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IBPS PO Syllabus 2026 – Prelims & Mains

Complete detailed syllabus for IBPS PO 2026 exam. Get section-wise topics, important chapters, weightage analysis, and expert preparation tips for both Prelims and Mains.

5
Sections in Mains
200+
Total Topics
100
Marks in Prelims
225
Marks in Mains

IBPS PO Syllabus 2026: Complete Overview

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the Probationary Officer (PO) exam annually. The IBPS PO syllabus is divided into two phases: Prelims and Mains. Understanding the complete syllabus with proper explanations is crucial for effective preparation. Below is the comprehensive syllabus breakdown for both phases with detailed topic explanations.

📌 Key Highlights of IBPS PO Syllabus 2026
  • Prelims: 3 sections - Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language - 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes
  • Mains: 4 sections + Descriptive Test - Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General Awareness, English Language - 200 questions, 200 marks + 25 marks descriptive
  • Descriptive Test: Essay Writing (250 words) and Letter Writing (200 words) - 30 minutes
  • Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer in objective tests

IBPS PO Prelims Syllabus 2026 – Detailed Section-wise

The Prelims exam is the first stage and acts as a screening test. It consists of 100 questions for 100 marks to be solved in 60 minutes. Candidates need to qualify each section separately to move to Mains.

🧠 Reasoning Ability (35 Questions)

Weightage: 35 marks | Difficulty Level: Moderate to High | Time Required: 20-25 minutes

What is tested: This section tests logical thinking, analytical ability, and decision-making skills. Questions range from simple puzzles to complex arrangements. This is often considered the most time-consuming section.

1. Puzzles & Seating Arrangement

Explanation: These are the most important topics carrying 10-15 questions. Puzzles test your ability to arrange information logically and derive conclusions. Various types include circular, linear, rectangular, floor-based, and scheduling puzzles. Practice is key to master this topic.

Circular Arrangement Linear Arrangement Square/Rectangular Floor-based Puzzles Month/Year based Comparison Puzzles Blood Relation Puzzles Scheduling Puzzles

2. Inequality

Explanation: Tests ability to compare quantities using mathematical symbols. Includes direct inequalities (>, <, =, ≥, ≤) and coded inequalities where symbols are given different meanings. Usually 3-5 questions appear.

Direct Inequality Coded Inequality > , < , = , ≥ , ≤ Either-Or cases

3. Syllogism

Explanation: Tests logical deduction using statements and conclusions. Both traditional (All, Some, No) and new pattern (possibility-based, either-or) questions appear. Venn diagram method is commonly used to solve.

All/Some/No statements Possibility Cases Either-Or cases Reverse Syllogism Definite conclusions

4. Blood Relations

Explanation: Tests understanding of family relationships through coded or direct questions. Includes family tree puzzles where you need to map relationships and answer questions about connections between family members.

Direct Blood Relation Coded Blood Relation Family Tree Puzzles Relationships chain

5. Direction Sense

Explanation: Tests ability to track directions (North, South, East, West) and calculate distances between points. Includes shadow-based questions where direction of shadow changes based on sun position. Usually 2-3 questions.

Direction based Distance calculation Shadow problems Sun position based

6. Coding-Decoding

Explanation: Tests pattern recognition and code-breaking ability. Includes letter shifting (each letter replaced by another at fixed position), number coding, symbol coding, and operation-based coding. 3-5 questions.

Letter Coding Number Coding Symbol Coding Word to Word coding Operation based

7. Alphanumeric Series

Explanation: Tests pattern recognition in mixed series of letters, numbers, and symbols. Questions include finding missing elements, positions, and steps to complete the series. 3-5 questions.

Series Completion Position based Step based series Missing element

8. Ranking & Ordering

Explanation: Tests ability to arrange items or persons in order based on given conditions. Includes height order, weight order, marks order, etc. 2-3 questions.

Height order Weight order Marks order Comparison based

📊 Quantitative Aptitude (35 Questions)

Weightage: 35 marks | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Time Required: 20-25 minutes

What is tested: This section tests mathematical ability, calculation speed, and data interpretation skills. Focus on accuracy and speed. Shortcut tricks are very helpful here.

1. Data Interpretation (DI)

Explanation: Most important topic with 10-15 questions. Tests ability to analyze data from various charts and tables and perform calculations. Different types include bar graph, line graph, pie chart, tabular DI, missing DI, and caselet DI. Practice all types thoroughly.

Bar Graph Line Graph Pie Chart Tabular DI Missing DI Caselet DI Radar Graph Mixed Graphs

2. Number Series

Explanation: Tests pattern recognition in number sequences. Includes missing number series (find the next number) and wrong number series (find the incorrect term). Various patterns like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square, cube, etc. 5 questions.

Missing Number Series Wrong Number Series Pattern based Arithmetic progression Geometric progression

3. Simplification & Approximation

Explanation: Tests basic calculation speed using BODMAS rules. Usually 5-10 questions that can be solved quickly with practice. Approximation questions involve rounding numbers to nearest values for quick calculation.

BODMAS Approximation Missing Numbers Square roots & Cube roots Fraction simplification

4. Quadratic Equations

Explanation: Tests ability to solve and compare quadratic equations. Usually 5 questions comparing two equations (I and II) and determining relationship between x and y (x>y, x

Comparison of roots Equation solving x > y cases x < y cases No relation cases

5. Arithmetic Problems

Explanation: Tests application of mathematical concepts to real-life scenarios. Wide variety of topics with 10-15 questions. Each topic has its own formulas and shortcuts. Practice each topic separately.

Percentage Profit & Loss SI & CI Time & Work Speed & Distance Average Ratio & Proportion Mixture & Alligation Probability Permutation & Combination Boat & Stream Train Problems Age Problems Partnership

📝 English Language (30 Questions)

Weightage: 30 marks | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Time Required: 15-20 minutes

What is tested: This section tests grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and verbal ability. Focus on understanding context and grammar rules. Regular reading helps improve this section.

1. Reading Comprehension

Explanation: Tests ability to understand passages and answer questions. Usually 1-2 passages with 7-10 questions. Questions include facts from passage, inferences, vocabulary in context, main idea, and tone of the passage. Topics can be economic, social, banking, or general interest.

Factual passages Inferential questions Vocabulary based Theme identification Tone of passage Main idea questions

2. Cloze Test

Explanation: Tests ability to fill blanks in a passage using appropriate words. Tests grammar and contextual understanding with 5-6 questions. Words are given in options, choose the most suitable word that fits both grammatically and contextually.

Word selection Grammar based Context based Vocabulary based

3. Error Spotting

Explanation: Tests grammar rules by identifying errors in sentences. Includes subject-verb agreement, tenses, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, modifiers, etc. Usually 5-6 questions where you need to find the part with grammatical error.

Subject-Verb Agreement Tenses Prepositions Articles Conjunctions Modifiers Parallelism Pronoun reference

4. Para Jumbles

Explanation: Tests ability to rearrange jumbled sentences into a coherent paragraph. 5 questions on logical flow and connectors. Look for opening sentence, closing sentence, and connecting words (however, therefore, firstly, etc.) to arrange properly.

Sentence rearrangement Connectors Paragraph completion Logical flow

5. Fill in the Blanks

Explanation: Tests vocabulary and grammar by filling single or double blanks in sentences. 5 questions on word choice. Choose the word that fits both grammatically and contextually. Sometimes both blanks need to be filled with appropriate words.

Single blank Double blanks Phrasal verbs Idioms

6. Vocabulary

Explanation: Tests word knowledge through synonyms, antonyms, idioms, phrases, and one-word substitution. 3-5 questions. Regular reading and vocabulary building are essential.

Synonyms Antonyms Idioms & Phrases One word substitution Word usage

7. Sentence Improvement

Explanation: Tests ability to improve given sentences by replacing underlined parts with better alternatives. Focus on grammar, conciseness, and clarity. 3-5 questions.

Phrase replacement Sentence correction Grammar improvement

IBPS PO Mains Syllabus 2026 – Detailed Section-wise

The Mains exam consists of 200 objective questions for 200 marks and a descriptive test of 25 marks. Total time is 3 hours 30 minutes. Mains is more complex and requires in-depth preparation.

🧠 Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (45 Questions)

Weightage: 60 marks | Difficulty Level: High | Time Required: 45-50 minutes

What is tested: This section combines logical reasoning with basic computer knowledge. It includes all Prelims reasoning topics plus advanced puzzles and computer aptitude questions.

Advanced Reasoning Topics

Explanation: Mains reasoning includes complex puzzles, input-output, data sufficiency, and logical reasoning with higher difficulty. Questions are more analytical and time-consuming.

Input-Output (Machine Coding) Data Sufficiency Logical Reasoning Critical Reasoning Course of Action Statement & Assumptions Statement & Arguments Statement & Conclusions Cause & Effect Analogy

Computer Aptitude

Explanation: Tests basic computer knowledge including hardware, software, networking, and cybersecurity. 15-20 questions. Focus on computer fundamentals, MS Office shortcuts, internet concepts, and security threats.

Computer Fundamentals Input/Output Devices Memory & Storage MS Office (Word, Excel, PPT) Internet & Networking Database Concepts Cybersecurity & Viruses Shortcut Keys Operating Systems HTML & Web Technologies

📊 Data Analysis & Interpretation (35 Questions)

Weightage: 60 marks | Difficulty Level: High | Time Required: 40-45 minutes

What is tested: This section focuses on complex data interpretation and advanced arithmetic. Questions involve multiple graphs combined, missing data, and probability-based DI.

Advanced Data Interpretation

Explanation: Mains DI includes multiple graphs combined, missing data, caselets, and probability-based DI. Questions require deeper analysis and more calculations.

Missing DI Caselet DI Radar Graph Mixed Graphs (Bar + Line) Probability based DI Data Sufficiency based DI Comparison DI Network DI

Advanced Arithmetic

Explanation: Includes all Prelims arithmetic topics but with higher difficulty and more complex problem statements.

Time & Work (alternate days) Pipes & Cisterns Probability (advanced) Permutation & Combination Mensuration Algebra Number System

🌐 General Awareness (40 Questions)

Weightage: 40 marks | Difficulty Level: Moderate | Time Required: 15-20 minutes

What is tested: This section tests current affairs and banking knowledge of the last 6-8 months. Regular reading of newspapers and monthly magazines is essential.

Banking Awareness

Explanation: Tests knowledge of banking industry, RBI policies, financial terms, government schemes, and banking history. This is the most important part of GA section.

RBI & Monetary Policy Banking Terms (NPA, CRR, SLR, Repo Rate) Financial Institutions (NABARD, SIDBI, SEBI) Government Schemes (PMJDY, PMMY, etc.) Budget & Economic Survey Banking History & Acts International Financial Organizations

Current Affairs

Explanation: Tests knowledge of last 6-8 months news including national, international, sports, awards, appointments, and important days. Focus on banking and economic news.

National News International News Sports Events & Winners Awards & Honors Appointments & Resignations Summits & Conferences Important Days & Themes Science & Technology News

Static GK

Explanation: Tests permanent general knowledge that doesn't change frequently. Includes countries, capitals, currencies, books, authors, etc.

Countries & Capitals Countries & Currencies Indian States & Capitals National Parks & Sanctuaries Books & Authors Important Dates Indian Constitution

📝 English Language (35 Questions)

Weightage: 40 marks | Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

What is tested: Mains English includes all Prelims topics plus advanced grammar and vocabulary questions with higher complexity.

Advanced English Topics

Explanation: Mains English includes all Prelims topics plus additional advanced question types. Questions are longer and require deeper understanding.

Reading Comprehension (longer passages) Cloze Test (complex passages) Error Spotting (advanced grammar) Para Jumbles (6-8 sentences) Fillers (double fillers) Phrase Replacement Word Usage (context based) Sentence Connectors Paragraph Completion Word Association

✍️ Descriptive Paper (25 Marks)

Duration: 30 minutes | Mode: Online typing in English or Hindi | Word limit: 250 words for essay, 200 words for letter

What is tested: This section tests written communication skills, ability to articulate thoughts, and knowledge of formal writing formats.

Essay Writing (12-13 Marks) - 250 words

Explanation: Tests ability to articulate thoughts on given topics coherently. Topics include current affairs, social issues, banking, economy, education, and technology. Structure should include introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Banking & Economy Social Issues (Women Empowerment, Poverty) Education & Health Technology & Digital India Environment & Climate Change Government Schemes

Letter Writing (12-13 Marks) - 200 words

Explanation: Tests formal and informal letter writing skills. Formal letters include writing to bank manager, editor, government officials. Informal letters include writing to friends and family. Focus on proper format, tone, and clarity.

Formal Letters (Bank related) Formal Letters (Editor) Formal Letters (Government) Informal Letters Complaint Letters Application Letters

Topic-wise Weightage Analysis (Based on Previous Years)

Understanding the weightage helps prioritize your preparation. Based on analysis of last 5 years papers:

📊 Prelims Weightage

Section Topic Expected Questions Importance
Reasoning Puzzles & Seating Arrangement 10-15 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Syllogism & Inequality 5-7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Blood Relation, Direction, Coding 5-8 ⭐⭐⭐
Alphanumeric Series, Ranking 3-5 ⭐⭐
Quant Aptitude Data Interpretation 10-15 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Number Series & Simplification 10-12 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arithmetic Problems 10-15 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
English Reading Comprehension 7-10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cloze Test & Error Spotting 10-12 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Para Jumbles & Vocabulary 8-10 ⭐⭐⭐

📊 Mains Weightage

Section Topic Expected Questions Importance
Reasoning Advanced Puzzles, Input-Output, Critical Reasoning 25-30 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Computer Aptitude Fundamentals, MS Office, Networking, Security 15-20 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Data Analysis Advanced DI, Missing DI, Caselets 20-25 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
General Awareness Banking, Current Affairs, Static GK 35-40 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
English Advanced RC, Grammar, Vocabulary 30-35 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Expert Preparation Tips & Strategy

🎯 Phase 1: Prelims Strategy

Focus on speed and accuracy. Practice puzzles daily. Master simplification tricks. Read English newspapers regularly. Take sectional tests after completing each topic.

📚 Phase 2: Mains Strategy

Deep dive into advanced topics. Cover current affairs of last 6-8 months thoroughly. Practice descriptive writing weekly. Solve full-length mocks and analyze mistakes.

⏰ Time Management

Allocate time based on strengths. Attempt easy questions first. Leave difficult ones for later. Practice with timer daily. In mocks, aim to attempt 85-90% questions with accuracy.

📌 6-Month Study Plan
  • Month 1-2: Cover basic syllabus thoroughly. Understand concepts, practice topic-wise questions. Focus on building strong foundation.
  • Month 3: Practice topic-wise questions in depth. Identify weak areas and work on them. Learn shortcuts and tricks.
  • Month 4: Take sectional tests regularly. Analyze mistakes and improve. Start reading newspapers for GA.
  • Month 5: Take full-length mocks (at least 3 per week). Work on speed and accuracy. Revise all topics.
  • Last Month: Focus on revision, current affairs, and mock tests. Practice descriptive writing. Work on exam strategy.

📖 Best Books for Preparation

Quant: Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal, Fast Track Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma

Reasoning: A Modern Approach to Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

English: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi, Word Power Made Easy

GA: Monthly Current Affairs magazines, Banking Awareness by Arihant

🎯 Daily Preparation Routine

Morning (2 hrs): Quant practice + shortcuts

Afternoon (2 hrs): Reasoning puzzles + tricks

Evening (1.5 hrs): English + Vocabulary

Night (1 hr): Current Affairs + Revision

Weekly: 2 full mocks + analysis

Frequently Asked Questions about IBPS PO Syllabus

Q1: Is the syllabus same for IBPS PO and other banking exams?
Most public sector bank exams (IBPS Clerk, SBI PO, SBI Clerk) have similar syllabus. However, SBI PO has a slightly different pattern with more focus on data analysis and less on computer knowledge in mains. IBPS PO syllabus is the standard benchmark.
Q2: How many months are needed to complete the IBPS PO syllabus?
With dedicated study of 5-6 hours daily, you can complete the entire syllabus in 4-5 months. Another 1-2 months should be dedicated to revision, mock tests, and current affairs. Total preparation time: 6-7 months is ideal.
Q3: Which section is most scoring in IBPS PO?
English can be high scoring if your grammar and vocabulary are strong. Reasoning requires practice but can be mastered. Quant needs accuracy to avoid negative marking. GA is scoring if you regularly read current affairs. Overall, all sections are equally important.
Q4: Is NCERT enough for Quant preparation?
NCERT is good for building basics, especially for topics like number system, algebra, and geometry. However, for IBPS PO level, you need advanced practice books like R.S. Aggarwal and online resources for shortcuts and tricks specifically designed for competitive exams.
Q5: How to prepare for General Awareness section effectively?
Read newspapers daily (The Hindu or Economic Times) for at least 30 minutes. Follow monthly current affairs compilations from reliable sources. Make notes of important news, appointments, schemes, and awards. Revise notes weekly. Focus on banking and economic news specifically.
Q6: What is the best way to prepare for puzzles in Reasoning?
Start with simple puzzles and gradually increase difficulty. Practice at least 5-10 puzzles daily. Learn to draw diagrams quickly. Categorize puzzles (circular, linear, floor-based, etc.) and practice each type separately. Analyze solutions when stuck.
Q7: How important is the Descriptive Paper?
Descriptive Paper is qualifying in nature but marks are added to final score. With 25 marks, it can make a difference in final ranking. Practice writing essays and letters weekly. Focus on structure, clarity, and time management.

📚 Related IBPS PO Topics