The two phases of the IBPS PO exam – Prelims and Mains and both have significant variations in pattern and level of difficulty. To prepare wisely, it is critical to understand the major aspects. The Prelims is a screening test, whereas the Mains is tougher and decides selection. A good strategy for both is needed to crack the IBPS PO exam in the first attempt. 

Why are IBPS PO Prelims and Mains different?

• Prelims act as a filtering stage as a number of applicants apply for the IBPS PO exam, and only a limited number can proceed to mains. A strong prelims performance sets the stage for success in mains and interviews, ultimately leading to a coveted banking job.
• The Mains exam is designed to assess in-depth knowledge, ensuring that only well-performed applicants proceed to the interview stage.
• The inclusion of General-Awareness and descriptive writing in the mains is to test candidates' knowledge of banking - awareness and communication skills, which is required for a role as PO’s.

Key Differences between Prelims and Mains of IBPS PO

For an easy victory in the IBPS PO exam, it is necessary to know the key differences between Prelims & Mains. While both are crucial, they are different in terms of structure, difficulty level, marking scheme, and evaluation criteria. Here’s how they are distinct:

1.  Exam pattern comparison – Prelims vs. Mains

2. Subject-wise comparison– Prelims vs. Mains

3. Number of questions, Marks, and Time allotted in prelims:

4. Number of questions, Marks and Time allotted in Mains:

5. Time Allocation – Prelims vs. Mains

6. Marking Scheme & Difficulty level– Prelims vs. Mains

7. Key Differences – Prelims vs. Mains

8. Total Weightage difference– Prelims vs. Mains

9. Focus Area– Prelims vs. Mains

10. Purpose & selection– Prelims vs. Mains

Final verdict

IBPS PO Prelims is a speed-based exam designed to eliminate weaker candidates before the mains exam. The primary focus is on accuracy and quick calculations, as candidates must solve 100 questions in just 60 minutes.

IBPS PO Mains is more challenging, testing candidates on analytical and conceptual skills, with higher-level quantitative and reasoning questions, banking awareness, and a descriptive test to evaluate writing skills. Candidates must have a focus on accuracy, conceptual clarity, and overall exam strategy.

Conclusion

Although meticulous preparation is necessary for both the IBPS PO prelims and mains, the prelims place whereas mains depend on deep knowledge and analytical skills. While cracking the prelims is only the first stage, performing well in the mains is crucial for securing the job. To increase the chances of being chosen in the IBPS PO, applicants should develop a smart strategy by balancing speed and accuracy in prelims and in-depth subject knowledge for mains.

FAQ’s

Q1. What is the main difference between IBPS PO 

mains and IBPS PO prelims exam?

Ans. IBPS PO Prelims exams are a qualifying stage that screens candidates for the mains exam. Its marks are not considered for final selection, whereas the IBPS PO mains exam is the decisive stage which determines final selection along with the interview.

Q2. Are the IBPS PO exam patterns the same for both Prelims and Mains?

Ans. No, the exam pattern is not the same for IBPS PO prelims and mains, as mains has an additional general awareness section and a descriptive test.

Q3. Are both the IBPS PO exams conducted online?

Ans. Yes, both the IBPS PO prelims & mains are conducted via online mode.

Q4. How many sections are there in IBPS PO Prelims?

Ans. IBPS PO Prelims includes three sections:

1. English Language 

2. Quantitative Aptitude 

3. Reasoning Ability  

Q5. How many different sections are there in IBPS PO Mains?

Ans. IBPS PO Mains consists of five Sections:

1. Reasoning & computer Aptitude 

2. English Language 

3. Quantitative Aptitude 

4. General awareness 

5. Descriptive test  

Q6. Is there a sectional timing in IBPS PO prelims & mains?

Ans. Yes, both the IBPS PO prelims and mains have fixed times for each section. 

Q7. Is there a Descriptive test included in the IBPS PO Prelims?

Ans. No, the descriptive test is only for IBPS PO mains.

Q8. What is the duration of the IBPS PO prelims exam?

Ans. The Duration of IBPS PO prelims exam is 60 minutes (1 hour)

Q9. What is the weightage of IBPS PO Mains in the final selection?

Ans. The weightage of the IBPS PO mains exam in the final selection is 80%, while the interview carries a 20% weightage.

Q10. What happens if I crack IBPS PO prelims but fail in mains?

Ans. You will not proceed for the interview round.

Also check

• 8 important subjects to focus on for bank exams
• The importance of mock tests in bank exam preparation
• IBPS PO Interview required documents
• IBPS PO Interview top expected questions