The IBPS PO Mains 2025 exam is the second stage that you will have to cross to become a Probationary Officer. For final selection, it is very important to clear this stage. Preparing for this exam, along with the Prelims, is also very important. Because after giving the Prelims exam, you will have very little time to prepare the full syllabus of the Mains. That’s why you need the right strategy, full focus, and the right time investment to prepare for this exam. In this blog, we will guide you on how to study smartly and effectively for the Mains exam.
Take a Good Look At IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern
Before you start your preparation, it’s important to understand how the exam is designed. Knowing the pattern helps you plan your time and efforts in the right way. It also gives you a clear idea of what to expect in the real exam.
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern:
- Objective Test (200 marks, 3 hours):
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: 45 questions (60 marks)
- English Language: 35 questions (40 marks)
- Data Analysis & Interpretation: 35 questions (60 marks)
- General/Economy/Banking Awareness: 40 questions (40 marks)
- Descriptive Test (25 marks, 30 minutes):
- Letter Writing: 10 marks
- Essay Writing: 15 marks
Note: There is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the Objective Test.
Also read IBPS PO Prelims Preparation Strategy 2025
Month-Wise Preparation Strategy
You cannot prepare for the Mains exam in just a few days. You need to divide your time month by month to cover the full syllabus and still leave time for revision. A smart monthly strategy helps you stay focused and on track.
Build Your Foundation First
This is the time to build your base in all subjects. Learn the basics first so that you can understand advanced topics more easily later.
- Focus on concept clarity in all sections.
- Start reading newspapers or current affairs capsules daily.
- Practice beginner-level questions to build confidence.
Do Advanced Practice
Now it’s time to go one level up in your preparation. Use this month to work on speed, accuracy, and real exam practice.
- Start solving medium to hard-level questions.
- Attempt full-length mock tests every week.
- Focus on time management and accuracy.
Time for Final Revision
This is your last full month to revise everything. Use it wisely to go over your weak areas and sharpen your strong ones.
- Revise every subject you have studied so far.
- Solve previous year papers and simulate real exam conditions.
- Practice descriptive writing (essay and letter) regularly.
Weekly Study Plan
A daily routine is important, but a weekly plan helps you cover everything without missing any topic. It keeps your preparation balanced and regular.
Day | What to Focus On |
Monday | Reasoning + Current Affairs Revision |
Tuesday | Quant Practice + Descriptive Writing |
Wednesday | English Language + Mock Test Analysis |
Thursday | Data Interpretation + Computer Awareness |
Friday | Banking Awareness + Reasoning Revision |
Saturday | Full Mock Test + Doubt Solving |
Sunday | Essay/Letter Practice + Weekly Revision |
Tip: You can change the order based on your strengths and weak areas.

Proven Preparation Tips
Studying for Mains is different from Prelims. You need more depth, more understanding, and better writing skills. These tips will help you become stronger in all areas of the Mains exam.
1. Understand Every Concept Clearly
If your basics are strong, you can solve even the hardest questions. Focus on learning slowly but clearly.
- Read concepts line by line and understand them fully.
- Watch videos to clear your doubts.
- Make short notes that explain ideas in your own words.
2. Improve Accuracy with Daily Practice
Getting answers right is more important than doing them quickly. Accuracy helps you score well and avoid negative marking.
- Practice questions daily and check answers immediately.
- Focus more on the types of questions you get wrong.
- Write down your mistakes and revise them often.
3. Increase Your Speed Step by Step
Speed is important, especially in Reasoning and DI. But it should come from practice, not guesswork.
- Use a timer while solving questions.
- Start with easier sets and increase difficulty.
- Learn quick tricks for maths and logic.
4. Use Smart Tricks and Methods
Some topics are hard to remember. Use smart ways like tables, charts, and codes to make them simple.
- Make mind maps or flowcharts.
- Use acronyms and tricks for long facts.
- Revise visual notes regularly.
5. Study Current Affairs the Smart Way
General Awareness is scoring if you stay updated. Use easy and daily methods to stay informed.
- Read 1 good news app or newspaper daily.
- Write down 5 news points every day.
- Watch daily/weekly news videos for better memory.
Recommended Resources
Using the right study material makes a big difference. Choose trusted books, courses, and mock tests that match the latest pattern.
- Use expert-made study notes and PDFs.
- Take full-length mock tests for a real exam feel.
- Enroll in a Mains-focused video course for deeper understanding.
Conclusion
The IBPS PO Mains 2025 exam is a tough but clear step toward your dream job. With the right strategy, daily practice, and dedication, you can prepare well and boost your chances of success. Follow this blog’s tips, stay consistent, and start your preparation today. The earlier you begin, the better your result will be.
Also read:
FAQs
November 29, 2025.
There are 5 objective sections and 1 descriptive section (letter + essay).
Yes, 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the objective test.
Practice writing essays and letters 2–3 times a week. Read sample answers.
Yes, as many topics overlap.
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