Preparing for the IBPS PO 2026 exam is a challenging journey that requires strategy, dedication, and smart planning. Many aspirants, despite putting in hours of study, fail to achieve their desired results. Why? Often, it’s not lack of effort but common mistakes that derail their preparation. In this blog, we highlight the top 5 mistakes students make while preparing for IBPS PO and share tips to avoid them, helping you stay on the path to success.

1. Ignoring the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
2. Poor Time Management
3. Overlooking Mock Tests and Analysis
4. Neglecting Current Affairs and Banking Awareness
5. Lack of Consistency and Discipline
6. FAQs

Mistake: Many students start preparing without thoroughly understanding the IBPS PO Prelims and Mains pattern, including sectional marks, number of questions, and time limits. This leads to misaligned preparation and wasted effort.

Solution:

• Analyze the Prelims & Mains syllabus carefully.
• Understand the weightage of sections:
• • Prelims: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability
  • Mains: Reasoning, Data Analysis & Interpretation, English, GA/Banking Awareness, Descriptive Writing
• Focus on topics with higher marks and frequent questions.

Tip: Prepare a section-wise study plan to cover every topic effectively.

Mistake: Students often spend too much time on topics they enjoy or are strong in, neglecting weaker areas. This leads to incomplete syllabus coverage and low speed during exams.

Solution:

• Allocate time proportionally to each section based on difficulty and weightage.
• Use timed practice sessions to improve speed and accuracy.
• Create a daily and weekly timetable balancing all sections.

Tip: For Prelims, aim for 20 minutes per section; for Mains, divide time according to marks and complexity.

Mistake: Many aspirants either skip mock tests or do not analyze their mistakes, thinking practice alone is enough. This results in repeating errors in the actual exam.

Solution:

• Take full-length mock tests regularly under exam conditions.
• Analyze results: identify weak areas, time-consuming questions, and common mistakes.
• Adjust your preparation strategy based on mock test feedback.

Tip: Mock tests help improve accuracy, speed, and confidence, making them essential for both Prelims and Mains.

Mistake: Many aspirants focus only on Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning, ignoring current affairs, banking, and financial awareness, which are crucial for IBPS PO Mains.

Solution:

• Read newspapers, RBI circulars, and monthly banking magazines.
• Prepare short notes on important schemes, economic terms, and banking policies.
• Revise current affairs daily or weekly to retain information.

Tip: Allocate at least 30–45 minutes daily for GA and banking awareness preparation.

Mistake: Irregular study habits, frequent breaks, and distractions lead to loss of momentum and incomplete preparation.

Solution:

• Stick to a fixed daily routine.
• Set achievable daily and weekly goals.
• Avoid procrastination and minimize distractions.
• Take short breaks but maintain focus during study sessions.

Tip: Consistency is key—small daily efforts yield better results than last-minute cramming.

Avoiding these top 5 mistakes can drastically improve your IBPS PO 2026 preparation. Focus on understanding the syllabus, managing time efficiently, practicing mock tests, keeping up with current affairs, and maintaining consistent study habits. With the right approach, you can maximize your chances of success in both Prelims and Mains.

Q1: How many hours should I study daily for IBPS PO?
A: Ideally, 4–6 hours of focused study is sufficient, including mock tests and revision.

Q2: Are mock tests really necessary for Prelims and Mains?
A: Yes, they help improve speed, accuracy, and time management, which are critical for success.

Q3: How can I improve my GA and banking awareness quickly?
A: Follow daily news updates, RBI circulars, and monthly banking magazines, and make short notes for revision.

Q4: Can I skip weaker sections if I’m strong in others?
A: No, neglecting any section can cost valuable marks. Use AI tools or coaching support to improve weak areas.