What is a Good Attempt in IBPS PO Prelims?

A “good attempt” means answering a high number of questions with accuracy, not just speed, depending on the paper’s difficulty and your accuracy. To increase your chances of clearing the IBPS PO Prelims cut-off, focus on maintaining high accuracy instead of trying to solve questions too quickly. Aim for a balanced approach across all three sections, Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language, to maximize your score and improve your selection chances.

What is a Good Attempt in IBPS PO Prelims?

What is a Good Attempt in IBPS PO Prelims? This is one of the most common questions among aspirants preparing for the exam. A good attempt typically ranges between 50 to 60+ questions out of 100, depending on the difficulty level of the paper, your accuracy, and the expected cutoff. Attempting more questions isn’t always the best strategy; accuracy, time management, and section-wise balance play a crucial role. Use mock tests to improve your strategy. With smart planning and consistent practice, you can increase your chances of qualifying for the Mains.

Section-Wise IBPS PO Good Attempt Analysis

The good attempt range varies for each section based on complexity and time allocation. Here’s a general idea for a moderately difficult paper:

English Language: 22–25 questions with around 90% accuracy, focusing on reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.

Quantitative Aptitude: 18-22 questions, prioritising arithmetic, data interpretation, and number series with minimal calculation errors.

Reasoning Ability: 23-26 questions, selecting puzzles, seating arrangements, and logical reasoning problems that can be solved quickly.

Overall, aiming for 64-72 questions with high accuracy is often considered a safe range for a good attempt, though this varies depending on the year’s exam trends.

Factors That Determine a Good Attempt in IBPS PO Prelims

Several elements influence what counts as a good attempt in a given year. These include:

• Difficulty Level of the Exam: Tougher papers generally lower the number of questions for a good attempt.
• Sectional Cut-offs: Each section has a minimum qualifying score you must achieve.
• Overall Cut-off Trends: Past years’ cut-offs can help estimate a safe attempt range.
• Accuracy Rate: High accuracy ensures your score isn’t reduced by negative marking.
• Time Management: Efficient time allocation between sections directly affects your number of attempts.

IBPS PO Preparation Tips and Strategy

Here step-by-step guide that explains the IBPS PO 2025 Prelims exam pattern, how to make a good attempt in each section, and tips to improve your accuracy.

Understand the Exam Pattern

The IBPS PO Prelims consists of three sections:

• English Language – 30 questions
• Quantitative Aptitude – 35 questions
• Reasoning Ability – 35 questions,
• Total: 100 questions in 60 minutes

Analyze Previous Year Trends

• Good attempts usually above 60+ questions
• Cutoffs vary each year based on difficulty and competition
• High accuracy is more important than attempting the maximum questions

Prioritise Accuracy Over Speed

• Avoid solving questions too quickly just to increase your attempt count.
• Focus on solving with confidence and minimising negative marking.

Use Mock Tests for Strategy

• Practice full-length mocks regularly
• Analyse your performance and identify weak areas
• Adjust your attempt strategy based on mock test results