (formal and informal)
Precis writing
Report writing basics

Quantitative Aptitude (35 Questions, 60 Marks)

Advanced Arithmetic

Complex profit and loss scenarios
Advanced interest calculations
Partnership with multiple conditions
Advanced time and work problems
Boat and stream problems
Train-related problems

Advanced Data Interpretation

Multiple graph interpretation
Case studies with calculations
Missing data interpretation
Approximation-based questions
Comparison and analysis

Advanced Algebra and Geometry

Quadratic equations with conditions
Advanced inequalities
Coordinate geometry applications
Trigonometry basics
Advanced mensuration

Preparation Strategy for IBPS PO 2025

Time Management

Create a structured study plan allocating adequate time to each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Typically, candidates should spend 4-6 months preparing comprehensively.

Section-wise Preparation Tips

English Language

Read newspapers daily (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Practice vocabulary through apps and word lists
Solve previous year papers for comprehension practice
Focus on grammar rules and common error patterns

Quantitative Aptitude

Master basic mathematical concepts first
Practice mental calculation techniques
Solve data interpretation sets regularly
Time yourself while practicing to improve speed

Reasoning Ability

Start with basic puzzle types and gradually increase complexity
Practice seating arrangement questions daily
Focus on logical reasoning for conceptual clarity
Develop shortcut techniques for faster solving

General Awareness

Read current affairs from reliable sources
Make notes of important banking and economic developments
Follow RBI notifications and government policy updates
Practice mock tests regularly for retention

Mock Tests and Practice

Regular practice through mock tests is essential for success. Aim to take at least 2-3 mock tests per week, analyzing performance and identifying areas for improvement.

Important Books and Resources

Online Resources

Official IBPS website for notifications and updates
Online Mock Tests Mobile app for daily practice

Key Success Factors

Consistency and Discipline

Maintain a regular study schedule and stick to it. Consistency in preparation is more valuable than sporadic intense study sessions.

Regular Revision

Schedule weekly revision sessions to reinforce learned concepts and ensure long-term retention of important topics.

Stay Updated

Keep track of current affairs, especially banking and economic news, as these directly impact the General Awareness section.

Practice Under Exam Conditions

Simulate actual exam conditions while practicing to build stamina and improve time management skills.

Conclusion

The IBPS PO exam demands comprehensive preparation across multiple subjects. Success requires a balanced approach, focusing equally on conceptual understanding and practical application. With dedicated preparation following this detailed syllabus guide, candidates can significantly improve their chances of clearing all three stages of the IBPS PO selection process.

Remember that consistent effort, regular practice, and staying updated with current affairs are the keys to success in the IBPS PO 2025 examination. Start your preparation early, follow a structured approach, and maintain confidence throughout your journey.

Good luck with your IBPS PO 2025 preparation!