The IBPS PO Exam requires a strong understanding of both the syllabus and the exam pattern. Many candidates believe they know the IBPS PO syllabus well but the real question is how deeply they understand each topic and its importance in the exam. The IBPS PO exam is conducted in three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. While Prelims is qualifying in nature and Mains take the crucial role in final selection.
IBPS PO Syllabus 2026
The IBPS PO Exam is one of the most competitive banking exams in India and here we provides a clear and simplified understanding of the IBPS PO Syllabus and Exam Pattern. It helps candidates understand the complete exam structure, including key sections such as Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, and Computer Aptitude, along with the marking scheme and stage-wise selection process.
IBPS PO Prelims Syllabus 2026
The Prelims exam evaluates candidates on three fundamental sections designed for accuracy and speed.
| Reasoning Ability | Quantitative Aptitude | English Language |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Arrangements | Simplification & Approximation | Cloze Test |
| Puzzles | Number Series | Sentence Correction |
| Inequalities | Inequality | Para Jumbles |
| Syllogism | Data Interpretation (DI) | Fill in the Blanks |
| Input-Output | Data Sufficiency (DS) | Reading Comprehension |
| Data Sufficiency | Profit & Loss | Spotting Errors |
| Blood Relations | Simple & Compound Interest | Sentence Improvement |
| Coding-Decoding | Probability | Para / Sentence Completion |
| Order and Ranking | Permutation & Combination | Sentence Rearrangement |
| Alpha / Numeric / Symbol Series | Age-Based Problems | Column-Based Spelling Errors |
| Distance and Direction | Speed, Time & Distance | Word Swap |
| Miscellaneous | Train-Based Problems | Word Rearrangement |
| Time and Work | Sentence-Based Errors | |
| Mixture and Alligation | ||
| Ratio & Proportion |
Puzzle Subtopics
1. Seating Arrangements
- Linear Seating
- Uncertain Linear
- Circular Seating
- Geometric Seating
2. Floor & Flat Puzzles
- Standard Floor Puzzles
- Floor + Flat Puzzles
3. Time & Scheduling Puzzles
- Month & Date Puzzles
- Year & Age Puzzles
- Day-Based Puzzles
4. Category & Order Puzzles
- Box / Stack Puzzles
- Designation Puzzles
- Tabular / Classification
IBPS PO Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
Preliminary Examination
SCREENING ROUND
→ Each section has a separate time limit of 20 minutes you cannot switch between sections early
→ Candidates must clear both sectional and overall cut-off marks to qualify for Mains
→ Prelims marks are not carried forward to the final merit list
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
What Does the IBPS PO Exam Test?
The Prelims acts as a speed and accuracy screening round covering English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning. The Mains provides a deeper assessment including Data Interpretation, Descriptive English, General and Banking Awareness, and emerging digital trends in the banking sector. Both sectional and overall cut-offs apply at every stage.
IBPS PO Prelims Topic-wise Previous Year Weightage
The previous year topic-wise weightage helps candidates understand which topics are asked most frequently in the IBPS PO exam. Below is the section-wise topic weightage for the IBPS PO Prelims and Mains exam, along with the commonly asked themes in the Descriptive paper.
Reasoning Ability
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Seating Arrangement | 8–10 |
| Variable Puzzle | 10–14 |
| Box Based Puzzle | 5 |
| Month/Year Based Puzzle | 5 |
| Floor/Flat Puzzle | 0–5 |
| Syllogism | 0–3 |
| Inequality | 0–4 |
| Direction & Distance | 0–3 |
| Blood Relation | 0–3 |
| Pair Formation | 0–1 |
Quantitative Aptitude
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Arithmetic | 9–13 |
| Data Interpretation | 12–15 |
| Approximation | 0–5 |
| Number Series | 0–6 |
| Quadratic Equation | 0–5 |
| Caselet DI | 0–5 |
| Table DI | 5–6 |
English Language
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Reading Comprehension | 8–10 |
| Error Detection | 4–5 |
| Para Jumble | 5–6 |
| Fillers | 3–4 |
| Word Swap | 0–3 |
| Word Usage | 3 |
| Phrase Replacement | 0–3 |
| Misspelled Words | 0–5 |
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus 2026
Candidates who clear the Prelims cut-off qualify for the Mains exam. The Mains provides a deeper, more comprehensive assessment across four objective sections plus a separate descriptive paper. The syllabus is significantly broader and tests both speed and conceptual depth.
Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Puzzles | Floor-Based Puzzle, Box Puzzle, Scheduling Puzzle, Day/Month/Year Puzzle, Comparison Puzzle, Designation Puzzle, Variable-Based Puzzle, Mixed Puzzle |
| Seating Arrangement | Linear Arrangement, Double Row Arrangement, Circular Arrangement, Square Arrangement, Rectangular Arrangement, Triangular Arrangement, Parallel Row Arrangement |
| Logical Reasoning | Statement & Assumption, Statement & Conclusion, Statement & Inference, Cause & Effect, Course of Action, Strong & Weak Arguments, Critical Reasoning |
| Machine Input-Output | Word-Based Input-Output, Number-Based Input-Output, Mixed Input-Output, Pattern-Based Shifting Logic |
| Data Sufficiency | Two-Statement Data Sufficiency, Three-Statement Data Sufficiency, Quantity Sufficiency |
| Syllogism | Direct Syllogism, Reverse Syllogism, Possibility Cases, Only a Few, Coded Syllogism |
| Inequality | Direct Inequality, Coded Inequality, Mathematical Inequality |
| Coding-Decoding | Chinese Coding, Sentence Coding, Substitution Coding, Symbol Coding, New Pattern Coding |
| Blood Relations | Family Tree, Coded Blood Relations, Generation-Based Problems |
| Direction & Distance | Direction Sense, Distance Calculation, Shortest Distance, Coded Direction Problems |
| Order & Ranking | Ranking Test, Position-Based Questions, Comparison-Based Ranking |
| Alphanumeric Series | Letter Series, Number Series, Mixed Series, Missing and Wrong Term Series |
| Coded Logic | Coded Blood Relations, Coded Directions, Coded Inequalities, Coded Syllogism |
| Miscellaneous Reasoning | Alphabet Test, Word Formation, Logical Sequence, Statement-Based Problems |
| Computer Syllabus | |
| Computer Fundamentals | Computer Generations, Hardware, Software, Input & Output Devices, CPU, Memory Units |
| Operating Systems | Windows, Linux, Android, File Management, System Software |
| Memory & Storage | RAM, ROM, Cache Memory, Primary & Secondary Storage Devices |
| MS Office | MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Shortcuts, Functions and Features |
| Internet & Networking | LAN, WAN, MAN, Internet Protocols, TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, IP Address |
| Database Management | DBMS Basics, Database Concepts, SQL Fundamentals |
| Cyber Security | Viruses, Worms, Trojans, Malware, Firewalls, Encryption, Decryption |
| Computer Abbreviations | Common Computer Terms and Acronyms |
| Logic Gates & Number System | Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal Conversion, AND, OR, NOT Gates |
| Banking Technology | Core Banking System (CBS), ATM, NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, UPI, Digital Banking |
Data Analysis & Interpretation Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Table DI, Line Graph DI, Bar Graph DI, Pie Chart DI, Mixed Graph DI, Caselet DI, Missing DI |
| Arithmetic Data Interpretation | Percentage-Based DI, Ratio-Based DI, Profit & Loss DI, Time & Work DI, Speed, Distance & Time DI, Simple & Compound Interest DI |
| Data Sufficiency | Two-Statement Problems, Three-Statement Problems, Quantity-Based Sufficiency Questions |
| Caselet DI | Paragraph-Based Data Interpretation, Variable-Based Caselets |
| Missing Data Interpretation | Missing Values in Tables, Graphs, and Charts |
| Tabular Data Interpretation | Single Table DI, Multiple Table DI |
| Line Graph Interpretation | Growth Trends, Comparative Analysis, Percentage Change |
| Bar Graph Interpretation | Vertical and Horizontal Bar Graphs, Comparative Data Analysis |
| Pie Chart Interpretation | Sector Comparison, Percentage Distribution Questions |
| Radar & Mixed Graphs | Combination of Pie Charts, Tables, Line Graphs, and Bar Graphs |
| Probability | Basic Probability, Conditional Probability, Event-Based Questions |
| Permutation & Combination | Arrangements, Selections, Fundamental Counting Principle |
| Quantity Comparison | Quantity I vs Quantity II Questions |
| Quadratic Equations | Root Comparison, Value Comparison |
| Number Series | Missing Number Series, Wrong Number Series, Pattern-Based Series |
| Data Analysis | Data Comparison, Trend Analysis, Data Evaluation, Business and Financial Data Interpretation |
English Language Syllabus
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Reading Comprehension (RC) | Inference-Based Questions, Vocabulary-Based Questions, Tone of the Author, Main Idea, Statement-Based Questions, Phrase Replacement, Paragraph-Based Questions |
| Cloze Test | Traditional Cloze Test, New Pattern Cloze Test, Context-Based Fillers |
| Para Jumbles | Sentence Rearrangement, Paragraph Arrangement, Odd Sentence Out |
| Error Detection | Grammar Errors, Subject-Verb Agreement, Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Conjunctions |
| Sentence Improvement | Grammar Improvement, Contextual Improvement, Sentence Correction |
| Word Swap | Single Word Swap, Multiple Word Swap, Context-Based Word Exchange |
| Fillers | Single Fillers, Double Fillers, Triple Fillers, Contextual Fillers |
| Sentence Connectors | Linking Sentences, Connector-Based Questions, Logical Flow |
| Phrase Replacement | Grammatical Replacement, Contextual Replacement |
| Para Completion | Completing Incomplete Paragraphs, Context-Based Completion |
| Match the Column | Sentence Matching, Phrase Matching, Connector-Based Matching |
| Idioms & Phrases | Meaning-Based Questions, Usage-Based Questions |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, One-Word Substitution, Word Usage, Contextual Vocabulary |
| Sentence Starters | Identifying Suitable Sentence Beginnings |
| Inference & Critical Reasoning | Assumption-Based Questions, Conclusion-Based Questions, Logical Inference |
| Miscellaneous New Pattern Questions | Statement Combination, Sentence Formation, Meaningful Order, Contextual Grammar Questions |
General / Economy / Banking / Digital / Financial Awareness Syllabus
| Subject | Topics & Subtopics |
| Financial Awareness | Banking Basics: History of Banking, Types of Banks, Functions of Banks, Banking Terms, Financial Inclusion, Core Banking System (CBS) |
| RBI & Monetary Policy: RBI Functions, Repo Rate, Reverse Repo Rate, Bank Rate, CRR, SLR, Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), RBI Circulars | |
| Financial Institutions: NABARD, SIDBI, EXIM Bank, NHB, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA | |
| Digital Banking: UPI, NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, BHIM, Mobile Banking, Internet Banking, Digital Wallets, Cyber Security | |
| Financial Markets: Money Market, Capital Market, Stock Exchange, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Debentures, IPO, FPO | |
| Government Schemes: PMJDY, PMMY, PMSBY, PMJJBY, APY, Startup India, Stand-Up India | |
| Current Affairs | National Affairs: Government Policies, Cabinet Decisions, Important Bills, Economic Developments, Appointments, Resignations |
| International Affairs: International Summits, Agreements, Global Events, International Organizations | |
| Banking & Economy: RBI Updates, Banking Mergers, Economic Survey, Union Budget, Inflation, GDP Reports | |
| Sports: Major Tournaments, Winners, Sports Awards, Rankings, Important Events | |
| Science & Technology: Space Missions, AI Developments, New Technologies, Scientific Discoveries | |
| Environment: Climate Summits, Environmental Reports, Conservation Initiatives, Renewable Energy | |
| General Knowledge | History: Ancient India, Medieval India, Modern India, Freedom Struggle |
| Geography: Rivers, Dams, Mountains, Plateaus, National Parks, States and Capitals | |
| Polity: Constitution, Parliament, Judiciary, Fundamental Rights, Elections | |
| Economy: National Income, Inflation, Fiscal Policy, Economic Reforms, Budget Basics | |
| Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Human Body, Everyday Science | |
| International Organizations: UN, IMF, World Bank, WTO, ADB, BRICS, G20 | |
| Static Awareness | Important Days: National Days, International Days, Themes and Observances |
| Countries & Currencies: Capitals, Currencies, Neighboring Countries, Important Facts | |
| Organizations: Headquarters, Founding Years, CEOs, Chairpersons | |
| Books & Authors: Famous Books, Authors, Recent Publications | |
| Awards & Honors: National Awards, International Awards, Sports Awards, Literary Awards | |
| Important Places: UNESCO Sites, Historical Monuments, Religious Places, Tourist Destinations | |
| Dams & Rivers: Major Rivers, Tributaries, Multipurpose Projects, Hydroelectric Projects | |
| National Parks: Tiger Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves | |
| Committees & Reports: Banking Committees, Government Committees, Important Reports | |
| Headquarters: Banks, Regulatory Bodies, International Organizations, Financial Institutions |
IBPS PO Mains Descriptive Paper Syllabus 2026
| Topic | Subtopics |
| Essay Writing | Banking Topics, Economic Issues, Financial Inclusion, Digital Banking, Current Affairs, Social Issues, Government Schemes, Technology, Education, Environment, Women Empowerment, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security |
| Reading Comprehension (Descriptive-Based) | Passage Understanding, Summary Writing, Opinion-Based Questions, Analytical Interpretation |
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern 2026
Main Examination
COUNTS FOR MERIT
→ Each objective section has its own time limit — switching between sections is not allowed
→ Candidates must pass each section individually to qualify
→ Descriptive paper is conducted on the same day after the objective test
→ Typing skills and computer familiarity are important for the descriptive section
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 50 minutes |
| General / Economy / Banking / Digital / Financial Awareness | 35 | 50 | 25 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 50 | 45 minutes |
| Objective Total | 145 | 200 | 160 minutes |
| Descriptive- Essay & Comprehension (English) | 02 | 25 | 30 minutes |
IBPS PO Interview 2026
The IBPS PO Interview is the final stage of the recruitment process, conducted after candidates successfully clear the Mains exam.
Personal Interview
STAGE 3
→ Only candidates who qualify both Mains and the Interview are provisionally allotted to a participating bank
→ Final merit list prepared from combined score: Mains (80%) + Interview (20%)
→ Bank allotment based on merit rank and candidate’s stated bank preferences
What is Asked?
- Personal Questions: Tell me about yourself, strengths, hobbies, why banking
- Banking Awareness: RBI, rates (Repo/CRR/SLR), banking terms
- Current Affairs: Budget, schemes, recent news
- Education: Graduation-related questions
- Situational Questions: Customer handling, teamwork, decision making
Does the IBPS PO Syllabus Change Every Year?
The IBPS PO syllabus usually remains consistent year to year. However, the difficulty level and question types may vary each exam. While core topics remain stable, expect varying complexity in puzzles, DI sets, and reading comprehension passages. Practising previous year papers from 2020–2025 is strongly recommended.
IBPS PO Marking Scheme 2026
The marking scheme helps candidates decide which questions to answer and as part of their exam-day strategy which key sections to skip and when.
IBPS PO Mains Topic-wise Weightage
The IBPS PO Mains exam includes questions from Reasoning, Data Analysis and Interpretation, English Language, and a Descriptive Paper. By analyzing previous year trends, candidates can understand which topics are asked more frequently and plan their preparation accordingly.
Data Analysis & Interpretation
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Probability DI | 6 |
| Pie Chart DI | 4 |
| Data Sufficiency (3 Statements) | 3–4 |
| Line Graph & Tabular DI | 5 |
| Bar Graph DI | 5 |
| Line DI | 5 |
Reasoning Ability
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Machine Input-Output | 5 |
| Puzzle | 4 |
| Uncertain Row Arrangement | 4 |
| Data Sufficiency | 4 |
| Coded Direction & Distance | 3 |
| Logical/Critical Reasoning | 4–5 |
| Circular Seating Arrangement | 4 |
English Language
| Topic | Questions Asked |
| Reading Comprehension | 15 |
| Cloze Test | 5 |
| Para Jumble | 5 |
| Paragraph-Based Questions | 4 |
| Connectors | 4 |
| Fillers | 3 |
Descriptive Paper
| Essay Writing | |
| Common Essay Topics | Questions Asked |
| Technology & Innovation | 1 |
| Environment & Sustainability | 1 |
| Gig Economy / Work Culture | 1 |
| Fashion & Sustainable Development | 1 |
| Agriculture & Climate Change | 1 |
| Renewable Resources | 1 |
| Letter Writing | |
| Public Issues (Noise Pollution, Park Reconstruction) | 1 |
| Formal Letters to Editor | 1 |
| Renewable Resources | 1 |
| OTT Platforms / Social Awareness | 1 |
Note: In IBPS PO Mains Descriptive Paper, candidates are generally required to write 1 essay and 1 letter, the topics of which change every year but are generally drawn from banking, economy, technology, environment and current social issues.
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