Read the official pattern, take one diagnostic mock to see where you stand, then spend the first three weeks on calculation speed and the easiest scoring topics in each section before moving to puzzles and DI.
Start with the exam, not with books. Spend the first day understanding what you are preparing for, then build from the topics that give the quickest marks.
Day 1: understand the exam
- Prelims: 100 questions, 60 minutes, three sections of 20 minutes each (English 30, Numerical Ability 35, Reasoning 35).
- Mains: 190 questions, 200 marks, 2 hours 40 minutes (GA 50, English 40, Quant 50, Reasoning and Computer 50 questions for 60 marks).
- Negative marking: one quarter of the question's marks for each wrong answer.
- Only the Mains aggregate decides the merit list. You also need proficiency in the local language of the state you apply for.
Day 2: take one mock without preparing
It will feel bad. That is fine. The point is to see which section is weakest and how fast you currently are. Note your score per section and do not take another full mock for about four weeks.
Weeks 1-3: the base
| Section | Start with | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Quant | Tables to 20, squares to 30, cubes to 20, simplification, approximation | Speed for every other topic |
| Reasoning | Inequality, syllogism, direction, blood relations | Rule-based, quick to learn |
| English | Basic grammar rules, error detection, single fillers | Most common question types |
Weeks 4-8: the big blocks
Move to arithmetic word problems, seating and puzzles, DI, RC and para jumbles. These carry most of the marks but need the base first.
Collect material once
Choose one Quant source, one Reasoning source and one English grammar source, plus a practice platform with timed tests and solutions. Do not spend the first two weeks comparing books. Download the latest SBI notification and keep it handy; it is the official reference for pattern, eligibility and the selection process.
Rules can change with each notification. Confirm on sbi.bank.in/web/careers.
More preparation questions
- Can I crack SBI Clerk in 3 months?Yes, three months is enough for many first-time candidates who study 5-6 hours a day, build Prelims speed in …→
- Can I crack SBI Clerk Prelims in 2 months?Possible if you already know basic maths and English and can give 6-7 hours a day. Cover only high-weight top…→
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- What is the best daily timetable for SBI Clerk preparation?Put Quant and Reasoning in your sharpest hours, keep English and GA for later in the day, and end with 30 min…→