The IBPS Clerk Exam is conducted in two stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Qualifying in nature)
2. Main Examination (Merit-deciding stage)

The syllabus broadly includes:

• Reasoning Ability
• Quantitative Aptitude
• English Language
• General / Financial Awareness
• Computer Aptitude

Aspirants must aim for high accuracy with optimal speed, as even minor mistakes can significantly impact the final merit.

The IBPS Clerk recruitment process does not include an interview. Final selection is based solely on Mains examination marks, subject to clearing the Prelims cutoff.

The Prelims exam evaluates a candidate’s basic aptitude and speed.

📌 Each section has a separate timing. There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.

IBPS Clerk Mains Exam Pattern (Latest)

The Mains exam is more analytical and concept-driven, with sectional time limits.

Reasoning Ability Syllabus

This section tests logical thinking and analytical skills.

• Seating Arrangement (Linear & Circular)
• Puzzles
• Inequalities
• Syllogism
• Coding–Decoding
• Input–Output
• Data Sufficiency
• Blood Relations
• Order & Ranking
• Alphanumeric Series
• Distance & Direction
• Verbal Reasoning

English Language Syllabus

Focuses on grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension ability.

• Reading Comprehension
• Cloze Test
• Spotting Errors
• Sentence Improvement & Correction
• Para Jumbles
• Fill in the Blanks
• Sentence / Para Completion

Numerical Ability Syllabus

Evaluates calculation speed and numerical accuracy.

• Simplification & Approximation
• Number Series
• Data Interpretation
• Quadratic Equations
• Data Sufficiency
• Mensuration
• Average
• Profit & Loss
• Ratio & Proportion
• Time & Work
• Time, Speed & Distance
• Probability
• Simple & Compound Interest

Reasoning Ability (Advanced Level)

• Complex Puzzles & Seating Arrangements
• Machine Input–Output
• Coded Inequalities
• Data Sufficiency
• Statement & Assumption
• Assertion & Reasoning
• Decision Making
• Passage-Based Reasoning

English Language (Mains)

• Advanced Reading Comprehension
• Vocabulary & Word Formation
• Idioms & Phrases
• Active / Passive Voice
• Synonyms & Antonyms
• Error Detection (Advanced)
• Passage Completion

Quantitative Aptitude (Mains)

• High-Level Data Interpretation
• Caselet DI
• Arithmetic Word Problems
• Probability
• Permutation & Combination
• Advanced Mensuration

General / Financial Awareness

• Current Affairs (Last 6 Months)
• Banking & Financial Awareness
• RBI Circulars
• Union Budget & Economic Updates
• Government Schemes
• Appointments, Awards & Important Days
• National & International Events

Computer Aptitude

• Basics of Hardware & Software
• Operating Systems
• Internet & Networking
• MS Word, Excel & PowerPoint
• Computer Security & Viruses
• Database Basics

Both Prelims and Mains follow a negative marking policy:

• ❌ 0.25 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
• ✔ Unattempted questions carry no reminder

👉 Accuracy is as important as attempting a good number of questions.

IBPS Clerk Tie-Breaking Rule

If two candidates score the same marks:

1. Preference is given to the older candidate
2. Further criteria may include alphabetical order or section-wise performance

IBPS Clerk Exam Language Medium

The IBPS Clerk Exam is conducted in English, Hindi, and regional languages, depending on the state applied for. Candidates must be proficient in the local language of the state for final selection.

Tips to Prepare for IBPS Clerk 2026

• Thoroughly understand the latest syllabus and exam pattern
• Build strong fundamentals before attempting mocks
• Solve previous year question papers regularly
• Take sectional and full-length mock tests
• Revise General Awareness daily
• Focus on accuracy-first approach
• Maintain consistency with a weekly and monthly study plan

Final Note

The IBPS Clerk Syllabus 2026 is your roadmap to success. Covering the syllabus strategically, practicing consistently, and revising smartly will significantly improve your chances of clearing both Prelims and Mains in one attempt.

🎯 Preparation with clarity + discipline = Selection with confidence.