The bank exam syllabus is the first and most important thing every banking aspirant should understand before starting preparation. Whether you are preparing for SBI, IBPS, or other banking exams, knowing the syllabus helps you plan your study time, choose the right books, and focus only on exam-relevant topics.

This blog explains the bank exam syllabus in simple language, so even beginners can easily understand what to study and how to start.

Why Understanding the Bank Exam Syllabus Is Important

Many students start preparing without checking the syllabus properly. This often leads to confusion and wasted effort. When you clearly know the bank exam syllabus, you can:

• Study only important topics
  
  

• Avoid unnecessary subjects
  
  

• Manage time better
  
  

• Improve accuracy and confidence
  
  

A clear syllabus keeps your preparation focused and goal-oriented.

Common Structure of Bank Exams

Most bank exams follow a three-stage pattern:

1. Preliminary Examination
   
   

2. Main Examination
   
   

3. Interview (for PO-level exams)
   
   

The syllabus is almost similar across exams, with slight differences in difficulty level.

Bank Exam Prelims Syllabus

The Prelims exam tests basic aptitude and speed. It usually includes three sections:

1. English Language

• Reading Comprehension
  
  

• Cloze Test
  
  

• Fill in the Blanks
  
  

• Error Spotting
  
  

• Sentence Improvement
  
  

• Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
  
  

2. Quantitative Aptitude

• Number Series
  
  

• Simplification & Approximation
  
  

• Percentage
  
  

• Profit & Loss
  
  

• Simple & Compound Interest
  
  

• Time & Work
  
  

• Time, Speed & Distance
  
  

• Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs)
  
  

3. Reasoning Ability

• Seating Arrangement
  
  

• Puzzles
  
  

• Inequality
  
  

• Syllogism
  
  

• Coding-Decoding
  
  

• Blood Relations
  
  

• Direction Sense
  
  

Prelims is usually qualifying in nature.

Bank Exam Mains Syllabus

The Mains exam is more detailed and slightly tougher. It checks conceptual clarity and awareness.

1. Reasoning & Computer Aptitude

• Advanced Puzzles
  
  

• Logical Reasoning
  
  

• Input-Output
  
  

• Data Sufficiency
  
  

• Computer Basics (Hardware, Software, Internet)
  
  

2. Data Analysis & Interpretation

• Caselet DI
  
  

• Tabular DI
  
  

• Line & Bar Graphs
  
  

• Probability
  
  

• Permutation & Combination
  
  

• Average, Ratio, Percentage
  
  

3. English Language

• Reading Comprehension (long passages)
  
  

• Descriptive Writing (Essay & Letter)
  
  

• Para Jumbles
  
  

• Vocabulary-based questions
  
  

4. General / Banking Awareness

• Current Affairs
  
  

• Banking & Financial Awareness
  
  

• Static GK (important days, capitals, currencies)
  
  

• Government schemes related to banking
  
  

Interview Syllabus (PO Exams)

There is no fixed syllabus for interviews, but questions are generally asked from:

• Banking awareness
  
  

• Current affairs
  
  

• Educational background
  
  

• Basic questions about banking sector
  
  

• Situational and opinion-based questions
  
  

How to Prepare Using the Bank Exam Syllabus

To use the syllabus effectively:

• Divide the syllabus into daily and weekly targets
  
  

• Start with basics, then move to practice
  
  

• Revise regularly
  
  

• Practice mock tests based on the latest pattern
  
  

• Focus more on weak areas
  
  

Following the bank exam syllabus strictly saves time and improves performance.

Final Words

A clear understanding of the bank exam syllabus makes preparation easier and more structured. Instead of studying randomly, always align your preparation with the syllabus and exam pattern. With consistent practice and smart planning, cracking bank exams becomes much more achievable.