The SBI Clerk syllabus for 2026 aims to assess candidates’ proficiency in various banking-related subjects. The syllabus is structured across two main phases: the Preliminary Examination and the Main Examination. Understanding the SBI Clerk syllabus is crucial for effective preparation and for devising a strategic study plan. While specific details for the 2026 syllabus are aligned with previous years, candidates should always refer to the official notification for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2026
The SBI Clerk exam pattern comprises two stages, each with a distinct structure and marking scheme.
| Stage | Sections | Total Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes | |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes | |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes | |
| Main | General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 minutes |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 minutes | |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 minutes | |
| Total | 190 | 200 | 2 Hours 40 Minutes |
Note: There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in both Preliminary and Main Examinations. The Mains exam also includes sectional timings for each subject.
SBI Clerk 2026 Notification Out 6589 Vacancy, Eligibility, Syllabus, and Online Application Details
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Subject-wise Breakdown
1. Preliminary Examination Syllabus:
- English Language: This section tests a candidate’s comprehension and command over the English language. Key topics include Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Spotting Errors, Para Jumbles, Sentence Improvement, Fill in the Blanks, and Sentence Completion.
- Numerical Ability: This section assesses mathematical aptitude. Important topics include Simplification & Approximation, Number Series, Data Interpretation (Bar Graph, Line Chart, Tabular, Pie Chart, Caselet), Quadratic Equations, Time & Work, Speed, Time & Distance, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Percentages, and Averages.
- Reasoning Ability: This section evaluates logical and analytical thinking. Topics include Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Direction Sense, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Order & Ranking, Coding-Decoding, Inequalities, and Alpha-Numeric Series.
2. Main Examination Syllabus:
- General/Financial Awareness: This section covers current affairs, general knowledge, and banking and financial awareness. Topics include Current Events (National & International), Banking Awareness (RBI, monetary policy, financial inclusion), Economy, Government Schemes, Awards & Honours, Sports, Books & Authors, and Appointments.
- General English: Similar to the Prelims, this section includes Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Para Jumbles, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Structure, Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms), and Sentence Improvement.
- Quantitative Aptitude: This section is an extension of the Numerical Ability from the Prelims, with a greater emphasis on data interpretation and complex problem-solving. Topics include Simplification & Approximation, Number Series, Data Interpretation (various types), Quadratic Equations, Time & Work, Speed, Time & Distance, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Partnerships, Mixtures & Allegations, Ratio & Proportion, Percentages, Averages, Mensuration, and Probability.
- Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude: This section combines logical reasoning with basic computer knowledge. Reasoning topics include Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Direction Sense, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Inequalities, Coding-Decoding, Machine Input-Output, Data Sufficiency, and Logical Reasoning. Computer Aptitude covers basic computer hardware and software, internet, networking, and common computer abbreviations.
Recommended Books for SBI Clerk Preparation
To effectively prepare for the SBI Clerk exam, candidates can refer to the following highly recommended books, available on Amazon:
- For Quantitative Aptitude: “Magical Book on Quicker Maths” by M. Tyra and “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal.
- For Reasoning Ability: “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal and “Analytical Reasoning” by M.K. Pandey.
- For English Language: “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi and “High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren & Martin.
- For General/Financial Awareness: “Banking Awareness” by Arihant Experts and “Manorama Year Book” for current affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q1: What are the main sections in the SBI Clerk Preliminary exam?
A1: The Preliminary exam consists of English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. - Q2: How many sections are there in the SBI Clerk Main exam?
A2: The Main exam has four sections: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. - Q3: Is there negative marking in the SBI Clerk exam?
A3: Yes, there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in both Preliminary and Main Examinations. - Q4: Which topics are most important for the Quantitative Aptitude section?
A4: Key topics include Data Interpretation, Simplification & Approximation, Number Series, Quadratic Equations, and Arithmetic Problems. - Q5: What is the duration of the SBI Clerk Main examination?
A5: The Main examination is conducted for 2 hours and 40 minutes. - Q6: Does the SBI Clerk syllabus include Computer Aptitude?
A6: Yes, Computer Aptitude is a part of the Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude section in the Main Examination. - Q7: How should I prepare for the General/Financial Awareness section?
A7: Focus on current affairs from the last 6-8 months, banking terms, and economic news. Reading newspapers and banking magazines is highly beneficial. - Q8: Are the topics in the SBI Clerk syllabus the same every year?
A8: While the core subjects remain consistent, it is advisable to check the official notification for any updates to the syllabus and exam pattern for the specific year. - Q9: What is the role of the Language Proficiency Test (LPT)?
A9: The LPT is conducted for candidates who haven’t studied the local language in their 10th or 12th standard. It tests proficiency in the local language of the state for which they have applied. - Q10: Can I use a calculator during the SBI Clerk exam?
A10: No, calculators are not permitted in the SBI Clerk examination. Candidates must perform calculations manually.
SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2024
The SBI Clerk selection process consists of two stages:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Examination
Preliminary Examination Pattern
The preliminary exam is an objective test conducted online.
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 1 hour |
- Key Points:
- Each correct answer awards one mark.
- A negative marking of 0.25 marks applies for each incorrect answer.
Main Examination Pattern
Candidates who qualify for the preliminary exam are eligible for the main exam.
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 minutes |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| Total | 190 | 200 | 2 hours 40 minutes |
- Key Points:
- No sectional cut-off applies.
- Marks obtained in the main examination are considered for the final merit list.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2024
Preliminary Examination Syllabus
English Language
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Error Detection
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Para Jumbles
Numerical Ability
- Simplification/Approximation
- Number Series
- Data Interpretation
- Quadratic Equations
- Profit and Loss
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Time and Work
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Percentage
Reasoning Ability
- Puzzles and Seating Arrangement
- Syllogism
- Blood Relations
- Inequalities
- Direction Sense
- Coding-Decoding
- Alphanumeric Series
Main Examination Syllabus
General/Financial Awareness
- Current Affairs (National & International)
- Banking Awareness
- Financial Terms and Abbreviations
- Static GK (Countries, Capitals, Currencies)
General English
- Advanced Reading Comprehension
- Vocabulary (Antonyms, Synonyms)
- Grammar-Based Questions
- Sentence Rearrangement
Quantitative Aptitude
- Advanced Data Interpretation
- Probability
- Permutation and Combination
- Mensuration
Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude
- Logical Reasoning
- Machine Input-Output
- Statement and Conclusion
- Internet and Networking Basics
- MS Office Suite
Preparation Tips for SBI Clerk Exam 2024
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the weightage of each section.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Prioritize topics where you need improvement.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
- Stay Updated: Follow daily current affairs for the General Awareness section.
- Time Management: Practice completing sections within the allocated time.
Important Links
SBI Clerk Notifcation 2024 14191 posts state wise vacancy